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COTA SA E-NEWSLETTER
16 October 2024

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In this edition...

In the headlines...

Connect. Age Well. Live Well. Our celebration of International Day of Older Persons 2024

   
A big thank you to everyone who joined us at our Meaningful connections at every age event on 1 October in celebration of International Day of Older Persons with keynote speaker, renowned Australian journalist Geraldine Doogue AO. 

We can't believe it's two weeks already since we took the opportunity to celebrate older people and their many contributions. Today we're pleased to share some pictures from that event along with insights shared on the day to help us connect, age well and live well at every age. 
   
This event was also featured in InDaily on Monday, you can see even more pictures from the day here.
   

COTA SA Annual General Meeting 2024

The 2024 Annual General Meeting of COTA SA will be held on Monday 11 November 2024 commencing at 2pm in the Parkview Room, Adelaide Pavilion, corner of South Terrace and Peacock Road, Adelaide. 

Our guest speaker will be The Right Honourable, the Lord Mayor of the City of Adelaide Dr Jane Lomax-Smith AM. 

Members can click below to register to attend; if you are not already a member and would like to attend, click here for more information and to join COTA SA. Membership is free and open to people 50 years and over.
   
     

Listening Posts - we want to hear from you

We want to hear from you - and we’re ready and waiting to listen at a series of Listening Posts. So far we've enjoyed hearing from you at locations including Westfield Marion, Marden Shopping Centre, Seaford Central and Elizabeth City Centre. Next week you'll find us at:
  • Unley Shopping Centre, Wednesday 23 October 9am to midday. We'll be outside the shopping centre.
If you're in the area come and say hello and share your thoughts. And watch this space - we continue to plan more Listening Posts in other areas. 
     

What you've told us so far - one positive word to describe your current phase of life

Thank you to everyone who has completed our 'How are you going?' survey so far. We asked you to share one positive word to describe your current phase of life and you told us:

What you share in this survey helps us to ensure that our focus is on what matters most to older South Australians at the moment and we will continue to share insights from this survey in the coming months. 

This survey is ongoing and helps us to understand how you're going right now - and what issues matter to you so please continue to share your thoughts.
     

COTA SA in the news...

  • In The Advertiser on 1 October: Tucker Street apartments near Adelaide parklands set to target at-risk women over 55COTA SA Chief Executive Miranda Starke welcomed the news saying growing numbers of South Australian women aged over 55 years of age who have never faced homelessness before are living in cars or struggling to find homes.


    Related information: Housing stress is an issue faced by many older South Australians and especially older women; Miranda was part of the Housing Security for Older Women Taskforce last year which handed down their report on improving housing security for older women, read more on our website.

  • In InDaily Business Insight on 30 September: 10 minutes with… COTA SA Chief Executive Miranda Starke"We see ageism as the biggest barrier to ageing well so we’re on a mission to fight it."  Miranda talks about COTA SA, and how it makes a difference in the lives of older South Australians. 

     
     

All the latest from Strength for Life

The Strength for Life community continues to grow, reaching more people and making a difference to the lives of thousands of older South Australians.


Read the latest news, community updates and how Strength for Life is going from strength to strength! In this edition of Strength for Life news: 

  • Welcome our new Seaton provider - OLON
  • Out and about!
  • Burton Community Hub

   
     
   
   
   

Get involved!

   

The Plug-in is COTA SA’s specialist consumer engagement and insights consultancy. We connect people with business, industry and researchers to generate insights that improve products, services and policies for the growing 50+ market.

If you would like to become part of The Plug-in’s community of Influencers, you can register with us online at theplugin.com.au/connect or over the phone on 08 8232 0422.

     

Policy & Advocacy

COTA SA regularly makes submissions on behalf of older South Australians to governments, regulators and other bodies regarding a broad range of topics to influence the decisions and actions that affect them. Recently we have made the following submission:

We still want to hear from you – ambulance access for older people in SA

Have you experienced challenges in paying an ambulance bill? If so and you haven't already completed our survey, we'd love to hear from you. 

COTA SA has been advocating for the State Government to fund free ambulance services for people on the full Age Pension in South Australia. Our ongoing engagement with older South Australians has indicated that cost is a barrier for many in accessing this important health service. Your story will help us convey the lived experience of older South Australians
   
     

Climate Change Group

COTA SA's Climate Change Group is passionate about the actions that individuals can take, big or small, that helps to care for the planet. One of these actions is sharing stories and finding reliable sources of information that are balanced and easy to understand. Our Climate Change Group members share stories and information that they find useful with the hope that you will find it useful too!

Reducing your energy costs and emissions

In September, members of COTA SA’s Climate Change Group joined us for a webinar talking about reducing your energy costs and emissions. They shared their insights and experiences about the steps they have taken as well as some of the lessons learned in that journey.
   

Talking to your Superannuation Fund about climate change

With so much of our future financial security dependent on our superannuation, it’s vital to understand whether climate change has been factored into the way it has been invested. The Climate Change Group recently talked to a large superannuation fund based in SA about its investment strategy and how it takes climate change into account when making those investments of your money.
     

Join the team: Volunteering opportunities

Customer Service Volunteer

Have you thought of volunteering for COTA SA? Here is an exciting opportunity for people aged 50 and over!


COTA SA invites you to express interest in joining the team as a Customer Service volunteer. We are planning to train and support a volunteer team to undertake customer service tasks both within COTA SA and at community events and activities. Volunteers will have the opportunity to be trained to provide information over the phone, including clear and reliable aged care information, at COTA SA’s office in the city, as well as the opportunity to be involved in outreach activities at events, expos and community presentations. 

Are you interested? For more information and to apply, contact Clara Tait on 08 8232 0422 or email cotasa@cotasa.org.au. We would love to hear from you!

Policy Council Member - Yorke Peninsula 

Do you live in the Yorke Peninsula? Would you like to help shape our advocacy and policy? 

The COTA SA Policy Council is an active forum aiming to make the best use of the depth and breadth of Council members' experiences, knowledge, and relationships both through our formal meetings and at other times. 

We're seeking nominations from COTA SA members living on the Yorke Peninsula, to represent the issues and views from the region. The Policy Council meets at our offices five times per year, and you can join either in person (COTA SA will cover reasonable expenses) or electronically. 

Find out more about the Policy Council
here. If you are interested, please complete an Expression of Interest form and return marked for Victoria Cornell via 

For any queries please contact Ross Atkinson via cotasa@cotasa.org.au or call 08 8232 0422. We look forward to receiving your nomination!

     

Ongoing learning at WEA

COTA SA is delighted to be partnering with WEA Adult Learning and Skills SA to provide our members with funded additional learning opportunities through WEA’s program of short courses. As well as developing new skills, lifelong learning can contribute to ageing well with benefits including promoting brain health, staying active and engaged and making new social connections.


The list of available courses has been updated. Click below to see latest available courses and register your interest.

     

Conversations with Salisbury Seniors October

   

Our next Conversation with Salisbury Seniors is coming up soon. 


Join us on 29 October at 9:30am for a conversation and to share ideas around the power of social connections and their important connection to wellbeing. 

     

Support Rainbow Hub SA


Rainbow Hub SA is now incorporated as a registered charity with the National Charity and Non-Profits Commission - the national charity regulator. Visit their website to find out how you can give your support to strengthen their foundation and to start implementing their ambitious plans.

   

Rainbow Hub SA monthly lunch
Join Rainbow Hub SA at their monthly lunch for members of the LGBTI+ community aged 50+. If you haven't attended before there will be someone to welcome you.

When: 12noon – 1.30pm, Thursday 24 October, 21 November and Friday 27 December

Where: Treasury 1860, 144 King William Street, Adelaide

Note changes of arrangements for November and December lunches. 

  • The November lunch will be on Thursday 21 November (3rd Thursday instead of usual 4th) as part of the Feast Festival. For this month only book via Feast online or ring 08 8463 0684
  • The December lunch will be Friday 27 December (instead of Thursday Boxing Day), book as normal (below) by Thursday 20 December

Bookings essential by the Thursday prior to the lunch. To book, email events@cotasa.org.au or call 08 8232 0422.

   

Join RHSA for Pride March Adelaide

Join the Rainbow Hub SA marching with a new banner for the first time. The March will be held on Saturday 2 November. Gathering from 2pm at Murlawirrapurka/Rymill Park (near the intersection of East Terrace and Rundle Street) and commencing at 3pm - travelling in a loop via East Terrace, North terrace, Pulteney Street and Rundle Street, back to the starting point. Community members and allies welcome. 

     

Fleurieu information for seniors

The Fleurieu Neighbourhood Network was originally established by COTA SA and is now operating an independent information service run by committed local volunteers with the support of COTA SA and the City of Victor Harbor. 

Their Victor Harbor Seniors Information Service offers: 
  • Support 
  • Connection 
  • Trusted free independent information on services for Fleurieu seniors

Drop in and say hello at the Victor Harbor Library Hub, 1 Bay Rd, Victor Harbor

Tuesdays 11am to 1pm

     

Aged Care Sector Support and Development

City of Onkaparinga invite you to join them for the launch of 'Becoming an Employer of Choice in the Aged Care Sector' on Monday 4 November 2024, 9.30am – 12noon at The Edinburgh Hotel (Mitcham).

     

South Australia’s Plan for Ageing Well

Have your say! The South Australian Government’s vision and priorities for ageing well are outlined in South Australia’s Plan for Ageing Well 2020-2025. Office for Ageing Well is reviewing the impact of the Plan and is seeking the input of older people to help set the priorities for the next state ageing plan (2026-2036). 


Help shape the future of Ageing Well in South Australia by participating in a survey to provide insights into how older South Australians are experiencing ageing now, compared to when the current plan began five years ago. For a snapshot of the elements of the plan, see Plan on a Page.

     

Report - Shaping Perceptions: How Australian Media Reports on Ageing (2024)

Representation matters - and if representation is inaccurate it can contribute to ageism and impact ageing well. The new 'Shaping perceptions report finds that the Australian media are failing to accurately portray older people.

Visit the report page to read more and watch Commissioner Fitzgerald launching the report; he says this report is a "foundational document" to link the media with older people and the issues they are facing.
     

National Carers week 2024

Anyone can become a carer, at anytime. This week is National Carers Week, it's a time to recognise, celebrate and raise awareness about the 3 million Australians who provide care to a family member or friend.

The Carer Wellbeing Survey found carers who had good access to support had healthy levels of wellbeing compared to those who had no or limited access to help. Click below to read more about National Carers Week and how you can support carers.
     

Inspiring South Australian Women’s Award

The Inspiring South Australian Women’s Award recognises the exceptional and inspiring woman who has made an outstanding contribution to the community. It is an Award that celebrates women and offers people a chance to shine a light on the efforts and contributions of women they know – women whose tireless efforts can sometimes go unrecognised. 

Why not consider nominating a woman you know who is breaking down barriers, working tirelessly in her community, taking steps forward in the face of adversity, or who empowers and makes an important difference in the lives of others.

Anyone can nominate for this Award, nominations close 1 November.

     

ECH: Jack Maggs Book Club Event

You're invited! COTA SA Supporter ECH invites you to join them at their free Jack Maggs Book Club Event on Wednesday 23 October, 5:45 for a 6pm sharp start at Dymocks Bookstore, Rundle Mall, Adelaide as part of their partnership with State Theatre Company of South AustraliaDrinks and nibbles provided (please advise of any dietary requirements when you RSVP).

Held at Dymocks Bookstore, in the beautifully restored Regent Theatre, host Jane Doyle will delve into how Peter Carey’s novel Jack Maggs reimagined Dicken’s Great Expectations story. Don't miss out - spaces are limited, register now!
     

Capri Ticket Giveaways: 
Tom Burlinson ‘Still Swingin’ live on stage

Win a double pass! 

The Capri Theatre, Goodwood Friday 8 November, 7:30 - 9:30pm


Thanks to the Capri Theatre we have 2 double passes to give away to see Australian star of stage and screen, Tom Burlinson, in a sensational salute to the masters of vocal Swing.


This dazzling, energetic show presents a montage of swing classics, through to the hits of the hugely successful modern favourites – Harry Connick Jr and Michael Bublé.

Visit capri.org.au or call 08 8272 1177.

To win a double pass, click the button below and complete the form by 9am Monday 21 October. Two entries will be randomly selected and we will email winners on Monday 21 October.
     

David Bailey accompanies the 1924 ‘Peter Pan’ silent movie on the theatre organ

Win a double pass! 

The Capri Theatre, Goodwood Sunday 3 November, 2 - 4pm


Thanks to the Capri Theatre we have 3 double passes to give away. David Bailey has built a strong reputation as an organist with a particular skill in accompanying silent movies. His program will include a screening of the 1924 film ‘Peter Pan’ in its centenary year since release. David has presented this program interstate to rave reviews and it will now be Adelaide’s turn to enjoy this experience. See the trailer for the film here

Visit capri.org.au or call 08 8272 1177.

To win a double pass, click the button below and complete the form by 9am Monday 21 October. Three entries will be randomly selected and we will email winners on Monday 21 October.
     

COTA TRAVEL

   

A Beautiful Christmas Getaway
Melbourne, Macedon and the Coast

Travel from Adelaide to Geelong onboard the Overland Train. Enjoy leisurely touring to the very best highlights including the Macedon Ranges and the stunning Great Ocean Road, a free day in Melbourne, and even tickets to watch Sister Act at the Regent Theatre in excellent seats this Christmas season! Stay at the Rydges Geelong with all breakfast and dinners included! 
Tour highlights include:
  • Chauffeured transfers from your home (30km within Adelaide Metro Area)
  • Premium Class travel on the Overland Train from Adelaide to Geelong
  • Great Ocean Road and Otway National Park tour
  • Experience the Forest Glade Gardens in Macedon
  • Magnificent priceless collection of porcelain-stained glass and medieval furniture at the Stokes Collection
  • Free time in Melbourne City and the Sister Act Musical at the Regent Theatre in excellent seats
  • Return Red Class travel on the Overland Train
  • 5 Nights quality accommodation at the Rydges Geelong
  • Hotel breakfast and dinner each day
  • 3 Picnic lunches including a garden picnic in the Forest Glade Gardens
  • An enchanting group traditional Christmas lunch.
22 December 2024 departure.
$2490 per person twin share from Adelaide.
Single supplement $750.
Chauffeured transfers from your home (30km within Adelaide metro area).

For more information and bookings, phone 1300 896 282
     
     
   

Let us know how we are doing

At COTA SA we always welcome your feedback so we can improve our services to you. If there's something you'd like us to know,  please tell us using the button below.

   
   
   

COTA SA acknowledges the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains as the traditional custodians of the land our headquarters occupy. We also acknowledge all Aboriginal nations throughout South Australia. We honour Aboriginal peoples’ continuing connection to Country and recognise that their sovereignty was never ceded. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal people.

   

POSTAL ADDRESS 
 PO BOX 7024, Hutt Street SA 5000
STREET ADDRESS    
Kaurna Country Level 1/85 Hutt St, Adelaide SA 5000  
Office open to visitors Tues-Thurs 9am - 5pm, please call or email outwith these hours
P: 08 8232 0422   |    E: cotasa@cotasa.org.au
www.cotasa.org.au
ABN 28 426 218 58 

COTA SA receives a commission from all insurance sales in South Australia.