Summer is here, as evidenced by the heatwaves, bushfires, wild storms and swirling clouds of dust blown from our drought-stricken inland.

In this edition of 50 Something, you can read about Queensland grazier Robyn Russell who, like many others on the land, are living through what’s been dubbed the “worst drought in living memory”. Also like other primary producers, sheep and cattle grazier Robyn, 72, is demonstrating her resilience by finding new ways to survive.

A familiar face features on our cover – that of Oscar-winning actor Sir Michael Caine, who at 85, has also demonstrated he’s a survivor. Sir Michael began his career at a time the ‘right accent’ was a prerequisite to succeed on the British stage or in films. He never gave up, despite being told he would never make it because he “didn’t look right or speak right”. Sir Michael persevered and more than 100 films later, is recognised around the world as one of the true stars of stage and screen.

Our news pages are devoted to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Safety and Quality – what led to the government establishing the inquiry and some of the issues it should be tackling. We also have three pages of advice on how to plan for a move to residential aged care and where to get the help you need to make the transition as smooth as possible.

We also have lots of news and information about making the most of your membership. A new easy-to-use online orientation module will help new and long-standing members find out about everything from discounts on health insurance to wine, and show you how to become involved in our advocacy campaigns and branch activities. There’s also info on travel and insurance offers, and how to access our Financial Information Desk for free independent information regarding retirement planning, aged care options, investments, and more.

In November, we marked the centenary of the end of World War I. Australians paused to remember family members who fought and died at Gallipoli and elsewhere. Among them was National Seniors member Ken Wright, who uncovered the story of his great uncle Private Henry Wright, of Melbourne.

Travel writer Belinda Jackson has long been fascinated by Egypt and Jordan and she shares her inside tips about the ancient world in our travel pages.

And that’s just a taste of the great reading, prizes to win, movies to see, books to read, and events to attend over the summer.

Finally, make sure you turn to page five to learn about our competition to rename your member magazine. The three lucky readers who come up with the best title suggestions will each win a case of award-winning wine.

Happy reading
Lynda Schekoske
Editor, 50 Something