outdoor activities
Christmas in July
There may not be much chance of snow this July but that shouldn’t stop you getting rugged up and enjoying a Christmas Cruise.
Captain Cook Cruises are operating a two and a half hour lunch cruise, every day in July, onboard the MV Sydney 2000. Decked out in Christmas trimmings, you will enjoy a traditional, three course Australian a la carte menu, including Christmas pud!
Departing from Darling Harbour at 12pm, or Circular Quay at 12.30pm, the cruise will take in the million dollar views of Sydney’s main Harbour sights.
For more information, or to make a booking, contact Captain Cook Cruises toll free on
+ 61 1800 804 843 or (02) 9206 1111; Email: or visit www.captaincook.com.au
NT festival time
Throughout the month of June, Regional NSW hosts a series of aboriginal arts exhibitions, youth theatre and a tribute to the iconic Australian song, Waltzing Mathilda.
Featuring the works of over 50 aboriginal artists, including Digby Moran and Karla Dickens, Arts Northern Rivers presents The Year of the Apology exhibition at Ballina. The works created by artists from the Northern Rivers area, are a reaction to the Rudd Government’s apology to the stolen generation. The exhibition will run until 29 June.
A collection of ceramics by indigenous artists can be viewed at the G Collection in Grafton, until 6 July 2008. All works feature designs and stories with an indigenous background.
From 11-20 June 2008 in Wodonga, The Biting Dog Theatre Festival will show a series of works by young thespians. The three shows are adaptations of the same script and will deliver comedy, romance and thrills, with feedback at the end of the night from a panel of experts.
The Song Company will perform some of the best loved, rollicking Australian classic songs, at Orange, Bathurst and Mittagong throughout June and July. The program features four versions of Waltzing Mathilda and tells the tale of Australia’s colonial history.
View the full NSW regional arts program for something to suit all tastes.
Sporting masters
Excelling at sport shouldn’t stop just because you are advancing in years. Registration is now open for the 6th biennial Pan Pacific Masters Games.
Taking place on the Gold Coast from 1-9 November 2008, over 10,000 competitors will compete in 34 team and individual sports. In a bid to make competitive sport accessible to all, there are no qualifying times or standards to meet, just the minimum age requirement for your chosen sport, which may include softball, touch football, tennis or swimming, to name just a few.
All participants compete in their age category, ensuring the sport is played fairly and with spirit. There is no limit to the amount of sports you participate in, only the amount of skill and energy you have can hold you back!
Just like the Olympics in Beijing, the Masters will have their very own games village, based at the Gold Coast Exhibition and Conference Centre. Featuring live entertainment nightly, fully catered hospitality and a place for all games participants to meet up and socialise, the games promise fun as well as competition.
To find out what sports are on offer, the age requirements for your selected sport or to register, visit www.mastergames.com.au.
Life balance
AboutSeniors subscriber, Harsu, has suggested Wu Tao, a dance-based therapy, to re-energise your body, mind and soul.
Wu Tao has its foundations in Oriental Medicine and restores balance in your life with a holistic approach to a system of healing. The program is based on five dances which work on balancing two meridians, such as bladder and kidneys, belonging to a particular element, in this case Water.
Participants learn and perform the dances to relaxing music, which is chosen to correspond and enhance the particular element being concentrated on. The goal is a feeling of harmony and balance, both physically and mentally.
You can start with a simple class, only being as energetic as you feel the need to be, and no previous dancing skills are necessary. As your confidence and expertise grows, you may wish to consider a workshop or retreat to fully investigate the options Wu Tao can offer.
Go Italia!
Melbourne celebrates its cultural diversity, by holding a festival dedicated to one of its larges immigrant communities, Italy, from 22 May to 8 June.
Covering many facets of the arts, theatre, cinema, opera and literary, special concerts, readings and movie premieres will be taking place. There will also be special food and wine tastings throught the festival with a gala dinner on 31 May to mark 60 years of the Italian constitution.
For those less arty and more sporty, the mighty Junventus fly into Melbourne to play Melbourne Victory at soccer on 30 May at the Telstra Dome. Sydney also gets a look in with the Italian Connection Rally from Sydney to Melbourne on 23 to 25 May, stopping off along the way at various car clubs. Supporting TLC for kids, the rally finishes at Lygon Street, with a victory dinner.
So celebrate your Italian heritage or just enjoy what promises to be a great festival of all things Italian.
What’s on where
Sydney
24 & 25 May 2008 - The Cronulla Food & Wine Festival, Jazz & Shiraz - Australian wine, gourmet treats and live Jazz music. 11am - 5pm, Dunningham Park (next to Cronulla Beach), corner of Elouera Road and the Kingsway, Cronulla.
25 May (Sunday) 2008 - Voices on a Sunday - chamber choir Bel a cappella and a 20 piece orchestra perform together. Works from composers Handel, Wagner, Verdi, Lehar, Palmer and McGlynn. Independent Theatre, 269 Miller St, North Sydney. Adults $40 Conc $35 Child $20.Book online or call 1300 306 776.
Melbourne
22 May to 4 June 2008 - John Burge Exhibition - John Burge is having his first Melbourne Exhibition in 36 years. John is a figurative artist and has exhibited in Munich, Spain & Amsterdam. The exhibition stretches from 1975 till the present. Victorian Artist Society Galleries. Open Monday-Wednesday-10.00am-4.30pm, Thursday-Friday - 10.00am-6.00pm, Weekends 1.30pm-4.30pm. For More information call 9662 1484
Brisbane23 May to 27 June 2008- Royal Qld Art Society 119th Annual Exhibition - cnr of Upper Edward St and Astor Tce, Spring Hill. Open: Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Phone the Gallery (07) 3831 3455 for more information.
24 & 25 May 2008- Bribie Island Classic Boats Regatta - See vintage style boats, some powered by steam engines, on Bribie’s waterways. Sunday is public participation day with free public viewing of boats, races and much more. Commences 10.00am, Grand parade at 2.00pm. Sylvan Beach, Pumicestone Passage. For more information call Darryl Phillips on (07) 3408 7888 or 0419 110 953.
25 May (Sunday) 2008 - Dayboro Day Festival - Dayboro’s main street comes alive with market stalls, displays, street parade, Antique and Collectibles Fair and entertainment incl. Waterless Raft Race, Cream Bun Scoff, Pineapple Pie Eating Comp, music, dance etc. Free parking at Showgrounds with Free bus transfers to township. Part of the Pine Rivers Festival.
Perth
22 to 28 May 2008 - Spanish Film Festival 2008 - 16 features and two programmes of short films, as well as opening and closing night galas. Book tickets online.
Cinema Paradiso, 164 James Street, Northbridge. For more information call (08) 9227 1771.
24 May (Saturday) 2008 - Artisan Market, City Farm Perth - Local artisans will be selling handcrafted jewellery, homemade lotions and oils, creative gift cards, woodwork furniture, decorative ceramics and sculpture pieces and felted handbags. Other attractions include a Organic Growers Market, Basket Weaving demonstration, Children’s crafts and entertainment by local musicians. 9am -3pm, 1 City Farm Place, East Perth.
Hobart
The Last Wednesday of every month - Big Laughs in the Little Pub Big Laughs is Hobart’s best Stand up Comedy evening, featuring a bevy of local and interstate artists every month. Big Laughs happens on the last Wednesday evening of every month at the New Sydney Hotel Bathurst St Hobart at 8.30pm. Free Entry, Great laughs, Great atmosphere, come along and enjoy yourself.
Adelaide
Saturday 24th May 2008 - Mudgee Railway Markets - There is something for everyone at the Mudgee Railway Markets. Enjoy local produce including fresh fruit and vegetables, olives and olive products and lavender products.
Sunday 25th May 2008 - Government House Open Day - As part of History Week. Step inside and enjoy the charm of the beautifully presented rooms in the oldest Government House in Australia. Thirty-three successive Governors have lived in this House - the second oldest continuously occupied house in Adelaide.
Darwin
Every Thursday and Sunday evening, May - October 2008 - Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
Experience the atmosphere and flavours of the famous sunset markets. Enjoy the tropical night air at Darwin’s Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. The markets have a multitude of stalls offering international cuisine, arts, crafts and entertainment. Their unique combination of great food and an electric atmosphere make a visit a must do.
Aquatic greypower
Royal Life Saving has been saving lives for 110 years, and a new program aimed at the over 55s aims to save even more lives.
Grey Medallion was formally launched last week by Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot, and is aimed towards reducing the drowning rate of the over 55s, while encouraging an independent and healthy lifestyle.
In 2005-06, 265 people drowned, despite the growth in population, that’s less than the 300 in the early 90s, and is mainly thanks to programs such as Grey Medallion.
The program teaches personal survival techniques, encourages confidence and competence to enjoy aquatic exercise and enables participants to deal with emergency situations.
To learn more about the program, or to enroll, click here.
Thanks for volunteering
Over 25% of Australians volunteer, giving their time freely to benefit their community. National Volunteer week offers the chance to say thank you.
National Volunteer Week from 12-18 May 2008, focuses on those who selflessly try to do their best for others. Organisations will be holding events, such as morning teas, movies and lunches to say thank you to their volunteers.
National Volunteer Week is also a good opportunity to find out more about organisations in your area that need your help to keep the community going. You can visit different organisations that may be of interest to you and see how your time and effort can benefit them.
For more information on how you can volunteer, which organisations are actively recruiting volunteers, or which events are on in your area, click here.
Relax and unwind
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as maintaining good physical wellbeing. De-stress and relax with a luxurious spa treatment.
Whether it’s a massage, acupuncture or reiki healing that helps get your chi realigned, taking time out for yourself is important. A visit to a spa is a luxury for most, but if your budget can stretch to it, then the benefits can be priceless. Many facilities offer concessions or special rates for those that can go outside busy times.
If a pedicure or pampering session is beyond your means, then why not get together with some friends for some home treatments. It can be great fun and is a good excuse for a get-together and enjoy a chat and some laughs.
To find a spa or health retreat in your area, click here.
Mother’s Day trips
Looking to take your mother out on her special day, or wanting to drop some hints to your own family?
Whether it’s a family outing, a trip for two, or something to do when you’re at a loose end, Australia has plenty to offer on Mother’s Day. Choose from a Swan Valley Indulgence Tour, A luxury spa day or a Mother’s Day Dance workshop, there’s something to suit everyone.
For more details, click here.
Mamma mia
Italians are well known for loving their mothers but you don’t need to head to Italy to give the mother in your life a treat.
Enjoy a taste of Italian culture onboard the MV Sydney, the official vessel of Pope Benedict XVI during his earlier visit to Sydney this year. Captain Cook’s “Opera Italiano” Dinner Cruise sails on Sunday 11 May, 7pm from Jetty Circular Quay in Sydney.
Be spoilt with a three course meal and live entertainment, with popular arias and classic hits of Italy performed by an opera singer. Be awed by the wonderful, uninterupted sights of Sydney harbour by night from exclusive window seating.
Best of all, you only need to pay for your own ticket as your guest, whether your mother or not, goes free. Buy one ticket at $124 and get the second free.
If you can’t make this evening cruise, why not get the family together for a Mother’s Day Buffet Lunch or Top Deck Lunch Cruise. With both cruises departing at 12.30pm on 11 May, you can choose to:
Tuck into the best of Australian seafood at the Mother’s Day buffet, while listening to a full commentary of the sights of Sydney Harbour. Prices are $64 for adults, $49 Concession and $30 for children (5-14yrs).
or
enjoy a delicious 3 course contemporary Australian a la carte menu with personalised service, with relaxing ambient music in the background. Prices are $74 for adults, $65 Concession and $49 for children (5-14yrs).
For reservations and enquiries please contact Captain Cook Cruises toll free on 1800 804 843, email or visit www.captaincook.com.au
Big shoes to fill
Regardless of your views on war, there are those who fought and died for their country, so we can live the free life we do now and they should be remembered.
Friday 25 April is ANZAC Day and all over Australia and New Zealand our thoughts will turn to those brave and often frightened young men, who headed off to defend not only their own country, but the future of the free western world as we know it today. Many will head to organised services, some will remember quietly on their own, and for a few the trip to the battle fields of Gallipoli is already underway.
The ANZAC Day dawn service in the nation’s capital, Canberra, is something that should be experienced by Australians at least once in their lifetime. In the Summer 2007/08 issue of Your Life, Brian Johnston describes the emotions that are stirred by this event. Patriotism is something that Australians have in bucket loads, something to be proud of given the multicultural diversity of its people these days. Many Australians now make the trip to Gallipoli to soak up the haunting, and overwhelming emotion resonating from the battle sites there. While few will ever march the Kokoda Trail, some will be fortunate to visit the easily accessible war memorials of Papua New Guinea.
War tourism is on the up, as people trace their family history and look to where they belong. To read the full Your Life article, Following In Their Footsteps, click here.
For details of ANZAC parades and celebrations in your area, click on your state below.
VICTORIA
QUEENSLAND
NSW
SA
TAS
WA
Good neighbours
A NSW Health Survey showed that the 65-74 year age bracket had the largest percentage of visiting neighbours, providing a lifeline for some.
These days it seems everybody is too busy with their own lives to take a moment for those round about. Neighbour day has been on the Australian calendar since the discovery of an elderly woman found dead in her Melbourne home in 2003. The horror of the story is that she had been dead for two years. Getting out and about if you’re fit and able is something many take for granted but there are some people who are not so lucky. The simple joy you can bring just by popping in for a cuppa is priceless to those who have no-one.
Neighbour Day should be any day of the year. Four easy steps that will help you connect with your neighbours are:
• say hello to your neighbours when you pass them
• make a special effort to introduce yourself to older residents or those who live alone
• leave your mobile and home telephone numbers for use in an emergency
• agree to keep in contact
If you want to take it further, why not organise a street party, barbeque or a get together in your local community centre. For more information about Neighbour Day, click here.
Farmers markets
Autumn sees an abundance of produce at farmers’ markets throughout the country, making them a great place to enjoy your favourite products for the last time in a while or stock up for the winter.
Usually held one day a month, farmers’ markets offer a great opportunity to buy fresh, local produce at good prices, while supporting local farmers and securing their livelihood. At this time of year there’s plenty of produce to choose from, whether its simple fruit and veg or homemade jams and chutneys. Some of the larger markets also attract local craft producers, food retailers and entertainers, making it a great day out for all the family.
To find out where and when your next local farmers market will be held, click here.
Love your city
Ever wondered what your city or area looks like to a tourist? Before the summer’s over, get out there and explore!
Now the cooler days are upon us and the tourist season is drawing to a close, it’s a great time to visit some of your local attractions that maybe you haven’t been to for a while or just never got round to going to before. How about the Botanical Gardens, art museum or local wineyard? Many attractions offer free or reduced entry to seniors or those visiting during less busy times. So beat the crowds and contact your local visitor centre for inspiration or click on the link below for your city/state.
Melbourne
Victoria
Sydney
NSW
Canberra
Brisbane
Queensland
Perth
Western Australia
Northern Territories
Adelaide
South Australia
Need a companion?
Online sites like RSVP are a safe and exciting way to meet new people, which is why over one million Australians have turned to RSVP to find someone for love or friendship!
As an @boutSeniors newsletter subscriber, enjoy this special offer. Enter the promo code YL0407 in our website to receive a complimentary stamp credit and find a companion on us! RSVP – real people, real possibilities! Click here to visit or copy and paste http://www.rsvp.com.au into your browser.
Walking is the preferred form of exercise for many and it’s also a great activity for those on a budget. What better backdrop for a walk than one of Australia’s many beautiful National Parks?
Perhaps it’s been a while since you visited your closest National Park or perhaps you’re ready to branch out and find a new track? Wherever you live, the forest and fresh air are probably not as far away as you think.
You don’t have to be a serious bushwalker to get in amongst the tall trees. You don’t need to wear anything special – just comfortable. So pack a sandwich, fruit and water, don your best walking shoes and get in the car and drive. To find out in which direction you might want to steer, click here
Free travel guide
Australian seniors with travel on their mind can now access a free, user friendly travel guide to New Zealand. The free guide offers a wealth of information, savings and travel tips for mature travellers.
The publication, called Seniors Guide to New Zealand, is produced by seniors’ specialists NZ Seniors Card. New Zealand is the most popular overseas destination for Australian holiday-makers and this guide aims to make their experience even more enjoyable. In addition, Australian travellers over 55 are eligible to purchase an NZ Seniors Card via www.seniorscard.co.nz From just $20 annually, members can make substantial savings at over 8500 businesses in NZ and worldwide. For a copy of the guide phone 1800 008 551 or email
Gladstone coffee cruise
Gladstone, on Queensland’s central coast, has just added a coffee cruise to the many activities available for visitors. Cruise the Gladstone Harbour and enjoy the beauty of Auckland Inlet and the Gladstone Marina.
Situated 550 miles north of Brisbane, Gladstone is traditionally known as an industrial town but it offers much more than that! The Botanical Gardens are a must-see but the Harbour offers unexpected delights.
The Gladstone Coffee Cruise departs the Curtis Ferry Services Terminal every Wednesday from 10.30am to 1pm. Tickets cost $18 for adults, $15 for pensioners/seniors and $10 for children (under five free).
For bookings call (07) 4972 9000 or for more information about Gladstone and the surrounding area, click here
Older men, great idea
Older men, new ideas (OM:NI) is a Council on the Ageing (COTA) initiative which allows men to get together informally and have a chin wag – about anything except religion and politics!
Blokes are starting up OM:NI discussion groups all over Australia, whereby they get together on a regular basis and have a relaxed chat: firstly, about what’s going on for them personally (if they want to) and then about an agreed subject. The groups are facilitated by the men themselves, so no one else is around (read, the ladies!) and everyone can talk freely and uninterrupted.
Men from all walks of life are welcome. If you’re interested in getting together for a chat and a laugh and maybe making a few new mates along the way, contact David on (03) 9655 2115 to find out how to facilitate or join a group. Or for more information, click here
The A-B-S of driving
Do you know if you have ABS brakes on your car? In slippery conditions, ABS brakes can assist but it’s important to know whether or not you have them in the first place, as well as knowing how to use them – or there can be dangerous consequences.
If you’re driving in extreme or slippery conditions and you brake suddenly, you may feel a shuddering feeling in the brake pedal. Many people release their brake pressure thinking there is something wrong, unaware that the shuddering is the ABS brakes working.
ABS brakes are a great innovation but what’s their use if you don’t even realise you have them or don’t know how to best use them? The RACV says drivers are crashing because they are unfamiliar with the operation of ABS brakes.
A new Australian made product called Dashlite is a car light which also doubles as an ABS indicator, reminding you of whether you have ABS or not. Dashlite aims to raise awareness of this little known ABS issue. You can purchase a Dashlite for $21.95 from RACV shops (or $18.95 for RACV members) or email an order to . For more information on ABS breaks click here For more information on Dashlite,
click here
Open for business
The King Valley in Victoria’s north east is no longer a secret getaway known to the special few. The Valley boasts spectacular scenery, boutique accommodation, cafés and wide-open cellar doors ready to tempt you with to eat, drink and be merry, Mediterranean-style.
Like all ‘overnight successes’ the foundations for the now flourishing wine industry in King Valley began many years a go when a few farmers ventured into grape growing, many encouraged by the now famous Brown Brothers of Milawa.
But whether you’re into food, wine, bushwalking or just enjoying natural beauty, the King Valley can offer you a chance to take in the fresh air and beauty of one of a place that’s no longer a state secret Victorians can keep to themselves. Find out more
Willing Workers
Join the wonderful world of WWOOF (Willing Workers on Organic Farms) and let them help you find a unique style of home stay on an organic farm. Learn about organic growing and see new areas of the country whilst staying in the farm house.
The ‘WWOOF book’ provides contact details for about 1200 organic farms and the website also has information about WOOFing it up on overseas farms. Learn about sustainable practices, Bio-dynamics and Permaculture in a hands-on and practical way.
Go there
To Market To Market…
The Adelaide Showground Farmers Market is on every Sunday, selling food and products made by farmers and producers of South Australia. It’s a great way to ensure you’re eating fresh, seasonal food and to get to know the local ‘foodie’ scene.
The market will promote the practice of sustainable food production in South Australia and the importance of a healthy environment to a healthy food chain.
The farmer’s market is on at the Wayville Showground, Goodwood Road, Wayville, from 9am – 1pm every Sunday. Entry is free.
Go there
Croquet
- Croquet, Australian Sports Commission Site - Details of the game, coaching tips, history, contacts, links.
Go there
- Croquet Resources on the Internet. Links to croquet-related information available on the Internet, including clubs, State and international associations, tournaments, rules and magazines.
Go there
Walking
- Better Health Channel of the Victorian Government covers pretty what you want to know about walking as exercise and its impact on health and fitness.
Go there
- Just Walk It is a Heart Foundation initiative. It is a free, community-based, walking program that aims to increase participation in regular and enjoyable physical activity. Information on how to contact a local walking group in your area.
Go there
- Walking for Pleasure. From NSW Sport &Recreation, covering how often, how hard, staying motivated, stretching, shoes and important tips. See if there's a Walking for Pleasure Club near you.
Go there
Archaeology
- Australian Archaeological Institute
Go there
- Links to resources on Australian archaeology, from the University of Sydney.
Go there
Astronomy
- Australian Astro Site. Vast information site includes astronomy, astrophysics, astro navigation, space, radio astronomy, bio-astronomy and SETI, Star Wars and Star Trek, and many other diverse subjects.
Go there
- Astronomical Society of Australia (ASA). The organisation of professional astronomers in Australia. Many useful links to the Australian astronomical community, including Australian amateur astronomical societies, amateur meetings and lots more.
Go there
- Astronomical Society of South Australia. If sky watching is new to you, here's a great place to get started.
Go there
Birdwatching
- Birds Australia (BA). BA is dedicated to the conservation, study and enjoyment of Australia's native birds and their habitats.
Go there
- Birdwatching Australia. A directory of Australian birdwatching tours, birdclubs, freelance-guides, bird-orientated accommodation and reference information.
Go there
- Bird Observers Club of Australia. A wide network of branches (especially in Vic and Qld) which run an extensive program of activities for its members.
Go there
Bushwalking
Bushwalking in Australia - The national bushwalking website, also the NSW Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs' homepage, focussing on National sites and issues, with links to State federations.
Go there
Handyman
- Do It Yourself. This US DIY site has lots of advice and tips that are just as applicable in Australia. Topics include building/remodelling, decorating (paint, wallpaper, floor coverings, etc), outdoors (BBQ, fences, car bike, gardens, etc), repairs and more.
Go there
- Natural Handyman. This is another US DIY site with many home repair articles on a wide range of topics.
Go there
- Toilets. Everything you ever wanted to know about toilets and how to fix them. Well illustrated.
Go there
Motorcycles
- Motorcycle Riders Association of Australia (MRAA)
A non-profit organisation that serves and represents the interests of Australian motorcyclists. The site includes help for beginners, information on safer motorcycling, news and an events calendar.
Go there
- Ulysses Club Inc
This is the ultimate motorcycle club for Seniors and it is the largest in the southern hemisphere. Any lady or gentleman who is over the age of 40, and who holds a current motorcycle licence, or who is a regular partner of such a person is eligible to join.
Go there
Railways, Trams, Trains and Engines
- Australian Railways Historical Society (ARHS). Helping people interested in Australian railways meet others with similar interests. NSW Division, with links to other divisions and sites of interest.
Go there
- RailPage. Just about everything you want to know about Australian railways and tramways. RailPage hosts other related sites and has many links to rail related sites throughout Australia and the world, including links for model railway enthusiasts.
Go there
- Steam & Engine of Australia - A web page designed to provide information to anyone on Steam Engines, Internal Combustion Engines, Model Engineering, Restoration, History, Club Listings, Events and heaps more!
Go there
Weather and Tides
- Bureau of Meteorology - Check the weather so you will know what conditions might be like for your outdoor activity, or just for fun.
Go there
- You can also check the synoptic chart or other weather maps. (If your browser uses caching - keeping a local copy of web sites you have visited - don't forget to use the "Reload" or "Refresh" button to ensure you get the latest chart).
Go there
- Weather Watch Radar is now available free of charge from the Bureau of Meteorology's national network of radar stations. Check out approaching storms! Images are updated every 10 minutes.
Go there
- Tidal predictions for Australia and the Pacific are available from the National Tidal Facility, The Flinders University of South Australia. The site also has moon phases and sunrise/sunset info.
Go there
