A friendly game of bowls turned into something much more last month when over 60 residents from four RetireAustralia retirement villages across south east Queensland gathered for their inter-village bowls day.
Hosted at The Green Tarragindi Retirement Village – one of RetireAustralia’s newest communities – the event brought together bowlers from The Green, The Verge at Burleigh G.C. Retirement Village, Noyea Riverside Retirement Village and Wellington Manor Retirement Village.
Throughout the afternoon, teams faced off in a spirited yet light-hearted competition that offered far more than a trophy –it offered connection, camaraderie and community.
What started last year as a friendly match between a few villages – organised by residents Jeff Jones and Erik Roberts from The Green – has quickly grown into a highlight of the social calendar. With more villages joining in and momentum building, it’s on track to become a much-anticipated tradition.
Resident-driven, community-powered
This year’s inter-village bowls day was proudly resident-led, with Jeff Jones (The Green) and Jeff Burchell (The Verge) collaborating to bring the event to life.
Supported by their village managers, the two helped ignite a wave of enthusiasm and ownership that shaped the event from start to finish.
"Having the ability and support to run resident-driven events empowers individuals, strengthens leadership within the village and ensures activities reflect what residents genuinely enjoy," said Jeff Jones.
Co-organiser Jeff Burchell echoed the sentiment, “When residents meet peers from other villages, it broadens their social networks and brings fresh energy and new ideas. Many find it deeply rewarding to share stories and experiences with others on a similar journey.”
Beyond the fun of the competition, Jeff highlighted that gatherings like these play a vital role in supporting mental and emotional wellbeing –helping residents build friendships, feel connected and stay active.
In true village style, the event blended a touch of competition with a whole lot of heart. While Wellington Manor ultimately took home the trophy, the real prize was the new friendships and shared memories made on the day.
Strength in connection
For many, the highlight wasn’t just the action on the bowling green, but the connections made beside it.
Laughter, camaraderie and storytelling flowed freely both on the green and during the celebratory dinner and presentation ceremony.
One resident from The Verge captured the spirit of the day perfectly, saying:
"Everybody’s happy. They're laughing, they're talking, and while yes, everyone wants to win, I don't think at the end of the day it's going to matter because it’s really about the camaraderie. It’s a great idea to get everyone together. We’ve all been chatting about where we live, meeting new faces –it’s been really welcoming. It’s been really good."
RetireAustralia’s Manager – Regional Operations QLD, Scott Burton, said the event exemplified the lifestyle many residents seek when choosing to downsize to a retirement village.
“One of the key reasons people are drawn to village living is the opportunity for social connection,” said Burton.
“Events like this show how residents create opportunities that cater to diverse interests and build a community culture that genuinely promotes inclusion and belonging."
“This kind of initiative gives residents a sense of purpose and ownership,” he added. “Not only are they staying active and social, but they’re also shaping their own experiences and fostering a strong, engaged community.”
Looking ahead
The day celebrated the thriving social culture that exists within The Green and across neighbouring villages, brought to life through friendly competition, laughter and connection.
As the sun set on a day of unforgettable moments, conversations naturally turned to the future. Another bowls day? Absolutely. But also talk of new sports, new activities and other collaborative events designed by residents, for residents.
Because at the end of the day, it’s clear that retirement living isn’t just about where you live–it’s about how you live.
