Village Living | Issue Three

villageliving ISSUE THREE

KEN MCKENNA’S LIFE OF SERVICE

A truly inspiring journey

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Flourishing friendships HOW TO BUILD BEAUTIFUL BONDS

OUT ABOUT

THE BEST OF BNE’S NATURE RESERVES

GROWING IN THE COMMUNITY A passion for agriculture that knows no bounds

Exploring the lives of our talented residents!

Brought to you by The Village Retirement Group

Welcome

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elcome to the third edition of the Village Living Magazine! As Managing Director of our thriving retirement villages, I’m delighted to continue sharing the heartwarming stories and vibrant experiences that define our community. In this issue, anticipate more inspiring tales from fellow residents, updates on events, and insights into the services and amenities enhancing your retirement lifestyle. The Village Living Magazine remains your exclusive window into the unique spirit of our villages. We Justin Harrison invite you to share your valuable Managing Director feedback and encourage you to share your ideas. Together, let’s celebrate the richness of our community. Thank you for being a cherished part of The Village Retirement Group!

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THE VILLAGE RETIREMENT GROUP 2023

Contents 6. TRAVEL

The best of BNE’s nature reserves, wetlands, and bush tracks.

14. FASHION

Head-to-toe looks to keep you simply stylish.

16. FOOD

Two quick and easy recipes to try this summer.

22. CONNECTION

Three residents tell us their secret to building long-lasting friendships.

What’s on

Community

Looking to get out and about? Here are some of the best local workshops and events.

@MAS.AND.MIEK.CERAMIC.HOUSE_

POTTERY WORKSHOPS

AUSTRALIAN MEN’S SHED ASSOCIATION

Looking to get back into or try pottery for the first time? Mas and Miek Ceramic House is the best place to do so. They specialise in both hand building and wheelwork, serve some of the best coffee in Brisbane, and sell their own line of ceramics in their gallery. Check out the courses and workshops they offer on their website. theceramichouse.studio

If you like to keep busy with your hands, you’ll love the Australian Men’s Shed Association – a group of men who enjoy restoring furniture, fixing bicycles for schools, and making cubby houses to raffle off. The best part? You can enjoy a cuppa and a chat while you’re there. Find your local Men’s Shed via the website below. mensshed.org

GRANDPARENTS PLAYGROUP Anglican Church Hall, Hendra

STANTHORPE APPLE & GRAPE HARVEST FESTIVAL

If you regularly look after your grandkids, you’ll know that finding things to do with them can sometimes be a challenge. Enter a playgroup aimed at grandparents, which is a great way to keep toddlers entertained, while you socialise with other grandparents. Playgroup is only $5 per session and is held at the Anglican Church Hall on Monday mornings. playmatters.org.au

Crushing it since 1966! The Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Festival is coming back in 2024. Held over 10 days to celebrate the harvest of all produce from the Granite Belt Region, it’s one of Queensland’s longest-running festivals and will run from Friday 23 February – Sunday 3 March. appleandgrape.org

Newstead

Multiple locations

Stanthorpe

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THE VILLAGE RETIREMENT GROUP 2023

Profile

A life of service Ken McKenna’s journey through the decades.

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n April 19th 1940, the world welcomed an extraordinary man, Ken McKenna.

From his early years as an apprentice, to his role in the Vietnam War and his continued commitment to a veteran support organisation, Ken’s journey has been one of resilience, compassion, and above all else, community.

At the ripe young age of 15, Ken began his professional journey by leaving school and pursuing an apprenticeship. His determination led him from Maryborough to Brisbane, where he continued to master his skills as a tradesman.

A pivotal moment in his youth occurred a year later when he was selected to carry the Olympic torch in the Olympic relay from Cairns to Melbourne. He ran one mile overnight to represent his community, but little did Ken know that 67 years later, a similar event would take place.

At 23, Ken made the decision to join the Royal Australian Navy. Contrary to popular belief, he found the whole process surprisingly easy. His training led him to Vietnam in the 1970s, where he served with the Australian Navy Helicopter Flight. While Ken was occasionally called upon to fly as a gunner, his primary focus was maintaining the weaponry, showcasing both his technical expertise and commitment to the mission.

The unit he served with in Vietnam, the RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam 1967-1971, joined forces with the US Army’s 135th Assault Helicopter Company, forming the Experimental Military Unit (EMU), an unlikely collaboration that made military history.

The unit received a Unit Citation for Gallantry and Ken was awarded a Naval Board Commendation – an unexpected acknowledgement that left a lasting impression on him.

Upon returning to Australia, Ken continued his work in the Navy, applying his technical skills across various aircrafts.

After putting down the tools and retiring from

active service, Ken sought a way to continue supporting his fellow servicemen and their families.

He found his calling with the Legacy Club, a support organisation for widows and the families of veterans.

The group was formed 100 years ago when a soldier promised his dying friend that he would look after his wife and kids.

Ken has been a dedicated member of the Toowoomba Legacy Club for 17 years, and has not only served on the board, but also contributed to the organisation significantly in other areas during his four years as Vice President.

Ken took charge of planning monthly meetings at the Legacy Club, which generally involved morning teas, general chit-chat, and card games. Beyond all the logistics, he also played a crucial part in creating a supportive environment for widows, often going the extra mile by driving them to and from club gatherings.

Reflecting on his time with the Toowoomba Legacy Club, Ken emphasised the importance of fellowship, enjoyment, and just having a good time.

Ken’s trifecta was all combined earlier this year in a touching full-circle moment from his youth. In June, Ken participated in The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay.

After travelling through London, the torch touched down in Australia and travelled to all 44 Legacy Clubs – including Toowoomba. Ken received the torch at Picnic Point, the torches first stop in Toowoomba, and passed it on to the next recipient.

As Ken’s journey continues, he has not just passed two monumental torches onto others, but he has also passed his commitment to service onto the next generation. His son, a dedicated Brisbane Fire Brigade worker, carries on the McKenna legacy today, ensuring the spirit of service lives on within the family.

Ken McKenna’s journey serves as a testament to the enduring impact one individual can have when driven by a sense of duty, compassion, and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

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Explore the legacy of our great city with the Brisbane History Group.

T Homeward bound

here are so many things that make Brisbane a wonderful place to both live in and explore.

Whether you’ve only lived here for a short time or grew up within one of the many leafy suburbs that surround the city, there’s no denying that there’s just something about Brisbane that makes it one of the most exciting cities in Australia.

Brisbane History Group Committee Member Robert Allen is an expert in all things Brisbane. He says there’s certainly something special about the city of Brisbane and he’s glad there are still so many places that showcase its rich history.

“I love our remaining late nineteenth century architecture, including old hotels, industrial warehouses and factories.”

The Brisbane History Group was formed in 1981 to help promote the study of Brisbane’s history. Not only do they publish a range of books and papers about Brisbane’s history, which are then sought out by libraries, schools, and tertiary institutions, but they also have played a significant role in establishing heritage legislation.

The Brisbane History Group also organises several guided tours and informative seminars each year, which all focus on the historic themes, locations and events that have helped shape the city of Brisbane.

Robert has extensive knowledge of Brisbane’s history and says that while many people will know a lot about the city after it was established, there are still many key facts that locals may not be aware of – including how Brisbane got its name.

“Many people know that Brisbane’s Indigenous name is Meanjin, a Turrbal word meaning the place of the blue water lilies, and that the area around Brisbane was originally called Moreton Bay.” “Fewer people may know that the early administrators planned to call the growing town Edenglassie. However this idea was discarded and the settlement was instead named after former NSW Governor, Thomas Brisbane.”

Robert says that one of the most unique things about Brisbane’s history, is how our climate has always affected the way we live, and encouraged the community to appreciate and preserve more of the city’s built environment.

“What makes Brisbane unique among Australia’s capitals is our humid subtropical climate, which in turn has had a huge influence on everything from the food we grow to the types of buildings we construct and the recreation activities we enjoy.”

“Despite our modern lifestyle, regular storms, floods, and bushfires remind us that our climate has had - and continues to have - a large impact on our daily lives.”

LEARN MORE AT WWW.BRISBANEHISTORYGROUP.ORG.AU.

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THE VILLAGE RETIREMENT GROUP 2023

The retirement adventure begins

Profile

Mary Goodall reflects on her long career at The Village On The Downs.

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ary Goodall had already known the late Michael Harrison for quite some time when he was inspired to develop The Village Retirement Group. Not only had she sold him a unit back in 1996, but she also worked alongside him and The Village’s current Managing Director Justin Harrison, whilst selling units.

When Michael returned from a trip to Toowoomba and announced he wanted to build a retirement village, Mary was one of the first people he told.

Although she was working in a different role at the time, Justin would keep Mary updated on the development of The Village and eventually, convinced her to join the sales team at The Village On The Downs.

“Justin used to call me and give me updates quite often,” Mary says.

“My husband got very sick and so I retired for the first time, but then Justin turned up one day and said the [sales] person that was there had passed away, please come in for three months – and that was over

16 years ago now!”

After Mary officially joined the team at The Village On The Downs, she still remained close with both Michael and Justin.

“Michael and I had an arrangement that he couldn’t retire before I retired, and vice versa,” Mary says.

When Michael passed away last year, Mary and Michael’s retirement arrangement ended and so, she contacted Justin with a new retirement plan. She told him that once she reached 80, she would be heading out the door and now, in her 80th year, Mary is ready to retire and enjoy a quieter life on acreage with her daughter.

Mary has a strong connection to not just The Village On The Downs, but the entire Village Retirement Group and says that although she’s looking forward to retiring, she’s still planning on staying in touch with her beloved team.

“In all the years I’ve been there, we have the best team now,” Mary says.

“The girls have told me to make sure I come back for morning tea.”

Mary also says she’ll be visiting The Village On The Downs regularly to not just visit her team, but also her sister, who’s currently a resident, as well as some other friendly faces she’s seen come through the doors of The Village’s Toowoomba location.

“I’ve come across a lot of people I knew when I went to school at Fairholme — my best friend from Fairholme is [at The Village],” Mary says.

When Mary looks back on her time at The Village On The Downs, she has fond memories of watching the jacarandas bloom and talking to residents who have said they’ve found a wonderfully supportive community after moving in.

“Everyone seems to look after each other,” Mary says.

“We had a couple come in and her husband passed away quite shockingly, and she told me later that she was so pleased they’d moved in because after the funeral she’d had people around her, whereas if they’d been in their home in the suburbs, she wouldn’t have anyone because she didn’t know her neighbours.”

Congratulations on a wonderful career with The Village Mary, we hope you enjoy your new retirement adventure!

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Explore some of the most magical waterfalls right here in Brisbane

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Travel

One with nature You needn’t travel far to discover beautiful bushlands, explore forests, and experience nature escapes. These magical spots can be found within an hour of Brisbane’s CBD.

JC SLAUGHTER FALLS

MT NEBO

Rich in bird life and bushy terrain – JC Slaughter Falls is a gorgeous spot for a picnic under the trees or a stroll through the walking tracks. Located in the Mt Coot-tha reserve and dappled with onsite barbecues, shelter sheds, and picnic tables. We recommend packing a picnic basket and a flask of tea to enjoy a day spent taking in nature with friends and family.

If you’re feeling active, be sure to end the day with a meander through the Summit Walk. It’s a well-signed track – 1.2km each way, taking around an hour round trip.

Just 45 minutes from Brisbane CBD you’ll find Mt Nebo – a quaint town known for its cool air, breathtaking lookouts, fig trees, and rustic cafes.

If you’re heading there for a day trip, be sure to grab a bite to eat at ‘Café in the Mountains,’ it’s a picturesque café situated on a mountaintop with views over the D’Aguilar National Park. They have great food and ample verandah seating!

BOONDALL WETLANDS RESERVE The tranquil waters of Boondall Wetlands Reserve make for the perfect spot for an afternoon of activities. Visit the wetlands and enjoy a walk, bike ride, or kayak to view the majestic mangrovelined creeks. Watch the sunset at the Nudgee Beach picnic area where you’ll find barbecues, tables, and a playground for the grandkids. This reserve is also known for its birdwatching of shorebirds like Herons, Cormorants, Kingfishers, and Rainbow Bee-eaters for those who prefer to sit back and watch.

CANUNGRA Nestled in the foothills of the Lamington National Park lies the small township of Canungra. This is the ideal spot for a day-trip rich in history, culture, and adventure. The town was founded in the 1880s and has since kept its historic charm. Canungra Creek is a favourite amongst visitors with various walking tracks, waterfalls, and picnic spot lining the creek. You’ll also find an alpaca farm (Mountview Alpaca Farm) located in the O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard where you can walk an alpaca.

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Profile

Against the grain Doug Parry’s passion for Australian agriculture truly knows no bounds.

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hen first meeting The Village Coorparoo resident Doug Parry, you’ll very quickly learn that he has an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of Australian agriculture. Despite

navigating, “a few changes in his career path,” agriculture has always been a common thread.

Doug spent his early career as a high school teacher where he met his wife Fran.

“I was the only science qualified teacher in a school of a thousand students in Western Victoria and in my second year as a teacher, I was on the Victorian school’s board for agriculture, developing the curriculum and exams for the state of Victoria.”

Despite having such an influential position on the Victorian School’s Board, Doug wanted to step into the world of tertiary education. This led him to lecturing in Agricultural Chemistry at Roseworthy Agricultural College in South Australia, where he was able to not only teach students about soil science, but he was also able to learn about the intricacies of Australia’s wine industry, thanks to the well-respected wine makers who happened to also be his students.

He also coached the college student Aussie Rules football team to a premiership in an adult

THE VILLAGE RETIREMENT GROUP 2023

competition in 1966.

Whilst lecturing, Doug was presented with a job opportunity that he simply couldn’t refuse. A fertiliser plant was being built on Gibson Island, near the mouth of the Brisbane River, and it was this transition that planted the seed for Doug to start his own business, Australian Superintendence Company (ASC).

Doug had the idea to set up his own scientific laboratory that would focus on testing soils, as well as selling and manufacturing scientific equipment.

Today, the company inspects and certifies export grain shipments from ports around Australia such as wheat, canola, barley, and various seeds, to ensure they meet contractual standards and are completely safe and ready to be exported around the world. ASC currently certifies around 60% of all Australian grain exports.

Nowadays, Doug serves as Chairman of ASC, alongside his son Andrew, while another son, Steve, runs the Parry family’s second business, Stateside Promotional Merchandise, whilst another son, Michael, manages the company finances.

Doug says he never expected his sons to be involved in the businesses, but he’s very pleased that they’ve been able to keep the family involved.

Although Doug spends less time at the Australian Superintendence Company these days, he says he still enjoys visiting the office, doing his part to help keep his team motivated, and catching up with the people who’ve made his job such a joy.

“I just love coming in. There are always things like director’s responsibilities to take care of, and I find that my role is more about problem-solving.”

“I come in when I want to, the interest is there and so is the excitement. Every job we do is different, and I can’t help but stick my nose in!”

Doug has spent so much of his career dedicated to studying Australian agriculture and although he’s now enjoying his time living at The Village Coorparoo, he still loves nothing more than sharing his extensive knowledge whilst helping his dedicated team remain at the forefront of agricultural science and technology.

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Get to know Meet some of the friendly faces behind The Village Retirement Group.

MARY GOODALL

Sales Manager The Village On The Downs Best career advice you’ve ever received?

I’ve always said, you just have to listen and have the right answers to their questions. I’ve never sold a unit at The Village. I’ve just listened and they’ve sold themselves!

SARAH WATERS

Sales Manager The Village On The Downs What are you looking forward to the most about your new role at The Village?

It’s a privilege to be a part of someone’s retirement journey. I am so lucky to meet some incredible people who have lived such rich lives and I look forward to helping them with a smooth ride into retirement.

JASMINE LAW

Business Support Officer The Village Yeronga What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Spending time with my husband and kids, going for brunch with my girlfriends, and volunteering at my church.

JOANNE FAZIO

Village Assistant Manager The Village Coorparoo Best career advice you’ve ever received?

I was once told, “Most of us will work for the bulk of our lifetime, do what you love, and you’ll never work another day in your life!”

Gardening

Growing the community The Village Yeronga’s Community Garden is a special place for all residents and nurtured by residents who share a green thumb.

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he Village Yeronga’s Community Garden was originally developed in the spring of 2010 by a keen group of gardeners who still maintain the calming space to this day.

Andrew Plant maintains the garden every day of the week alongside Ernie Cleverly and says maintaining the crops is certainly a passion project for himself and Ernie.

“The agreement was that if this land was going to be maintained by the residents that it would be the residents who would finance that and look after it,” Andrew says.

At first, the garden only included herbs and flowers, but over the course of two years the garden has become home to a variety of native plants, as well as fresh vegetables.

“We’ve got cos lettuce, iceberg lettuce, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, some tomatoes that we just put in, and we’ll also have beetroot, cabbage and spinach,” Andrew says.

“We brought in four packets of bok choy once, not thinking that a majority of them would sprout, and all of a sudden, we had two beds chock full of bok choy!”

Andrew and Ernie spend every day at The Village Yeronga’s Community Garden watering, weeding, and turning over the garden beds, before harvesting their produce for their fellow residents.

“On Thursday afternoons and sometimes Friday mornings, we’ll pick the produce and place it next to the swimming pool entrance,” Andrew says.

“Everyone then comes down to pick up what they

want for the day and leave us a gold coin if they can.”

Alongside the vibrant vegetable garden, an orchid house has also been built beside a small, paved area full of a variety of plant pots known affectionately to residents as The Orphan Garden.

The space houses plants and flowers that residents have donated to The Village Garden Group either after they’ve moved out, or when they’ve needed a green thumb to help restore them back to full health.

The Village Yeronga’s Community Garden is serviced by a ramp, allowing every resident to enjoy the beauty, tranquillity, and afternoon breezes the area provides. | 13

Simply stylish Growing older doesn’t mean you have to toss your fashion sense out the window.

There are plenty of ways to keep up with new trends and showcase your style. Our top tip? Create a capsule wardrobe. Get yourself some versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched for a range of looks. Prioritise simplicity and sophistication, and opt for timeless colours like navy, white, brown, and beige.

Left to right: Gazman Pure Linen Herringbone Sports Jacket $369 Connor Hastings Stretch Straight Chino $69.99 Myer Daniel Wellington Classic St Mawes Dial Watch $379 Florsheim Frenzi Perf Shoe $199.95 R.M. Williams Hervey Shirt $129

Left to right: David Jones Status Anxiety Plunder Crossbody Bag $179.95 Footgear Revere Santa Monica Sandal $189.95 Decjuba D-Luxe Basic Short Sleeve Tee $49.95 Morrison Audrey Short $249 Wallace Bishop Freshwater Pearl Stud Earrings $149 Trenery Silk Twill TR Scarf $129 14 |

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Word search It’s puzzle time! How many words can you find?

Find the answers on Page 23.

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Recipe

Gather ‘round the table

Savoury asparagus quiche

INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoons of olive oil 10 asparagus stalks 5 cups of spinach 6 large eggs

A simple yet delightful quiche made with asparagus, onion, and feta. This vegetarian dish is perfect for a light lunch served with a fresh garden salad.

½ cup of feta cheese 4 red onions, chopped Premade pie crust

METHOD Preheat the oven to 360 degrees fan-forced.

Add olive oil to a large saucepan over medium heat. Chop the asparagus stalks into 3cm chunks and add the saucepan.

Add spinach and let cook until the spinach appears wilted.

Remove from the heat and drain using a colander. Set aside.

Whisk eggs and milk in a large bowl.

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1 ¼ cups of full-cream milk

Stir in the feta and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Place your premade pie crust into a lined pie dish. Add the asparagus and spinach mixture first, followed by the red onions, and finally pour in the egg and feta mixture.

Bake the quiche for 50 minutes or until the edges appear golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

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Recipe

Carrot cake cupcakes A classic carrot cake in cupcake form! These beloved cupcakes are crowned with fluffy cream cheese icing and baked to perfection.

INGREDIENTS: 2 cups of plain flour 3 teaspoons of baking soda 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon 1 ¼ cups of vegetable oil 1 cup of white sugar 1 cup of brown sugar 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract 4 eggs 2 ¾ cups of grated carrot ¾ cup of chopped pecans

ICING: 250 grams of cream cheese 1 ½ cups of icing sugar ½ cup of heavy cream

METHOD Preheat the oven to 180 degrees fan-forced and line a cupcake tin with pan liners.

In a large bowl whisk the oil, sugar, and vanilla. Add one egg at a time and whisk until light and peaks form on the whisk.

In a separate bowl mix the flour, baking soda, and cinnamon until well combined.

Add the dry ingredients into the same bowl as the egg mixture and fold together using a spatula.

Stir in the carrots and nuts.

Divide the mixture into the prepared cupcake tin and bake for 40 minutes.

Let the cupcakes cool completely before icing.

Icing: Beat the cream cheese on medium speed in a large bowl until thick.

Add in the icing sugar and beat for another minute.

Pour in the whipping cream and beat again for 3 minutes or until peaks form.

Frost the top of the cupcakes and garnish with crushed pecans.

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Try this local cooking class!

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In conversation with...

Janet Vallino Janet’s life experience, personal philosophy, and social networks come together in a donation project at The Village Yeronga.

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Village spotlight

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illage life is a far cry from the cane fields of Babinda, Queensland where Janet grew up. As a twin, and the daughter of a cane farmer, Janet learned at an early age the importance of hard work, discipline, and sharing. Her career in the corporate world provided her with many opportunities to make a positive difference in people’s lives, and now, in retirement, Janet continues to live by that philosophy and has developed an effective system for Yeronga Village residents to help people in need.

Janet collaborates with a community leader to identify the specific needs of individuals and families in her local community, so they’re able to cater to all. Yeronga Village residents donate good quality second-hand goods such as clothes, cookware, linen, and furniture through Janet, who then assists with the distribution of those goods to people in need.

“My life here at The Village is rewarding,” says Janet, who has been a resident at Yeronga since

December 2013. “It has given me an opportunity to help people in need.”

“Clothes and other items donated by residents and their families help to make a difference in so many people’s lives. Contacts help us identify needs and we deliver straight to the people who need help. No money is involved at all.”

This initiative has not only made a difference in the lives of those in need, but it’s also encouraged residents to participate in Janet’s purposeful project.

Another resident explained that it is easier to motivate yourself to downsize the volume of your possessions when you know they’re going directly to a good cause.

Janet’s initiative has already provided people with children’s clothing that was able to be shared across several families, toys which were given directly to children new to the community, and dresses that were provided to young mothers.

Even in retirement, Janet strives to live by her personal philosophy and motto — “it can be done!”

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In the know Handy resources to help make your life easier.

THE VILLAGE HOME CARE SERVICES There comes a time when some may need a little extra help around the place – another pair of hands to clean, a bit of assistance when cooking, a handy lift to the shops or support with personal care. Even if you’re not at that stage – it won’t hurt to register and get assessed, so all is in place when you do need it.

The Village Retirement Group offers personalised in-home services so you can maintain your independence and stay put in your home. We have a dedicated team able to provide services through either Government-funded home care or private fee options. The best part? This support is delivered by trained staff working within The Village, providing you with the comfort of a familiar face, on time, every time. Our team know you, your home, and most importantly your needs.

Please contact The Village Homecare Services on 07 3854 3747 or email care@thevillage.com.au for more details on services, fees, and the next step moving forward.

APP-SOLUTLEY AMAZING APPS Today’s residents are more active than ever before, but this certainly comes as no surprise – especially with a wealth of apps available to enhance social connections, monitor well-being, and exercise minds on the move.

Here are some apps and websites that seniors and residents alike are sure to appreciate (plus they might just make your daily life a whole lot easier).

Pill Monitor This very aptly named app is a great solution for effective medication management. The app will ensure you never miss a dose due to a busy schedule. After all, maintaining a consistent pilltaking schedule is crucial for your wellbeing. Pill Monitor will provide timely reminders for each dose. You can even add photos of each medication so there’s no need for confusion. It’s so reliable that an internet connection isn’t even required.

Pocket Physio Pocket Physio is free and easy to use – it features various videos and text instructions on physio exercises that are tailored towards those who have recently had surgery and those who are preparing for surgery. The app also includes helpful advice on hip precautions, breathing exercises, selfassessments, managing pain, and more.

At The Village, we’re dedicated to ensuring our residents stay technologically engaged. Many of our communal areas offer free Wi-Fi! Should you require a boost in your online abilities, then simply sign up for a free one-on-one tech help workshop by Brisbane City Council.

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A glorious garden

Profile

T

here’s a fine art to growing a gorgeous garden and no one knows that better than The Village On The Downs resident, Ray Prenzler.

Ray and his wife Elizabeth are both agricultural experts. After spending years growing grain and cotton on their own farm, they decided to turn their focus onto cultivating a magical front garden full of beautiful blooms, and recently won the Best Floral Garden in The Village Toowoomba Garden Competition.

While the Prenzler’s garden is full of many colourful blooms, some of Ray’s favourite flowers in his winning arrangement include long-lasting petunias, big red geraniums that flower over a long period of time, and pink cone begonias.

When it comes to creating a truly great garden, Ray says plenty of colour and different items of interest always make for a more eye-catching display. His advice for any other keen gardeners out there who would like to develop their own glorious garden, is to start with good soil, add compost, and ensure your fertiliser is always mixed into the soil well.

Perfect party planning

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he Village Redcliffe always has exciting events happening throughout the year thanks to their lively Entertainment Committee.

Clare Henderson has been a member of the committee for over three years now and says she thoroughly enjoys volunteering her time to the committee and planning fun activities to entertain her fellow residents.

“Our goal is to have an event that as many

residents as possible can attend and enjoy,” Clare says.

The Village Redcliffe Entertainment Committee consists of Clare and eight like-minded women, who all share a love of entertaining. Their annual Australia Day activities attracted over 150 residents this year and their Coronation Day Morning Tea saw the 225 attendees dress in their very best formal attire – tiaras and all – to watch the historic event take place.

One of the committees most recent events was so successful, they’ve since had residents approach them to ask when it’ll happen again.

“One of our more recent events came from ideas within the committee to hold an Age Appropriate Olympic Games,” Clare says.

“This morning had around 15 fun activities and everybody who took part said that they’d never heard so much laughter in the Dining Room!”

When it comes to organising the perfect event, Clare says the key is careful planning and a shared workload amongst those who are willing to help.

“The perfect event is one where residents and sometimes friends and family, can come along and enjoy the activity, before going home with a smile on their face and looking forward to their next adventure.” | 21

A true friend How three friends built a strong bond.

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ne of the first residents to move into The Village Taigum 16 years ago, and says she has “seen it all since day one,” is Judy Edwards.

She’d made many friends over the years with her fellow residents, but it wasn’t until she attended a Ladies Who Lunch event at The Village café that she met Bernadette Ketelhohn and Ailsa Priddy.

Bernadette and Ailsa organised the Ladies Who Lunch event to initiate a lady’s club at The Village Taigum and whilst talking to Judy at their shared table, Bernadette discovered that not only did her and Judy share a lot of common interests, but they also share relatives!

“We found out that my brother-in-law is also Judy’s nephew,” Bernadette says.

Since meeting at the Ladies Who Lunch event, Judy, Bernadette, and Ailsa have remained great friends because, as Ailsa puts it, when they started talking, they “just clicked”.

Even when Ailsa was recovering from hip surgery last year, she says Bernadette took care of her and was willing to lend a hand with absolutely anything she needed.

“Bernie was my saviour,” Ailsa says.

“She shopped for me, always checked in to see if 22 |

I needed anything and helped me with the bins and the post.”

Judy, Bernadette, and Ailsa have gotten to know many of their fellow residents over the years as they’re all very friendly. Although there’s quite a lot of people to meet at events and even just during a morning walk around The Village Taigum, Judy says it’s quite easy to build new connections with people.

“You can certainly become great friends with everyone and even their families sometimes,” Judy says.

“If you’re with someone, even if it’s just a little thing they’ve said that interests you, make contact with them. You may have a new friend and you don’t even realise it!”

Of course, once you’ve made a new friend, all three women agree that the key to building long-lasting friendships is to listen to them.

“Listen to the other person and get to know their story,” Ailsa says.

They also agree that helping one another is imperative to maintaining strong friendships that will last a lifetime.

“Just helping each other and being prepared to help each other when in need is so important,” Bernadette says.

THE VILLAGE RETIREMENT GROUP 2023

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We love receiving feedback from you because we truly wouldn’t be what we are today without your support. We’re incredibly honoured to work with all of you each day – you inspire us in so many ways and we’re so thankful that we’re able to hear your marvellous stories and learn about your many adventures. To thank you, we promise to continue listening and do our best to make sure your experience here at The Village is as enjoyable as possible.

Yours truly, The Village Retirement Group.

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Don’t retire for good.

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Ready to wake up with a smile on your face every day? Don’t retire for good, retire for great at one of The Village Retirement Group’s six independent living retirement communities, located in the most desirable locations across Brisbane and Toowoomba. Whether you’re leading the way at the half-way mark in the bowls tournament, giggling with friends over a delicious dessert in our café or simply relaxing in the privacy of your luxury apartment or villa, this is how retirement should be lived.

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