Active, heathly, happy. Physical activity is one of the most important things you CAN do to improve your overall quality of life. The City’s Active & Healthy classes are free or nearly free and are perfect for seniors!
Being active is vital. Not only does regular exercise help improve balance, maintains mobility and strength but it also plays a significant role in the prevention, treatment and management of many chronic health conditions.
Says 80-year-old John, “I owe the Australian Academy of Tai Chi, Rod Ferguson and the City of Gold Coast a great debt of gratitude for without them my health would not be where it is now. For 6 months I attended the tai chi classes regularly and noticed an overall improvement in my physical condition. I was called into hospital for a triple bypass and fell both physically and mentally ready for surgery. I sailed through the operation with no problems and have maintained excellent health and activity ever since.”
The physical benefits are great! But it’s the mental and social benefits that come from regularly connecting with others, having fun and staying strong that really drive home the importance of remaining active as we age.
The City’s Active & Healthy classes are all run by supportive, friendly, and qualified instructors and each class is designed to improve your:
body’s function, strength and range of movement
balance and coordination
bone and muscle development
social connection and interaction
mental wellbeing and happiness.
The City of Gold Coast offers classes that are gentle and progressive. They also offer classes that are great for those up for more of a challenge. Let age be no barrier! It is time to reconnect with others and join in one of the City’s many Active & Healthy classes. Embrace living a happy, healthy lifestyle right here on the Gold Coast.
Stay Active with TAI CHI
Tai chi is a healing martial art combining many movements with qi (energy), circulation, breathing and stretching techniques. Qualified instructors will guide you through a series of movements to help promote harmony, improve mobility and suppleness, and increase mental alertness. 25 free or low-cost classes on offer.
Stay Active with WATER THERAPY AND FITNESS
Exercising in water builds cardiovascular stamina, strength and flexibility. It also helps burn body fat, increase circulation and speed rehabilitation after illness or injury. These low impact classes include aqua fitness, deep water running and water therapy and will support your physical wellbeing, promote relaxation, reduce stress and relieve pain. On offer in local pools from $3 to $5 per class.
Stay Active with GENTLE YOGA
Improve strength, flexibility and mobility through poses specially adapted for seniors at any level of health and fitness. Perfect for all skill levels including beginners, these classes combine gentle stretching, traditional yoga poses and breath work to help you build strength and confidence. Over 40 classes available.
MATURE-AGED MEN’S FITNESS
This is a great class for men of all sizes, shapes and fitness levels to improve their general strength and conditioning. Work at your own level in these classes that focus on stretching, cardio and strength training. Come join trainer Bill for a laugh and a great workout!
STAYING STRONG
Improve stability, coordination, muscle tone, flexibility and wellbeing. Experienced senior fitness trainers will help take you through exercises targeting balance, mobility and strength. Great for all levels. 20 classes on offer, $3-$5 per class.
GROWING STRONGER
These classes aim to restore and rehabilitate; combining strength training, mobility and core work to improve strength, balance and mobility. Classes provide structured exercises for seniors with chronic health conditions or mobility concerns. Only $3-$5 per class.
BALANCE AND MEMORY IN MOTION
This class combines cognitive function through games, patterns, balance and memory tasks combined within an exercise class. The class will help you become stronger and fitter while improving your memory and balance all in the one class.
OVER 50S STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING
Ever wanted to cruise the waterways on a SUP but not sure how to start? Starting from the shore, the lesson progresses in small steps with the goal of getting everyone up and standing on the water. This is a fun, non-competitive class and is on offer at Budds Beach, Surfers. Only $5!
ACTIVE & HEALTHY @ HOME
The City is offering popular classes online and many of these online classes can be accessed at times more suited to you and they’re a great way for people to get a taste of a new class in the privacy of their own home. Online classes include tai chi, yoga, pilates and senior fitness. Find classes at cityofgoldcoast.com.au/ICAN
HOLIDAY FUN WITH THE GRANDKIDS
Grab the grandkids and join in one of hundreds of free and low-cost activities on offer each holiday through the Active & Healthy Holiday Program. Kicking off from December, feature activities include pop up playgrounds, tie dye, bubble fun, ninja warrior courses, splashtastic fun, surf safety, art and craft, movies in the park and so much more.
To find a class near you, pick up an Active & Healthy Lifestyle Guide from your local library. CALL 1300 465 326 to have one sent in the mail or check out the Active & Healthy calendar online at cityofgoldcoast.com.au/ICAN
AWLQ (Animal Welfare League Queensland) vets are vessels of knowledge when it comes to animals. Here are some of your questions answered.
WHEN SHOULD MY PET BE VACCINATED AND FOR WHAT?
AWLQ Advice for Puppies/Dogs
To safeguard your pet from potentially serious and sometimes fatal diseases your puppy needs to be vaccinated.
Our vaccines protect against several diseases including Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, Canine Hepatitis and Canine Parainfluenza Virus and Bordetella (Kennel Cough).
Puppy vaccinations can commence as young as 6 weeks of age. So, your puppy can safely socialise with other dogs and go for walks outside. We aim to achieve full immunity by 16 weeks of age.
To maintain immunity, adult dogs require an annual vaccination booster. You will receive a reminder when your dogs’ yearly vaccination is due.
AWLQ Advice for Kitten/Cats
Our vaccines protect against several diseases including Feline Enteritis, Feline Rhinotracheitis and Feline Calcivirus. Kitten vaccinations can commence as young as 6 weeks of age then every 2 to 4 weeks with the timing of the final dose being no earlier than 16 weeks.
To maintain immunity, adult cats require an annual vaccination booster. You will receive a reminder when your cats’ yearly vaccination is due.
SHOULD I MICROCHIP MY PET?
Each year thousands of lost animals are taken in by shelters and pounds across Australia. Some never make it home because they cannot be identified.
Microchipping offers pet owners the only truly permanent method of identifying your pet and linking the animal back to you. If you want to dramatically improve your pet’s chances of getting home fast and safe, implanting your pet with a microchip is your best option.
DOES MICROCHIPPING HURT THE ANIMAL?
Animal microchips are about the size of a grain of rice. They are typically implanted by a vet just beneath the surface of the skin between the shoulder blades. The process is similar to receiving vaccination through a needle.
WHAT KIND OF INFORMATION IS CONTAINED IN THE MICROCHIP?
The microchips presently used in pets only contain identification numbers. The microchip cannot track your animal if it gets lost. The microchip itself does not contain your pet’s medical information, but some microchip registration databases will allow you to store that information in the database for quick reference. ■
AWLQ was the first organisation in Queensland to open a Community Veterinary Clinic to the public. It still is the only organisation to do this. This unique service makes essential vet care accessible to all pet owners, including people who could not afford treatment for their pets. They are open 7 days a week. To book an appointment, go to awlqld.com.au/vet-clinics
COMMUNITY VET CLINIC LOCATIONS
Brisbane
6/10 Old Chatswood Road Daisy Hill, QLD 4127 07 3808 2892
Gold Coast
21 Shelter Road Coombabah QLD 4216 07 5594 0111
Ipswich
42 Tiger Street West Ipswich QLD 4305 07 3812 7533
A LOT OF YOU HAVE had your eye on an exciting new retirement development at Burleigh Golf Club, called The Verge. And now is your chance to get an eyeful. Their display apartment has opened, so you can get a feel for what it will be like living in the community. Go and have a look, it is worth it just for the views!
The view down onto the fairway from The Verge
This is a high-rise development (no garden maintenance and super-safe!) and the apartments can be adapted as you go along, according to whatever stage of life you are at. But here’s the best part – the community is located alongside the 10th fairway of Burleigh Golf Club. Residents are only a chip-shot away from the Clubhouse. But, let’s not forget about the proximity to Australia’s top beaches, entertainment hubs, shopping, and health clubs.
Go golfing with some friends at the Burleigh Golf Club
The one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses at The Verge have floor-to-ceiling glass doors to the balconies. They have sweeping outlooks from every angle. Sales have now opened on the development, so if you have had your eye on these during construction, now is the time to act.
How the Verge is expected to look upon completion
Prices start at $510,000, so swing by the sales office for a sneaky peak at 61 Hillcrest Parade, Miami. Or you can book an appointment to be shown around. Go to thevergeburleigh.com.au or call 1800 955 070.
MARIJUANA use is becoming more prevalent among middle-aged and older adults. These new figures demonstrate a substantial increase in marijuana use over the past decade.
Credit: @cjenkinsiv
Marijuana-Loving Boomers
The new findings, published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence, build on an earlier addiction study by the same researchers to illustrate this growing trend among Baby Boomers.
Although Mary Jane users are more likely to be young adults, the baby boomer generation is unique, having more experience with recreational use of drugs than previous generations.
It’s Cool, Baby
Says the lead author, Dr Benjamin Han, “The Baby Boomer generation grew up during a period of significant cultural change, including a surge in popularity of marijuana in the 1960s and 1970s. We’re now in a new era of changing attitudes around marijuana.” He added that as stigma around weed declines, Baby Boomers – many of whom have prior experience smoking weed – are increasingly using it.
It seems that the Boomer generation are still trailblazing and blazing up. No wonder Grandad is always looking for his lighter.
Enjoy one of Australia’s Great Drives from the Gold Coast to Binna Burra! There’s a new $35m road to the Gold Coast’s peak destination with amazing views across the Numinbah Valley to the ocean. The best time to visit is undoubtedly midweek to enjoy Binna Burra’s Teahouse and a selection of guided walks and activities.
Our Gold Coast hearts all collectively sank in September 2019 when bushfires engulfed the historic Binna Burra Lodge and its 42 cabins. But now, the new Binna Burra has risen from the ashes, and is open for business. You should see what they have done with the place! You are going to love it! The news images were heart-breaking. Despite incredibly heroic efforts by firefighters who battled the flames on the ground, alongside helicopters who bombed water down onto the site, the iconic getaway destination could not be saved by roaring flames that consumed a large part of the site. People around the world who had their fondest holiday memories from here all clutched at their hearts in shock. Nature can be a cruel and savage mistress.
Binna Burra Rainforest
But, nature is also endlessly beautiful, inspiring, and life-giving. Of course, Binna Burra would be rebuilt, because this secluded rainforest escape would not go down in history just because it lost a fight with a fire.
Now, we bring the happy news that the buildings that were damaged have been rebuilt, and they have thrown their doors open once again for the public. So, we urge our readers to go and take a look at the new Binna Burra, and support this special place. But also, we want you to go because you will have a totally awesome time.
Grooms Cottage
About Binna Burra
Binna Burra is famous for where it is in the world. It is special in the true sense of the word, and sits at 800 metres above sea level amidst the sub‑tropical rainforest of Lamington National Park in the Gold Coast Hinterland. It is surrounded by ancient Antarctic Beech forest, along exposed escarpments and into heathland. There are fascinating birds and unique wildlife surrounding it, in a complex and diverse ecosystem. This is the stuff of life.
Lamington National Park’s earliest human inhabitants were the Yugambeh. The mountain that Binna Burra sits upon was known as ‘Woonoongoora.’ These peaks are sacred and spiritual, places to be nurtured and respected. And Binna Burra are doing a fine job of this. The Lodge at Binna Burra was the first Australian property to attain the internationally recognised Green Globe Certification for its best practice environmental performance. It was also listed in the top 10 Eco-Lodges and Green Hotels in the World. These are just two of many green awards it holds, and this is exactly why it is the escape you need… You can lose yourself in the achingly beautiful nature here for days. It is the real deal.
The drive to Binna Burra is better than it has ever been, thanks to road repairs after the bushfire. The reconstruction works of over $30 million were jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. And there is nothing like a new road to make the journey great!
ACCOMMODATION
Binna Burra is open for day guests and visitors. But sometimes, you just need a bit more time in such a beautiful place. There are two ways to stay at Binna Burra. The first is in the crazy-amazing Skylodges. Here, you have your choice of spacious one, two and three-bedroom ecofriendly apartments and studios. All of them feature captivating views across the Coomera and Numinbah Valleys. You can enjoy a bath with those crazy mountain vistas, or curl up in front of the cosy fireplace. Or, simply sit back and sink into the breathtaking panorama. The balconies have seating outside, so you don’t have to leave those vistas. You can just sit there all day, treating your eyes and your soul.
The other way to stay at Binna Burra is at the Rainforest Campsite. It is the perfect base for exploring the many bush walks of Lamington National Park. Campsite accommodation options include 2-man and 4-man man tent sites, unpowered and powered driveon sites and 2-, 4- and 6- bed permanent safari tents.
Safari tents accommodate from 2 to 6 people and are a comfortable way of camping without the hassle of putting up a tent. Here you are totally submersed in nature with all its soul-filling vibes and amazing sounds. There’s USB charging ports because you would die if you didn’t spend the whole day taking photos of these surroundings. There is a private verandah with rainforest or Numinbah Valley views, and the windows have screens. There’s also access to communal fire pits. You just have to BYO linen, blankets and pillows (or you can hire linen from reception if you don’t feel like washing when you get home!).
Safari Tents
ACTIVITIES
Binna Burra have partnered with locally operated adventure company ParkTours, who are specialists in outdoor activities. You can try to do all of the activities, or none of them. But they all look pretty cool, it would be hard to resist. The guides run activities seven days per week. But hop on to the website and book your place to be sure, as some activities can fill up quickly.
The crazy-amazing Skylodges
Guided Walks
If you feel you would enjoy a guided walk more than just winging it alone, then this is a great way to learn a lot of crazy-interesting things about Lamington National Park. Some of these walks are rated as the best in Australia by Australian Geographic and offer a range of different distances and attractions. Experience the wonders of the complex geology from volcanic activity, or the cool temperate rainforest pockets full of Antarctic Beech. Remember to keep your eyes skywards as you might just see a koala sitting sleepily in the branches. You will also hear the chatter of bowerbirds and catbirds as you walk.
For those that prefer the night, there is a guided nocturnal walk on offer, for when the forest comes alive. You may encounter marsupials like local pademelons, possums and gliders, alongside micro‑bats, owls and maybe even a spider or two.
There’s also a walk that shows you different bush foods and medicines of the forest. The guide will tell you how to find bush tucker of Yugambeh country. And they will fill you in on the medicinal properties of various plants and how you might grow some bush tucker at home.
You can even do a walk around Binna Burra and get the scoop on the history of the location. It ends in the newly-opened Binna Burra Gallery.
Self-Guided Bushwalking And Hiking
This is what Binna Burra is globally famous for. These walks sit at 800m-1100m above sea level, and send you to rainforest-covered mountains, breathtaking lookouts, tumbling waterfalls, caves and fern gullies. Lamington National Park has around 160km of Australia’s most diverse walking trails. Choose from a wide range of walks from easy strolls to challenging full-day hikes.
Archery
Everyone loves to shoot arrows. In fact, archery has been around for almost 15,000 years and was once critical to human survival. The guides will explain how to hold the bow and aim for the target. All you have to do is hit the bullseye!
Wellness
Say goodbye to stress and worry and opt for some wellness activities. Re-align your body, mind and spirit while connecting to the peaceful surrounds of Binna Burra. You can do activities like yoga, or mindful practices in nature on the mindful morning sessions. Be sure to check the website for availability!
Hinterland By Horseback
Horse riding is back at Binna Burra! Experience the wow in this part of the world. The Gorge Ride captures breathtaking views out to Mount Tamborine, Brisbane and beyond. Remember to book online before you set out!
DINING
There are two excellent options for feasting at Binna Burra. The Grooms Cottage ‘Bushwalkers Bar’ was always the heart of Binna Burra Lodge, being the original home of Arthur Groom who established Binna Burra Lodge (along with Romeo Lahey). It is now one of the last Heritage buildings left at Binna Burra. It has been opened up for the public to enjoy. This beautiful old heritage building has excellent sunset views which you can enjoy on the grass lawn. With delicious locally sourced tap beers and share boards for daytime grazing, you’ll love it. The communal campfire at Grooms Cottage is lit each afternoon for the ultimate sundowner experience that guests of Binna Burra have been enjoying for 86 years.
The newly renovated Binna Burra Tea House is now open for breakfast, lunch and early dinner. It is just a short walk from the Sky Lodges. This place is famous for its food and wild landscape spectacles. The breathtaking views down the Numinbah Valley from the Tea House will have you amazed. You can enjoy mountain breezes while you get serenaded by cicadas. There is also a well-equipped shop with a small range of groceries, basic supplies, gift items and more.
Binna Burra loves to support local suppliers, and the menu here is no exception. Key ingredients come from sustainable businesses throughout the Scenic Rim. Menus and opening hours can be found on can be found on binnaburralodge.com.au.
Binna Burra are on all the usual social media platforms, so check it out before you book. But beware. Once you look at their pictures, you will get lost there for hours! Be strong, and carry on!
AS THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING era draws in, you may notice that across the Gold Coast, finding a car park can become a bit of a scrimmage. If searching for a park is not your thing, but you want to spend your day shopping in glorious aircon, then make your way to Pacific Fair. Now, they have valet parking. All you do is drive up to the valet parking area, hand over your keys, and these delightful little elves park your car for you. And for seniors, it’s only 5 bucks! If you try out this service and like it, then you can become a member of the Valet Parking service. Just ask the team on arrival.
Stress-free parking is not the only advantage of using the valet parking. They also have a hands-free shopping service. This is amazing! When you are in a shop and you buy things, you can leave your stuff in the shop. Tell the shop staff that valet will come and get it. Then you call the number on the ticket that the valet desk has given you (07 5581 5152). They will come to the shop, pick up your parcels, and put them directly into your car! Isn’t that amazing! And you can do that all day long! The valet elves will just keep coming back to pick up your stuff!
Valet parking is located on Level 1 of the Purple Car Park, up the ramp off Hooker Boulevard. Hours are: Monday – Wednesday – 10am to 4pm, Thursday – Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm.
