Community feeling a joy for Rowes Bay retirees

Making the move to retirement living was a practical decision for Bolton Clarke Rowes Bay residents Leigh and Penny Douglas, but it’s the community lifestyle they have grown to love.

The pair, who will mark five years at the village in November, moved from another beachside suburb but needed to be closer to medical services.

“We decided ‘if not now, then when?” Penny says of their decision to make the move.

“We looked at other villages around Townsville, but a major feature for us as a couple was that Bolton Clarke Rowes Bay has the aged care facility co-located on the same site.”

Moving to the village hasn’t slowed the active couple down. They enjoy walks on the beach every afternoon and Penny swims in the pool daily.

“We also enjoy the fellowship of the village,” Penny says.

“Leigh started the $5 fish and chips and pizza nights, particularly to encourage the older residents to leave their units and build their social connections.

“We love helping other people – it’s soul food. It’s vital to be part of a community.”

Their involvement doesn’t stop there. Leigh is an active member of the residents committee and also drives the village bus, and he and Penny both offer Justice of the Peace services within the village.

Bolton Clarke Rowes Bay is offering free weekly Tea and Tour events every Thursday, where local residents are invited to come along, meet the village manager and residents, enjoy morning tea and take a tour.

The events run every Thursday from 10am-noon and no booking is required.

For information phone Gina Clayton on 0437 349 723.