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Seniors Card
INSIDE: Subscribe and WIN! • Passion sparks environmental legacy
Immune to retirement • Close-knit friends • Sudoku puzzle
2019 Seniors Card magazine
celebrating extraordinary seniors
Timing is Everywhere in Victoria older people
are leading extraordinary lives.
This year’s Seniors Card magazine
If you’ve just received your Seniors
Card, head to pages 5, 48 and 49 to
read what’s on offer in the Seniors
Information
Make sure you enter our Holiday Inn
everything. features exceptional Victorian seniors
who are savvy, generous and clever
with their time.
Card program. If you’re an old hand,
you’ll also want to have a gander. We
share details of changes we’re making
competition by subscribing or updating
your email address – details below!
Whether knitting for others, to next year’s magazine and how you Bookmark Seniors Online at
playing walking footy for the first can get a copy. www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au for
time, lobbying against single-use If you’re the online type, regular content and access to this
plastics, setting up or joining a choir, be sure to say hello by ‘liking’ our magazine in electronic form
or simply deciding to adjust one’s diet Facebook page and bookmarking
for strength, the people featured in this Seniors Online – your e-home for Like us on Facebook
year’s magazine have great stories Seniors Card information. You will www.facebook.com/SeniorsCardVIC
to tell. also find games, puzzles, services and
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can fit here!
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communities coming soon, or an already established community. Whichever suits you best, Holiday Inn Melbourne *Open only to Victorian residents who
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But don’t delay, speak to one of our friendly consultants today. beverage package. Business Discount holders. Between 9
am, 3 September 2019 until midnight
New resort-style living for over 50s from $250,000* The seasonal Seniors
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LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES. RIGHT TIME, RIGHT PLACE. Card e-Newsletter 2019, Department of Health and
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CONTENTS INFORMATION FEATURE
Message Seniors Card news
p.44 Tears and hugs on the
Features road to reconciliation
from the
Peek Whurrong Elder Uncle Robbie
Lowe’s stories help Aboriginal kids feel
Minister
proud of who they are
p.47 Passion sparks
More than 100 new businesses have Museum and Scienceworks, and
environmental legacy
The health of a marine sanctuary led
joined the Seniors Card program exemption from the need to hold a Information
since 2018. And many of Melbourne’s Fishing Licence in Victorian waters are Hop online to visit the Seniors
Elizabeth to lobby for the banning of
favourite destinations continue to offer all still available. Card Discount Directory at
single-use plastics
p.7 Volunteer
path you free or cheaper entry when you What's more, in exciting news we www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/discounts
p.59 Two of us: present your Seniors Card or Seniors are delighted to welcome 24,000 new or keep an eye out for the Seniors Card
to paid work
Rosie’s volunteering led to a paid role Japanese choir Business Discount Card. Victorian Carer Card holders to the ‘Welcome Here’ logo at your local store
Harumi and Margaret’s love of music These include Werribee Open Range Seniors Card program this year. or business
managing young learner drivers and
and Japanese culture brought them Zoo, Melbourne Aquarium, Melbourne Carers make big contributions to
their volunteer mentors
together Star Observation Wheel, National the lives of the people they care for, Update your contact details,
‘People do not decide to become p.8 Immune to retirement Sports Museum and MCG Tours, to and to our communities. subscribe to the Seniors Card
extraordinary. They decide to A retired immunologist’s work p.60 Two of us: Close-knit name a few. They can now access the same e-Newsletter, or replace a lost or
accomplish extraordinary things.’ is never done friends Old favourites, like free entry to the discounts that Seniors Card holders do. stolen Seniors Card at
Judy and Helen are friends and knitters Melbourne Museum, Immigration www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/manage
As Minister for Disability, Ageing and with a community-minded bent
Carers I am convinced of the truth
of this statement from Sir Edmund
Also in this issue Imprint Privacy Disclaimer
Hillary. Each day, I meet older
To receive this publication in an The Seniors Card program collects This publication and the enclosed
Victorians who are leading exceptional
accessible format phone 1300 797 210 and uses your personal information materials have been provided to you
lives and making a great contribution p.15 Preparation is key using the National Relay Service for the purpose of administering the for information purposes only. The
to our communities. to positive ageing 13 36 77 if required, or email program. This includes mailing to you State of Victoria does not endorse any
All across Victoria, seniors are Commissioner Gerard Mansour on seniorsonline@dhhs.vic.gov.au your Seniors Card, free travel vouchers, particular organisation, product or
showing they are passionate about p.11 Circus performer maximising the ageing experience publications, surveys, government services named in this publication or
volunteering, working, playing
still juggling work p.18 Ladies who lunch Authorised and published by the information and special offers from enclosed material; does not accept any
sports and making connections
commitments Protein for muscles and calcium and Victorian Government, participating businesses. responsibility for any errors, omissions,
in the community. It’s what has
All in a day’s work – Sue juggles vitamin D for bones! 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne. or inaccuracies that may be contained
inspired this year’s magazine theme of
and flies through the air The Seniors Card program respects in this publication or enclosed material
‘extraordinary seniors’. p.33 The
easy way to report © State of Victoria, Department your privacy. If you would like to read and disclaims all liability for error, loss
I hope you enjoy the stories of p.27 Onthe road non-urgent crime of Health and Human Services, our ‘Seniors Card: Your privacy’ notice or other consequence which may arise
senior Victorians in this magazine, with James Blundell When you need the police, but not the August 2019. please call 1300 797 210 or visit us on from you relying on any information in
who like you, make our state a better The country music icon revels in his sirens www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au this publication and enclosed material,
place. senior audiences Except where otherwise indicated, the and does not represent or warrant that
This year’s magazine also has p.49 Two become one
images in this publication show models If you would prefer not to receive any service or product specified in this
details about the recently announced Your magazine and Seniors Festival
and illustrative settings only, and do Seniors Card information or would publication or enclosed material is of a
expansion of Seniors Card business program are joining forces next year
not necessarily depict actual services, like to access or update your personal particular standard or is suitable to your
discounts to Carer Card holders,
facilities or recipients of services. This information, please call Seniors Card needs, and has not assessed whether
Seniors Card discounts on goods
and services from more than 4,000
More stories online at publication may contain images of on 1300 797 210 or contact the the services or product is of a particular
businesses across the state, and the
www.seniorsonline.vic.gov. deceased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Seniors Card program on standard.
Victorian Seniors Festival.
au/emag Islander peoples. Where the term www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au
'Aboriginal' is used it refers to both Before purchasing any goods or services
Enjoy!
Credits Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander The Seniors Card program is part of or relying on any information referred to
p.34 Living
legends: people. Indigenous is retained when it the Department of Health and Human in this publication or enclosed material,
Writers: Andrew Macrae, Ralph
Two brothers with an Johnstone, Kate Robertson is part of the title of a report, program Services. For more information on the you should make your own enquiries
ironclad will to survive Editor: Hilary Fisher or quotation. department’s privacy policy please visit about whether the goods or services
A brother’s love has resulted in Photography: Nicole Cleary www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/publications/ are of good quality and are suitable
the creation of a two-time world Design: Forde + Nicol ISSN 2206-6071 - Print privacy-policy for your needs, and if necessary, seek
Luke Donnellan MP
champion Available at independent financial, legal or medical
Minister for Disability,
www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/emag advice.
Ageing and Carers
Printed by Ovato Clayton on sustainable
paper (1907404)
4 5
EMPLOYMENT FEATURE
Volunteer path
to paid work
The skills of older workers benefit employers
Rosie Finn OA had a brief fling with ‘I would book lunches with people Rosie now works a four-day week,
retirement before throwing herself but most of my friends are a bit managing 100 people: 50 young learner
into a volunteering role that led to younger than me and are still working drivers and the 50 volunteer mentors
her return to paid work where she and they would cancel or just give who accompany them on the road.
manages 100 people. me half an hour. Understandable, Rosie has no doubts that finding
Now in her seventies, Rosie but it was the highlight of my week! work can be harder for older people
had retired at 65 after a lifetime in So that didn’t fit the vision I’d had of but says volunteering definitely helped
community development in Australia retirement.’ her land her paid role.
and overseas; and a stint as a dental Comically she recounts: ‘One day ‘Because I worked in the
nurse for the Air Force, where she I found myself making our German community sector, where there is lots
earned an Australia Day award for her Shepherd dog a cup of tea in one of of project-based work, I was applying
heroic actions during Cyclone Tracy. those big soup cups and sitting down for a new job every few years and I was
‘I was excited about retiring. I with her on the floor and having a used to getting an interview at least.
thought I would have all this free time conversation, which, I have got to say, Once I was 50, it was quite a bit harder.
and would do all the projects around was one way!’ I didn’t get a response at all for many
the house that I wanted to do, and go Rosie finished her tea, called her applications, didn’t get an interview,
out for lunches with friends and have a wife to tell her she really wasn’t ready didn’t even get told – I’d have to chase
grand old time,’ Rosie says. for retirement, and promptly began them. And I’d say that wasn’t my
But, 12 months in, Rosie could see volunteering at a not-for-profit experience before I turned 50.’
that retirement wasn’t quite for her. organisation three days a week. Rosie says volunteering is a good
‘I did most of the things I could: I ‘They realised I had the skills option for people who are looking for
painted anything that stood still, like they needed to do locums in their ways to contribute their skills and
the front fence and did other things different programs, so I did locums experience to the community, and can
around the house. But, then I realised in emergency food relief, no interest even be a path to paid work.
the bigger things I wanted to do loans and the L2P Learn to Drive Employers are missing out if they
needed money, like re-carpeting the program. Then a paid position became discount older workers, she says.
lounge room ... I had time but then, I available in the Victorian Learn to ‘I think I have more to offer now
didn’t have money. Drive program and I interviewed for it than when I was younger.’ ↩
and got the job.’
6 Rosie Finn and her dog Jessie 7
EMPLOYMENT FEATURE
Immune
to retirement
At 88, Sir Gustav Nossal’s expertise is still in demand
When an email hits 88-year-old Sir one cell of your body, one single cell, work part-time for many years. This
Gustav Nossal’s inbox it may well be always only makes one antibody.’ includes working for the World Health
the World Health Organization or Bill The long-lasting impact of Sir Organization in the field of infectious
and Melinda Gates seeking his advice. Gustav’s work is impressive and it diseases and vaccines.
The award-winning medical shows just how much a person can ‘The Bill and Melinda Gates
researcher, who has a high school and contribute to a single field over a Foundation became a very major
university research institute named lifetime – then and now. interest after my retirement,’ he says.
after him and was the Australian of the ‘I always think of it like an ever- ‘I have the highest respect for
Year in 2000, officially retired at 65. growing giant jigsaw puzzle. If you’re both Bill and Melinda Gates. They
However, he still fields calls from those lucky enough to put one piece into the really care. Soon after I retired, they
needing his expertise in vaccines and jigsaw puzzle, that’s really something. made polio eradication their number
immunology. But the jigsaw puzzle only takes on one priority and, second to that, the
‘I think it’s important for people to meaning when all the other pieces, development of more vaccine coverage
stay active as long as possible and when made by other researchers, are there as for the developing countries, and
their full-time career finishes, try and well. So, any one person’s contribution they really believed in it and put their
find some part time involvement to has to be seen in the light of the money where their mouth was.’
keep the mind active,’ Sir Gustav says. contribution of many, many others.’ For several post-retirement years,
Sir Gustav’s career saw him Sir Gustav was also involved Sir Gustav chaired the Strategic
make major inroads in the fields of in teaching and mentoring a new Advisory Council for the Bill and
antibody formation and immunological generation of researchers as Director Melinda Gates Children’s Vaccine
tolerance. of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Program and he is still called upon
It’s clear that Sir Gustav’s passion Medical Research. from time to time to assist with grant
for science is lifelong. ‘That’s been really satisfying … the applications and other work.
‘I grew to love immunology and, number of times that someone has ‘I’m lucky that people understand
in particular, fascinating subjects come up to me in a supermarket when if you’ve been around for a long time
such as autoimmune diseases and I’m shopping and said, “Look, you you’ve seen a lot of things and tackled
the possibility of an immune defence might not remember me, but I studied a lot of problems and maybe have a bit
against cancer,’ Sir Gustav says. under you 50 years ago and those years of a contribution to make in how those
‘I studied how the cells of the body at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute problems could be solved.
make the precious antibody molecules were the best years of my life”,’ he says. ‘It’s both healthy and sensible
that keep you free of disease. It’s an ‘It happens surprisingly to use the skills you’ve built up
extraordinary fact that you can make frequently.’ over a lifetime for as long as you
antibodies to virtually anything, and An academic never quite retires, possibly can.’ ↩
I made some good discoveries about and after his official retirement at the
that. One of the main ones was that age of 65, Sir Gustav has continued to
8 Sir Gustav with his dogs Kiri and Gimbie 9
EMPLOYMENT FEATURE
Circus performer
still juggling work
commitments
Juggling jobs in her 60s is just one of performer
Sue Broadway’s skills
Performer and artistic director Sue Sue was one of the founders of I think it’s improving slowly; two steps
Broadway spent decades moving from Circus Oz and made the transition from forward and one step back, rather than
job to job, long before the term ‘gig performer to artistic director when she the opposite,’ she says.
economy’ was coined. And many of lived in the UK for a decade, where she ‘It’s fantastic to see younger women
those jobs were, literally, juggling. started another circus company and stepping up and taking over the fight
A third-generation performer, toured through Europe, South America and being so determined about it.’
Sue has had the sort of career you’d and Africa. Now, in her 60s, Sue is finding the
usually only read about in books, with Back in Australia, she worked on flow of work has changed as many of
highlights such as travelling with a the Sydney Olympics and directed the those who commissioned her in the
circus through Europe, South America Moomba Parade for several years, adding past have, themselves, retired.
and Africa – delighting people with her ‘parade expert’ to her expertise in ‘I’m still doing it but perhaps not
flying trapeze act and juggling skills. administration, directing and producing. quite as often as I used to. It’s quite
‘I still remember fondly a tour Over the years, Sue has seen nice to take on projects that I’m really
we did in Africa,’ she says. ‘We took dramatic changes in the theatre and fascinated by, rather than needing to
a show to villages where we just performing arts funding landscape. earn a living quite so much,’ she says.
played in the dirt. In the middle of ‘When I started, when I told people Sue and fellow clown Deb Batton
nowhere really, in the middle of rugby I worked in the circus they’d say, perform in their own double act
fields, football fields – but it was a “But what do you do for a living?”,’ Broadway and Batton, and host a
really fantastic experience to be in she recalls. show called The Classics at this year's
that environment, doing a show for ‘No one thought you could actually Victorian Seniors Festival, which
people who really appreciated it. And make a living being an artist, it was just features performers who are all aged
appreciated the fact that we bothered a joke really. over 50. The show is billed as ‘Funny,
to go all that way to show them what ‘There’s a much wider recreational playful, and like good wine, vintage is
we could do. I’ll never, never forget use of circus and all of the performing better!’
that,’ Sue says. arts now at all kinds of community ‘I’m not as agile as I used to be,’ Sue
The circus was not such an unusual events, which is great. says. ‘But I still love performing. It just
choice for Sue – her mother was a ‘We started Circus Oz because we feels like coming home.’ ↩
contortionist, acrobat and tap-dancer could, because nobody else was doing
– but, she did have a brief flirtation it. And now you can go to university
with the idea of being a serious actress and study to be a circus performer, so Read
before the pull of the big top proved the technical level of contemporary More online. Read dentist Tony’s story
too strong. ‘When I discovered the circus has gone up enormously in the www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/tony
circus, and started performing, I felt time that I’ve been doing it.’ and about The Classics
like I had really found my genre. I Circus Oz was very much a feminist www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival
have played around in that field ever initiative, inspired by ideals of gender
since; there’s something about the live and racial equality and diversity, so Sue Jobs Victoria has helped 1,089
audience experience that I just can’t is heartened by the rise of feminism. seniors find a job. Learn more on
get away from,’ Sue says. ‘I’ve seen an incremental change www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/jobs
over my lifetime. Generally speaking, or call 1300 208 575
Sue Broadway clowning around 10 11
INFORMATION FEATURE
Walking football
is kicking goals
People from different cultures are bonding over soccer
The volunteer leaders of Whittlesea’s ‘We thought that the Italians and City Football Club’s community
Walking Football Program know they’re Greeks would embrace the game, but outreach program, City in the
succeeding when they have to remind people from other communities also Community Foundation. Whittlesea
their participants to slow down. enjoy playing,’ Con says. U3A (University of the Third Age)
Walking football is indoor soccer ‘You see some people who were too now runs the program, which means
for people aged over 50. It has modified afraid to kick a ball three years ago – participants can take advantage of their
rules to enable people who aren’t very their progress and the increase in their new U3A membership to participate in
active to be able to participate. confidence is just incredible.’ other U3A activities.
‘The main differences are that you Con says walking football is the
aren’t allowed to run, which slows the 'When you have to tell most rewarding program he has been
game down, and you must keep the ball involved in establishing during the
low to the ground,’ says the program’s
them to slow down, course of his career.
support coach, Con Constantinou. you know fitness levels ‘The players absolutely love
‘Their pace has got a lot quicker and have increased. It's coming,’ he says.
when you have to stop them and tell The promotion of the program to
them to slow down a bit, you know that walking football - not leaders of Whittlesea’s 79 senior citizens
their fitness levels have increased. It’s running footy!' clubs has been key to its success.
walking football – not running footy!’ ‘We’d have the president or
A committed group of older The female players fielded two secretary come to the program, and the
Whittlesea residents from a range of teams in one of the first walking football following week they would bring five
cultural backgrounds has embraced tournaments in 2017. Last year a ‘World more people from their club,’ Con says.
the program. Cup’ was held in Melbourne and in May ‘Then we found friends were
Participants range in age from 50 to this year, a ‘Friendship Tournament’. bringing friends and neighbours were
84, with about a third being women. ‘Their skill level had increased so bringing neighbours and now we have
Most had never played soccer before, much that they ended up playing against between 30 and 40 people that come
coming from countries like Sri Lanka, each other in the final,’ Con says. every week.
Malaysia and China, where it is not a ‘That made it very hard to coach!’ ‘It’s rare that someone comes and
common sport. Initially, the City of Whittlesea ran then says, “This isn’t for me.” The
the program with the assistance of majority that come usually stay.’ ↩
younger volunteers from Melbourne
12 Proud walking footy members 13
Commissioner Gerard Mansour with Melbourne Museum volunteer Linda McCarthy
Preparation is key to
positive ageing
Ageing, like any journey, benefits from some preparation to maximise
the experience
Gerard Mansour regularly speaks ‘It is often the best starting point. Neighbourhood Houses, multicultural
to seniors throughout the state, Another priority is proactively groups and clubs, libraries, art and
spreading his message that people managing health conditions like craft events, sporting groups and the
can be proactive in their approach to diabetes, because research tells us list goes on.
ageing by ensuring they stay as healthy that people who actively manage their ‘I hear great stories of older
and active as possible, plan for their conditions are better off.’ people who give so much back to
future needs and call out unacceptable International research also reveals our community by, for example,
behaviour such as elder abuse. the importance of staying as socially volunteering or supporting local
‘One of my messages is to think connected and active as possible, he says. organisations or causes. Funnily
about all the little things we can do, ‘It is so inspiring to hear the stories enough, they often say they feel like
whether it’s finding a sport or activity of older people who have decided to try they get back more than they give!’
we love, or exploring healthier eating new things and explore new interests.
options,’ says Gerard who was recently ‘There are opportunities for senior Ageing as a journey
reappointed Commissioner for Senior Victorians to be socially connected in On average, the community is living
Victorians. most local communities, from U3As, longer and more healthily than ever
to Men’s Sheds, Life Activity Clubs, before.
15
INFORMATION FEATURE ADVERTORIAL
‘We can look at ageing from multiple Clyde reached out for support.
Clyde’s
dimensions: Have I got my powers of ‘I got a lot of help, I got in touch with
attorney? Am I in the right house? What the Caulfield Hospital and they sent
story
am I going to do when I start to come out a nurse every week to check on us.
to terms with the fact that I can't drive I got a podiatrist, I got the person that
safely anymore?’ he says. did our hair to come to the house, I got
‘When the time comes, it’s a nutritionist who showed me how to
important not to delay getting Clyde Woods thought he would no puree her food and told me what she
support. The earlier we find out what longer need his management skills should eat.
is available, for example from the after he retired from his senior role at I loved Dawn. We had been together
Commonwealth aged care system via Telecom. But when his wife began to about 62 years. It broke my heart to see
MyAgedCare, the earlier we can obtain show signs of dementia, his experience what was going on, but I thought if I
assistance that helps us maintain our in project management proved to be break down what sort of a carer am I
independence for longer.’ incredibly useful. going to be to her?’
Dawn had always been a vital, Clyde nursed Dawn at home for
Your voice - trust your independent woman but, in her early eight years, until she began to have
choice booklet 80s, Clyde noticed she was becoming falls and he was unable to get her up
There are excellent resources available forgetful and losing interest in by himself. Dawn passed away in a
to assist with planning, such as Your activities she’d previously loved. nursing home two years later, at the
voice – trust your choice. This free age of 90, with Clyde at her side.
booklet has answers to many practical Clyde is now travelling and taking
questions about an enduring power of a turn as president of his local Probus
attorney. club and as a committee member
‘The Your voice – trust your of Rostrum. Despite the challenges
choice publication is popular because Dawn’s condition presented, he says
it was developed with the direct the experience was not all bad.
input and guidance from older people ‘All these problems were not as
themselves,’ Gerard says. important as the fact my wife was still
The booklet, developed in with me. I could hold her hand, I could
partnership with the Office of the kiss her goodnight and I could hug her
Public Advocate, contains tips and in bed and she would snuggle up to me.
sample wording that can be included ‘The silver lining was, I had her
in an enduring power of attorney and with me.’ ↩
guidance about issues to consider
when thinking about who to trust to be
your enduring power of attorney. Download
Elsewhere Gerard is enthusiastically Download Your voice – trust your choice
supporting Respect Victoria’s campaign at www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/
Dawn and Clyde Woods
against elder abuse, Call it Out. commissioner or call Victoria Legal Aid
The campaign is valuable he says, ‘I took her to the doctor and he for a copy on (03) 9269 0223
because although many older people asked her the simplest of questions,
have trusted family and friends around like what day is it, what’s the date Like Gerard’s Facebook page
them, others may sadly experience today, and she had no idea. No idea.’ www.facebook.com/
elder abuse. After the doctor referred Dawn to SeniorVicCommissioner
‘To prevent elder abuse, we need to a specialist, Clyde did some research,
start by acknowledging that it exists, talked to his wife about what was Learn more about Respect
and ensure our community respects the likely to happen and wrote up a list of Victoria’s campaign
rights of older people to be treated with everything he needed to put in place. www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au
dignity,’ Gerard says. ‘I looked at the practicalities of
‘We can all take a little of the what I had to do. I had a look at our Watch
responsibility as a community; that's will. Dawn was the executor of my will Watch Clyde share how he and
what’s going to drive change and that's so I had to change that, and I got our beloved wife Dawn planned ahead
why this campaign can be so powerful. powers of attorney up-to-date.’ www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/clyde
‘Let’s call it out – elder abuse is not Once the specialist formally
OK. All older people have a right to be diagnosed Dawn as having Alzheimer’s,
treated with respect.’ the disease progressed quickly.
16
HEALTH FEATURE
‘I’ve often found nutrition advice conscientious diet can bring multiple But Dot doesn’t let her focus on
to be quite confusing,’ admits Janet, health benefits. Now in her early 70s, calcium prevent her from getting her
who works as a cancer nurse at Latrobe ‘Dot’ has had long-running battles fair share of protein and fibre.
Regional Hospital. ‘But I’ve gradually with osteoporosis, as well as dairy and 'Like my mother I don't have a
come to realise that a steak isn’t a sin, gluten intolerance. big appetite' says Dot. 'So I need to
and I can have some nuts every day – as ‘Ironically, my osteoporosis means prioritise foods that provide the right
long as I don’t eat the whole packet!’ I need more calcium, but I’m sensitive nutrients. I've had a few friends
These days, Janet makes an effort to to dairy products so I buy goats’ cheese who've started forgetting to eat as they
eat at least two pieces of fruit and drink and sheep’s milk cheese and yoghurt get older and have had to go into care
two litres of water every day, as well as to make up for my lack of dairy,’ she as a result. But that's not my plan!'↩
avoiding processed foods. says. ‘My doctor prescribes me calcium
‘I try and have some red meat two supplements, and I also eat a lot of
or three times a week, with chicken almonds – which I love – and salmon Search
or fish on the other days,’ she says. and tofu, which also contain calcium.’ Search ‘food and your life stages’ on
‘I have a very sweet tooth, but these Dot was diagnosed with www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au or find
days I’ll try and limit it to two squares osteoporosis back in 2003, but has an accredited practising dietitian on
of chocolate after dinner. It’s become been able to increase her bone density www.daa.asn.au
a real treat, which I look forward to – through her calcium regime and daily
and most days I feel I deserve!’ medication. ‘I also walk a lot and do Visit www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/
Dorothy Bysouth is another Pilates every week, which really seems recipes for a delicious fig, honey and
senior who’s found that a ‘smart’, to help,’ she says. custard tartlet recipe!
Essential nutrients that help us age well*
Janet Tunks with some of her preferred foods
Nutrient Why we need it What provides it
Protein Maintain muscle mass and strength; Red meats, poultry and fish; eggs,
Ladies who lunch
to maintain your muscles repair cells in our organs, skin and nuts, seeds, tofu, legumes and
brain; support an effective immune lentils; dairy products.
system and wound repair.
Calcium Strengthen and build bones; prevent Best source: Cow’s milk, yoghurt,
to keep your bones strong osteoporosis; reduce the risk of heart cheese and custard.
disease, stroke, high blood pressure Other sources: Soy, rice and other
and some cancers. cereal drinks enriched with calcium;
A good diet as we age includes protein for muscles almonds with skin; canned sardines,
and calcium and Vitamin D for bones salmon and firm tofu.
Vitamin D Strengthen bones; improve muscle Sunlight; oily fish, liver, egg yolks;
There’s a common misconception that treadly’ and travelling overseas with eating across the five ‘core food groups’; to keep you on your feet strength and function. products enriched with Vitamin D
as we age we need to eat less – to watch husband Ray each year. and drinking plenty of water – needs including some margarines and
our waistlines and cut our kilojoules. The answer, says Janet, was not further tweaks when we reach our 70s. breakfast cereals.
In fact, most of the time, the opposite focusing on kilojoules, as so much as Then, in addition to these healthy
is true. What’s far more important ‘establishing a routine around good eating fundamentals, we need to start Fibre and B-group vitamins Prevent constipation; reduce risk of Fruits, vegetables, wholegrain bread,
is that we eat healthily – with a diet foods’ – foods that would keep her prioritising a new series of nutrients: to keep your heart and gut healthy heart disease and diabetes. cereals, lentils, legumes, nuts and
focused on keeping us strong. muscles and bones strong, her gut protein for our muscles, calcium and seeds.
Just ask Janet Tunks. Five years ago, healthy and her mind agile. Vitamin D for our bones, and fibre and Some B-group vitamins are also
Janet inspired all of her friends when she As dietary science progresses, the B-group vitamins for our hearts found in meat and dairy products.
lost significant weight so she could have advice to seniors is being fine-tuned to and guts.
a hip replacement. Today, at 60, with reflect the latest wisdom on how our Getting these nutrients from a Fluids Counter reduced thirst; prevent 6–8 cups of fluid daily, preferably
a new hip and a new outlook on life, nutrition needs to change as we age. variety of food and drinks is vital to help to keep your body healthy constipation; improve physical and tap water; milk, tea, coffee, juice
she’s a shining example of nourishing In a nutshell, the focus of a good us stay active and independent – and, mental performance. and hot chocolate.
foods and active living – walking 6 to 7 diet in our 50s and 60s on limiting of course, ensures we enjoy all the social
kilometres every day, riding her ‘deadly unhealthy fats, salt and added sugars; benefits that come with good food. * Unless otherwise specified by your general practitioner (GP)
18 19HEALTH FEATURE
Essential check-ups
as you age
Having regular health checks can help you can stay at the top of your
game, and catch problems early
Here are some of the things you should you’ve had a stroke or have diabetes, Women aged 50 to 74 are invited
consider talking to your general high blood pressure or a neurological for a free breast screen every two
practitioner (GP) about. condition. If you are over 65 you are years through BreastScreen Victoria. If
eligible for a Medicare rebate for an eye you are over 74, you won’t receive an
Vaccinations test every year. invitation but you are still eligible to
Immunisation is a safe and As well as measuring how well you have a free breast screen.
scientifically proven way to protect see, eye tests monitor eye health. Breast screens can detect breast
yourself from diseases that can be cancer at an early stage, when you have
harmful – and even deadly – for older Bowel cancer no symptoms or a cancer may be too
people. Talk to your GP about what If you’re aged 50 to 74, you will be sent small to be felt by you or your doctor.
vaccines might be right for your health, a bowel cancer screening test kit in the
age, lifestyle and occupation. mail to do at home. It is free and easy Prostate cancer
Two vaccines in particular are to do. The test checks for tiny traces of Unlike bowel, cervical and breast
recommended for older people: blood in your bowel movements and it cancer, there is no national screening
influenza (flu) and shingles. can detect early signs of bowel cancer. program for prostate cancer. Not all
You need to get a flu shot every If diagnosed early, most bowel men need to be tested for prostate
year, because different strains of the cancers can be treated successfully. cancer, and there are some limitations
virus are active each flu season. Flu You can also talk to your GP about of prostate cancer testing and
shots are free for people over 65. bowel cancer screening. treatment that you should talk about
Even if you’ve had shingles before, with your GP.
you should still have the shingles vaccine, Cervical cancer However, men with a family
which is free for people aged 70–79. Cervical cancer is one of the most history of prostate cancer, or with a
preventable cancers. Routine cervical previously elevated test result, may
Heart health screening is your best protection. wish to start two-yearly testing from
Heart attack is the biggest killer of men If you are 25 to 74 years old, have the age of 45.
and women in Australia, and it often a cervix and have ever been sexually The two most common tests for
strikes with no warning signs. As you active, you should have a Cervical prostate cancer are a digital rectal
get older, your risk of heart disease Screening Test. examination (DRE) or a prostate-
increases. The risk is also higher for In December 2017, the two-yearly specific antigen (PSA) blood test – but
men, and for people with a family pap test was replaced by the five- neither is completely accurate.
history of heart disease. yearly Cervical Screening Test. Your If a DRE or PSA test is abnormal,
When you talk to your GP about first cervical screening test is due two you might need to have a biopsy to
heart health, some of the tests they years after your last pap test. After determine whether cancer is present.
might recommend include a blood that, you will only need to have the test
pressure test, a coronary angiogram or every five years if your result is normal.
an electrocardiogram (ECG). Contact your healthcare provider to Information
book an appointment. Head to the Better Health Channel to find
Eye checks out more www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
As you get older, you need to get your Breast cancer
eyes checked more regularly. Breast cancer affects one in eight You can book a breastscreening
Optometrists recommend being women in Victoria. It can occur at any appointment online at
tested at least every two years. You age, but it is most common in women www.breastscreen.org.au
may need to be tested more often if over 60. or call 13 20 50
21HEALTH FEATURE
Tanya, who for the past 11 years has ‘We all know that getting outdoors ‘People are always saying to us,
been working at Parks Victoria, which is good for us, but we’re also aware “you’re so fit and healthy, how do you
has pioneered several imaginative that many seniors aren’t comfortable do it?”, but for us it’s a no-brainer,’
programs to make our parks more heading off on their own,’ says Shauna says Gerry. ‘Working as a nurse I see
accessible for older Victorians. Jones, Parks Victoria’s Manager of all the time what happens if you don’t
In recent years, Parks Victoria has Health and Community Activation. stay active. I try and do yoga, gym,
developed a range of guided tours and ‘It’s important that people step into cycling and walking every week. I
‘welcome walks’ for people, including nature at the right level and slowly think a good variety of exercise is
less active seniors, who want to broaden build their confidence and fitness to important for strength and balance.
their natural horizons. It has also take on bigger challenges. That’s my recipe for a long life!’
developed some great innovations for ‘Our welcome walks provide a safe ‘One of the things I love about
people who can struggle to access more and enjoyable introduction for all ages. hiking is that it gets me away from
remote locations – including all-terrain On one recent walk in Lysterfield Park, all the chatter, the traffic, the social
wheelchairs and ‘Sherpa volunteers’ with members of the Southern Migrant media,’ adds Geoff. ‘I think it’s really
in the Grampians and Dandenongs; an and Refugee Centre, we had five ladies good to spend some time in nature
accessible canoe ramp in Mildura; and over 90!’ with your own thoughts. For me,
a hoist to get wheelchairs into boats at Back in Alexandra, it’s easy to nature really is the best medicine!’ ↩
Patterson River. imagine Geoff and Gerry McClure
In the past year, Parks Victoria staff hiking into their 90s. As they gear up
have run more than 100 guided nature for their 70th birthdays, neither shows Information
walks for seniors from Melbourne and any sign of slowing down – with twice- For information on nearby parks, visitor
across Victoria, including in Lysterfield weekly bush walks; regular fishing guides, access and inclusion details,
Park, Brimbank Park, the Grampians, excursions for Geoff; and yoga, gym and and welcome walks visit
and parks around Bendigo and cycling all on the agenda for Gerry. www.parks.vic.gov.au or call 13 19 63
Shepparton.
Passionate explorers Geoff and Gerry McClure
Simple path
to a healthier horizon
Getting out in nature is a great way to ‘grow’ your health
Looking through Geoff and Gerry The short answer is no – especially parks on our doorstep,’ says Gerry.
McClure’s photo albums is like flicking now that Geoff has retired from ‘Plus having a husband who’s worked
through a rack of brochures in a his job at Victoria’s Department for more than 40 years in wildlife
particularly adventurous travel agency. of Environment, Land, Water and management – it’s like having my own
There’s Gerry hiking the Camino Trail Planning, and Gerry has reduced her wilderness guide!’
in Spain; Geoff standing on top of hours as a nurse at Alexandra Hospital. In fact, Geoff’s outdoors expertise
Mount Kilimanjaro; and surrounded by If anything, on the eve of their 70th has helped countless seniors to
prayer flags at Everest Base Camp. Here birthdays, the McClures have become discover the parks of northern Victoria.
are the couple dwarfed by Argentina’s even more intrepid. As well as sharing his knowledge with
Iguazú Falls; on a month-long trek Their passion for an Indiana other hikers in his community, he’s
through the Yukon and Alaska; and Jones-lifestyle, it seems, was born been approached by organised walking
jumping out of a rubber dinghy onto much closer to home – in the parks of groups for advice on the Cathedral
an ice shelf in Iceland. Does this couple northern Victoria. Ranges and Rubicon Valley.
ever slow down? ‘Living in Alexandra, we’ve been The McClures’ love of parks has 1800 88 22 22
spoiled for choice with all the beautiful also rubbed off on their daughter,
medicalert.org.au/seniorscardvic
22HEALTH FEATURE
The volunteer service
that gives Melbourne
visitors a leg-up
The caring staff and volunteers of the Travellers Aid Companion Service
have been helping Victorians with mobility issues for more than 100 years
Shirley Perkins is a frequent rail lounges at Southern Cross and Flinders ‘If I need to get medication or have
traveller for all the wrong reasons. For Street railway stations, a regional another test, they’re always there,
the past year, she’s been travelling to service at Seymour, and a buggy service never complaining – always so patient
Melbourne almost weekly from her during major events at the MCG. and kind.
home in Kilmore to attend medical Shirley Perkins has made so many ‘I broke my ankle about a year and
appointments – for Crohn’s disease, trips with the Companion Service, she a half ago, and I find it very difficult
kidney problems, and most recently, now considers herself part of the family. getting on and off trains and trams.
treatment for a brain tumour. Due Sometimes, when it’s bad, I have to use
to long-term complications from a my walking frame. But they’re always
broken ankle, she’s also forced to walk there to help me.
with a stick or walking frame. ‘I was just telling the senior sister
So it’s a source of some surprise at Kilmore Hospital that they also
to find 69-year old Shirley eagerly run a service out of Seymour, and
looking forward to her next train ride. will pick you up from your station on
‘At the moment I have to take that line – which is my line! So I’m
an ambulance to Melbourne for my looking forward to finishing with the
radiation treatment,” says Shirley. ambulance service shortly, and getting
“But I don’t want Kilmore Hospital back onto the train as soon as possible.’
to keep using the ambulance for me. Travellers Aid Australia’s
Besides, I can get around the city very Companion Service is available free
easily with my volunteers.’ to anyone from regional Victoria
Shirley’s volunteers are a dedicated who requires assistance to reach an
group of 20 community-spirited appointment or event in Melbourne.
helpers who run the Travellers Aid The service is available from 9 am to 5
Companion Service – a hands-on pm, Monday to Friday, and bookings
support service that enables people with Volunteers Lee and Cheryl must be received at least three business is free takes about no need female available near you
mobility issues to travel independently ‘The volunteers are all so lovely and days in advance.
10 mins for doctor’s referral radiographers throughout Victoria
into and around Melbourne. caring,’ she says. ‘If they see my name
Since it was launched in 2014, the on the roster, they’ll make a point of
Companion Service has provided more putting their name down to come and Information
than 2,500 free journeys – principally look after me again.’ For bookings or more information,
for people attending medical As they have done in the past, the please visit www.travellersaid.org.au,
appointments, but also for those volunteers will meet Shirley off her email companion@travellersaid.org.au
visiting sports events, family reunions, train at Southern Cross, take her to the or call 1300 700 399
or other social occasions. lounge if she needs to use the toilet,
Travellers Aid Australia was started and then accompany her by train or If you would like to volunteer, please
by a group of YWCA volunteers during tram to whichever hospital or clinic contact volunteers@travellersaid.org.au
the First World War and has grown into she has to visit that day. Then they’ll or register your interest on the Travellers
a vibrant support network – providing wait for her and take her back to her Aid website Interpreters
buggies, mobility equipment and homebound train. available 13 14 50
24VICTORIAN SENIORS FESTIVAL FEATURE
On the road in Victoria
with James Blundell
An Australian country music icon retraces his journey from
Tamworth to Victoria – and revels in his senior audiences
The January day this year that James than playing ’til midnight! a Sydney bar owner, who told him if
Blundell was inducted into the ‘I really love these audiences, and his patrons liked his music he could
Australian Country Music Hall of Fame I’m not just saying that. This festival is come back the next day. ‘I played to
began like any other. The 54-year-old one of the highlights of my year.’ three drunks and a dog,’ he says. ‘But
Get into it! troubadour woke at 5am in Tamworth,
where he’d played until 11 pm the night
before; flew to Sydney and then
These days, James’ years are mighty
full. When he’s not touring the country
or recording in the studio, he’s got his
one guy staying in the pub heard me
playing a couple of my own songs, and
he gave me an ad from the paper for
Brisbane, played another gig; then hands full at the livestock farm he runs the Star Maker Quest.’
jumped back onto a plane to Tamworth near Stanthorpe, three-and-a-half That was in 1987, when James
to receive country music’s highest hours southwest of Brisbane. Although famously went on to win the Tamworth
honour. he’s travelled the world, James takes talent show. The next year, he followed
‘I arrived 20 minutes before I had great pride in the fact that he ‘always up with the first of 10 Golden Guitar
to go on stage,’ he recalls. ‘The award’s comes back’ to this little corner of Awards.
a closely guarded secret, so I think my Queensland. It was something of a homecoming
schedule caused a bit of a fuss. When in January this year, when he stepped
they heard I was playing in Brisbane, onto the Tamworth stage to receive
they ordered me a charter plane to make Australia’s highest country music
sure I got there on time – it turned into honour.
quite a mission!’ ‘Of all the awards, this was the
When James takes to the stages of one that made me realise just how
regional Victoria this October, he’ll be much has happened over the past 32
moving at a much more sedate pace. years – and how fortunate I’ve been
He’ll be accompanied by his 20-year- to have worked with some of the best
old son, Briar, who’s an accomplished musicians in the world. When I got
guitarist in his own right. ‘Briar loves the my first contract from EMI for three
seniors runs,’ says James, ‘because the albums, I thought: how am I possibly
There’s much to see and experience audiences are always so appreciative.’
This will be James Blundell’s third
going to write that much? But now
here I am working on my 14th album.
at this year’s festival
outing at the Victorian Seniors Festival, ‘As John Lennon said, “Life is what
and he says he’ll keep coming back happens while you’re busy making
as long as we keep inviting him. The other plans”!’ ↩
legendary crooner – whose anthems
like ‘This Road’ and ‘Way Out West’
James Blundell
As Seniors Card holders, you’ll also enjoy free are carved into our country lore – says Information
Information senior Australians are not only easier ‘I went to boarding schools in James Blundell at the 2019 Victorian
public transport from 6–13 October Pick up a Festival program at a local audiences; they’re his audiences. Toowoomba and the Gold Coast, and Seniors Festival:
Coles store, neighbourhood house, ‘Older people come from a time I was sure my life would be all about St Arnaud Tuesday 8 October
library, council or visit the online when we just had music and movies, so cattle and livestock,’ he says. ‘But when Horsham Wednesday 9 October
calendar at they’re much more receptive and less I was 21, I got run over by a bull in PNG, Castlemaine Friday 11 October
www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival demanding than younger audiences. and while I was recuperating in hospital Colac Monday 14 October
You can also call 1300 797 210 to have a Plus we get to play in the middle of the in Sydney my guitar saved me.’ Camperdown Tuesday 15 October
program sent to you day – which is so much more enjoyable James recalls a conversation with Casterton Wednesday 16 October
26 27VICTORIAN SENIORS FESTIVAL FEATURE
bad arthritis and it stimulates the positively it seems to impact people,’
blood flow and helps to ease the pain. says Annie. ‘Over the years, we’ve had Information
Plus our group is very sociable and people join us who suffer anxiety or Drum Connection’s Festival workshop is
we’ve become good friends – which is are recovering from illness or going at Allwood Neighbourhood House at
another aspect we both love.’ through another transition. One lady 12 noon on Friday 18 October. Drums
Alf, Carole and others from Drum started drumming after chemotherapy will be supplied. Bookings open on
Connection Seniors will perform at treatment and said it gave her back her 1 October and are essential by emailing
Allwood House after a ‘come and “pre-chemo brain”. It’s stimulating and annie@drumconnection.com.au
try workshop’ during the Victorian meditative, and a great stress-buster.
Seniors Festival. They’re well Plus of course, it’s immensely sociable.’ The workshop will be followed by a light
qualified as drumming ambassadors, Annie has developed strong lunch and a performance by the Drum
with regular performances at the bonds with many of her students and Connection Seniors at 2.15 pm
Hurstbridge Wattle Festival and celebrates their achievements and
Summer Soirée; lively ‘flash mobs’ at milestones with individual ‘badges’. Read
local shopping centres; outings to the Two years ago, she delivered her Browse the Festival calendar and read
Estia Health retirement home; and first ‘octogenarian badge’ to Alf Adins. about The Classics, other events like
even the occasional performance with But she knows he won’t be the last. Music to play to plants and this year's
four members who double as limber ‘Interest in drumming is growing Festival faces at
belly dancers. rapidly, and our seniors’ cohort www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival
Drum Connection is led by Annie continues to grow with it,’ says Annie.
Fletcher, a high school teacher and ‘With role models like Alf around, the
African music aficionado, who says word is out that this is a fun hobby
she’s seen group drumming bring which is also super-healthy – and
enjoyment and fulfilment into which people can keep doing long into
hundreds of older people’s lives. their senior years.’ ↩
‘It constantly amazes me how
Alf and Carole Adins with their drums
African drums hit The abuse of
the right notes older people is
hard to talk about.
Often, it’s committed by a family member.
A harmonious group of Melbourne seniors are proving It could be a daughter, a son, or a loved one.
you can grow groovier with age Too many older people suffer in silence.
Elder abuse is a form of family violence
and it is unacceptable.
Imagine if you could get together with drumming – a pastime he took up eight wellbeing. ‘As well as the steady What starts out small doesn’t always stay
that way. Elder abuse is hard to picture,
a great group of people every Friday years ago, at the tender age of 74. exercise, playing drums definitely but it happens every day.
afternoon, relax, play some music, enjoy Alf and his wife, Carole, are among helps my memory,’ Alf says. ‘If you
For further information and for independent
some lively conversation, and leave with several long-standing members of play the same rhythm several times, advice, contact:
your blood pressure lower, your arthritis Drum Connection Seniors – a uniquely it goes into your muscle memory and
Seniors Rights Victoria – 1300 368 821
eased, your memory improved, and a ‘hands on’ drumming collective that your body remembers it instinctively 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732
general feeling of happiness and peace runs workshops for students of all the next time you hear it. You may not Men’s Referral Service – 1300 766 491
with the world. Wouldn’t you want to abilities in the peaceful surrounds of play something for two or three years, If you are concerned for your immediate
keep coming back, week after week, Hurstbridge’s Allwood House. The but when the beat begins it all comes safety or that of someone else, please
month after month, for as long as the daytime workshops have gained a back to you.’ contact the police in your state or territory or
good vibes lasted? particularly dedicated following among For Carole, 75, there are more call Triple Zero (000) for emergency services.
‘There’s really nothing quite like local seniors, who find that drumming tangible physical benefits. ‘Hitting the For more information, please visit
it,’ says Alf Adins, who swears by offers an enriching combination drums helps me with the circulation www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au
the therapeutic benefits of African of social connection and physical in my hands,’ she says. ‘I’ve had quite
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