Retirement is an exciting new chapter, but a little planning goes a long way to ensure you make the most of it. From sorting out your finances and health to finding new hobbies and staying open to change, these simple steps will help you create a rewarding and enjoyable retirement. 1. Take control of your finances Your money works differently in retirement, so it’s important to review your budget. Even if budgeting isn’t your thing, now’s the time to look at your income and expenses. A financial advisor can help you maximise your superannuation, investments, pensions, and government benefits. Check your super and investments Understanding where you stand financially is key. You might want to look at diversifying your investments or turning your super into an annuity or an account-based pension. Getting expert advice ensures you make smart choices. Plan for your retirement lifestyle Spending habits change in retirement. Research shows retirees aged 75 spend significantly less than they did at 60, with higher-income retirees cutting...

Life doesn’t slow down after 50 – if anything, it gets even busier! That’s why the trick to staying active is to weave exercise into your daily routine, making it as natural as brushing your teeth. And here’s a bonus – if you’re keen to meet new people, exercise is a great way to socialise and stay connected. 1. Walking Walking is one of the best low-impact exercises out there. It boosts heart health, strengthens bones, and helps manage weight – all while being gentle on your joints. The best part? You can do it solo or with mates. Many Living Gems resorts even have social walking clubs, where residents start the day with a stroll before catching up over a cuppa. And if you’re looking for a challenge, just pick up the pace or add a few hills! 2. Aqua aerobics If you want a full-body workout without the impact, water aerobics is the way to go! It’s brilliant for balance, strength, mobility, and coordination –...

Easter is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to enjoy a delicious twist on the classic hot cross bun. These double-chocolate Easter buns are packed with rich dark chocolate chips and topped with a silky chocolate glaze, making them an indulgent treat for any Easter celebration – or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Chef Matt Conquest shares his enthusiasm for these festive delights: “These buns are a chocolate lover’s dream – soft, rich, and loaded with double the chocolate. They’re best enjoyed warm with a little butter or as a delightful afternoon snack.” Get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible Easter treats. Double-chocolate Easter Buns Makes 6 INGREDIENTS 200 ml warm water 2 tbsp sugar 1 heapped tsp (10 g) dry yeast 1 cup plain flour 2 tbsp cocoa powder 1 tbsp oil 1 tsp all-spice 1 tsp cinnamon Good pinch of salt 1 cup chocolate chips or chocolate buttons, chopped For the cross paste: 1/4 cup plain flour 1 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp cocoa powder 3-4 tbsp water, until it forms a paste For...

Deferred management fees and capital gains fees have made headlines again, with over-50s downsizers feeling like they’re getting a raw deal from retirement village operators. A news feature last September shone a spotlight on the issue, featuring interviews with homeowners, their families, and industry experts. The big concern? Complicated contracts, hidden costs, and fees that can eat into the money retirees expect to get back when they sell.   What are Deferred Management Fees (DMFs)? DMFs are often marketed as an affordable way for older Aussies to downsize, with the idea that the retirement village operator recoups costs when the property is sold. That money supposedly goes towards maintaining and upgrading the facilities. But critics argue that these fees can be a real sting in the tail. The complex formulas used to calculate them are based on how long someone has lived in the village, and they can be as high as 35 percent of the sale price—meaning a big chunk of money goes straight...

For those who have been cycling for years, hitting the road or trails in your 50s and beyond can be just as rewarding as ever — if not more so, says fitness coach Josh Kristenson. “However, it’s worth remembering that as our bodies change, so too should our approach to cycling,” he says. Here are some of Josh’s expert tips to keep you riding strong, safe, and injury-free for years to come. Prioritise bike fit and comfort Even if you’ve been riding the same bike for years, it’s worth reassessing its fit. Small adjustments to saddle height, handlebar position, and pedal alignment can significantly impact comfort and reduce strain on joints. If you haven’t had a professional bike fitting before, now is the time to consider one — it can make all the difference in maintaining efficiency and preventing injuries. Focus on recovery and flexibility Recovery becomes even more important as we age. Stretching before and after rides helps maintain flexibility and prevents stiffness. Incorporate yoga...

Exercising with your partner is one of the best ways to bond, stay motivated, and—let’s be honest—have a ton of fun! Whether you’re hitting the gym, joining a yoga class, or going for a run, working out together can take both your fitness and your relationship to new heights, says fitness coach Josh Kristenson. “This February, why not make your workouts a little more romantic? Working out as a couple is the perfect chance to push each other to reach new fitness goals. With your partner by your side, you’ve got endless encouragement and motivation," Josh says. “Plus, a little friendly competition always adds some excitement!” Accountability and motivation, all wrapped up! Let’s face it, sticking to a fitness routine can sometimes feel like a challenge. But when you’ve got your partner as a workout buddy, it makes all the difference. They’ll help keep you on track, whether it’s a gentle nudge to hit the gym or some words of encouragement during that last set....

We save for so many things in our lives, so shouldn’t saving for retirement be part of our plans too? The great news is that Australians are in a better position than most in the world, thanks to our compulsory employer superannuation program that starts as soon as we begin paid employment. But if standard super contributions alone are not enough to give you the retirement lifestyle you’d like, it’s time to consider the next step. 6 best tips to save for retirement Putting away a bit of money for your retirement today, in addition to compulsory contributions, can have a big impact on your retirement balance in the future. But before you begin, the first thing is to understand your finances today. If it’s been a while since you’ve reviewed your household budget – or you don’t actually have one – take the time right now to get all your numbers together to see whether you’re on track to have the retirement you deserve. Remember, being...

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE WHILE YOU INDULGE IN TOGETHERNESS THIS FESTIVE SEASON WITH CHEF MATT CONQUEST’S ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS SHARE TABLE RECIPES. With his flair for creating memorable culinary moments, Chef Matt has crafted a menu designed to bring family and friends together. From a mouth-watering spiced brisket and a complementary Australian summer stone fruit-inspired salad, to providing you with inspiration for the stand-out panforte dessert on a sweet-treat platter, let Chef Matt’s dishes inspire your most delicious Christmas yet! Spiced Christmas Brisket with Pomegranate Glaze 2 kg brisket, ask your butcher for a flat cut piece 3 tsp ground cumin 3 tsp ground ginger 3 tsp paprika 1 tsp ground cloves 2 tsp ground allspice 2 tsp cracked black pepper 3 tsp sea salt 6 tbsp pomegranate molasses 8 sprigs of thyme, stripped leaves (save some to sprinkle over the served brisket) 8 tbsp olive oil 4 large carrots, halved 4 celery sticks, halved 6-8 golden shallot onions, peeled and left whole 500 ml of quality beef stock 2 tbsp plain flour ½ cup or 1 fresh pomegranate, seeds removed...

HO-HO-HOLD ON TO YOUR PARTY HATS! CHRISTMAS MAY BE THE TIME TO INDULGE, BUT IT DOESN’T MEAN OUR FITNESS ROUTINES CAN’T WORK AS HARD AS SANTA’S ELVES ON A CHRISTMAS EVE DEADLINE. Health and Lifestyle Coordinator Josh Kristenson shares his tips to keep fit, festive, and very much ‘sleighing it’ this holiday season. Deck the Halls...and your walks! Christmas lights can be the perfect excuse to get outside and go for an evening stroll. Grab your loved ones and head out for a holiday walk (or a ‘Santa Stroll’ if you will!). You’ll burn calories while soaking up all the festive cheer. Most local councils have a list of Christmas lights displays you can enjoy with the grandkids. Who knows, you might just find yourself singing along to a carol or two along the way! Rock around the Christmas tree Turn holiday decorating into a mini workout! Tasks like lugging boxes of ornaments and reaching high places to hang tinsel mean you can get your...

THE NORTH POLE IS BUZZING WITH EXCITEMENT, AND SANTA IS BUSY FINALISING HIS LIST. BUT THIS YEAR, HE’S ADDING A SPECIAL TWIST – HELPING GRANDPARENTS FIND JUST THE RIGHT GIFT! From tiny tots to tech-savvy teens, Living Gem's ultimate Christmas gift guide has something special for every kind of grandchild.While major stores have plenty of ‘safe toy’ options for children under five years old, this list focuses on the five-to-ten age group, where ‘surprise’ and ‘potion’ toys are all the rage! This year some of the hottest brands include Magic Mixies, Play-Doh, Heroes of Goo Jit Zu, VTech, and the ever-popular LEGO. Here are some top-selling choices for under the tree. Rainbocorns Eggzania Surprise The egg features 20 surprises to unveil, including the big one – a super-squishy plush cuddly toy. Surprises include wearable accessories and stickers. Our Generation Doll Popular dolls for children, with playsets and accessories also available separately. Zuru Smashers Dino Island Gold Treasure Hunt Find over 70 surprises when you smash or dig your...

Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep habits are vital for over 50s but most aren’t doing enough of it, according to the experts. The Australian Bureau of Statistics shows only one in three (33.4 percent) of people aged over 65 years old have met the latest physical activity guidelines. According to health and fitness coach, Josh Kristenson, that’s not good news. “Especially when you consider all the health conditions that can be prevented or managed with regular exercise,” he said. “These include heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke, and high blood pressure – all chronic diseases that have increased risk of developing with age. “Even if you’re not naturally athletic, there are ways to keep fitness fun to get back into exercise if it’s something you’ve been neglecting, which is something we’re all guilty of at some point! “Overall fitness and reduced risk of disease are just some of the benefits. Exercise can boost your social connections and help you make friends too.” Josh...