The Art of Ageing is an initiative under the NSW Ageing Strategy 2016-2020 to demonstrate the diversity of older people in NSW. The Art of Ageing is a photographic exhibition that celebrates the value, experience and contribution older people bring, and challenges out-dated perceptions of ageing. Tim the butcher

Tim has been Molong’s only butcher for the past 20 years, having started as an apprentice at 17. He married his wife Vicki at a young age and together they had five children. They have eight grandkids.

Vicki used to work alongside Tim in the butcher shop - “We were a good team,” says Tim - until their daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumour at 19. The only doctor who would operate was the renowned neurosurgeon, Charlie Teo. The operation was dangerous and expensive, it cost more than what the family could possibly raise. The town of Molong banded together and held a fundraiser, and collected enough for the operation, along with Tim and Vicki’s life savings.

Unfortunately, the surgery left Ellie with severe disabilities. Vicki and Tim are now her full-time carers, with Vicki staying home to look after her. “She knows who we are but she’s very disabled,” says Tim. “We were well and truly thrown in the deep end.”

Tim is set to retire from the butchery business soon. “I’ll miss the people but the body wears out.” The people of Molong will miss Tim the butcher dearly. Photographer - Kerri Ambler Jim and Stu

Jim and Stu have been great mates for over 60 years. They met in 1955 at Fairbridge Farm School, a home for child migrants outside of Molong.

Stu was taken from Manchester at the age of four. He stayed at Fairbridge for 13 years, making him the longest resident. Jim was just three when he was taken off the streets of Scarborough, along with his older brother. He spent 12 years at Fairbridge.

“We got told that we came down a sewage pipe and they caught us with a net. We were ‘guttersnipes’.” says Jim. “We were also told that we were orphans. We weren’t, but they intercepted our mail. We never heard from our parents.”

“Public thrashings were the norm. They would happen up on a stage. If you were caught smoking, you’d have to choose between the hockey stick, cane or a plumber’s rod.”

“When my kids were born, it took me years to show them any affection because we never had any,” says Stu. “If someone put their arm around you, you’d suspect they wanted to muck with you.”

“The main ethic on the farm was work,” says Jim. “We got up at 5.45am to polish the floors. After you turned 14, you went to work in the dairy. Get up at 3am to milk the cows ... We had our own veggie garden, made our own bread. We learned skills, but no education.”

These days, if the men are feeling a bit down, they meet in Orange, have 12 cups of coffee, a plate of scallops, a few laughs, and then go home.

Jim and Stu were among the estimated 7,000 child migrants brought to Australia to live in institutions like Fairbridge. As well as losing their families and homelands, many child migrants experienced abuse and neglect. In 2009, the Australian Government made a national apology to the Forgotten Australians and former child migrants. Photographer - Kerri Ambler Ann and Margaret

Ann and Margaret have been best friends for over 40 years. Often seen having a yarn or heading down Molong’s main street on their gophers, they are local identities. Between the two of them they have eight children, 22 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Ann grew up in Molong, working as a nurse for 30 years doing night duty at Molong Hospital. “I loved night duty. It meant I could have a family life with the kids during the day and they didn’t miss me while I was at work.” She was named Volunteer of the Month in 2010 and Citizen of the Year in 1999 for her commitment to the town, including being Chair of Molong Bowling Club, Secretary of the Children’s Safety House, and single-handedly doing the personal washing for patients of the hospital.

Margaret ran her own mail contracting business for 30 years and was the Secretary at the bowling club for 40 - but she may be best known for her legendary scones. Ann taught Margaret how to drive when Margaret was 40, something she used to do her mail run. For fun, Margaret says the two friends “just drive around on our gophers. We go out for lunch. We get our hair done on Fridays ... that’s always nice.” Photographer - Kerri Ambler Arthur

Arthur was raised on a mission called Nanima, or Blacks Camp - the earliest remembered Aboriginal camp in the Wellington area. Wiradjuri people lived segregated from the town’s people. “The Mission was a good place to be,” he says. “Nobody bothered us. We did what we wanted to do.”

Arthur and his wife of 48 years, Eileen, have three kids, 13 grandkids and two great grandkids. “My wife is white, in case I get barred from the pub,” he says with a cheeky smile. “Her father didn’t want us to marry but it was a case of ‘with or without you mate’, and that was that.”

At the age of 10, Arthur was diagnosed with a leaking valve in his heart and told he would never be able to do physical labour. Hailing from a family of shearers, he refused to be cast off and went to work in the sheds as a rouseabout. After undergoing a knee replacement, Arthur was forced to give up the shearer’s life and applied for the position of Aboriginal mentor at Wellington Correctional Centre.

Arthur’s job as a mentor is to listen to the needs of Aboriginal inmates and negotiate these with the authorities. “It’s about trying to be there for inmates on a needs basis, connecting them to their family,” he explains. “If a loved one is sick or in hospital, I’ll try and get him to the hospital for a visit. I’m mostly successful. It’s very fulfilling - especially when I’ve done something to help someone.”

“I’ll retire when they cut my legs off, or something.” Photographer - Kerri Ambler Helen and Michelle

Helen and Michelle own Twisted River Wines in Manildra. It’s a small winery that’s winning big awards. It’s also the only one in the region run by two women.

Helen and Michelle both have backgrounds in palliative care. As well being Twisted River’s self-taught vigneron, Helen works as a nurse at Molong Community Health. Michelle, who looks after sales and marketing for the winery, works as a senior planner for NSW Health. She’s about to retire - something that Helen is very jealous of.

The couple met at a palliative care conference in 1999. Helen soon moved from Sydney to the Central West. Since she was young, her dream had been to own a winery. With enough pestering, Michelle came around and in 2007 they bought Twisted River.

The first year was almost their last. Michelle recalls their first storm, “I was working at home and was looking at all the rain on the terrace. I went to get the camera from the garage,” she says. “This sea of water came at me and straight through the garage.”

When Helen reached home, the destruction was devastating. “Fifty rows of pure chaos. We thought, ‘what have we done?’ We almost gave up. Then in 2011, we won our first trophy and it all felt as if maybe it was worth it.” Photographer - Kerri Ambler Benny

Benny was born in Molong hospital and besides a brief stint away has lived there ever since. He lives with his partner of 47 years, Judy, who he started dating at 17. They have two grown boys.

Benny owns a metal recycling business known as Benny’s Junkyard. It’s something of a local icon. Visitors to Molong are always encouraged to visit his shop with its dark interior maze of vintage treasures and sprawling yards of scrap metal. He enjoys working for himself. “Nobody tells me what to do,” he says. “I enjoy it. Ever since my father passed, I’ve worked for myself. Before that, I worked for him.”

Benny says he’s still denying retirement at this stage. “I’m of the opinion that if you don’t use it, you lose it,” he says. “I can’t see myself watching TV all day. Who knows what I’ll do then. I’ve got no super ... but I’m not even looking towards that.”

He says that although he goes to the city to ‘sample’, he prefers Molong. “I think it’s the best. The climate is great, the people are friendly, it’s not a rat race.” Photographer - Kerri Ambler

Kerri Ambler Photographer Kerri is a designer and photographer living and working in rural NSW. Two years ago, she picked up her two children (aged six and eight) and moved from Sydney to a rambling historical homestead near Molong in central west NSW. Kerri completed a degree in photography from Sydney College of the Arts – about a million years ago. Since then she’s worked as a designer of websites, print and fashion, and a photographer of people. These days, she works three shifts a week at the local pub to get from behind her desk and in front of people. Small towns have big stories, and working behind the bar allows unique access to these stories. Kerri is currently compiling work for a book and show about the people of Molong. Bizar and Kojr

Friends Bizar and Kojr immigrated to Australia in 2017 after fleeing their war torn country, Iraq, and escaping to Turkey. The process took over two years. They told me how lucky they were to escape and how thankful they are to be in Australia. Both Bizar and Kojr are Yazidi, and are incredibly happy, despite everything that has happened to them and their people.

Family is the most important factor in their lives and communities. It has been very difficult for Bizar and Kojr to leave some of their family behind. Wagga has welcomed around 40 Iraqi families to the community.

While they speak limited English, both Bizar and Kojr attend adult language classes at the local TAFE where they learn English. Maqboola, a 22-year-old refugee from Iraq who moved to Wagga last year, was able to translate our conversation. “We are very happy to be here,” they say. “We hope for the best for Australia.” Photographer - Tayla Martin

Gavin

Meet Gavin, also known as Elvis. Growing up in the small town of Tallimba in Western NSW, Gavin's love for Elvis Presley began when he received his first record at 10 years of age. "I started collecting from then ... I prefer the earlier Elvis music before the 60s.

When Gavin was 15 years old he moved to Wagga Wagga and went door knocking until he found a job. He worked in various industries, including roof tiling and concreting, and was involved in many different unions.

Gavin loved driving the streets of Wagga in his red Chevrolet. He would take his car to the annual Elvis Festival in Parkes, where he won the best Elvis Era Car on show for the past five years. Gavin and his wife, Marilyn, have even travelled to Graceland in the USA to see where it all began for the King of Rock and Roll.

(1946-2018) Photographer - Tayla Martin Janine

Janine lost her mum to dementia, so she believes in fitting as much into life as possible.

She recently shaved off her hair to raise awareness of depression and suicide prevention as part of the ‘Black Dog Ride’, an annual fund-raising initiative involving thousands of Australian motorcycle riders each year. Janine has been involved in the ride for five years. She and her partner will be riding their motorcycles to Tasmania in the coming months.

Battling through her life with depression, Janine is a strong believer in starting the conversation on mental health and a passionate advocate for spreading awareness about depression. She is semi-retired and works at the Department of Justice. Photographer - Tayla Martin Lola

Born in Wagga Wagga in 1941, Lola has lived there throughout her life.

Lola started her family of three children in Wagga, and her family has now expanded to three grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

At 76, Lola continues to work at the Wagga Ronald McDonald House as a caretaker. She has worked there since it opened 12 years ago. When speaking with Lola, she discussed how important physical activity and keeping active is. “I usually come to the pool around four times a week. In my other spare time I look after my veggie gardens at home.” Photographer - Tayla Martin Marjorie

Born in Nyngan in 1925, Marjorie moved to Sydney in search of work during the war. She found work in a textile factory that produced towels, which were sent overseas to the Australian soldiers.

It was while living in Parramatta that Marjorie became a die-hard Parramatta Eels fan. She started following the Eels when they were founded in 1947. The club marked its seventieth anniversary in 2017, so it called for a little celebration.

“I used to go to the games as much as I could,” she says. “My favourite players were Ken Thornett and Mick Cronin during the 1980s. I remember going to one game with my sister and it was the only time Cronin was sent off the field.”

Returning to Nyngan at 34 years of age, Marjorie married and started a family, and has lived there ever since. She continues to follow the football and hopes to see another premiership for the Eels in the near future. Photographer - Tayla Martin Nabiha

Nabiha was born in 1940 in a small village in Southern Lebanon. Born during the second world war, Nahiba’s family had to flee their village. They crossed the mountains by donkey in the winter and stayed in a small town until it was safe to return. “I had a dream about living in Australia,” she says.

In 1968, this dream came true when Nabiha came to Australia with her husband and children to live in Melbourne. “When we came to Australia we didn’t speak any English,” Nabiha says. “I taught myself through watching the cartoon show, Sesame Street.”

Nabiha started cooking when she was only eight years old after her mother passed away. In 1973, Nabiha and her family moved to Wagga Wagga, where she later began her cooking career.

Nabiha bought her store in 1989, and that was the birth of ‘Nabiha’s Kitchen’. Nabiha showed me around her garden with its impressive array of vegetables, fruits and herbs. She gets up every morning at five to take care of it all. The garden supplies the fresh produce used in her shop. In 2013, Nabiha published her first cookbook, Lebanese Recipe of My Life, documenting her favourite recipes as well as her own life story. Photographer - Tayla Martin

Tayla Martin Photographer Tayla is a young regional artist who grew up in the small community of Nyngan in rural NSW. Tayla relocated to Wagga Wagga in 2014 to study a Bachelor of Creative Arts and Design (Photography and Graphic Design) at Charles Sturt University. In 2017, she was selected as one of the top 10 student photographers in the world, and travelled to London for the Sony World Photography Awards. Now in the final semester of her degree, Tayla plans to continue on to postgraduate study and further advocate for the arts throughout regional NSW. Bechora

Bechora’s family sacrificed a lot to send him to a good school, but he had to leave at age 13 to work as an apprentice chef. Starting off in Beirut, he worked at one of the busiest hotels in the Middle East. His mother cried for weeks knowing he wouldn’t be able to travel back often to see his family.

After moving to Sydney in 1967 he cooked at the Lebanese Embassy, the Kings School, and for the Maronite Archbishop Ignace Abdo Khalife - a role that took him all over the world. After marrying his wife, Sybil, the couple took over the restaurant in the West End Hotel in Pitt Street for three years before moving to Mudgee.

Running the general store, they introduced the locals to food from all over the world, with a strong focus on fresh Lebanese cuisine. They now own and run Deeb’s Kitchen as well as host functions. As they get older, they find they can no longer keep up with major events. Instead, they pick and choose the functions they will cater for.

Bechora has a real passion for food - “You have to treat the food gently” - and for making guests happy. Photographer - Tim White Christine

Christine grew up in Sydney and went to art school at age 16 in the 1950s - she always wanted to be an art director but that job description didn’t exist back then! Christine met her husband when she was 23 and he was 19 - they were married a year later.

Christine and her husband frequented the art scene in Sydney in the 50s and 60s, which eventually led to a life of PR, advertising and photography that took them to London and all around Sydney. They moved to Mudgee when Christine was 61, where they started another PR company.

Christine’s husband passed away two years ago, and after so many years of not driving she is now learning! Once Christine has her licence, she plans on putting her social skills to work by visiting older locals who maybe don’t have the same level of contact with other people as they once did. Photographer - Tim White Ian

Ian hails from South Australia, graduating from his winemaking course at Roseworthy College in 1961.

He moved to Mudgee to build and manage a new winery called Montrose, at the same time establishing his own business in Miramar Wines, which received several gold medals for the wines he made. In his office at the winery he built in 1975 remain plans for many major wineries still in production.

Ian and his partner, Carol, are now looking to their retirement. Ian’s riesling grapes now go to another Mudgee winery as a major part of the wine that won the Best Riesling trophy in the 2017 NSW Wine Awards - clearly he still has what it takes!

Ian maintains a passion for creating. From his earlier career in designing wineries through to building his own winery from scratch (designing electrical boards, building tanks and even his own grape press), he now enjoys creating sculptures from objects remaining in the winery, making the most of the trophies for the 2017 Mudgee Wine Show - an eclectic mix of slivers of oak barrels, wine stains, glass and steel. Photographer - Tim White Doc and Sheryl

I was contacted by Doc and Sheryl after Sheryl saw publicity about the project. “When I look in the mirror I don’t see a 60-year-old woman, I see a strong, fit, healthy woman who is now a runner,” she told me. “I didn’t start running until my fifties.”

Sheryl and her husband, Doc, now regularly take part in running festivals. Doc is a triathlete who competes in the Australian lronman and has done so 12 times. Sheryl says he’s an inspiration, “He’s the most amazing person I know. When others say I can’t, he always says, you CAN.”

Together they own a small cafe in the medical centre in Mudgee.

I arranged to meet Sheryl and Doc on their morning run at 6am on a Tuesday. Watching them laugh as they both tried to get in front for the photograph was hilarious - the energy and inspiration they get from each other is obvious, and clearly drives them both to be all that they can be. Photographer - Tim White Simon

Simon moved from England in the 1950s as a young boy. His father was sent here to start a factory to make Ryvita and Westons biscuits. Simon went on to become a teacher and worked in Sydney.

Simon met his wife, Angela, when they were both at a postgraduate teachers training course. Their romance blossomed on the first day when, after sharing a train home, Simon kissed Angela goodbye, out of the blue and perhaps a little inappropriately. He apologised the next day when they met on the train, saying something like, “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done that”. To which Angela replied, “Are you really? That’s a shame.”

They haven’t looked back since.

Simon and Angela later moved to Mudgee where they renovated and managed the Parkview Guesthouse and tea rooms. For the last three years, Simon, Angela and her sister have run Artisan Cafe, with home-style meals, regular exhibitions of local artists covering the walls, and an eclectic feel that is a physical expression of their personalities.

Simon found that moving to the country changed his scope of opportunity and enriched their lives. He looks forward and sees a life with lots of living left to do. Photographer - Tim White Ross and Liz

Ross and Liz met at a Bob Dylan concert in Sydney in the 1970s. In 1981, after returning from travelling for a year from Kathmandu to London, they moved to Mudgee to manage a farm with their family before taking over a local agricultural company until 2006. Since then, they have run a bicycle tour company, and worked in customer service, a library and a cellar door – but what really drives them is planning travel (at least one trip per year but trying for two!) and community work. Amongst other things, Ross has been involved in the NSW Farmers Federation and the local land council. He’s on the board of Pioneer House (a local aged care facility) and has been an active member of Cooks Gap Rural Fire Service for 26 years. He’s also involved in a local school garden. Liz is involved in the National Association for Loss and Grief counselling service and is a weaver. They draw inspiration from other people who live life to the full, and you get a real sense they will make the most out of every opportunity that comes their way. Photographer - Tim White

Tim White Photographer Tim has had several careers, with a background in science followed by working for software companies. He is now a winemaker in Mudgee and spends just as many hours taking photographs as making wines. His photographic work is mostly centred around natural subjects: nature, landscapes and other local scenes from Mudgee and surrounds. “At the core of my personality I try and see the beauty in all things, whether that’s a person, a bird, a flower or a scene. If I can capture some of that in an image then that’s what counts!” Betty

“They call me ‘Billiard Betty’, which makes me laugh! I’m 87 years old, healthy and fit as a fiddle. Every day is a wonderful day. I love everyone and they all seem to love me in return.

“I have my own room in the low care section at a nursing hostel in Taree and enjoy it here so much. This is where I discovered an unused billiard table. The staff informed me that they’ve never seen a resident ever play on the table before - only visitors and their kids. Well, this has changed! I play up to six or more games a day. I find it great fun and it seems to entertain the other residents who laugh when I tell them or they ask me who’s winning. Of course it’s me as I’m only playing myself.

“My husband (who died three years ago) and my five children all used to play on our table that we had at home, many years ago. But for some reason I never ever had a game with them - I don’t know why. But I’m making up for it now, that’s for sure. I love my life and enjoy every day and am so grateful for everything.” Photographer - Julie Slavin Doreen

“Currently I spend several days a week teaching seniors aged 60 to 90 about the benefits of movement and exercise at all levels of ability. I also work one day a week with young people learning rhythmic gymnastics.

“Volunteer work is on the agenda for my husband and me, including Meals on Wheels, high school canteen, Quota, and now I’m venturing into the HIPPY Program, which is sharing my talents with young Indigenous mothers and their preschool children. I also enjoy gardening (quiet time), having fun on the beach in the early morning with my husband and dog, and playing croquet. Perhaps cruising is our favourite travelling occupation now in our ‘grandly mature’ years - it’s so peaceful and relaxing.

“I don’t think of myself just as a teacher but as someone who inspires others to motivation and achievement. The past three years have been rewarding as I’ve shared my program for seniors with gymnastic associations in three states of Australia - running courses for coaches to spread the message of movement for life to improve quality of life and for seniors to live capably in their own homes for as long as possible. I look forward to doing this with my husband.” Photographer - Julie Slavin Lyn

“I was born on the Aboriginal Mission in Biripi country near Taree and raised in Worimi country near Forster. From the time I was born I was loved and nurtured by my parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles. Growing up, our lives were full of adventure. We spent the whole day playing in the swamp picking wildflowers and bushwalking. We had to be home before the sun went down. That was the rule. We were taught respect, caring and sharing.

“After turning 16, I went to Sydney with my cousins. We all had a job working in a shoe factory close to the city. We worked hard, had fun and made a lot of friends. I came back home after four years in the big smoke, got married and settled down. I’ve had a great life with my husband, my beautiful children and grandchildren.

“As Elders in our community, we are role models and have a duty of care to the younger generation to pass on to them our wisdom, knowledge and cultural values to ensure they get the best start in life with positive outcomes.

“Having worked most of my life, I’ve been employed in health and education and doing TAFE courses in art, ceramics and graphic design. I enjoy singing, dancing, weaving, gardening and art. I do Fit Mob exercise classes with our elders group twice a week. We also go on outings at least once a fortnight.

“Life is too short to be sitting around. We have to keep moving to keep the dream alive.” Photographer - Julie Slavin Peter

“I was born in Wingham in 1955 and completed an apprenticeship in horology (watch and clock making) in Newcastle. For the last 48 years, I’ve specialised in antique watch and clock repairs.

“After spinal surgery in 2000, I was told that because of nerve damage in my back and feet my condition would deteriorate and I’d be in permanent pain. Despite this news, I was determined to continue a fulfilling life. I knew if I didn’t overcome this obstacle I would eventually end up in a wheelchair. So while recovering from the initial surgery and being mostly immobile, I diverted my attention to a less demanding pursuit and began building architectural models.

“I was interested in geology, fossicking and camping, and joined a lapidary club where I learned to cut and polish stones. We went on excursions, had some great camping trips with like-minded people, and equipped an old Mitsubishi van for camping! I also joined the Men’s Shed, where I was able to learn more skills and made some good friends. I was fortunate enough to learn silver smithing from a retired university teacher, and will be setting up a teaching facility at the Wingham Lapidary Club.

“Meanwhile, I continue clock repairs as a hobby. I’m creating steampunk accessories, magicians’ wands, and working with electroplating metals and jewellery pieces. I’ve passed my knowledge of clock-making onto my nephew and helped him get his own business started.” Photographer - Julie Slavin Peter & Mark

“We first met in Sydney around 34 years ago and have travelled life’s road together ever since.”

Peter is a self-taught artist, specialising in wildlife illustration and, in particular, paleo-art (the discipline of reconstructing extinct animals). For his contributions to these fields, in 2015 he received the Member of the Order of Australia.

“After moving to our somewhat remote location, we were, at first, very aware of what we had ‘lost’ - dinners in smart restaurants, meeting friends for drinks, the cinema, gourmet grocery stores, decent shopping ... However, over the 15 years we’ve lived here, we’ve realised that the gains far outweigh the losses.

“For example, and surprisingly, we were warmly welcomed into a wonderful community of local people, something that as two single men in a rural location we certainly hadn’t expected. There is, too, the connection you make with the land - growing your own food, drawing your drinking water from the pristine creek ... And, of course, all the benefits associated with living life in a different manner and at your own pace.

“In this place, people don’t compete against one another ... we help each other to achieve whatever may be achievable. We have very little in the way of services - no shops, no medical, and (gasp!) no mobile coverage - yet, pointedly, we have very little stress.”

Photographer - Tim White Rita

“I am an 87-year-old great-grandmother, born in India of Anglo-Indian heritage - the youngest of ten children born in 11 years. A record, I think! I became a secretary at age 20. I married in India at age 23, moved to England immediately, had two children there, and returned to India for the birth of my third child. “Unfortunately, my husband of six years died of leukaemia in England aged 31 - I was 28. I brought up my three sons in India, had a partner briefly who also died suddenly in 1966. “I met my second husband in London in 1968. We lived together for 12 years before getting married in 1979. During this time, I worked as a secretary in Libya for two years to earn some quick money. I was made redundant in 1986 and made the momentous decision to emigrate to Australia, a decision we never regretted. “My husband died suddenly at age 87 but he had lived a good and fulfilling life. Now I fill my life with golf three times weekly, three hours line dancing, I attend a ukulele class, sing in two choirs, play mah-jong and cards, walk (difficult terrain sometimes), and I still drive. “My greatest achievement was publishing my autobiography in 2011 when I was already an octogenarian. To do this I had to learn how to handle a computer at that age. Now I’m addicted to my smartphone, emails and Facebook!” Photographer - Julie Slavin

Julie Slavin Photographer Julie was born and raised in Gosford before moving to Sydney. She spent three formative years in San Francisco in the early 70s and returned to Sydney, where she got involved in the art scene. Then, being pregnant, Julie went ‘bush’ to live an alternative lifestyle. She had two daughters and several husbands, built homes, delivered babies, and worked with a leatherworker, all while continuing to paint. Since 2001, Julie has worked as a press photographer for the Manning River Times and for the Manning Regional Art Gallery. She has also photographed the portraits of local Elders for a book, and worked with Djon Mundine (Aboriginal artist, curator, writer and activist) on a project of inclusion with local Aboriginal families. Today she supports local artists and musicians with her photography. Alphie (1965 – 2018)

“I was born in 1965 and grew up in Bomaderry. My mother was a Yuin from the Wallaga Lakes on the South Coast and my father from the Eora Nation, La Perouse, Sydney. My mum, Amelia Bond, used to be a state athlete and competed against Marjorie Jackson (the Lithgow Flash). My father, Don Walker, was a big inspiration in my life because he played with South Sydney Juniors.

“My passion was rugby league. I moved to Goulburn for a better life. I played for Goulburn United and then made the Junior Canberra Raiders Squad, Jersey Flegg and President’s Cup teams. I was graded with the first grades squad and played in reserves. I played from 1986 to 1987.

“Coaching junior rugby was a good thing. Sport takes you everywhere. The outcome from that is my younger brother, Andrew, became a dual international. I have three girls and one boy who’s the Deputy Mayor of Goulburn Mulwaree Council. Now my grandson Isaac is aspiring to become a rugby league legend himself.” Photographer - Tina Milson Dawnie

“I was born in 1953 and have lived in Goulburn for five years after moving from Yass. I’m a retired early childhood teacher with a background in nursing, juvenile justice and corrective services and welfare. I have dedicated my life to education and health.

“I played all sports in my youth and basketball as an adult, and now walk everyday and do exercises at home. I volunteer at the Red Cross once a week and I do TAFE courses to keep my mind active. I read everyday and do crossword puzzles.

“Every fortnight I go to Aunty Jean’s good health program, which supports Indigenous people to educate and self manage all areas of their health. I eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and am a keen cook. I also drink up to three litres of water daily.

“Age is a state of mind. It’s how you perceive it. Age is only a number. I love to laugh, I’m a free spirit. I get out of bed everyday because life’s too short to waste.” Photographer - Tina Milson Pauline & David

Pauline: “I met my husband at university in New Zealand. He hails from Goulburn and we relocated so we could enjoy the quality of life that comes with being part of a regional community. Having a background in photography, film and television production, it was very exciting to be able to transfer my skills to theatre production when, 26 years ago, I became part of the Lieder Theatre Company.

“An interest in wellbeing and holistic living led me to train as a yoga teacher and I enjoy teaching all ages, in partnership with our local regional art gallery. I’ve never seen growing old as a hindrance and have always been told that it’s possible to be and do whatever one wants.

“Physical and mental wellbeing, along with red wine, help people on the ageing road.”

David: “A love of farming and agriculture led to a tertiary education in Agriculture at Lincoln University, New Zealand, where I met Pauline.

“During this time, a chance trial lesson at the Canterbury Aero Club inflicted in me a passion for flying. This resulted in an aviation career spanning 42 years- meaning we could move to Goulburn. A person’s identity is inextricably bound up with their career. When their career finishes, a new identity morphs into being, often involving one’s lifelong interests.

“Getting older means one has time to pursue these interests in a no-pressure, pleasurable and rewarding way. Now that one has time to pursue interests, it would be a shame if the body or mind let you down!”

Photographer - Tina Milson Premlata & Vijay Sharma

“I live with my loving husband, Vijay, and I’m a very active person. We have four children and five grandchildren. I came from Fiji in 1976. We moved from the city to Goulburn two years ago to have a quieter life. I’m self employed and own a cleaning business with my husband. I’m an Aussie.

“I love to work inside and outside my home. I find that keeping active keeps me fit. My hobbies include cooking, cleaning, making new friends, socialising and spending time with my grandchildren.

“Vijay and I employ young people in our business to try to teach them responsibility and motivate them to get started in their own business.

“I don’t think age has slowed me down one bit ... it’s only a number to me.” Photographer - Tina Milson Tom

Born in South Sydney in 1923, Tom has been a lawyer, a politician, a serviceman and a farmer. The son of lawyer and aviator Geoffrey Hughes, he was educated at St Ignatius’ College Riverview and graduated in law from the University of Sydney. Tom served in the Royal Australian Air Force in World War Two and in his time served in 10 Squadron in flying boats. He was awarded the French Legion of Honour in 2005 for his service in France.

Tom was called to the Sydney bar in 1949, becoming a Queen’s Counsel barrister in 1962. He then served as the Member for Parkes and then Berowra until 1972, and was also the Commonwealth Attorney General from 1969 to 1971. He was awarded the Officer of the Order of Australia in 1988.

Tom is now a full time farmer, devoting most of his time to running his sheep and cattle properties outside of Goulburn. Until he retired in 2013, he was the oldest serving member of the NSW Bar. He has three children, six grandchildren and three great grandchildren. His daughter, Lucy Turnbull, was Lord Mayor of Sydney and is married to the former Prime Minister of Australia, The Honourable Malcolm Turnbull MP. Photographer - Tina Milson Tony & Adriana

Born Erminia Antonio in Italy in 1936, Tony immigrated to Australia in 1954 where he worked in a variety of occupations, including as a kitchen hand, in deliveries and in a fast food store. Tony was Mayor of the City of Goulburn from 1985 until 1991. It is believed he is the first person of Italian descent to be Mayor of an Australian city that did not have an established Italian community. In 1980, an Italian newspaper named Tony as one of the top five emigrants in the world. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1994 for his service to local government and the community. His hobbies include flying, furniture restoration and hobby farming. Adriana came to Australia, “as a bride” with Tony, 52 years ago. She says, “I haven’t noticed my ageing ... I still do what I used to do ... By working, I have pride in what I do and ... meeting the public and helping where I can. I enjoy gardening and taking pride in my house, and I belong to the Goulburn Friendship Club.” Adriana says she’s happy with what she has achieved as a club member and meeting everyday people. “You must experience patience by accepting that people are different,” she explains. The motto of the club is “to make new friends, cherish old ones and work in harmony for the benefit of our community.” Photographer - Tina Milson

Tina Milson Photographer Tina’s passion for photography is heavily influenced by the local rural landscapes and communities of Singleton, where she grew up, and Goulburn, where she currently lives with her family. From portraiture to landscapes, Tina’s diverse photography portfolio highlights the resilience and vulnerability of country communities through drought, floods and everything in between. Tina takes personal inspiration from her five children and her involvement in regional education, non-profit and arts initiatives. Regional Tour Timetable – Art of Ageing 2018- 2019

VENUE ADDRESS DATES Level 9, 225 George St Deloitte Consulting 23 Apr - 6 Jun 2018 Sydney NSW 2000 64 High St Strathfield Library 17 May - 15 Jun 2018 Strathfield NSW 2135 Holden St (main entrance) Gosford Hospital 13 Jun - 19 Oct 2018 Gosford NSW 2250 10 Berry St Shoalhaven Library foyer 20 Jun - 20 Jul 2018 Nowra NSW 2541 76 Cygnet Av Shellharbour City Library 25 Jul - 23 Aug 2018 Shellharbour NSW 2529 Menangle St Picton Shire Hall Art Spaces 28 Aug - 21 Sept 2018 Picton NSW 2571 Cnr Queen and Elyard St Narellan Public Library 26 Sept - 26 Oct 2018 Narellan NSW 2567 Parramatta Library 1-3 Fitzwilliam St 1 Oct - 4 Nov 2018 (digital exhibition) Parramatta NSW 2124 22 Tozer St Kempsey Library 31 Oct - 21 Nov 2018 West Kempsey NSW 2440 12 Macquarie St Manning Regional Art Gallery 22 Nov 2018 - 13 Jan 2019 Taree NSW 2430 480 High St Maitland Library 26 Nov - 19 Dec 2018 Maitland NSW 2320 VENUE ADDRESS DATES 67/65 Vincent St Cessnock Library foyer 24 Dec 2018 - 29 Jan 2019 Cessnock NSW 2325 490 Macleay Valley Way Nulla Nulla Gallery at the Slim Dusty Centre 17 Jan - 25 Mar 2019 South Kempsey NSW 2440 Sawtell Catholic Care of the Aged Hub 631 Hogbin Dr 4 Feb - 28 Feb 2019 Gallery Space Toormina NSW 2452 36 Balo St Moree Community Library 5 Mar - 22 Mar 2019 Moree NSW 2400 184 Bourke St Goulburn Regional Art Gallery 29 Mar - 11 May 2019 Goulburn NSW 2580 28-44 George St Hornsby Central Library 27 Mar - 28 Apr 2019 Hornsby NSW 2077 47 Church St Spiral Gallery 2 May - 22 May 2019 Bega NSW 2550 233 Banna Av Griffith City Library 27 May - 21 Jun 2019 Griffith NSW 2680 88 Main St Grenfell Art Gallery 17 Jun - 26 Jul 2019 Grenfell NSW 2810 249 Blende St Broken Hill Library 26 Jun - 30 Jul 2019 Broken Hill NSW 2880 32-48 Denison St Waverley Library 28 Aug – 26 Sept 2019 Bondi Junction NSW 2022 Building 21, Darnell-Smith Drive (Carpark 5), Charles Sturt University - H.R. Gallop Gallery 7 Aug - 21 Sept 2019 Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678

Mona Vale Library 1 Park St, Mona Vale NSW 2103 7 Sept - 31 Oct 2019

Acknowledgments

Department of Family and Community Services