Rick Rickman is reflecting on what life at 90 means to him as he approaches his milestone birthday. Formerly an avid golfer, Mr. Rickman has shifted to reading, writing, painting, and enjoying drinks after his knee issues sidelined his favorite sport.
“Golf used to be my passion,” said the ex-secretary of the Fiji Golf Association. He dabbles in acrylic painting, expressing a unique perspective on his art. “I paint what I see, probably not what you see in the mirror. It depends on my mood,” he noted.
Mr. Rickman’s artistic journey began at the London School of Printing and Fine Arts, where he studied before serving in the Royal Air Force.
In terms of health, he attributes his longevity to a careful diet, specifically his homemade mix of turmeric, ginger, and lemon. “Turmeric is magical,” he stated, explaining his use of these ingredients for over two decades to help manage his health. He also cautions about aluminum toxicity in drinking water and uses a triple filtered water system at home, sometimes enhancing it with a splash of whiskey.
His meat selection reflects his discerning taste as well. He usually purchases a whole sirloin and ages it in a vacuum pack or a ziplock bag with ripe pawpaw to enhance tenderness. “I remain a carnivorous clown,” he quipped, mentioning he has pork and beef stored from local suppliers.
Addressing COVID-19 vaccinations, Mr. Rickman voices strong opinions against potential side effects. He believes that a significant percentage of vaccinated individuals may experience severe health issues in the coming years. “The Grim Reaper has become the Vax Reaper,” he remarked, referencing what some call “turbo cancer.”
Mr. Rickman, who contracted COVID-19 in 2021, stated he avoided the vaccine. “I still would not have accepted an experimental vaccine,” he asserted, though he clarified he isn’t against vaccinations in general.
As he prepares to celebrate his 90th birthday in November, he expresses a desire to see justice for pensioners affected by past government actions regarding the national superannuation fund. “I want to live long enough to see the High Court give recompense to pensioners,” he said, indicating his commitment to the cause.
When asked about his favorite places in Fiji, Mr. Rickman fondly mentioned Nadarivatu for its natural beauty and Vuda Marina for its pleasant atmosphere and affordable dining options. He enjoys cocoa seasoned with chili and has unique home favorites for pie and drinks.
While he has traveled extensively, he finds it difficult to name a specific bucket-list location in Fiji, as his previous role on the Hotel Licensing Board allowed him to explore many areas, including Laucala Island.