Residents from five RetireAustralia retirement villages came together at The Green Tarragindi Retirement Village in Tarragindi, Brisbane, for an inter-village bowls event that showcases the vibrancy, connection and active lifestyle at the heart of modern retirement living.
Now in its second year, the event brought together more than 70 residents from Noyea Riverside Retirement Village, The Verge at Burleigh GC Retirement Village, Cleveland Manor Retirement Village, Wellington Manor Retirement Village, and The Green Tarragindi Retirement Village for a day of friendly competition, shared meals and conversations between familiar and new faces.
More than a sporting fixture, it reflects growing connection across villages, with residents strengthening relationships beyond their own communities.
At the centre of the event is The Green resident Erik Roberts, who helped bring the bowls day back following last year’s success.
“I was involved with the set-up group last year with the outcome to what I considered a successful event, so it certainly made sense to organise a repeat event,” he said.
For Erik, the impact extends beyond the day itself.
“Having bowls events has encouraged residents to be proactive with organising other social events.”
He says the real value lies in participation and purpose.
“The expression of a ‘job well done’ for me emphasises a personal sense of purpose and achievement for the benefit of others.”
For those considering getting involved, his message is simple.
“In life there are always people who, for whatever reason, are hesitant to become involved… but ‘give it a go’. Being involved is good for the mind, spirit and soul.”
Village Manager Alison Fynes-Clinton says the event is a clear reflection of resident-led community life.
“This event is special because it is organised by residents, for residents. It’s a powerful example of older Australians shaping their own retirement experiences.”
She says residents continue to take ownership of the day, from team organisation through to coordination.
“Lots of people are involved in the success,” she said.
The event also reflects the pride residents take in their villages and shared facilities.
“Residents are proud of their village and really enjoy sharing the facilities that we have here.”
While there is friendly rivalry on the green, the atmosphere remains relaxed and social.
“We just do it for a bit of fun. It’s sometimes serious though when the game is close,” said Roy from Noyea Riverside.
Greg from The Green said the highlight is reconnecting each year.
“This is our second year doing the event. We enjoy getting together. There’s always some good-natured banter.”
Between games, residents catch up with familiar faces, meet new participants and share stories across villages.
For many, lawn bowls has become a simple way to stay active, social and engaged.
“Lawn bowls is a new sport for most of our residents, and it has given them an opportunity to learn a new skill while mixing with others and gaining some exercise,” Alison said.
“It’s a really inclusive game which allows lots of people to have a go.”
As Erik puts it, it’s about inclusion and opportunity.
“My take on retirement living is to take advantage of opportunities which present themselves to be inclusive with my fellow residents, and lawn bowls certainly has a part to play.”
With growing participation and strong inter-village connections, the event continues to highlight what residents value most: connection, purpose and the joy of belonging.
It’s life in a retirement village if you want to take it.