Est. 1989 | P: (07) 5527 0314 | M: 0411 134 507 info@localnewsletters.com | www.localnewsletters.com March 2024 - No. 106 Gold Coast FREE! WIN! GIFT CARDS, Book Giveaway! 3 Bulk Billed Eye Tests 3 Most Health Funds Accepted 3 External Prescriptions Welcome *Excludes Maui Jim, Zeal and Oakley Sun RX $150 OFF COMPLETE PAIR Book your appointment today! PARIS MIKI OPTICAL Shop 18, 12 Sir John Overall Drive, Helensvale Plaza Phone 5580 5010 | www.paris-miki.com.au Italian Renaissance Alive | Grande Experiences Sat 30 Mar - Sun 4 Aug Experience the beauty and brilliance of the Italian masters in Italian Renaissance Alive, an immersive journey celebrating Europe's cultural rebirth. From the creators of Van Gogh Alive, this mesmerising experience covers the 14th to 17th centuries, showcasing masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Caravaggio and more. You'll be immersed in the era's explosion of art, culture, architecture, sculpture and literature. Witness iconic works like the Sistine Chapel, Mona Lisa, and Birth of Venus in a stunning digital multi-sensory gallery, accompanied by a powerful operatic musical score. Don't miss the chance to be transported through history's most influential artistic period. For further information and bookings www.hota.com.au 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
2 Five Signs Your Loved One May Need Support in the Home Home care is not solely for support with activities of daily living – it also provides critical socialization through companionship as well as help maintaining independence. Today, care at home can serve as a replacement to a nursing home or assisted living facility. Family members and friends may wonder when it is appropriate to find help to aid an aging parent, spouse or relative. Often the family waits too long to bring in outside help and realize their senior needs care after a health or safety scare, like a fall. It’s best to bring in outside help early in order to extend independent years and prevent an adverse health or safety event. Below is a checklist that may be helpful and instructive in determining when a loved one may need a helping hand: • A cluttered home. One indication that a loved one may need help is when the home is perpetually untidy or dirty. The messiness may include clutter, accumulations of garbage or recycling, dirty or unfolded laundry or stacks of dirty dishes. • Inadequate personal hygiene. Disregard to appearance, bathing and soiled clothing can be a red flag for attention deficits and possible diminishing memory. Another thing to look for is clothing that is not appropriate for the weather (i.e., short pants and t-shirts in the winter). • Problems driving. Even though driving represents freedom to most seniors, traffic tickets, fender-benders and dents on the vehicle may indicate that your loved one is no longer able to drive safely. • Extreme change in weight, A difference of 10% or more in body weight can signify two things: (1) That a loved one is not eating nutritious meals or is avoiding meal preparation or (2) that your loved one is suffering from depression. • Confusion or loneliness. Aging adults may find that everyday activities, such as socializing or hobbies, have become too difficult. As a result of this feeling, he or she may retreat from other family members and restrict many activities he or she previously found pleasurable. Home Care Assistance embraces the belief that seniors can live well at home and remain as independent as possible in a positive and healthy setting. Consider the potential hazards an older adult may face living at home alone when selecting home care services. Learn what level of care is best for your loved one when evaluating multiple caregivers or agencies. Most importantly, plan your search early. Don’t delay your search to find the best care for your loved one until after an emergency has occurred. see advertisement page 3 > Travel with us to see: To secure your seat call Jenny 1300 794 373 www.currumbinvalleycoaches.com.au BEAUTY & THE BEAST THE MUSICAL at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC WEDNESDAY 8 MAY 2024 $120 per ticket incl. Coach transfer & Reserve Seating **Tickets are non-refundable THINKING OF SELLING YOUR PROPERTY? Alistair Hamilton Principal / Agent 0413 945 599 5518 3294 WE ONLY CHARGE 1% COMMISSION SAVING YOU THOUSAND$ OF DOLLARS! SELLING ALL OVER THE COAST email@onepercentgcrealty.com.au www.onepercentgcrealty.com.au GIVING 100% SERVICE
3 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.
4 The technology has been tested for more than a decade, but decision-makers in many countries are reluctant to give autonomous vehicles free rein. If you were around in the 1960s and early 1970s, you probably remember The Jetsons. This popular cartoon series offered a tantalising glimpse into a future where robots cleaned our homes and we went about our daily business in flying cars. Well, it’s now the future and while we may have robotic vacuum cleaners, flying cars are still pie in the sky. In fact, the experts are still trying to grapple with self-driving vehicles that are safe for our roads. It seems that as soon as there is an advance in that area, we hear about a setback – including some that, sadly, have ended in human deaths. In Australia, there have been limited trials of autonomous vehicles since 2015, with Adelaide looking into their use as public transport. However, robotic private cars are unlikely to be a common feature on city streets anytime soon. Recent research conducted by University of New South Wales (supported by National Seniors) showed that older people welcome existing driver-assistance features in new cars, but don’t fully use or trust them. Other countries are further advanced with fully autonomous technology, but the vehicles often operate on dedicated tracks or other restricted areas and are closely monitored. Elsewhere, their widespread use on open roads is not so far away. In 2023, authorities in the United Arab Emirates issued a licence to Chinese company WeRide for its Robotaxi, which has been undergoing street trials in Dubai for more than a year. Meanwhile, there are plans in Saudi Arabia for 15% of public transport vehicles to be autonomous by 2030. Anyone familiar with traffic accident statistics in the Middle East might wonder about the wisdom of moving to driverless technology when road deaths are already very high. Well, one compelling reason is that robotic cars are safer than those driven by humans. In trials comparing rideshare vehicles in San Francisco, those with driverless technology were involved in fewer accidents than those with a person behind the wheel. Human drivers had a crash rate of 50.5 per million miles (CPMM), while self-driving cars had a rate of 23 CPMM. Furthermore, human drivers were found to be the primary contributors to 69% of their crashes, while robotic cars were to blame for only 10% of their accidents. But statistics are one thing; perception is something else entirely. According to academics who specialise in the ethical choices made by machines, humans will be quicker and harsher to judge when deaths occur in driverless cars. Even if all cars were self-driving, accidents would occur – due to computer malfunctions or an unexpected event such as a person running on to the road. In the latter scenario, the computer driving the car might have to make a split-second choice between hitting the person on the road in front of them, or swerving into another vehicle, potentially causing the death of its own passengers and the passengers of the other vehicle. According to the experts, society will have trouble accepting road deaths that are the result of machines making life-or-death decisions – even though we now accept human misjudgment as the cause of many fatalities. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have been working on this issue for many years. Their Moral Machine website has a “game” in which users are asked to judge how they think a driverless car ought to react in different scenarios. It comes down to whether the car should risk the lives of its passengers or of other road users – but the number, ages, and genders of the participants change from scenario to scenario. The person playing the game is essentially required to weigh the worth of their own friends and family against that of, among others, a dog, a young boy, a girl, a pregnant woman, and an elderly man. Since it will be impossible to reduce the road toll to zero, these remain decisions that someone, or something, will have to make. If that’s not scary enough, very soon the same kind of judgment may have to be applied to private car-like vehicles plying the skies above us. source: www.nationalseniors.com.au 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. Are self-driving cars just around the corner? Did You Know? Pensioners are entitled to fully subsidised hearing aids* *Subject to ‘Hearing Services Program’ fitting & refitting rules as specified at https://www.health.gov.au/ our-work/hearing-services-program/providing-services/service-device-requirements BEST VALUE HEARING AIDS ON THE GOLD COAST SHOP 5/1 BRYGON CREEK DR, UPPER COOMERA (07) 5500 0738 LOCALLY OWNED AND INDEPENDENT AUDIOLOGY CLINIC
5 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 Sale Price Standard GST Total 1% Inclusive Savings Commission GST $400,000 $10,450 $1,045 $11,495 $4,000 $7,495 $560,000 $14,450 $1,445 $15,895 $5,600 $10,295 $620,000 $15,950 $1,595 $17,545 $6,200 $11,345 $730,000 $18,700 $1,870 $20,570 $7,300 $13,270 $990,000 $25,200 $2,520 $27,720 $9,900 $17,820 $1,200,000 $30,450 $3,045 $33,495 $12,000 $21,495 M: 0418 719 888 E: warren@movedby.com.au W: www.movedby.com.au LREA EXAMPLES OF SAVINGS ON COMMISSION RATES SPECIALISING IN Biggera Waters, Arundel Labrador, Runaway Bay, Other Gold Coast Suburbs SELL YOUR HOME FOR ONLY 1% COMMISSION FULL SERVICE GUARANTEED PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE TODAY! Leaf Financial Advisers work with retirees and investors to achieve financial goals. We specialise in the following areas by: Maximising age pension payments Providing stable income in retirement Minimising tax and SMSF advice Estate planning tax advice and UK pension transfer advice For a complimentary meeting please contact Craig Bunce at 0450 363 009 or email cbunce@leaf-financial.com.au www.leaf-financial.com.au
6 TransitCare is one of Australia’s largest and most experienced Community Transport Providers. We assist seniors, people with disabilities and the socially isolated to travel to their appointments and social activities. Our services include Community Transport, Social Support and Residential Aged Care (RAC) Transport to enable people to live independently in their own homes and remain connected to their communities. We are a pre-booked and door-to-door service and our friendly, caring drivers collect clients from home and take them to wherever they need to go. People need to be registered with TransitCare as clients before they can access transport or social support programmes. Bookings should be made at least two days before transport is required. Please call our Contact Centre on (07) 3422 7900 between 7.30 am and 5.00 pm for all bookings and enquiries. TRANSITCARE IS NOW OFFERING SERVICES TO OUR GOLD COAST COMMUNITY Come Along for the Ride! Email: intake@transitcare.com.au www.transitcare.com.au Scan here for further information H Lawn Mowing H Gutter Cleaning H Rubbish Removal H General Maintenance H Irrigation Installation H New Lawn Laying H Yard Clean Ups H Tree Removal H Weed Control H Fertilizing H Pruning FREE, FIXED NO OBLIGATION QUOTES Need it done? Jim’s the one! 131 546 INSURANCE COVER Satisfaction Guaranteed! T E L E P H O N E H Lawn Mowing H Gutter Cleaning H Rubbish Removal H General Maintenance H Irrigation Installation New Lawn Laying H Yard Clean Ups H Tree Removal H Weed Control H Fertilizing H Pruning Interviewing Elderly Relatives Exploring the memories of elderly family members reveals a treasure trove of experiences that not only enrich our family history but also provide profound insights into our own identities. To capture the invaluable information our elders are keeping ask them if they are happy to sit and have a chat. Do approach interviews with patience and empathy, creating a comfortable space for reminiscing. Try utilizing various recording mediums such as audio or video to capture not just the words spoken but also the emotions and nuances of the conversation. Remember to organise the gathered information systematically, perhaps by creating a detailed family tree recording anecdotes, names, dates, and locations. This facilitates easy retrieval and understanding. You could also transcribe interviews further enhancing accessibility, making it easier for future generations to explore and learn from the stories shared. By then saving the gathered information to your family tree you can share this knowledge among relatives and ensure the legacy endures beyond the present. Please do remember though that our elderly sometimes have a ‘rosy’ view of the past and may embellish or even make up stories for our benefit. It is essential to fact-check all information you receive. 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 Bicentennial Building, 833 Nerang-Southport Road, Nerang. On Friday 8 March at 9 am we will be holding our Introduction to Family History class in our rooms at the Bicentennial Building, 833 Nerang-Southport Rd, 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 We will also be holding a mini-seminar on Saturday 9th March entitled ’Permanent Memorial – Decoding the stone’. For further information please go to our website www.goldcoastfhs.org.au GOLD COAST FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY
7 Lavinia Rampino Mayor for 1 Vote Transparency in Council Sustainable lifestyle for all residents Diversity in jobs, education, healthcare and housing Innovation in thinking and solutions for our future Connectivity through better communication between residents and council ADVERT After last year’s sell-out event drew a staggering crowd of close to 250,000, generating an estimated economic impact of $25 million, this year promises to be even more spectacular, with plans to expand the event along the iconic beachfront. “As we gear up for our second year, the anticipation and excitement are higher than ever. Given we sold out tickets for last year’s event, I strongly suggest you secure your space on Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is back! the sand very early,” said Pacific Airshow Gold Coast Director Kevin Elliott. “We’re building on last year’s smashing success, aiming to make Pacific Airshow Gold Coast an even more breath-taking experience. And there’s nothing like being there, on the beach with your family and friends. Whether it’s through our exclusive hospitality packages or the incredible line-up of performers, we’re 16 to 18 August 2024 committed to creating unforgettable memories for our attendees.” Prepare for three days of world-class aerobatics and jets, showcasing thunderous power and speed. The event promises a mix of heartpounding excitement and familyfriendly entertainment, stretching around 1.5 kilometres of the Surfers Paradise Esplanade. Tourism Minister Michael Healy said the inaugural Pacific Airshow had proven it was an event not to miss. “We saw hundreds of thousands of spectators hit the beach to witness what was a spectacular inaugural Pacific Airshow display and I have no doubt tickets will be hot property again this year. “The event was also a soaring success for the Gold Coast’s visitor economy, with visitors staying 110,000 visitor nights over the weekend – a welcome boost for local accommodation, restaurants and attractions. “We’re looking forward to seeing another world-class edition of the Pacific Airshow on the Gold Coast this year.” www.pacificairshowaus.com Building on the phenomenal success of its debut, Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is set to return to Surfers Paradise from 16 to 18 August 2024.
8 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 >
9 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 Queenslanders can now choose to have a Digital Licence stored in their phone Queenslanders have been assured their personal information will be kept secure if they switch to the new Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) digital licence. TMR Deputy Director General, Customer Services, Safety and Regulation Geoff Magoffin said Queenslanders could now carry their driver licence, marine licence or photo identification on a mobile device. “This will provide convenience for the thousands of Queenslanders who already have everything else in their phone, including their loyalty cards, bank and credit cards,” Mr Magoffin said “Queenslanders can leave their wallet at home and enjoy the benefits of carrying their digital licence on their phone, safe in the knowledge their personal information is secure and private.” He said the Queensland digital licence met international standards for verifying, authenticating and keeping personal information safe, secure and private. “You can choose how much information you share and with whom you share it,” Mr Magoffin said. “This means your private data remains safe and secure while sharing only the necessary information to meet specific requirements. Additionally, the app incorporates robust security protocols which have been rigorously tested. These security measures safeguard your private information from identity theft and fraud.” The digital licence is optional and all Queenslanders will still receive their physical cards in the mail, even if they choose to go digital. “TMR recognises people have different preferences and not everyone may be ready to embrace the digital licence,” Mr Magoffin said, “so physical driver licences and other photo cards will continue to be issued.” The digital licence is free and accessible by downloading the Queensland Digital Licence app from your app store. “You don’t need to wait for your physical licence to expire before getting the digital licence,” Mr Magoffin said. “One of the big advantages of the digital licence is that information updates instantly. So, if you change your address or upgrade your licence class, you will see that information straight away.”
10 As you age, it's common for your eyesight to undergo changes, necessitating proactive measures to preserve your vision. Here are six recommendations for maintaining optimum eye health: Opt for a Nutrient-Rich Diet Maintaining a well-balanced diet supports both a healthy weight and optimal vision. Conditions such as obesity, a leading cause of adult vision impairment, can be mitigated through nutritious eating habits. Incorporating the following nutrients into your diet has shown promise in preventing vision loss: Zinc: Found in meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, and dairy products. Lutein: Present in corn, spinach, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. Vitamin A: Available in dairy products, carrots, kale, spinach, and egg yolks. Vitamin E: Found in eggs, whole grains, vegetable oils, and sunflower seeds. Vitamin C: Present in broccoli, green peppers, potatoes, citrus fruits, and juices. Fatty Acids: Sourced from coldwater fish like rainbow trout, mackerel, and salmon, as well as sunflower and corn oil. Kick the Smoking Habit Smoking is a major contributor to various health issues, including vision loss. It's been linked to conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Prioritise Physical Activity Engaging in at least 20 minutes of exercise per day benefits both your overall health and eye health. Improved blood circulation resulting from exercise aids in the removal of potentially harmful particles from the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. Rigorous activity isn't necessary; a brisk daily walk is usually sufficient. Shield Your Eyes Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses shields your eyes from harmful UV rays, slowing the progression of cataracts caused by direct sunlight. Sunglasses also safeguard your retina from injury and reduce the risk of skin cancer around the eyes. Additionally, protective eyewear should be worn when engaging in activities such as sports or working with materials like wood or metal to prevent eye injuries from debris or projectiles. Practice Eye Rest Extended screen time without frequent blinking can lead to eye strain and dryness. Adhering to the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away—can alleviate eye strain and fatigue. Schedule Regular Eye Exams Routine eye exams are crucial for detecting potential eye conditions before they manifest symptoms and cause irreversible vision loss or blindness. Paris Miki Optical’s Store Manager Michael has over 30 year’s experience as a qualified Optical technician and has been working in the area for over 23 years. There is 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. See advert front cover Safeguard Your Eyesight Book lovers and storytellers rejoice for the 31st annual Somerset Storyfest Writers' Festival! This year's festival will see 40 of the country’s most celebrated authors, illustrators and artists converge on the Gold Coast to inspire the next generation of writers and avid readers. In between daily sessions with authors and book signings at the Book Shop, you can also revel in a series of special public events including the Prologue Party with special guest Emma Memma, the annual Literary Lunch with Marina Kamenev, Gran Slam Live and the annual Craig Bassingthwaighte Long Table Dinner. Some of these are ticketed events so get in early to secure your spot. The Somerset Storyfest runs from Monday, 25 March till Wednesday, 27 March, 9am to 9pm. For more information > www.storyfest.com.au Somerset College, Somerset Drive, Mudgeeraba. Gold Coast Over 50’s magazine covers the Gold Coast from Beenleigh to Tweed Heads, giving you the opportunity to reach your local target market. Get Your Message Across to Your Local Target Market! Advertise with Gold Coast Over 50s Magazine For advertising call Geoff 0411 134 507 or 5527 0314 geoff@localnewsletters.com l www.localnewsletters.com Gold Coast Over Fifties Magazine DONATE BLOOD, SAVE LIVES. Do something special. Give blood. Call 13 14 95 download the app or donateblood.com.au 1 in 3 Australians will need blood in their lifetime. Only 1 in 30 people currently donate.
11 Home to Aldi, Coles, Woolworths, Bunnings & Petbarn, Justice of the Peace Service Monday to Saturday. Q Super Centre has an extensive range of speciality stores offering gourmet fresh food, cafe and restaurant dining choices, hair and beauty, homewares, medical and health, banking, as well as unique boutique fashion. This and much more is all situated in a one-level beautifully landscaped outdoor shopping centre. Open 7 days a week, with free, convenient parking. Cnr Bermuda and Markeri Streets, Mermaid Waters, QLD 4218 T: 07 5563 4888 www.qsupercentre.com.au
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 Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, Rosser Park, 232 Ashmore Rd, Benowa Visit www.friendsgcrbg.org.au or www.facebook.com/friendsgcrbg Meadow Argus Junonia villida flies close to the ground. Plant native grasses, ground covers, and paper daisies including Scaevola and Goodenia. Blue Tiger Butterflies migrate from North Queensland to SE Qld, (and back) often in massive numbers. Gardening by Kate Heffernan Honorary Life Member Friends of GCRBG, Botanic Garden Consultant Threatened in their natural habitat the larvae of Richmond Birdwing Butterflies eat one specific vine which is also threatened in the wild in Queensland. This butterfly will feed on the nectar of gums and paperbarks. The Butterfly Garden at the Botanic Gardens is planted with a range of plants necessary for the lifecycle of butterflies. Planted progressively with the support of Gold Coast Bushwalkers and Friends from 2006 it is constantly evolving with newly planted understorey and regular pruning. There are graphic signs scattered throughout the Butterfly Garden, generously supplied by donors, outlining the food source and habits of some of the region’s butterflies. A local butterfly expert leads occasional butterfly tours, on the Gardens Glider or a Walk. The Friends of the Botanic Gardens Nursery at Benowa concentrates on regional plants with a purpose including wildlife habitat, bush foods, screening, shade, and shelter. They have lists of specific plants that suit local gardens. Nursery is open the first Friday of the month 8 –11am or by arrangement. Butterflies are important links in healthy ecosystems Butterflies are a food source for birds, frogs, skinks, and insect parasites. They also help plants reproduce by moving pollen from male to female plant parts. As a reward for pollination, the plants provide butterflies nectar to fuel flight and egglaying. Butterflies have short life cycles. The caterpillar stage often depends on very specific plants, so any change or loss of habitat or an altered growing season affects butterfly populations. Environmental cues such as temperature changes influence reproduction and migration. Butterflies are sensitive to climatic and other changes including land clearing, and because they are easy to see are useful indicators of biodiversity. Attracting butterflies to your garden means growing plants for hungry caterpillars that can consume leaves and sometimes defoliate a plant completely. Don’t despair. If the garden is in the right balance the skeletal plant will soon grow healthy new leaves after its natural prune. Flowers provide nectar for adult butterflies and keeping something in flower throughout the year is important. Plants of varying heights are also important. Flight patterns vary between butterfly species – some, including the Meadow Argus fly close to the ground while the Tailed Emperor perches on leaves or branches a few metres above the ground. Richmond Birdwing Vine Pararastolochia praevenosa A vigorous vine with small yellowblack-edged flowers and orange fruits.
13 Hit the Road with Confidence: Why Upskilling Your Driving Skills is the Journey You Need to Take. Hey there, road warriors and Sunday drivers alike! Have you ever thought about giving your driving skills a bit of a tune-up? Well, in the ever-changing world of roads and vehicles, upskilling your driving isn't just about adding another feather to your cap; it's about making every journey safer, smoother, and yes, even a bit more fun! Get to know your car like the back of your hand - Those fancy safety features in your car aren't just for show! From automatic emergency braking to that nifty lane assist, getting the low-down on your car's tech can be a game-changer for your safety and driving ease. Think of it as becoming besties with your car – it's always got your back! Driving smarter, not harder - Imagine cruising through traffic with the ease of a seasoned pro, navigating each turn and stop with seamless precision knowing exactly how to keep cool, calm, and collected, no matter what the road throws your way. Learning efficient and defensive driving techniques isn't just smart; it's your secret weapon for stress-free travel. Planning your great escape (from traffic) - Got a need for speed (within legal limits, of course)? Mastering the art of route planning and time management can turn your daily commute into a breeze and make those weekend getaways even sweeter. Say goodbye to traffic jams and hello to more me-time. Weathering the storm (literally) - Rain, hail, or shine, knowing how to tackle different weather conditions can make you a driving superhero. Equip yourself with the skills to handle whatever Mother Nature throws your way, and you'll be ready for adventure, come rain or high water. Tech-savvy traveller - In a world where your car can almost do the cha-cha, staying up-to-date with navigation systems and in-car technologies is a must. It's like having a co-pilot who never needs a coffee break. Cool, calm, and collected in a crunch - Nobody likes to think about emergencies, but being prepared can make all the difference. From changing a tyre to knowing what to do in an accident, these skills are priceless. Staying on the right side of the law - Laws and regulations are always evolving. Keeping up means you're not just a safe driver, but a savvy one too. It's like being in an exclusive club where everyone knows the secret handshake. So, why not take the wheel on your driving journey with a bit more knowledge, confidence, and style? Spotto Driving School is here to help you every step of the way. From mastering your vehicle's modern safety features to navigating roads with ease, we've got courses that cater to every driver's needs. Let's drive into the future together, safer and smarter! Ready to shift gears on your driving skills? Reach out to us at Spotto Driving School on 0417 855 512, and let's get this road trip started! 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 A CALAMITY OF SOULS by David Baldacci Set in the tumultuous year of 1968 in southern Virginia, a raciallycharged murder case sets a duo of white and Black lawyers against a deeply unfair system as they work to defend their wrongfully-accused Black defendants in this courtroom drama from #1 bestselling author David Baldacci. Jack Lee is a white lawyer from Freeman County, Virginia, who has never done anything to push back against racism, until he decides to represent Jerome Washington, a Black man charged with brutally killing an elderly and wealthy white couple. Doubting his decision, Lee fears that his legal skills may not be enough to prevail in a case where the odds are already stacked against both him and his client. And he quickly finds himself out of his depth when he realizes that what is at stake is far greater than the outcome of a murder trial. Desiree DuBose is a Black lawyer from Chicago who has devoted her life to furthering the causes of justice and equality for everyone. She comes to Freeman County and enters a fractious and unwieldy partnership with Lee in a legal battle against the best prosecutor in the Commonwealth. Yet DuBose is also aware that powerful outside forces are at work to blunt the victories achieved by the Civil Rights era. Lee and DuBose could not be more dissimilar. On their own, neither one can stop the prosecution’s deliberate march towards a guilty verdict and the electric chair. But together, the pair fight for what once seemed impossible: a chance for a fair trial and true justice. Over a decade in the writing, A Calamity of Souls breathes richly imagined and detailed life into a bygone era, taking the reader through a world that will seem both foreign and familiar. ISBN: 9781035035595 | Format: Trade Paperback Pub Date: 26/03/2024 | Category: Thriller / Suspense, Crime & Mystery, Modern & Contemporary Fiction (Post C 1945), FICTION / Thrillers / General, FICTION / Thrillers / Crime, FICTION / Mystery & Detective / International Crime & Mystery | Imprint: Macmillan | Price: $34.99 TO ENTER write your name, address & phone on the back of an envelope and post to: A CALAMITY OF SOULS PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town 4220 • Entries close 31.03.2024 Winners book prize will be couriered so please provide a phone number. You may put phone number inside envelope if you are worried about scams... thankyou! Enter To Win BOOK GIVEAWAY
14 Retirement is a significant life transition, bringing with it changes in lifestyle, routine, and health. One of the key areas impacted during this phase is eating habits. As we age, various factors like changes in taste, dietary restrictions, and decreased mobility can make mealtime challenging. Gourmet Meals is committed to helping retirees navigate these changes to maintain a healthy, enjoyable diet. Retirement is an opportunity to focus on your well-being, and a balanced diet is a key component. At Gourmet Meals, we believe that overcoming eating challenges shouldn't mean 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 $59 (excl delivery of $8.90) 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 sacrificing the joy of food. Our meals are designed to be not only convenient and healthy but also delightful to the palate. Navigating the dietary changes that come with retirement can be challenging, but it's essential for maintaining health and enjoying life. By understanding and addressing these common eating challenges, retirees can continue to relish their meals and ensure they are getting the necessary nutrition. Gourmet Meals is dedicated to supporting retirees through this journey with our range of delicious, convenient, and healthconscious meal options. Embrace this new chapter of life with the confidence that your dietary needs are met, leaving more time to enjoy the pleasures of retirement. Retirement should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, and having a fulfilling diet is a cornerstone of this. With Gourmet Meals, you can look forward to eating well every day and overcoming any challenge that comes your way. Bon appétit! We offer a range of snap frozen, portion-controlled meals to Southeast Queensland residents. Order today online at www. gourmetmeals.com.au or call our office on 1300 112 112. Overcoming common eating challenges in retirement! Experience the extensive plant collections of the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens as you travel around the paths in the 8- seater electric Botanic Gardens Glider - wonderful for people with limited mobility. Exploring BOOK YOUR SEAT General Tours with commentary (approx. 50 minutes) Depart the Sensory Garden Pavilion Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday Mornings $5.00 per person Private groups by appointment Bookings essential: www.trybooking.com/CCSSZ MORE INFORMATION: 0449 561 674 INFO@FRIENDSGCRBG.ORG.AU BOTANIC GARDENS GLIDER GET ON BOARD THE Rose and Display Gardens Wildlife on the lagoons Mangroves to Mountain Butterfly Garden Rotary Education Pavilion Regional Arboretum Fruits of the Forest Story of our Country Bush Foods Garden ADF Memorial Grove Gum Tree Corridor Araucaria Forest Note: Wheelie walkers or similar aids cannot be transported on Botanic Gardens Glider but can be left securely at the Sensory Gardens Pavilion. Common Words 106 Answer to Common Words 105 Bed, Press, Cupboard = Linen Word Puzzle 106 Find a four letter word that will fit in all of these to complete another word. Answer next issue. Find the word held in common by the three words. Then using the three words find a word that is common to them. ARE____ _ _ _ _ URE STRI_ _ _ _ RO____ IN _ _ _ _ TRI____ _ _ _ _ED PRU____ Answer to Word Puzzle 105 PORT + TREE 3 LETTERS GIFT + __ __ __ TOOL + PEEP + 4 LETTERS + OUT __ __ __ __ SQUARE + + CLEAN 4 LETTERS + CHECK __ __ __ __ BLIND + + 3 LETTERS + 4 LETTERS + 4 LETTERS = 5 LETTERS __ __ __ __ __
15 Living aids to make life a little easier! 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 WALKERS WHEELCHAIRS SCOOTERS POWERCHAIRS BATHROOM AIDS BEDROOM AIDS DAILY LIVING AIDS MOBILITY PULL-APART SCOOTERS LIGHTWEIGHT CARBON FIBRE POWER WHEELCHAIR • 19.6kg total weight • Foldable and easy to transport at home, hotels or airports • Comfortable front suspension • Secure under-seat storage bag • Rear storage seat pocket • Max speed of 6km/h • Driving range of up to 15km ASPIRE RAPHAEL QUATTRO LIFT RECLINE CHAIR • Four motor recline chair for infinite positioning • Microsuede, leather-look upholstery • Backlit hand control with integrated USB charging point • Independent adjustable headrest, back, leg & lumbar support functions • Legrests extend to provide a longer support under the lower legs, beneficial for taller people • Integrated lift & recline functions for easy sit-to-stand & maximum comfort • Intuitive headrest support, ideal when watching TV when reclined Solutions for Mobility & Daily Living LIGHTWEIGHT CARBON FIBRE SEAT WALKER • Portable travel scooters • Disassemble into smaller pieces for easy transport and storage • Easy to transport at home, hotels or airports • Speeds ranging from 6km/h to 8km/h • Driving range between 16km to 33km • Super lightweight around 5kgs with a carbon fibre frame. • Now supplied with bonus cane holder • Luxury look and feel – Danish design, profiled tubing, moulded fittings, ergonomic handles and refined colours. • Lightweight and ergonomic design with small turning circle
16 Answer to Crossword No. 105 from last issue Answer to Cryptic Xword No. 105 from last issue Answer to Sudoku No. 105 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 a $50 WISH Card. Entries close 31.03.2024. Winner notified by mail. (Can be used at Woolworths Supermarkets, selected Ampol Woolworths, Big W, BWS, Dan Murphy’s, Cellarmasters) Win a $50 WISH Card 3 5 2 9 1 7 4 6 8 1 7 4 8 2 6 9 3 5 6 8 9 3 4 5 7 1 2 5 6 1 4 7 9 8 2 3 4 2 3 5 8 1 6 7 9 7 9 8 6 3 2 1 5 4 8 1 5 7 9 3 2 4 6 9 3 7 2 6 4 5 8 1 2 4 6 1 5 8 3 9 7 2 3 4 9 11 12 13 15 16 20 21 23 1 8 10 14 22 5 6 7 17 18 19 C O N F E R S I S O L E X T E N D E D S P R E E S E U A M E I N T E R E S T E N A C T S E O T E T R E A D I N G I E N L CONFI DED S O B R O S T L E R G L O O M I E R R I O L S S T U C C O I N F I N I T E N U G C S D I G I T S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 P R I M U S L S C R E C H A P T E R S A L K A L I I U A T G S T R I D I N G T H O R N S I I L E O P T I O N A L E R R A D I S T A S T E M D M H S H A R E D F A M I L I E S T E G E C L I T T E R K E Y S T O N E E E E S S N S T R A N D ACROSS 1. They go off and find hapless brie ruined. (11) 6. Father both ways. (3) 8. The King went to the Northern Territory and gained knowledge. (6) 9. Suit precious stones. (8) 11. Sounds like an angry boyfriend produced this weapon. (8) 12. The French followed the vehicle to find the girl. (5) 13. Redid at sea and got the moisture out of. (5) 15. Dried meal dished up for hearing. (6,3) 17. Humiliated to be dragged in kicking. (9) 19. Holds up heads for kisses. (5) 21. Common on the street to find conflict. (6) 23. Maintain the deception to attend to. (8) 26. The remaining actors were dull. (8) 27. Stir up troubling the stickler. (6) 28. Sounds like the drops on the ground were expected. (3) 29. Buff wildly in the gap and cause trouble. (11) DOWN 1. The pests in the group were kept in order. (7) 2. Debating whether Ange irons badly. (9) 3. Forwards the Southern intention. (5) 4. The French I would put down. (4) 5. Used to separate half the large intestine. (9) 6. The person in the restaurant was dressed in red. (5) 7. Worry it was praised by mistake. (7) 10. Space to anchor up. (4) 14. Looked bored so café added change. (4,5) 16. Once a charged particle surrounded dogs on an outing. (9) 17. Friction about the Princess’s cable.(7) 18. Continue to be a fool. (4) 20. A ghost appeared after cracking the sceptre. (7) 22. Only on rare evenings will you find the Sheriff in. (5) 24. Cushion the young bird. (5) 25. Shopping around Saks poses questions. (4) CRYPTIC 106 Answer next issue 1 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 2 3 4 5 6 7 Brian, one of the world’s greatest hypochondriacs, bumped into his doctor one day at the supermarket. “Doc!” Brian exclaimed, “I’ve been meaning to tell you, remember those voices I kept on hearing in my head? I haven’t heard them in over a week!” “Wow! What wonderful news Brian! I’m so happy for you!” his doctor exclaimed. “Wonderful?” asked a dismal looking Brian. “There’s nothing wonderful about it. I’m afraid my hearing is starting to go now!… Just Joking
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