P: (07) 5527 0314 | M: 0411 134 507 info@localnewsletters.com | www.localnewsletters.com Gold Coast FREE! Over Fifties WIN! CONCERT TICKETS, GIFT CARDS, Book Giveaway! November 2026 - No. 138 We come to you and pay cash! WANTED • Gold • Silver • Jewellery • Coins • Banknotes • Medals • Tokens • Stamps Top Prices Paid Family Owned Confidentiality Assured In Business Over 35 Years Phone Geoff Yates 0412 11 32 11 11/26 Mayor's Christmas Carols celebrate 15 years of festive fun The festive season is set to sparkle as City of Gold Coast’s Mayor’s Christmas Carols returns to HOTA, Home of the Arts, for its 15th year! There will be two magical nights of live entertainment, family fun and Christmas cheer on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November. Leading this year’s stellar line-up is ARIA Award-winning singer Samantha Jade, joined by powerhouse DJ Havana Brown! There’s plenty to delight the whole family, with performances from The Royal Navy Band Queensland, Warner Bros. Movie World’s Looney Tunes Christmas Show and, of course, a special visit from Santa himself. The ticket allocation is now exhausted for the Outdoor Stage area however you can still be part of the magic! Pack your picnic blanket for the HOTA Parklands and enjoy a family-friendly screening of the event on the big screens, delicious food truck treats and free Ferris wheel rides for the whole family, all from 4pm. Hosted by 7NEWS’ Amanda Abate and Chris Parsons, the main show runs from 6pm to 8:30pm, culminating in a spectacular fireworks finale. Gates open at 4pm, so arrive early to enjoy the festive atmosphere. Auslan interpreters will be on hand to help make the event an inclusive and welcoming experience for everyone. City of Gold Coast’s Mayor’s Christmas Carols are supported by 7NEWS, HOTA, Home of the Arts, and Village Roadshow Theme Parks. For more information visit whatsongoldcoast.au/mayorscarols
2 Flying out for Christmas? Sort your Will before you go - Olivia Scott, Solicitor - A big overseas trip has a way of bringing your Will to mind. The flights are booked for Bali, Japan or the grandkids in London, and the thing that’s sat on your to-do list for years suddenly feels a bit more pressing. Good. You’re already sorting the pet sitter and who’s watering the tomatoes. Your Will belongs on that list too. If you don’t have a Will, Queensland law decides who inherits, using a set formula. It might match what you’d have chosen. Often it doesn’t, especially in blended families, where a stepchild you raised can miss out entirely. If you have an old Will, dig it out. Getting married generally cancels an earlier Will in Queensland, and divorce cancels gifts to your former spouse. New grandkids, a new home, an executor who’s now 85: Wills go stale. Then there’s the document people forget: an Enduring Power of Attorney. A Will only works after you die. If you’re hurt overseas and can’t make decisions, an EPA lets someone you trust pay your bills and make health decisions for you. Without one, your family may have to apply to QCAT for that authority. One last thing. A Queensland Will must be signed in front of 2 witnesses at the same time, so give yourself a couple weeks before you fly. We come to you That’s where I come in. I’m a Wills and estates lawyer with Kate Redman & Associates, and I’m based in Nerang. Wills and estates is the only area of law we practise. Our team covers the Gold Coast, Brisbane and the Redlands, and we come to you. I’ll sit down with you at your kitchen table, talk through what you want, and explain your Will in plain English so you understand exactly what you’re signing. Our estate planning is on a fixed fee. You’ll know the cost before we start, and there’s no clock running while we talk. For most people, a simple Will and EPA done properly is all they need. I’ll tell you if you need more than that, and I’ll tell you if you don’t. To book a home visit before you head away, call me on 0480 844 490. See Page 3 > This article is general information only and isn’t legal advice for your situation. GMGP and SEG present the Mischief production of Christmas Carol Goes Wrong GOD BLESS HELP US, EVERYONE The Cornley Amateur Drama Society are back with tidings of chaos and joy, ready to tackle the Charles Dickens' classic, A Christmas Carol. Following a West End and UK tour, CHRISTMAS CAROL GOES WRONG spectacularly crashes into Australia this festive season for a limited run. Do not miss this Christmas catastrophe from Mischief, the multi awardwinning company behind The Play That Goes Wrong, Peter Pan Goes Wrong and The Comedy About Spies. The Cornley crew battle miscommunication, delays to their set, actors missing in action and a growing feud over who will play the lead. It’s sure to be a disastrous take on the much-loved classic Christmas story of Ebeneezer Scrooge. Will Cornley finally change their ways, or will their misfortunes wreak havoc yet again. Enjoy a festive slice of pure escapism at the worst production in Christmas past, present and yet to come! Don’t be a Scrooge, book now. www.hota.com.au 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217 Opera Queensland and Bond University presents BRAVO! Friday 06 November 2026 | 07:00 PM We invite you to join us for our Opera Queensland 'BRAVO!' evening, hosted by Bond University. Taking place in the outdoor amphitheatre at Bond, sit under the stars, relax amongst friends and have fun. Bravo! is an exhilarating concert experience that brings some of Australia’s finest operatic voices to the stage in a powerhouse program of beloved arias, duets, and ensembles. From Puccini to Verdi, Mozart to Bizet, this is opera at its most dazzling and accessible. Whether you are a seasoned opera lover or simply curious about classical music, Bravo! delivers an unforgettable night of passion, drama, and musical excellence. Bravo! stars current and former Opera Queensland Young Artists Nick Kirkup, Lachlann Lawton and Maddie Stephens, alongside Western Australian artist Chelsea Burns, accompanied by renowned pianist Beverley Kennedy. Warm and engaging introductions throughout the concert will reveal the stories, characters and composers behind the music, offering audiences an entertaining introduction to the extraordinary world of opera. ADCO Amphitheatre, Bond University, 14 University Drive, Robina
3 Olivia Scott Practising exclusively in Estate Law, I’ll meet you wherever you’re most comfortable: home, work, or even your favourite café. Your local Wills and Estates Lawyer Wills ▪ Enduring Powers of Attorney ▪ Deceased Estates Grants of Probate ▪ Estate Disputes Contact Olivia today: 0480 844 490 admin@kateredman.com.au www.kateredman.com.au
4 Practical support and friendly faces to help you learn, connect and thrive. Varsity Lakes Community Resource Centre 20 Mattocks Rd, Varsity Lakes varsitylakes.org.au | 07 5593 7006 DIGITAL LITERACY SESSIONS Thursdays 12:00-1:00pm Practical, friendly sessions to help you build digital skills and confidence. ONE-ON-ONE SUPPORT By appointment Get personalised help with your phone, tablet, computer & online essentials. PERSON CENTRED EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLANS Support to help you plan, prepare and feel more confident in an emergency. Build your digital confidence. Stay connected. Stay Safe. Act Now. Stay Secure. VARSITY LAKES COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTRE The Coin Collection: 0412 113211 Established on the Gold Coast over 35 years ago, our family-owned business is a trusted authorised distributor for both the Royal Australian Mint and The Perth Mint, offering expertise, service, and authenticity you can rely on. Looking for the latest collectables or wondering if those old coins in the drawer are worth anything? Unearth Hidden Treasures - While you're preparing for Christmas, it's also worth looking through those drawers, cupboards and jewellery boxes around your home or shed - Many valuable items spend years forgotten and may be worth more than you realise. At The Coin Collection, we're actively purchasing:• Sixpences, Shillings & Florins • Sovereigns & Pre-Decimal Coins • 1966 Round 50 Cent Coins • Coin Collections & Banknotes along with • Gold & Silver Jewellery including those Broken Chains, old Rings & Scrap Gold - Bullion Coins & Bars Many customers are pleasantly surprised by the value hidden within old collections and unwanted jewellery. Just give Geoff a call on 0412 113211 to arrange a suitable time. As Christmas rapidly approaches, many of us face the annual challenge of finding that perfect gift for someone who seems to have everything. Fortunately, there's no shortage of unique and memorable gift ideas at The Coin Collection. This year has seen strong interest in the Bluey Cricket Uncirculated Coin, celebrating Australia's favourite Blue Heeler and the timeless tradition of backyard cricket. It's the perfect keepsake for Bluey fans, young collectors and families alike. For aviation enthusiasts and movie lovers, the Top Gun 40th Anniversary Coin Collection is proving equally popular, celebrating four decades since Maverick first took to the skies. "I feel the need... the need for speed!" A Kris Kringle Gift They'll Remember For a distinctive Kris Kringle or Christmas gift, consider the new 2026 Colours of Christmas 50c Coin Decorations. Designed to hang on the Christmas tree year after year, these colourful collectables blend festive spirit with coin collecting. Their vibrant, coral reef-inspired colours capture the character of an Australian summer Christmas. Whether you're looking for a unique Christmas gift, building a collection, investing in precious metals, our website is updated regularly with the latest releases and collecting opportunities. Visit www.coincollect.com.au or email sales@coincollect.com.au Geoff - The Coin Collection 0412 113 211 (see advert front cover) Come along to the Mudgeeraba Showgrounds on Saturday 14th November for a great day celebrating all things gems, minerals and jewellery! Show casing an extensive array of exhibits, the Gem Show offers a diverse assortment of fossicked rocks, slabs, minerals, and more, providing attendees with an enriching experience. Visitors can peruse through lapidary and silver smithing supplies and equipment, along with opals, minerals, fossils and precious gemstones available for purchase at prices often below retail. Learn from individuals passionate about gems, cabbing and faceting through displays and demonstrations. The Gem Show serves as a hub for gemstone enthusiasts, offering a platform to celebrate the artistry and geological wonders found within the region and beyond. Saturday, 14 November 2026, 8am - 3pm Mudgeeraba Show Grounds, 115 Mudgeeraba Road, Worongary Adults: $5, Children under 12: free Mudgeeraba Gem Show
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 14 years providing daily school bus transport for students with a disability and has become an important partner with schools and families. â Metro Coach is proud of its wonderful and passionate employees who work effectively as a team and are friendly, reliable, timely and professional. â Metro Coach Management provides great office support to its employees and the community. â Metro Coach provides modern air-conditioned buses that are modified to be accessible for students travelling in wheelchairs. â All Metro Coach buses have a passenger assistant on the bus to supervise the students. â Every day Metro Coach brings passion and commitment to its important role in the Community. Metro Coach Needs You! To enquire about working with Metro Coach, see advert below or call (07) 5528 9166 or email admin@metrocoach.com.au - NOW HIRING - School Bus Drivers & Passenger Assistants School Hours only - No weekends or holidays Rewarding Work in your local community Supportive, friendly team environment POSITION REQUIREMENTS: • Excellent customer service skills and enjoy working with the community. • Must be courteous, reliable and have a strong focus to provide a safe journey for our passengers. COOMERA, PIMPAMA, ORMEAU, OXENFORD, HELENSVALE, SOUTHPORT, MUDGEERABA & SURROUNDING AREAS To apply contact Metro Coach Pty Ltd - Email: admin@metrocoach.com.au or Phone: 07 5528 9166 Metro Coach PTY LTD 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
6 As much as your older loved one may want to live independently, there may come a time when this is no longer feasible, and they need help to live life as fully and safely as possible. Home care is an excellent solution as it allows your loved one to stay in their own home while providing assistance where it is needed. However, at Home Care Assistance, we know that the idea of Home Care can be a complex topic and that older adults may resist this idea. When we are children, our parents often need to bring up topics that can be difficult to discuss, such as the birds and the bees. As our parents get older, the roles can change, and it is up to us to discuss complex topics with our parents. This can include issues around money, advance care directives, and the need to bring someone in to provide home care to support your loved one in their daily activities. Whether you are looking at going through a specialist provider such as Home Care Assistance or employing an individual to provide services, the topic can be tricky and can meet significant resistance. Many older adults don’t want to give up their independence and may see the need to bring in someone to help as admitting they are becoming less capable. Putting yourself in your loved one’s shoes and understanding how they may feel they are losing their sense of control and power over how they live can help you understand how difficult this might be for them. They may feel sad and frustrated that they are unable to live as independently as they were. Doing this lets you empathise with your parents and better acknowledge their fears and feelings. It is important to let them know that you understand how difficult this is for them and give them space to talk freely about their feelings, even if you disagree. Be Careful with Your Words - Adults can feel a significant loss of control when they need support for daily activities at home. Avoid using phrases such as “you must/need to…… “ or “you should……” Rather, frame the discussion to promote collaboration in reaching a solution. Share your concerns calmly and clearly and ask, ‘What can we do to keep you safe?’ Be collaborative and propose different ways in which help could be provided. One good way to do this is to ask your older loved one what it would look like if they had help with ‘x’. A good way to turn this into a positive is to talk about having help to free their energy up for activities they enjoy, such as puzzles, meeting friends, or attending the local community centre. Often, older loved ones spend all their energy on essential daily activities, leaving no time or energy to do the activities they enjoy. Taking some of this load off can help them return to these other activities. Consider Your Timing - It is often tempting to discuss home care during an argument or when something has happened. It is important to avoid these conversations when you are upset or something significant has just happened that has landed your loved one in the emergency room or put their safety at risk. When people are emotional, these conversations can quickly escalate, making it challenging to have calm and productive discussions. Wait until everyone is calm and you have time to have the conversation properly. This will also allow for an open discussion of your loved one’s fears. Addressing these fears is essential if your loved one will accept home care. Tap into Available Resources - Ensuring a loved one’s care is a marathon, not a sprint. Ensure you engage other family members and the loved one concerned in the conversation. If you are part of a village, use that village to support your loved one while keeping your loved one’s wishes at the core of all discussions. Many resources are available, and getting a home assessment to determine the type of care your loved one needs is a good start. This can help you determine whether there are options, such as handrails, that can also help your loved one stay safe. This is a big and often emotionally laden conversation. It does not have to be done all at once. Breaking the conversation down into key areas and having several conversations over time can be easier than solving every problem in one hit. Regular discussions also allow you to keep having conversations as your loved one’s needs change. The need to engage home care can be a difficult discussion. However, if your loved one has the support they need, it can make a huge difference to their life and that of your entire family. Remember to approach the discussion calmly and empathetically over time to help your loved one through this transition. Support at home from a specialist provider, such as Home Care Assistance, can bring enormous benefits and comfort to your quality of life while living independently at home. Home Care Assistance has viable solutions when it comes to supporting independent living. For more information, get in touch with a Home Care Assistance today. See advert page 7 Introducing the idea of Home Care to older adults THE VILLAGE - HERITAGE B&B - INDULGENT HIGH TEA or CASUAL LUNCH or COFFEE & CAKE all homemade on site Wed to Sun from 11am to 3pm Bookings Liz 0448 722 233 or Rich 0410 210 858 65 Railway St, Mudgeeraba thevillagebnb.com.au heritagehightea thevillagebnb COMING DECEMBER!! 2 Course Christmas Lunch $55 PER PERSON DON’T MISS OUT ... BOOK NOW!!
7 find out more here! Helping you live independently, safely, and confidently at home. From Tweed Heads to Logan, we provide personalised one-on-one care at home. We carefully match you with a familiar carer who takes the time to get to know you, your routine and what matters to you. Southport Central, Tower 3 30308/9, 9 Lawson St, Southport, QLD 4215. WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE US 07 5528 1643 info@hcagoldcoast.org www.homecareassistancegoldcoast.com.au Book your complimentary in-home consultation with us today! NEW TO SUPPORT AT HOME? Carefully matched carers Consistent, familiar faces Locally owned & operated Care that works around you Experienced & trusted team Personal Care Domestic Assistance Transport & Shopping Dementia Care Nursing Respite Care Social Support Overnight & 24/7 Care Allied Health OUR SERVICES Not sure where to start? We make Support at Home simple. We'll explain your funding, answer your questions and guide you every step of the way. WHERE MEETS Compassion Excellence! GOVERNMENT APPROVED PROVIDER Private Care & Government-Funded Support at Home Welcome find out more here! Helping you live independently, safely, and confidently at home. From Tweed Heads to Logan, we provide personalised one-on-one care at home. We carefully match you with a familiar carer who takes the time to get to know you, your routine and what matters to you. Private Care & GovernmentFunded Support at Home Welcome! No start-up fees | No exit fees | No basic daily fees Trusted by families across the Gold Coast and beyond! l Social Support and Companionship Support/transport to go appointments, shopping and social functions. l Meal Preparation - Nutrition, cooking and hydration needs. l Personal Assistance - Grooming, bathing, dressing, continence and mobility l Respite Care - Assisting family members to take a well-deserved break. l Nursing, Allied Health and Therapy Services eg: speech therapy, podiatry, occupational or physiotherapy services and other clinical services such as hearing and vision services. l Mobility and dexterity, providing walking frames, bed rails, pressure-relieving mattresses, etc. l Medication Prompting Ensuring the right medication is taken at the right time. What services can you access under Home Care Packages? l Laundry Washing, drying, ironing and organising. l Light Domestic Support l Lawn Mowing Southport Central, Tower 3 30308/9, 9 Lawson St, Southport, QLD 4215. WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE US 07 5528 1643 info@hcagoldcoast.org www.homecareassistancegoldcoast.com.au Book your complimentary in-home consultation with us today! NEW TO SUPPORT AT HOME? Carefully matched carers Consistent, familiar faces Locally owned & operated Care that works around you Experienced & trusted team Personal Care Domestic Assistance Transport & Shopping Dementia Care Nursing Respite Care Social Support Overnight & 24/7 Care Allied Health OUR SERVICES Not sure where to start? We make Support at Home simple. We'll explain your funding, answer your questions and guide you every step of the way. WHERE MEETS Compassion Excellence! GOVERNMENT APPROVED PROVIDER Private Care & Government-Funded Support at Home Welcome find out more here! Helping you live independently, safely, and confidently at home. From Tweed Heads to Logan, we provide personalised one-on-one care at home. We carefully match you with a familiar carer who takes the time to get to know you, your routine and what matters to you. Private Care & GovernmentFunded Support at Home Welcome! No start-up fees | No exit fees | No basic daily fees Trusted by families across the Gold Coast and beyond!
8 Is DNA Testing Right For Me? Genetic testing can offer powerful insights into family history but has limitations. Testing can confirm relationships, identify unknown relatives and break through brick walls ie. cases of adoption, name changes or missing records. It can reveal ancestral origins, connect distant cousins to verify research accuracy and add depth to the family story by uncovering migration patterns or unexpected heritage. However, drawbacks include: • Not everyone has had their DNA tested or has chosen privacy options. • DNA cannot provide names, dates, or places on its own; it must be combined with traditional research. • Matches can be overwhelming, when thousands of distant cousins appear with no obvious connection. • Unexpected discoveries such as misattributed parentage or unknown siblings can be emotionally challenging for families. • Privacy is another concern; genetic data is stored by the testing companies and policies vary between providers. • Ethnicity estimates can also change as databases grow. Overall, DNA testing is a valuable tool, but it works best when used alongside records, with context and careful interpretation. Which type of DNA test is most useful for your research goals is a personal choice so educating yourself is recommended. A general guide is: Autosomal DNA is a good starting point for family research Paternal surname research: Y‑DNA Maternal line confirmation: mtDNA For help with producing your family tree, you may like to join the Gold Coast Family History Society. For a modest yearly fee, you will have access to a comprehensive library, many worldwide subscription websites, and fellow researchers prepared to help you get started or break down any brick walls you may encounter. For further information visit http://www.goldcoastfhs. org.au or attend our rooms at the Bicentennial Building, 833 Nerang-Southport Road, Nerang. GOLD COAST FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY BOOK GIVEAWAY TWO WAYS TO ENTER ... EITHER POST OR EMAIL... POST: Write your name, address & phone on the back of an envelope and post to: 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 LOVE A CHALLENGE - PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town 4220 OR EMAIL: info@localnewsletters.com with LOVE A CHALLENGE in the SUBJECT LINE. Please include your name, address and phone number in the email • Entries close 30.11.2026 LOVE A CHALLENGE? THIS DOUBLE BOOK PRIZE IS FOR YOU! ONE OF THEM IS A KILLER by Alex St Claire 25,820 names. 21 murders. 1 detective: you! A needle in a haystack or a killer in your crosshairs? One of Them Is the Killer challenges citizen sleuths to solve fiendishly clever murders using logic, deduction, and suspect lists over a thousand names long. Relish the thrill of using critical clues and crossing off innocent bystanders one by one to identify the killer in each of 21 mysteries. Every puzzle offers a fresh setting, a new catalogue of conceivable culprits, and a unique mystery to unravel. • Study the evidence left at the scene of the crime. • Read the clues and put your powers of deduction to the test. • Cross out the suspects you’ve cleared. Only one name fits all the facts! One part logic puzzle, one part murder mystery, and all parts addictive, One of Them Is the Killer delivers an immersive whodunit experience. IBSN 9788652200108 | Format: Paperback | Pub Date: 01/12/2026 | Category: Puzzles & Quizzes, GAMES & ACTIVITIES / Puzzles, GAMES & ACTIVITIES / Logic & Brain Teasers, GAMES & ACTIVITIES / Activity Books, FICTION / Mystery & Detective / General, Puzzles and quizzes, Classic crime and mystery fiction | Imprint: Macmillan Australia | Price: $29.99 | Pages: 224 101 CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS Book 1 The Sydney Morning Herald/ The Age Challenge yourself with this selection of the very best puzzles from Australia’s premier cryptic crossword creators. The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age’s mind-bending, fun and fiendish cryptic crosswords are devoured by scores of puzzlers every day. Test your brain power, skills of linguistic deduction and lateral thinking with 202 classic puzzles across two books, created by eight master compilers. ISBN: 9781761907760 | Format: Paperback | Pub Date: 27/10/2026 | Category: Puzzles & Quizzes, Crosswords, Hobbies, Quizzes & Games, Lifestyle, Sport & Leisure, GAMES & ACTIVITIES / General, GAMES & ACTIVITIES / Crosswords / General, GAMES & ACTIVITIES / Puzzles, Puzzles and quizzes, Crosswords and word games, Hobbies, quizzes and games, Lifestyle, Hobbies and Leisure | Imprint: Macmillan Australia Price: $17.99 | Pages: 272 101 Cryptic Crosswords Book 1 & Book 2 Available in time for Christmas, this is the ideal stocking filler for your brainiac hard-to-buy-for family member, friend, or any word nerd in your life!
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10 The real cost of cooking every day Cooking at home can be a lovely part of the day, but preparing every meal from scratch takes more than ingredients. There’s the trip to the shops, the cost of pantry staples, time spent cooking and cleaning, and the challenge of using fresh food before it spoils. These costs can be especially noticeable when cooking for one. Ingredients are often sold in larger amounts than needed, and leftovers may go uneaten. For people finding it harder to stand, chop or carry hot dishes, cooking can also take more effort than it once did. Family members who help with meals may be juggling those tasks alongside work and other commitments. A few practical changes can make mealtimes easier. Freezing leftovers in single portions, planning meals ahead and keeping ready-to-heat meals on hand can help reduce waste and take the pressure off cooking every day. For Gold Coast residents, frozen meals can be a convenient extra option. Gourmet Meals is a local, family-owned business that delivers meals across the Gold Coast each week. Meals can be heated when needed, with the rest kept in the freezer. There are no lock-in contracts or subscriptions: order what you want, when you want. Gourmet Meals can also send printed menus. The team is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, on 1300 112 112 or at sales@gourmetmeals. com.au. Gourmet Meals is an approved associate provider for Support at Home. If you receive funding, contact the team to request a menu with pricing through your funding. 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 in all freshness, nutrients and flavours he said. wide range of ed meals that and reduced in n order to retain and flavours. ot to the blast without the tives, flavours or t Meals were es, and the act odness intact antage of once menu filled with great tasting meals that are just like home cooking and remind you of the delicious meals mum used to cook when you were growing up,” he said. “Some of our all-time favourites are cottage pie, curry prawns and honey soy chicken as well as all our roasts and casseroles, not to forget our yummy soups and scrumptious desserts. “Ordering ready-made frozen meals is extremely convenient for busy parents and time-poor professionals; they also minimise food wastage, which is not only good for the hip pocket, but also reduces the environmental footprint. “It gives the possibility of having a varied menu throughout the week, every day something different. “Check out our menu today to discover our wide range of healthy meals that can be delivered straight to your door at a competitive price.” Ordering ready-made frozen meals is extremely convenient for busy parents and time-poor professionals; they also minimise food wastage, which is not only good for the hip pocket, but also reduces the environmental footprint. – Owner Daniel Wuthrich Full range of meals available at 46/215 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters | Mon-Fri 9am to 4pm. Contact our office for minimum order requirements HOME DELIVERY OF READY MADE MEALS 4 Large Gluten Free Variety 4 Convenient ready-made frozen meals 4 Tastes like home cooking 4 Wholesome and nutritious 4 Australian owned and operated 4 Home delivered or available in stores HEALTHY EATING MADE EASY New Customers use the code word INTRO and receive a FREE MEAL Minimum order applies, one per customer To make an appointment to view our apartments, please call Shelly on 5578 3433 or visit www.ehrv.com.au Earle Haven Independent Living Units Our one bedroom units include: •Courtesy shopping daily bus •Doctor’s surgery and 24 hour emergency care on site • Licenced restaurant and coffee shop open 7 days a week • Shopping centres and railway station close by •Swimming pool, lawn and indoor bowls, mini golf, croquet • Library and craft room •Maintenance and gardening incl. in fees • Optional Extra’s include- Three meals per day in dining room, weekly clean and heavy laundry service Prices Start from $120,000 (Studio) $140,000 (1 bedroom) Do something special. Give blood. Call 13 14 95 download the app or donateblood.com.au
11 Use it or Lose It! 3 Bulk Billed Eye Tests 3 Most Health Funds Accepted 3 External Prescriptions Welcome PARIS MIKI OPTICAL Shop 18, 12 Sir John Overall Drive, Helensvale Plaza Phone 5580 5010 | www.paris-miki.com.au If you haven’t visited your optometrist this year and are among the nearly 55% of people with private health insurance, now is the perfect time to schedule an eye check-up. Many private health fund benefits expire at the end of December, so this is your chance to take full advantage of your coverage before it’s too late. You've been paying premiums all year, so why not make the most of the optical benefits your health fund offers? Now is an ideal time to prioritise your eye health. Most health funds don’t allow you to carry over unused benefits from year to year. Once January 1 arrives, any benefits you didn’t use the previous year will expire. Regular eye exams are crucial, as your prescription may change over time. As we age, our eyes become more susceptible to conditions like presbyopia, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Early detection is key to timely treatment. See More Clearly If you haven't updated your prescription in a while, you might be amazed by how much lens technology has advanced. Lenses today are thinner, lighter, and available with a range of coatings. In addition to improving your vision, modern lenses can be tailored to your specific needs. Many feature antireflective and scratch-resistant coatings, as well as options that reduce harmful UV exposure, block blue light from screens, or transition from clear to dark when exposed to sunlight. How to Use Your Rebate There are plenty of ways to use your health fund rebate. Why not invest in an extra pair of reading glasses for home? No more searching the living room for your misplaced pair! Or consider prescription sports glasses. Your private health insurance may also cover a variety of eye care services and "no gap" frames. Paris Miki Helensvale accepts all health funds, so book your appointment and make the most of your benefits. Paris Miki Optical’s Store Manager Michael has over 33 year’s experience as a qualified Optical technician and has been working in the area for over 25 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. Maximise Your Health Cover Don’t kiss your optical benefits goodbye! $150 OFF COMPLETE PAIR *Excludes Maui Jim, Zeal and Oakley Sun RX & Meta Range Don’t forget to use your Optical Benefit before 31st December
12 One of the toughest native plants is the bottlebrush. They can be seen flowering along local motorways in the most difficult conditions, and in windswept coastal gardens. In the wild many grow along creek lines, inundated in times of flood. They also grow from rock crevices in high mountain areas. Such a versatile species can be trusted to handle a variety of growing conditions in residential and public gardens. The first and most obvious feature is the flower spikes, which comprise of multiple individual flowers. The long, fine male anthers are in clusters around the stem of the spike. The golden pollen is at the tip of the filament, adding extra colour. They come in a variety of colours including red, crimson, pink, mauve, lemon, cream, green and white. Growth habit varies from spreading ground covers, to small or large shrubs and also tall trees. Selecting the right one in the nursery is made easy by informative labels which will give the average size. They respond to pruning, but it should be undertaken wisely. To maintain shape prune immediately following flowering, removing any woody seed capsules that have developed. This will almost guarantee double the volume of flowers next season. Alternatively tip prune when new growth appears. This method may impact on the next seasons flowering, but it’s sometimes worthwhile to keep the desired shape. If a bottlebrush becomes misshapen, or woody, cutting back low to the ground can sometimes produce results. If attempting this type of pruning make sure plenty of additional water and a dose of fertiliser is provided. Never prune this way when there’s a risk of very cold weather, frost or extreme dry. The origin of the name bottlebrush is fairly obvious as they do look just like the brushes used to clean the inside of bottles. The botanic name is not so simple. Known for many years by the genus name Callistemon, it was first collected growing along the Endeavour River, Cooktown in 1770 on Cook’s voyage, and sketched by artist Sydney Parkinson. German botanist Joseph Gartnaer first named the collected species Metrosideros viminalis in 1788, but it was later corrected to a new Genus - Callistemon. Several years ago the Genus Callistemon was reclassified into the Genus Melaleuca (commonly known as paperbarks). The flowers have very common characteristics and it’s not unusual for plants to be re-classified. It can be quite frustrating for gardeners! While the name and its changes are interesting, it’s the beautiful flowers that make bottlebrushes appealing. The nectar is food for birds, bees and butterflies so it is also a valuable habitat plant. If you’re looking for something tough as well as beautiful this is the one. Gardening by Kate Heffernan Honorary Life Member Friends of GCRBG, Botanic Garden Consultant 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 We’ll bring your garden back to life - creating a refreshed space where you can relax and enjoy your tranquil surroundings * Garden Care * Plant Selection * Soft Landscaping Get your garden looking good for Christmas festivities NOW!
13 Most health funds do not roll over your benefits that are left unused as of 31 December. That means if you have any remaining extras cover - especially for dental - you could be missing out on valuable entitlements you’ve already paid for. Once the calendar ticks over to the new year, any unused benefits are usually forfeited, so now is the perfect time to book your appointment and make the most of your private health insurance before it resets. If you have Private Health Insurance for major dental, then now is the time to act! Whether you need new dentures, repairs, or relines, the team at Noble Denture Design can help you maximise your current year’s benefits and avoid out-of-pocket expenses later. There are some really good reasons for calling Noble Denture Design TODAY. We accept ALL Health Funds, and all claims are processed conveniently in our clinic, saving you time and hassle. Rachel and the friendly team provide professional, personalised care to ensure your dentures fit comfortably and look natural—helping you feel confident and ready for the new year. Don’t let your hard-earned benefits go to waste. Call Rachel at Noble Denture Design today on 5525 2899 to make your appointment before 31 December. Health Fund End of Year Reminder – Don’t Miss Out on Your Benefits NOW OPEN in Robina Village ATTENTION: All Health Fund Members, the end of the calendar year is fast approaching. 1st January 2018 is the time of year when most health funds will reset their annual benefits. Most health funds do not roll over the benefits that are left unused as at 31 December, so the portion of your benefits not used by 31 December (2017) s lost on 1 January each year. These are benefits for which you have already paid and are entitled to. If you have recently discussed treatment with your dentist or dental prosthetist and would like to utilise your health fund benefits for 2017 give us a call to find out more. As our busy end-of-year period approaches, we would like to take this opportunity at Noble Denture Design, to remind our patients and new patients to check their health fund limit and make the most out of their health fund benefits for their dental needs. Whether you need new dentures, a recline/repair or would ike a spare set, or you simply wish to make an appointment (with no out of pocket cost to you under your private health nsurance) for a checkup, give Noble Denture Design a call today to find out more. Ph: 5525 2899 171 | Dental Care Join www.livewellclub. Health Fund End of Year Reminder – Don’t Miss Out on Your Benefits • Shop 40/1 Mudgeeraba Rd, Worongary Town Centre • 5/26-28 Commerce Drive, Robina • nobledenturedesign.com.au Need New Dentures? TWO LOCATIONS Worongary & Robina CUSTOM MADE, AESTHETICALLY DESIGNED natural looking dentures that you can wear with a confident smile. Registered with the Dental Board of Australia & Australian Dental Prosthetist Assoc. Ltd • Implant Dentures • Health Funds & Veterans Affairs • Precision Dentures • Mouthguards • Same Day Repairs & Relines Someone who cares! Dentures Direct to the Public NO COMPROMISE ON QUALITY CALL NOW 5525 2899
14 Answer to Crossword No. 137 from last issue Answer to Cryptic Xword No. 137 from last issue Answer to Sudoku No. 137 from last issue TO ENTER SEND YOUR COMPLETED CRYPTIC CROSSWORD TO: “Over 50s Cryptic Crossword Competition” PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town City Q. 4220 Write your name and address on the back of an envelope. First correct entry drawn will win. Entries close 30.11.2026 Winner notified by post. Win a $50 GIFT Card 2 3 4 9 11 12 13 15 16 20 21 23 1 8 10 14 22 5 6 7 17 18 19 S P I R A L S F S H A O B T A I N E D I R O N I C E E A E G A S T O N I S H L A M E N T D O D R I M P O S I N G E O R L D E N O U N C E D A R U T R E P I D C O N T R I T E M D D C T N U A N C E B E F R I E N D N N S Y M S I D L E S 1 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 2 3 4 5 6 7 I A M T F R E I G H T E D C R A S H O E N R E R L R C O R P O R E A L A L A M O U I R A I W D N S C E N A R E V O L V I N G E N E E D E M O T E D R E F U S E D O E E R C O M M I T T A L S H I V A H E N A I T L G A U N T S I N K E E P I N G N T E L I R A E C R U S T S E N T E N C E D E M G D CRYPTIC 138 Answer next issue 1 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 2 3 4 5 6 7 25 ACROSS 4. Drew back but move slowly in take-off. (8) 8. Find mere bugs sink. (8) 9. Job getting into and tied up. (8) 10. The promoter arranged a musical on the top of the hill. (8) 11. Persisting you call on the conclusion. (8) 12. The bogey man essentially didn’t follow any etiquette. (4) 14. A friend was found afloat in a small yacht. (4) 15. Law sorted out track classification between dead and heavy. (4,5) 16. Lily liked a spirit. (4) 18. Does the undergarment give power? (4) 21. Dubious vice need proof. (8) 24. Nonsense to applaud cheat. (8) 25. Firing a gun or breaking a catch. (8) 26. Happening so IOC can regroup. (8) 27. Sibling behind flying onto Thursday Island to dump. (8) DOWN 1. Assume to consume and project. (7) 2. Cognition affected moral aims. (9) 3. A hundred judge the box. (5) 4. Worried re deaf confused. (6) 5. Accidents caused by explosive insect din. (9) 6. The spoilt wealthy had nothing inside for the group of singers. (5) 7. Worried lent ear forever. (7) 13. Pizza Houses held in the territories. (9) 14. Trades vie furiously to promote. (9) 17. Income concerning position. (7) 19. Politician put straight on rates. (7) 20. Calculate smashed conker. (6) 22. Take out of container in the storage area. (5) 23. Rushed from church to the farm. (5) An elderly patient was listening to his cardiologist deliver a stern lecture in the examination room. “Mr. Henderson,” the doctor warned, shaking a finger, “you are seventy-nine years old. If you want to see eighty-five, you must walk 10,000 steps every day, cut out butter, stop drinking your afternoon whisky, and avoid all stressful conversations.” The old man chuckled and shook his head: “Doctor, back in my day, people didn’t run around in fluorescent spandex before sunrise worrying about their cholesterol. My uncle Barnaby drank three stiff drams of malt whisky before breakfast, smoked a pipe like a steam train, ate lard on his toast, and lived until he was ninety-six!” The doctor looked sceptical: “And did he have all his faculties right to the end?” Mr. Henderson nodded: “Every single one of them. In fact, when the crematorium caught fire, it took the local brigade three days to put him out!” Just Joking 7 2 1 8 3 4 9 6 5 9 4 5 1 2 6 3 7 8 8 6 3 7 5 9 1 2 4 6 3 8 9 4 1 7 5 2 1 5 7 2 6 3 4 8 9 2 9 4 5 7 8 6 3 1 3 7 2 4 9 5 8 1 6 4 8 6 3 1 2 5 9 7 5 1 9 6 8 7 2 4 3
15 Do you reach for a cotton bud after a shower? You’re not alone. But here’s something that might surprise you: your ears are designed to clean themselves. Should I Be Cleaning My Ears? Earwax isn’t dirt. It protects the delicate skin inside your ear canal. The skin slowly moves outwards, like a tiny conveyor belt, carrying old wax with it. Cotton buds work against this natural process, often pushing wax further in rather than removing it. A gentle wipe around the outside of your ear is usually all that’s needed. Of course, wax can sometimes build up. People with narrow or curved ear canals, drier wax or hearing aids may be more prone to blockages. This can make hearing seem worse than it really is. It’s also a common reason hearing aids suddenly whistle or sound weak. That’s why a good hearing appointment always starts with a look inside your ears. When wax needs removing, we use microsuction, a fine suction tube used under magnification to carefully remove wax without pushing it further in. But here’s something important: not every blocked ear is caused by wax. If you wake up one morning with significantly reduced hearing, or your hearing suddenly changes over a few hours, don’t assume it’s just wax. Sudden inner-ear hearing loss is a medical emergency. Seek medical attention immediately, through your GP or emergency department. Early treatment can make a significant difference. And while we’re talking about hearing health, your 50s are an excellent time for a baseline hearing test. In July, the Australian Government began writing to Australians turning 50 about reducing their risk of dementia. Regular hearing checks are among its recommendations. Hearing often changes gradually, and those around us may notice before we do. A baseline test gives us something valuable to compare against in the future. At Holistic Hearing Solutions, we’re proudly independent. No hearing aid manufacturer owns us or influences what we recommend. Sometimes the answer involves hearing aids, and sometimes it doesn’t. Explore all 10 of our hearing-health tips at holistichearingsolutions. com.au, or scan the QR code to follow us on Facebook. Book online or call 07 5619 3007. No pressure. Just a clearer picture.
16 We have 2 x $50 Gift Cards to give away! Simply complete the CROSSWORD and/or the SUDOKU puzzle and post to GC OVER 50s CROSSWORD COMPETITION and/or GC OVER 50s SUDOKU COMPETITION PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town City Q. 4220 Write your name and address on the back of an envelope. First correct crossword and first correct sudoku entry drawn will win. Entries close 30.11.2026 Winner notified by post. Win a $50 GIFT Card Just Joking CROSSWORD 138 by Mona Elliott ACROSS 1. AGREE 7. OUTSIDE 8. CAPTURE 9. RUNS RIOT 10. RUMPLE 11. MALADIES 14. OBSCURES 18. BICYCLE FOR TWO 19. ANALYTIC 21. A TYPE OF FUR 2 3 4 9 11 12 13 15 16 20 21 23 22. STIFLES 23. COMFORT DOWN 1. PUNISH 2. DAIRY PRODUCT 3. WITHDRAWS 4. ARTICLE 5. WRINKLE 6. DORMANT 12. LANGUID 13. ROUT 15. PILLAR 16. INHERENT 17. BEAST 20. MASTICATE Answer next month 1 8 10 14 22 5 6 7 17 18 19 A beloved priest was being honoured at a grand retirement dinner celebrating his twenty-five years of service to the parish. A prominent local politician, who was also a regular member of the congregation, had been chosen as the guest speaker to deliver the keynote tribute and present the farewell gift. However, the politician was running late due to traffic, so the priest decided to step up to the podium and share a few lighthearted memories while the crowd waited. "I have to admit," the priest began with a chuckle, "my very first impression of this community came from the first confession I ever heard here. At the time, I honestly thought I’d been assigned to the most wicked place on earth! The very first man to enter my confessional confessed that he had stolen a television set and lied to the police, robbed money from his parents, embezzled funds from his company, had an affair with his boss's wife, slept with his boss's daughter, abused illegal substances, and had been booked multiple times for public nudity. I was horrified that a single soul could commit so much mischief! But over the years, I quickly realised that he was a rare exception, and that this parish is actually filled with the most decent, honourable, and loving people." Right as the priest concluded his speech to polite laughter, the doors swung open, and the breathless politician hurried into the hall, apologising profusely for the delay. He bounded straight to the stage, took the microphone, and smiled warmly at the audience: "Ladies and gentlemen, I’ll never forget the very day Father arrived at our parish twenty-five years ago. In fact, I had the distinct honour of being the very first person to enter his confessional!" SU DO KU Instructions: The numbers 1 to 9 must appear in each row, column and 3 x 3 box. Numbers can not be duplicated. No. 138 9 2 7 6 5 2 7 9 9 3 6 8 1 1 5 6 2 8 4 1 9 5 Answer next month
17 2027 MID COAST MOTOR INN6 DAY TOUR $1880 ALL INCLUSIVE 6 DAY TOUR l Free coach pick up and return from Gold Coast & Brisbane area l 4 Days of Touring - Sightseeing includes Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo, Port Macquarie and places in between. l All Entry Fees included l 3 Nights Live Entertainment l All meals provided (except lunch on pick up and return) l Choice of hot/cold breakfast l All evening meals served in a licensed Restaurant - 3 course dinners l All rooms are air conditioned, ground floor and serviced daily. For Touring Dates and more information Call 02 6568 3544 www.midcoastmotorinn.com.au Macksville PP Ideal for community group tour getaways Salmon with mango & chilli salsa 0:15 Prep 0:10 Cook 4 Servings • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 4 (about 220g each) skinless salmon fillets • 2 ripe mangoes, cheeks removed, peeled, finely chopped • 1 long fresh red chilli, halved, deseeded, thinly sliced • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice • 1 bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed • Lime wedges, to serve Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over mediumhigh heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes each side or until just cooked through. Meanwhile, combine the mango, chilli, coriander and lime juice in a bowl. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Cook the asparagus in a saucepan of boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until bright green and tender crisp. Divide the salmon among serving plates. Top with asparagus and salsa and serve with lime wedges. Mango Eaton Mess 0:25 Prep 0:45 Cook 4 Servings • 100g egg white (about 3 eggs) • 100g caster sugar • 100g pure icing sugar, sieved • 15g cornflour • 2 ½ cups pouring cream • 100g caster sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla essence • 2 whole mangoes • 1 pomegranate • 2 passionfruit For meringues, preheat oven to 120°C. Whisk egg white and a pinch of salt in an electric mixer until firm peaks form (3-4 minutes). With motor running, gradually add caster sugar and whisk until thick and glossy (2-3 minutes). Sieve icing sugar and cornflour over, fold to combine, then spoon 8cm-diameter mounds onto oven trays lined with baking paper. Bake until meringues lift easily from trays and are crisp but not coloured (45-50 minutes), then turn off oven and cool completely in oven. Note - you can use store bought meringue nests for this recipe if you prefer. Using an electric mixer and a clean bowl, whip the cream with the sugar and vanilla essence until it becomes stiff peaks (3-5 minutes). Chill until required. Prepare mangoes by slicing off each cheek and cutting a lattice pattern in the flesh of each cheek, without cutting through the skin. Use a spoon to scoop out small bite size pieces. Cut the pomegranate in half and remove the seeds. Cut the passionfruit in half. Break the meringue into bite size pieces. Take 4 clean glasses and begin to layer all the ingredients starting with the meringue and cream then layering with the mango, pomegranate and passionfruit. Continue to build until the glass is filled and garnish with mango, pomegranate and passionfruit. Serve chilled. Mmmm... Mango 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. Advertise with GC Over 50s magazine! www.localnewsletters.com For info call Geoff 0411 134 507 / 5527 0314 Get Your Message Across to Your Local Target Market! Gold Coast Over Fifties Magazine
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