SICK OF SOAP SCUM & WATER STAINS? We Clean, Restore & Protect Shower Screens (07) 3535 1252 showerscreenninja.com.au AFTER BEFORE P: (07) 5527 0314 | M: 0411 134 507 info@localnewsletters.com | www.localnewsletters.com March 2025 - No. 118 Gold Coast FREE! WIN! CONCERT TICKETS, GIFT CARDS, Book Giveaway! The Gold Coast Film Festival (GCFF) is set to celebrate its 23rd year from April 30 to May 11, 2025, solidifying its position as a cornerstone of Australia's cinematic landscape. This annual event not only showcases a diverse array of films but also underscores the Coast's burgeoning reputation as a premier filmmaking hub. This year's festival promises an eclectic mix of Australian and international films, ranging from thought-provoking documentaries to groundbreaking feature narratives. Attendees can look forward to outdoor screenings under the stars, industry panels featuring esteemed filmmakers, and exclusive events designed to foster connections within the film community. A highlight of the festival is the GCFF Awards Gala on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Warner Brothers Movie World, where outstanding contributions to cinema will be recognised and celebrated. The festival's commitment to nurturing talent is evident through its professional development opportunities. Filmmakers and enthusiasts can engage in hands-on workshops, Q&A sessions, and networking events aimed at empowering the next generation of storytellers. For film aficionados and industry professionals alike, the 2025 Gold Coast Film Festival is an unmissable event, promising a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and experiences that reflect the dynamic spirit of the Gold Coast's film industry. | www.gcff.com.au
2 Everyday exposure to life stresses leads to postural compensation involving the muscles, joints and ligaments of your body. These strains present to you as physical pain, discomfort or stiffness. Osteopathy is informed by the latest evidence and is internationally renowned as a safe and effective treatment for back pain, neck pain, headache, arthritis, RSI, bursitis, disc injury and more. Dr Patty Heilmann (Osteo) brings a dynamic approach to healthcare, drawing on extensive experience from his previous careers as a professional acrobat and dedicated Brazilian JiuJitsu instructor. A trusted, compassionate physician for patients of all ages, including infants, children, adolescents and mothers. Patty is committed to empowering you to achieve your health goals. Dr Andrew McLauchlan (Osteo) establishes unique priorities for each patient tailoring a considered treatment plan, specific to your presentation. Offering expertise in assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions he considers how your nervous system, immune system, musculoskeletal system, circulatory system, organ systems all function as a unit. Dr. Andrew McLauchlan (Osteopath) Dr. Patty Heilmann (Osteopath) Why More Over 50s Are Turning to Bridging Finance to Downsize For many over 50s, downsizing into a more manageable home is an exciting opportunity to simplify life, free up funds and focus on what matters most. But making the move can come with its challenges. Age and income requirements from traditional lenders can make it harder to access the finance you need. Slow approvals and rigid processes might mean extra waiting, which can take the fun out of what should be an exciting transition. Things can get complicated if you find your dream home before selling your current one. Coordinating settlement dates can feel like a juggling act, and some homeowners may feel forced to accept lower offers just to make things work. Others might have to deal with temporary storage or accommodation, which can add an extra cost and hassle. How bridging finance helps downsizers This is where bridging finance comes in. It’s a short-term loan that unlocks the value of your current home by using it as security, giving you the funds to buy your next home before selling your existing one. Once your current property is sold, the sale proceeds can help repay the bridging loan. This takes the pressure off. You won’t have to sell quickly, settle for less than your home is worth or make temporary plans. Instead, you’ll have time to find the right buyer and move when it suits you. Why choose Funding for your bridging loan? For over a decade, Queensland-based non-bank lender Funding has been helping Australians make their next move. We understand the unique needs of downsizers and are committed to making the process as easy as possible. “Our goal is to give homeowners the freedom to move forward without the usual hassle and delays,” says Jack O’Reilly, CEO of Funding. With downsizers in mind, Funding’s bridging loans offer: ● Fast approvals: Access funds quickly, so you don’t miss out on your next home. ● Flexible terms: Loan options tailored to suit your timeline and goals. ● Personal support: A friendly team ready to guide you every step of the way. Make your move with confidence Downsizing doesn’t have to be stressful. With a Funding bridging loan, you can buy first and sell when you’re ready. Call our local team on 1300 44 33 19 or visit funding.com. au/yourtime to get a personalised quote and see how bridging finance can help make your next move stress-free. The information provided is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial advice. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it or seek financial advice. Refer to our Credit Guide, available at www.funding.com.au. Funding Pty Ltd A.C.N. 607 035 861 Australian Credit Licence 483665. Visit www.funding.com.au for more information. See advert page 3 >
3 Secure your next home stress-free with our bridging loan. Complete a quote in minutes online or by phone, and our friendly team will take care of the rest. funding.com.au Downsizing? Make your move. 1300 44 33 19 Scan the QR code to get started All loans are subject to the lender's credit assessment, approval and property valuation(s). Fees, terms and conditions apply. Refer to our Credit Guide, available at www.funding.com.au. Funding Pty Ltd A.C.N. 607 035 861 Australian Credit Licence 483665.
4 Suite 4/17 Karp Ct, Bundall QLD 4217 E: admin@procorpservices.com.au l P: 07 5570 6111 PROCORP SERVICES PTY LTD Specialising in Factory Units, Commercial Properties, Townhouses, Villas and Unit Complexes PLAIN, SIMPLE & PERSONALISED BODY CORPORATE ADMINISTRATION EMAIL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION The growing popularity of the Botanic Gardens Glider Service has prompted an expansion of its weekday service. Following a satisfying year of solid growth for the Glider in 2024, The Friends of the Botanic Gardens have decided to add two extra tours to the weekday schedule from the beginning of March, with the 8-seater electric people mover then operating each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 9:30 and 10:45. The expanded weekday services will replace the previously scheduled Saturday runs, however weekend tours can still be arranged by appointment. Our passenger feedback indicated a definite preference for scheduled tours on weekdays, although the Glider service is available for specially arranged tours any time outside our set timetable. These tours have already proven to be extremely popular with visiting groups from aged care facilities, service and social clubs and retirement villages. We have found that our ability to specially tailor tours to fit in with group numbers and schedules has resulted in multiple repeat bookings which open up the botanic gardens experience to a wider number of their members. The Botanic Gardens Glider Tours all depart from the Sensory Garden Pavilion. The cost is $5.00 per person and bookings are essential through www.trybooking.com/CCSSZ For more information, contact 0400048006 or glider@ friendsgcrbg.org.au Expanded service for Botanic Gardens Glider GC Botanic Gardens 230 Ashmore Rd, Benowa 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! STRANGERS IN TIME by David Baldacci Charlie Matters’ life has always been a fight for survival. Orphaned with no prospects, Charlie steals what he needs, living day-to-day until he can enlist in the battle against the Germans. He miraculously emerges unscathed from the Blitz, but there’s no telling when the next bomb will fall, and whether it will be the one to end his life. Molly Wakefield’s dreams of a joyful homecoming are all she’s had to hold on to after being evacuated to the countryside via ‘Operation Pied Piper’ five years before. But when she finally returns to the city, Molly faces a London changed beyond recognition, and the devastating news that neither of her parents are there. Charlie and Molly’s paths converge when they both seek solace at ‘The Book Keep’, where they find an unexpected ally and protector in the bookshop’s owner, widower Ignatius Oliver. But the trio’s newfound peace is jeopardized as past secrets catch up with them: Charlie’s illicit activities have not gone unnoticed, an ominous shadow has trailed Molly since her return, and Ignatius is burdened by a secret that contributed to his wife’s death. Can they help one another survive this turbulent time? Or will they be ripped apart from the last people they hold dear? ISBN: 9781035015795 | Format: Trade Paperback | Pub Date:25/03/2025 | Imprint: Macmillan | Price: $34.99 | Pages: 448 TO ENTER write your name, address & phone on the back of an envelope and post to: STRANGERS IN TIME PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town 4220 • Entries close 31.03.2025 Enter To Win BOOK GIVEAWAY
5 Metro Coach is looking for some wonderful people to join their team. Metro Coach provides quality and reliable school transport services for children with special needs and offers a dedicated door to door service. â Metro Coach has been servicing the Gold Coast from Coomera to Mudgeeraba and surrounding areas for 13 years providing daily school bus transport for students with a disability and has become an important partner with schools and families. â Metro Coach is proud of its wonderful and passionate employees who work effectively as a team and are friendly, reliable, timely and professional. â Metro Coach Management provides great office support to its employees and the community. â Metro Coach provides modern air-conditioned buses that are modified to be accessible for students travelling in wheelchairs. â All Metro Coach buses have a passenger assistant on the bus to supervise the students. â Every day Metro Coach brings passion and commitment to its important role in the Community. Metro Coach Needs You! To enquire about working with Metro Coach, see advert below or call (07) 5528 9166 or email admin@metrocoach.com.au Are you interested in Casual Work on our School Buses with Special Needs Children? POSITION REQUIREMENTS: â Excellent Customer Service skills & enjoy working with the Community â Must be courteous, reliable and have a strong focus to provide a safe journey for our passengers â School Days Only (We do not work during School Holidays) WANTED - SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS & PASSENGER ASSISTANTS To apply contact us at Metro Coach Pty Ltd Email: admin@metrocoach.com.au Phone: 07 5528 9166 COOMERA, PIMPAMA, ORMEAU, OXENFORD, HELENSVALE, SOUTHPORT, MUDGEERABA & SURROUNDING AREAS NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AGENTS - Gold Coast leaders in Commercial Real Estate - Commercial asset management - Commercial investment advisory service - Sales and Leasing If you are interested in LEASING or SELLING your commercial property please contact George Parzis on 0412 107 917 or would like an ASSET MANAGEMENT proposal on your commercial property please contact Abel Erasmus on 0416 463 312
6 Be on the look-out for autumn flowering dahlias in local gardens. Don’t plant them now, but consider planting them in your own garden next December. Many Queensland gardeners are tempted to follow the practice of cool climate gardeners and plant Dahlias in spring. People ‘in the know’ in our climate will plant them around Christmas to see wonderful blooms through Autumn when the cooler nights extend the flowering time and each spectacular flower lasts longer. Dahlias first found their way into Spain in the late 18th Century. Spanish botanist and later Director of Mexico’s first botanic garden Vicente Cervantes was on expedition in Mexico (then New Spain) and found several species with single flowers. The seeds were sent to Jardin Botanica in Madrid where the Genus was named for Anders Dahl a Swedish Botanist. Dahlias also havea rich Aztec history which predates Spanish arrival in South and Central America. Dahlias were one of the first plants I knew and I have always had a fondness for them. My Grandad was a keen grower and I remember digging dahlia tuberous roots out of his garden when living with my grandparents as a teenager, and we were moving house. On the day of moving we left them on a garden wall, and made a mad dash back to retrieve them for the new garden where they again grew equally large and beautiful flowers. I remember watching Grandad planting the tubers each year, having stored them after lifting following flowering, and when the leaves had yellowed and died down. As they grew I watched him remove some of the flower buds to promote larger blooms on the flower forms he cherished which included Cactus, PomPon and Ball. (There are now over 30 Dahlia species and thousands of Dahlia hybrids!) He also dead headed spent flowers to encourage more branching. The divided tuberous roots should be planted into well composted soil, rich with well-rotted cow manure and with excellent drainage to avoid over wet roots. Always place a support stake or frame into the ground before placing the tuber. Each tuber should be lain down horizontally, about 10cm deep, and the end with the growing ‘eyes’ raised slightly, then covered with the same growing media. Dahlias and tomatoes stood tall and productive on 6ft stakes across my Grandad’s backyard, as it’s considered they require similar fertiliser regimes to get a premium result. Too much Nitrogen will force growth at the expense of flowers so look for well balanced fertiliser with N: P: K around 10: 4: 8, and apply weekly seaweed as a soil conditioner to enhance root strength and disease resistance. Dahlias can be damaged by mites and insects, and when young, snails can be a nuisance. Keep an eye on them each day and strike when you see the first problem, using a natural pesticide or organic method. Look for products based on low toxin soaps for mites, natural soil bacteria Bacillus thuringensis for caterpillars and the bacteria Spinosad for leaf miner and thrips. Natural bacteria break down quickly in sunlight so it’s best to spray later in the day for the best results. Organic gardeners recommend egg shells and saw dust to impede snail movement. Growing Dahlias is so rewarding, the cut flowers last well. Grandad used to provide me with bunches of cut flowers to take to my teachers. They loved them, but it didn’t mean better Report Cards! Perhaps the children in your family will grow to love gardening because of these beautiful multi-formed flowers? Irresistable Dahlias 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 Let us create your new and rejuvenated garden where you can sit back, relax and enjoy your tranquil surroundings ... Specialising Garden Makeovers & Rejuvenation * Garden Care * Plant Selection * Soft Landscaping
7 EDITOR: Is it just shower screens that you treat? NINJA PETE: I also clean and treat pool glass, balustrades,sliding doors, windows and boats. If you have new glass it is vital to add EnduroShield protection to prevent any future issues. EDITOR: I note on your website you have dozens of 5 Star Google Reviews. NINJA PETE: Happy customers and glowing reports are hugely important to me! I really enjoy the Clients reaction when they see the results and say “WOW!” EDITOR: How do our readers contact you and do you offer free quotes? NINJA PETE: Yes, FREE assessments and FREE quotes…all I require is a few photos and approx measurements. Either call my office and leave your details on (07) 3535 1252 or visit ShowerScreenNinja.com.au/fifty for more information. THE VILLAGE - HERITAGE B&B - The Village B&B is a 120-year-old heritage Queenslander in the heart of historic Mudgeeraba. Join us Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 3pm for an indulgent High Tea or a Casual Lunch, all homemade on site. For more information and bookings please contact us Liz 0448 722 233 or Rich 0410 210 858 heritagehightea thevillagebnb www.thevillagebnb.com.au 65 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba We also cater for groups, baby showers & family events (available 7 days if pre booked). Refresh Your Shower Screens Over Fifties Editor, Geoff caught up with the business owner of Shower Screen Ninja, Pete Nicholson, to find out how to dramatically remove ugly water stains and soap scum from your glass. EDITOR: I’ve seen some ‘before' photos of the water stained showers you have treated, what causes this damage? NINJA PETE: There are two issues really, firstly it can be a build up of soap scum and body oils and secondly the water on Gold Coast is very hard. The calcium and limescale can actually penetrate the glass. EDITOR: So it doesn’t sit on the surface of the glass then? NINJA PETE: If its noticeable early then its possible to treat with a water and vinegar solution, but once its inside the glass none of the ‘super products’ from the supermarkets will have much effect and the nasty marks will start to look very unsightly. EDITOR: I guess this is where Shower Screen Ninja steps in? NINJA PETE: Absolutely! EDITOR: How do you restore the screens? NINJA PETE: By using commercial grade pastes and techniques we massage products into the glass and polish them out, removing the contaminates from deep within. The target is to eradicate 85-100% of the mineral deposits to massively improve the appearance. EDITOR: Do you always achieve a great result? NINJA PETE: Well, every job is different with varying levels of stains and types of glass, so I never know until I perform some test patches in situ. Sometimes the aggression of the calcium and limescale can leave some etching deep inside which may be seen in certain lighting. Generally, nine out of ten jobs see a positive outcome. EDITOR: Once you have polished the glass will the staining come back again over time. NINJA PETE: To prevent this happening we strongly recommend an application of EnduroShield professional permanent protective coating which acts as a long term barrier and becomes part of the glass surface. Not only does EnduroShield protect the glass it makes cleaning up to 90% easier which is a huge benefit especially for our older Clients. EDITOR: How long does EnduroShield last? NINJA PETE: On existing glass the protection is supported by a 5 year manufacturer warranty and on brand new screens it is 10 years. CLEAN - RESTORE - PROTECT see advertisement front page
8 Dental Health and Dentures How Are Dentures Made? The denture development process takes a few weeks and several appointments. Once your dentist or prosthodontist (a dentist who specialises in the restoration and replacement of teeth) determines what type of appliance is best for you, the general steps are to: Make a series of impressions of your jaw and take measurements of how your jaws relate to one another and how much space is between them. Create models, wax forms, and/or plastic patterns in the exact shape and position of the denture to be made. You will "try in" this model several times and the denture will be assessed for colour, shape, and fit before the final denture is cast. Cast a final denture. Adjustments will be made as necessary What Do New Dentures Feel Like? New dentures may feel a little odd or loose for a few weeks until the muscles of the cheeks and tongue learn to keep them in place and you get comfortable inserting and removing them. Also, it is not unusual for minor irritation or soreness to occur and for saliva flow to increase when you first start wearing dentures, but these problems will diminish as the mouth adjusts. Will Dentures Make Me Look Different? Dentures are made to closely resemble your natural teeth so there should be only a small noticeable change in appearance. In fact, dentures may even improve your smile and fill out your facial appearance. Will Eating With New Dentures Be Difficult? Eating with new dentures will take a little practice and may be uncomfortable for some wearers for a few weeks. To get used to the new denture, start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth. As you get used to new dentures, add other foods until you return to a normal diet. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells. And, avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. You should also avoid chewing gum while you wear the denture. Also, don't use toothpicks while wearing dentures. How Are Denture Adhesives Applied? Here are some tips to consider when applying denture adhesives: • Use the minimum amount necessary to provide the maximum benefit. Apply less than you think you need, and then gradually increase the amount until you feel comfortable. • Distribute the adhesive evenly on the tissue bearing surface of the denture. • Apply or reapply when necessary to provide the desired effect. • Always apply the adhesive to a thoroughly clean denture. Remember adhesives work best with a well-fitting denture. For more information on dentures please contact us or for this article please visit www.webmd.com http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dentures • Implant Dentures • Health Funds & Veterans Affairs • Precision Dentures • Mouthguards/Splints • Same Day Repairs & Relines Shop 40/1 Mudgeeraba Rd, Worongary Town Centre 5/26-28 Commerce Drive, Robina NEED NEW DENTURES? CALL SOMEONE WHO CARES! Custom made aesthetically designed natural looking dentures that you can wear with a confident smile. DENTURES DIRECT TO PUBLIC Registered with the Dental Board of Australia & Australian Dental Prosthetist Assoc. Ltd TWO LOCATIONS Worongary & Robina
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10 How to Talk to Older Loved Ones About Money Money can be a complex topic to bring up with older loved ones who have been managing their financial affairs for a long time. However, over time, our older loved ones might need help keeping up with their finances, paying bills, and ensuring money is where it should be. At Home Care Assistance, we know how touchy this subject can be, so we have put together this blog about how to approach helping your older loved ones with their finances. Bringing up the Topic Avoid bringing up this topic during an argument. Start with a time when everyone is relaxed and happy. Remember that your older loved ones are adults, and treat them as such. This means being supportive rather than taking over. Taking a gentle approach also allows you to bring the topic up earlier, so if they have a significant health event, you already know what is happening. It also helps you spot future potential issues before they develop. Bringing it up early is also essential if your loved one has a health condition that may affect their cognitive abilities. One approach is to bring up the topic of finances as part of a bigger discussion to understand their wishes about health care and other general decisions that may need to be made once they can no longer do so. Financial Topics to Discuss Become Familiar with Their Finances First, you need to find out what money and debts they have. Where are their accounts (including superannuation)? Do they have any debts? Who are their insurance and utilities with? Do they have any income sources? By understanding their situation, you are better able to help support them, particularly if they have an unexpected health event and you need to step in quickly. Estate Planning Ensure that you know their wishes for their estate when they pass away. It is a good idea to make sure they have an up-to-date will and that you know where it is. This way, you can ensure their wishes are upheld. Documents Make sure you know where they keep their documents. This includes wills, insurance, bills, and bank account records. You need to know where the documents are to resolve a crisis if needed. Care Plans Along with helping financially, it is essential to understand your loved one’s wishes for care arrangements should they need them. Would they prefer to go into a facility or be cared for at home? Understanding their wishes in this area not only helps you uphold them but also means you can help them plan for this financially. Money is often a challenging topic to discuss and must be done carefully and from a place of support. As hard as it might be to discuss these things, it makes it easier to ensure your loved one is cared for appropriately and that they don’t get into financial trouble. Take the time to have these conversations while your loved one can make their wishes known and give you all the information you need to support them. Power of Attorney Having a power of attorney in place is helpful in case something happens. It needs to be implemented while your loved one has the cognitive ability to do so. While we are mainly referring to a financial power of attorney here, it is a good idea to put their medical power of attorney in place simultaneously. Support at home from a specialist provider, such as Home Care Assistance, can bring enormous benefit 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, contact Home Care Assistance Gold Coast on 5528 1643 today. See advert page 11 > Service & Product Warranty 10 YEARS Australian Standards Tested 25 YEARS Proven Track Record 30+ YEARS GOT LOOSE, PEAKING OR CRACKED TILES? BEFORE AFTER 0414 446 579 CALL DAN FOR A FREE QUOTE GOLD COAST OFFICE 07 5646 6344 FIXLOOSETILES.COM.AU INTERNAL TILES EXTERNAL TILES PATIO FLOOR SPLASHBACK POOL COPING BATHROOM WALL & FLOOR WE CAN FIX MUDGEERABA GEM SHOW When: Last Saturday in March Where: Mudgeeraba Showgrounds Time: 8am - 3pm Entry Fee: Adults $5 - Kids Under 12 Free Contact Details: email: communitylapidary@gmail.com @CommunityLapidary Proudly brought to you by the Community Lapidary Club Inc Jewellery Supplies, Gemstones Fossils, Mineral Displays and Crystals Pearls, Opals, Findings, Slabs, Secondhand machines & much much more
11 www.homecareassistancegoldcoast.com.au 30309/9 Lawson Street, Southport 4215 | (07) 5528 1643 www.homecareassistancegoldcoast.com.au Approved Provider of Home Care Packages u 24/7 Live-In and Hourly Care from Coolangatta to Logan, The Scenic Rim, Redlands and parts of Ipswich u Consistency of care with carefully matched Carers u Cognitive TherapeuticsTM to boost brain health u Zero exit fees, zero start up fees - so more care hours for you • Social Support and Companionship Support/transport to go appointments, shopping and social functions. • Meal Preparation Nutrition, cooking and hydration needs. • Personal Assistance Grooming, bathing, dressing, continence and mobility • Respite Care Assisting family members to take a well-deserved break with needed. • Cleaning and Maintaining the Home Washing windows, clearing gutters & other services as needed. • Medication Prompting Ensuring the right medication is taken at the right time. • Laundry Washing, drying, ironing and organising. • Pet Care Walks, feeding and other care to keep your pet happy and well. • Gardening Keep your garden beautiful with weeding, lawn mowing, pruning. • Nursing, Allied Health and Therapy Services eg: speech therapy, podiatry, occupational or physiotherapy services and other clinical services such as hearing and vision services. • Mobility and dexterity, providing walking frames, bed rails, pressure-relieving mattresses, etc. What services can you access under home care packages? To get approved for services you need to register with the Government’s My Aged Care. Phone us on 07 5528 1643 after getting approved for your Home Care Package. Government Approved Provider We provide high level professional care, in the comfort of your own home. Our dedicated team of skilled healthcare professionals are able to support and assist you in keeping your dignity and comfort as you age well. We offer 24/7 personalised on-call support and care from our trained carers and nurses. Local Approved Government Homecare Package Provider Speak to a Care Advisor to schedule your free in-home consultation today! 07 5528 1643 www.homecareassistancegoldcoast.com.au Home Care Assistance champions the needs of seniors with a positive, empowering approach to ageing that celebrates independence, dignity and quality of life. Our carers receive exceptional training, support and resources to deliver an unmatched care experience. DEDICATED TO AGEING WELL HELPING SENIORS LIVE WELL AT HOME
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13 Choosing the right glasses Eyeglasses are more than just a visioncorrection tool—they are an essential part of your personal style, daily comfort, and even confidence. With countless styles, shapes, and materials available, choosing the right pair can be overwhelming. Here’s what to consider when selecting your perfect frames. Face Shape and Frame Style One of the first things to consider is your face shape. Different frames complement different facial structures. Round faces benefit from angular frames that add definition, while square faces pair well with round or oval frames to soften sharp features. Oval faces have the versatility to pull off nearly any style, whereas heart-shaped faces look great with frames that are wider at the bottom to balance proportions. Material Matters Eyeglass frames come in a variety of materials, each with unique advantages. Metal frames, such as titanium or stainless steel, are durable, lightweight, and often hypoallergenic. Plastic frames, including acetate, offer a broader range of colors and styles but can be heavier. For those with active lifestyles, flexible materials like memory metal are a great option, as they withstand bending and impact. Comfort and Fit An ill-fitting pair of glasses can lead to discomfort, constant adjustments, and even headaches. Look for frames that rest comfortably on your nose without pinching. The temples should sit securely without pressing behind your ears. If they frequently slip, adjustable nose pads or temple grips can help improve the fit. Lens Considerations Choosing the right lenses is just as *Excludes Maui Jim, Zeal and Oakley Sun RX 3 Bulk Billed Eye Tests 3 Most Health Funds Accepted 3 External Prescriptions Welcome $150 OFF PARIS MIKI OPTICAL Shop 18, 12 Sir John Overall Drive Helensvale Plaza, Helensvale Phone 5580 5010 | www.paris-miki.com.au See the world with clarity! With stylish frames to suit everyone, we ensure your vision is crystal clear. Experience exceptional service and precise prescriptions at ParisMiki. Book your appointment today! COMPLETE PAIR important as selecting frames. Anti-reflective coatings reduce glare, while blue light filtering can help ease digital eye strain. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, consider photochromic lenses that adjust to light exposure. The perfect pair of eyeglasses balances function, comfort, and style. Take the time to find frames that suit your needs, and you’ll enjoy clear vision with confidence and ease. At Paris Miki, Store Manager Michael has over 31 year’s experience as a qualified Optical technician and has been working in the area for 24 years. There’s an onsite workshop for quicker spectacle making, so you don’t have to be without your own frames for weeks if we are using your own frame for new lenses; repairs can be done onsite and same day service is available on in store stock lenses. To make an appointment please call on 5580 5010. THINKING OF SELLING YOUR PROPERTY? Alistair Hamilton Principal / Agent 0413 945 599 5518 3294 WE ONLY CHARGE 1% COMMISSION SAVING YOU THOUSAND$ OF DOLLARS! SELLING ALL OVER THE COAST email@onepercentgcrealty.com.au www.onepercentgcrealty.com.au GIVING 100% SERVICE
14 Answer to Crossword No. 117 from last issue Answer to Cryptic Xword No. 117 from last issue Answer to Sudoku No. 117 from last issue TO ENTER SEND YOUR COMPLETED CRYPTIC CROSSWORD TO: “Over 50s Cryptic Crossword Competition” PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town City Q. 4220 Write your name and address on the back of an envelope. First correct entry drawn will win a $50 Gift Card. Entries close 31.03.2025. Winner notified by mail. Coles Supermarkets, Coles Central, Coles Express, Myer, including Myer.com.au, Target, Kmart, Officeworks, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and First Choice Liquor. Win a $50 GIFT Card 2 9 4 8 1 5 7 3 6 6 8 3 7 9 4 2 1 5 1 5 7 2 3 6 8 4 9 5 1 6 3 7 8 9 2 4 3 4 8 9 5 2 1 6 7 7 2 9 4 6 1 3 5 8 4 6 2 1 8 9 5 7 3 8 7 1 5 4 3 6 9 2 9 3 5 6 2 7 4 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 20 21 23 1 8 10 14 19 22 24 25 P L A C I D L A L E U A T T I T U D E P A R S O N N T I D T G O R G E O U S D E B A T E E C U R R R E A R A R A S I D E S E R G E D M L I S T X A M I E E X T O L S I N T E G R A L I L R A A L A N D A U A N T E N N A E C N L E T R O T A T E 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 E P I S C O L D S N A P S L O D G E O O T N E O E X R E S T R A I N T G I A N T R E A C T I L O A R S O N S E L E C T I O N L G E S S U R G E O N D E B A T E S E O E U S E Q U E S T E R S T E I N K U A F E T L B I C I N G A N C H O R A G E R R L I I W N A T H E M E R O T T E R D A M S D E D A strong young man at a construction site was bragging that he could out do anyone in a feat of strength. He made a special case of making fun of one of the older workmen. After several minutes, the older worker had enough. ‘Why don’t you put your money where your mouth is,’ he said. ‘I will bet a week’s wages that I can haul something in a wheelbarrow over to that building that you won’t be able to wheel back. ‘You’re on, old man,’ the braggart replied. Let’s see you do it.’ The old man reached out and grabbed the wheelbarrow by the handles. Then, nodding to the young man, he said, ‘All right, dumbass, get in.’ 1 8 11 13 17 21 26 28 9 10 12 14 15 16 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 27 29 29 2 3 4 5 6 7 CRYPTIC 118 ACROSS 1. Caretaker of the books finds a sign of scattered precipitation. (9) 6. Crush the money. (5) 9. Tells tales re sabotage. (7) 10. Relation rang pad by mistake. (7) 11. Choose to speak in the division. (10) 12. Retain part of the castle. (4) 14. Humbles and confuses Dee’s man. (7) 15. Rubber in times of the Queen. (6) 18. I see wounded tail kept in writing form. (6) 20. Sis bats out of turn to allow for the singer. (7) 24. The sheep were found in all directions. (4) 25. Arrange train for old transport. (10) 27. Finish badly hurt but still recommend. (7) 28. Must eat processed changes. (7) 29. Lisa’s making ropes out of this. (5) 30. Sad end, sun having gone down over the hills at the beach. (9) DOWN 1. Skulked and enticed to hold the weight. (6) 2. Accept that the evil bee stung. (7) 3. Against dissertation or the exact opposite. (10) 4. Covering the rig Sunni broke. (8) 5. Avoid the North East entrance. (6) 6. Leap around when the bells ring. (4) 7. Staggered below on the ship to take clothes off. (7) 8. Disbursement of Jews confused a Paris do. (8) 13. Writing censored by editor taken to court. (10) 16. Resemblance to eel’s skin funny! (8) 17. Play a game in the shed to find one of the crew. (8) 19. Schedules time on the shifting sand. (7) 21. Get more shrewd at catching sheep held up. (7) 22. Directs the young bulls. (6) 23. Can he pass stages? (6) 26. Spoken word for all inside. (4)
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16 Win a $50 GIFT Card Coles Supermarkets, Coles Central, Coles Express, Myer, including Myer.com.au, Target, Kmart, Officeworks, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and First Choice Liquor. 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 31.03.2025 Winner notified by post. 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. 118 8 6 7 3 1 5 6 8 3 3 8 7 9 1 7 1 2 2 3 4 4 8 6 5 3 1 9 4 8 6 Answers on next month Three women die and go to heaven. When they get there, St. Peter says: “We only have one rule here in heaven: do not step on the ducks!!” So they enter heaven, and there are ducks all over the place. It is almost impossible not to step on a duck, and although they try their best to avoid them, the first woman accidentally steps on one. Along comes St. Peter with the ugliest man she ever saw. St. Peter chains them together and says: “Your punishment for stepping on a duck is to spend eternity chained to this man!” The next day, the second woman accidentally steps on a duck and along comes St. Peter. With him is another extremely ugly man. He chains them together with the same admonishment as for the first woman. The third woman has observed all this and is very careful where she steps. She manages to go months without stepping on any ducks, but one day St. Peter comes up to her with the most handsome man she has ever laid eyes on. St. Peter chains them together without saying a word. The happy woman says: “I wonder what I did to deserve being chained to you for all of eternity?” The guy says: “I don’t know about you, but I stepped on a duck!” Three buddies are out driving around in a sports car. It's all fun and games until the guy behind the wheel gets it wrong while trying to drift through a downtown intersection. Inevitably, the sports saloon ends up slamming into a tree, killing all three of them instantly. Sometime later, they find themselves at an orientation prior to entering into Heaven. They are all asked, "When you are in your casket and friends and family are mourning upon you, what would you like to hear them say about you?" The first guy says, "I would like to hear them say that I was a great doctor of my time, and a great family man." The second guy says, "I would like to hear that I was a wonderful husband and school teacher which made a huge difference in our children of tomorrow." The last guy replies, "I would like to hear them say, 'Look! He's moving!!'" CROSSWORD 118 by Mona Elliott ACROSS 1. ANNUL 7. MIEN 8. DEVIATE 9. ETERNAL 10. UPSHOT 11. CREATION 14. e.g. GERMAN 18. TUMULT 19. REMOTENESS 2 3 4 9 11 12 13 15 16 20 21 23 21. IDEA 22. MET 23. MUSICAL PLAYS DOWN 1. START 2. A DRINK 3. LEEWAY 4. PARTICLE 5. FAMISH 6. STANDARDS 12. INFERENCE 13. CONTESTANTS 15. HARMONY 16. EIGHTH (In music) 17. CONTORT 20. NUMBER Answer next month 1 8 10 14 22 5 6 7 17 18 19
17 Make a start towards getting your affairs in order Take the first step in planning details to provide peace of mind for your loved ones. Don’t leave your family wondering what your last wishes might have been. Call and talk to our caring staff about how we can help you with Funeral Pre-Planning. 5593 4777 www.newhavenfunerals.com.au A 100% Australian Owned Family Business Newhaven Funerals reputation of excellence has been bestowed by the thousands of satisfied clients our company has been privileged to serve. Ljɤ ڑ Ǹͅ ɤ ڑ Ǹ˷ ڑ Ǹ̻̻̇ͅ Τɤɒ ڑ ¡̇ ˰ɤ ڑ IǸͅ ɤ ڑ ŶǸɆˋǸʊɤ ڑ Ի¡IŶԼ ̻̇ͅڑ Τʧɒɤͅ NJɄ ȠɄʳʇɄ΄Ʉ Ʉ΄Ʉ̥ Ζ˧˗Ʉ ̓ ɴ˧ͣ ʳȳ ȠɄ ǹȠʳɄ ͔ ˧ ǹȧȧɄ̓̓ ǹɥɥ˧̥ ȳǹȠʳɄՏ ʳ˧ȧǹʳʳΖ ːǹȳɄՏ ˗͔̥ͣ ʇ͔ ʇ˧ͣ̓ ːɄǹʳ̓ Ր ¤˧Έ ȳ˧Ʉ̓ ʇ͔ Έ˧̥ lzԏ ł˗ȧɄ ǹ̛̛̥ ˧΄Ʉȳ ȠΖ Ζ˧̥ͣ Lǹ̥ Ʉ Ÿ̥ ˧΄ʇȳɄ̥ Տ Ζ˧ͣ Έʇʳʳ ˧˗ʳΖ ȠɄ ǹ̓ lzɄȳ ͔ ˧ ̛ ǹΖ ӬӨ ج ˧ɥ ͔ ɴɄ ːɄǹʳ ȧ˧͔̓ ̛ͣ ɥ̥ ˧˗͔ ΈɴɄ˗ Ζ˧ͣ ̛ ʳǹȧɄ Ζ˧̥ͣ ˧̥ ȳɄ̥̓ Ր NJɄ ͔ ɴɄ˗ ʳʇǹʇ̓ Ʉ Έʇ͔ ɴ Ζ˧̥ͣ Lǹ̥ Ʉ Ÿ̥ ˧΄ʇȳɄ̥ ͔ ˧ ̥ Ʉȧ˧΄Ʉ̥ ͔ ɴɄ Ƞǹʳǹ˗ȧɄՐ We are an approved Home Care Package (HCP) provider We believe everyone should be able to access affordable, locally made, nutritious meals. What is the process? 1 Apply via www.opensaucekitchen.com.au 2 Your Care Provider will receive the application for approval. 3 You will be notified when approved, and be able to place your order whilst only paying 30% upfront every time. We liaise with your Care Provider to collect the remaining funds. Scan the QR code to view our menu and to create your Open Sauce Kitchen account. 5/7-9 De Barnett St Coomera PH: 0400 404 166 www.opensaucekitchen.com.au How does it work? Once approved by your Care Provider, you will only be asked to pay 30% of the meal cost upfront when you place your orders. We then liaise with your Care Provider to recover the balance. We are a small team that prepares freshly made, homecooked style meals using local farm produce, paired with high-quality, sustainably sourced meats and seafood. Our meal services accommodate a variety of dietary needs, offering a changing menu each week to keep you nourished and satisfied. A testimonial from a happy customer . . . When asked about her experience, Rosemary—who has been ordering these meals for several months—could hardly contain her enthusiasm. “It’s always exciting to see the new weekly menu,” she says, “especially when it features roast pork with crackling.” She goes on to praise the top-quality ingredients, noting that the vegetables are particularly fresh and vibrant. Rosemary also points out the efficient service and detailed information provided with every dish, adding that the friendly communication and personal stories make her feel like part of the family. “I can’t wait for my delivery each week,” she confesses, explaining that she has even lost weight thanks to the healthier, satisfying meals. As a former home economics teacher, Rosemary values the care put into every recipe, admitting, “I’m delighted to have such well-prepared food now that I can’t cook for myself.” For further information please contact Catherine Eibner, on 0400 404 166 or www.opensaucekitchen.com Wholesome Meals, Locally Sourced, Loved Daily This will be the first significant change to bin collection schedules in 20 years. Substantial growth and changes to our city and road networks means it's essential to adjust our truck routes and schedules. These changes will benefit our community by: • Helping maintain reliable and efficient bin collection services. • Contributing to reducing traffic congestion and improving the city's amenity. • Enhancing traffic, pedestrian, and truck driver safety. Stay ahead of the change by checking what your new schedule will be from March 2025 cityofgoldcoast.com.au/mybinday Residential bin days and times are changing in March 2025!
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