Brassall Retirement Village, located on the outskirts of Ipswich Queensland has proudly taken top honours at the 2025 Retirement Living Council National Awards, winning the coveted Best Revitalisation Award.
Brassall’s transformation was truly remarkable and a wonderful story and outcome.
Originally established in the 1960s, Brassall featured modest bedsits and units aimed at the affordable housing market, alongside a co-located residential aged care facility. While loved for its lush gardens and tight-knit community, by 2021 the village faced serious challenges, with occupancy falling to just 50% and some units remaining empty for over a decade.
The tide turned in 2022, when the team embarked on a budget-conscious refurbishment of five serviced apartments which sparked renewed interest and all units sold quickly. Encouraged by this success, the team launched a broader revitalisation — highlighted by a full upgrade of the Community Centre, now a vibrant and welcoming hub for residents.
Leading the transformation was Tina Darby, Senior Asset Manager for BlueCare Retirement Living. Without the backing of external architects or designers, Tina’s innovative, hands-on approach became the cornerstone of the village’s revival. The effort was strongly supported on the ground by village team members Jim Bowder and Natalie Mallory, who managed to keep units selling — in some cases more than once — while ensuring residents stayed informed, engaged, and excited throughout the process.
“Revitalising Brassall was about more than renovating buildings — it was about restoring community spirit,” said Tina Darby. “Every improvement was made with residents’ happiness and pride in mind. Seeing the village thrive again is incredibly rewarding.”
Today, Brassall Retirement Village boasts 100% occupancy and a vibrant, connected community.
Longtime resident Kerrie Price shared her appreciation:
“The activities room is now a pleasure to use, with a better kitchenette, new storage, and comfortable seating. Our hairdresser loves the revamped salon, and residents enjoy the new social areas. The fresh paint, guttering, and modern fencing along Cameron Street have made a real difference. But the best part of Brassall is still the wonderful people — and now we have a village that truly reflects that spirit. Thank you, BlueCare!”
