Older & Bolder Special Feature - Moreton Daily

Older & Bolder? What is

More than one in three people in the Moreton Bay region is over 50. That’s not a footnote. That’s the story.

Older & Bolder is Moreton Daily’s celebration of life over 50 in Moreton Bay. From active retirement and career reinvention to community involvement, wellness and future planning, Older & Bolder isn’t about slowing down. It’s about what happens when you’ve got the time, the perspective and the freedom to truly live.

Because if Jean, Enid and Bianca have taught us anything, it’s that the best years don’t have an age limit.

Read more

A century of memories, 100 years young

Three centenarians. Three centuries of living: faith, land, love, war, dancing, and a passport well used.

Jean McBride is 102. She’s already made a joke at her son’s expense before the microphone is even clipped to her collar. “It’s the one that looks after me,” she says with a glint, “that’s going to be my favourite at the end of the day.”

She is one of five centenarians living at Ballycara, alongside Bianca Usarzewska, who turns 101 in June, and Enid McGregor, who turned 100 on Mother’s Day.

Their stories couldn’t be more different. Their wisdom, it turns out, isn’t far apart.

Factory Direct Healthcare

Enid McGregor isn’t the type to make a fuss about turning 100. She spent most of her life on a large rural property in Ashford, in country New South Wales. There was always something to do. She still misses it.

“My family,” she says, when asked what she’s most grateful for. “I’ve had a very happy, happy family life. And the life I lived on the land. I really love that life. I miss that.”

She doesn’t have to think twice about her favourite decade.. “The year I had my children. That was a happy, happy life.”

What would she do all over again, in a heartbeat? “The children. Yes. Looking forward to my great grandchildren.” She turned 100 at a party at BallyCara, then made her way to her daughter’s place at North Lakes. A hundred years of hard work, she says. “But a life very happy to have had.”

Jean McBride

Jean has lived through the Great Depression, the Second World War, the death of her father at 48 with no will and six children left behind. What held it all together, she says, was faith. She never strayed far from the prayer life she loved.

“I loved my prayer life,” she says. When asked about the defining moment of her faith journey, she doesn’t reach for a miracle. She says:

“It’s the kindness of the community where you live. Make sure that you don’t hurt anybody, that you look after people and appreciate that,” she said.

She married a man she didn’t meet until after the war. He had served in the jungles of Papua New Guinea, came home very quiet, and never talked about it unless someone asked directly. “It was war,” Jean says. What more is there to say.

They built a life. A tennis court in the backyard. Ballroom dancing. Two sons, a daughter, good friends. “It was a busy life,” she says. “I loved it.” She still does exercises before bed every night. “I do a lot for myself. I like to be busy.”

“Just live a good life. Keep good company.”

Bianca Usarzewska came to Australia from Italy in 1998. She was 73 years old. She followed her daughter here and never went home.

Travel was never just something Bianca did. It was how she understood the world. “I did travel, when I could,” she says. “I went to Brazil because I had family there. I went back to Italy many times. Holland, Britain, because my daughter was there. I enjoyed the going places.”

What she found at BallyCara was another community to belong to. “Everybody’s very nice. They look after each other. They became my friends from the beginning. They know me and they like me. I like them.”

Her advice for anyone in their thirties? She said it twice, just in case: “I would travel.”

BallyCara Communications Officer Tanissa Rowe has watched hundreds of residents move through this village across nearly eight years. She’ll tell you age, for most of the people here, is simply a number.

Between Jean, Enid and Bianca, they’ve lived through wars, raised families, crossed oceans and kept the faith. Ask any of them the secret. They’ll tell you it was never about the years.

It was always about the people.

Clubhouse under way Multi-million dollar

THYME Lifestyle Resort Rothwell has commenced construction on its new multi-million dollar Clubhouse, marking a significant milestone for the over-50s lifestyle community in the centre of the Redcliffe Peninsula. Scheduled to open in autumn 2027, the Clubhouse will become the social heart of the community, offering homeowners a vibrant lifestyle close to the coastline.

Thyme Rothwell combines urban convenience with relaxed coastal living, placing homeowners within easy reach of shopping, dining, medical services, public transport and the waterfront lifestyle the peninsula is renowned for.

Operated by Serenitas, one of Australia’s most experienced land lease community providers with more than 7,700 homeowners nationwide, Thyme Lifestyle Resorts are purpose-built for active over-50s Australians seeking low-maintenance living without compromise.

The new Clubhouse has been designed to enhance wellbeing and foster social connection, featuring a swimming pool and spa, gym and fitness studio, bowling green, pickleball court, cinema, sports bar, and a range of indoor and outdoor dining spaces.

Serenitas CEO Von Slater said the Clubhouse represents an exciting new chapter for the community and reflects the growing demand for resort-style living in well-connected coastal locations.

“The Clubhouse will form the heart of the community, offering premium facilities that support an active and connected lifestyle,” she added.

The new Clubhouse is set to become a hub where homeowners can connect, unwind and stay active. Designed with comfort and community in mind, it will offer something for everyone whether that’s catching up with friends, pursuing hobbies or simply relaxing.

As Australians continue to prioritise lifestyle, connection and convenience, Thyme Rothwell offers a secure and welcoming community in one of Southeast Queensland’s most desirable regions.

For more information about what is to come for the Clubhouse, call our team on 1300 719 843 or email us at rothwell@thyme.com.au.

driving YvonneExciting times

Yvonne Barlow, the longest-serving councillor in Moreton Bay’s current chamber, has no plans to slow down. In fact, 2032 is firmly in her sights.

That is when Brisbane and Moreton Bay host the Olympic Games - and it says much about the Moreton Bay City Council Division 7 representative.

Rather than relaxing in retirement, Yvonne is driving towards “at least another (four-year) term” to achieve more in a job she loves.

“I feel I was born too soon,” Yvonne said. “All these things happening now, like the

university at Lawnton, create a vision for this area.

“The future’s exciting. Councillors have the ability to help a lot of people and when my time is up I need to know I have done my bit.”

“I would love to be there for the ride to (Brisbane Olympics) 2032. I’ve been blessed with an abundance of energy and while my health remains, I’ll keep doing what I’m doing.”

Graphic artist by trade and a qualified

signwriter, Yvonne was in management at Pacific Waste when, in 1997, she decided to run for Pine Rivers Shire Council.

Becoming a councillor meant dropping $40,000 in wages, but Yvonne felt it was her “calling” and served for 11 years before going into real estate.

However, when Cr Denise Sims resigned in 2021, Yvonne stood and won the by-election. She was returned unopposed in 2024 taking her councillor years to 16.

“I decided to come back because I felt Division 7, particularly Kallangur, needed attention and it wasn’t happening. Things needed doing,” she said.

Future ‘change’ will include the huge upgrade of Old Gympie Rd from Boundary Rd to Anzac Ave - a project costing hundreds of millions of dollars.

Yvonne’s also working on a wedding precinct, display about John Oxley’s trip to the North and South Pine Rivers, scooter track, park fitness equipment and fairy lights in trees.

“I want to have Kallangur alive, not have North Lakes as the big brother,” she said. “I want it to be special for people. I want to leave a legacy for the future, make dreams come true.”

Cruiseabout North Lakes has just turned one at Westfield, and what a year it’s been. Our team of cruise specialists brings more than 50 years of combined experience across river, ocean and expedition cruising. Led by Kate Moulton, who spent over a decade helping North Lakes travellers at Flight Centre, we know this community and we know cruising inside out.

“ Every person on this team has real cruise experience and a genuine love for what they do. That shows in the way they listen, the way they plan and the itineraries they put together for our customers.”

- Kate Moulton, Store Manager

With so many cruise lines sailing so many destinations, choosing the right one for you can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly where we come in. We match you with the cruise line, ship and itinerary that fits your style, your pace and your budget.

Come in and let us make you a coffee or pour you a glass of champagne while we chat about where you’d love to go. There’s no rush and no pressure.

Over the past year, hundreds of locals have joined our free in-store cruise events featuring experts from leading cruise lines. Each event is a chance to explore destinations, ask questions and access offers only available on the day.

Pop into Cruiseabout North Lakes at Westfield or call 1300 590 052 to RSVP for an event or start planning your next cruise.

Bucket-list cruises for over-50s

Here are four cruise destinations proving popular for 2026/27

Europe’s Christmas Markets Norway & the Northern Lights

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: November–December

Cruise the Rhine through Europe’s festive heart, visiting famous Christmas markets in cities including Cologne, Strasbourg and Heidelberg.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: October–March

Sail beyond the Arctic Circle through Norway’s dramatic fjords while chasing the Aurora Borealis across the polar skies.

From Arctic adventures to tropical island escapes, Cruiseabout North Lakes says more travellers are choosing experience-driven holidays that combine comfort, culture and unforgettable scenery.

Hawaii & French Polynesia

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: May–October

Combine Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes with the turquoise lagoons and tropical beauty of Bora Bora, Moorea and Tahiti.

Ready to start planning?

Alaska & the Canadian Rockies

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: April–September

Experience glacier-filled coastlines, incredible wildlife and the iconic Rocky Mountaineer journey through the Canadian Rockies.

Talk to the local cruise experts at Cruiseabout North Lakes on 1300 590 052 or visit the team in store at Westfield North Lakes.

Moving to Living Gems Moreton Bay On the bucket list

For Ian and Elaine Davie, the next chapter is already taking shape, and it begins at Living Gems Moreton Bay.

Moving into the community isn’t just a plan, but a dream they’ve placed firmly on their bucket list, driven by the opportunity to embrace a more connected, carefree way of living.

That vision is quickly becoming reality, with homes being built at a rapid pace and the over-50s lifestyle resort on track to welcome residents from mid-2026.

For the Davies, Living Gems Moreton Bay offers the perfect balance. It represents a fresh new way of living without leaving behind what they know,

“We’re only moving a couple of kilometres from where we are now, so we’re not changing our lifestyle much,” Ian explains.

After years of maintaining a large property, the freedom of owning a low-maintenance home was immediate.

“We don’t have to tend to a big garden anymore,” he says. “Instead, we’ll be out enjoying the facilities and making the most of everything on offer.”

It was the welcoming, community-focused atmosphere that truly sealed the decision.

“Having a sense of camaraderie is exciting. I’m most looking forward to the community’s atmosphere and watching it grow.”

- Elaine Davie

Passionate Broncos members, the Davies are active and ready to embrace everything the resort has to offer. From lawn bowls and the gym to casual get-togethers, there’s no shortage of ways to stay connected. “We’ll get to know people, and people will get to know us, and we can arrange to do activities together,” Ian says.

The simplicity of the buying process was another standout. “We have to pack up but I have no qualms about moving as everything’s done for you.” says Elaine. With everything thoughtfully included in their new home, there was little to worry about. “It was very easy,” Ian adds. “A lot of things are built in, I didn’t have to make many decisions.”

More than simply relocating, the move to Living Gems Moreton Bay signals the start of an exciting new chapter for Ian and Elaine.

Discover your own next chapter at Living Gems Moreton Bay. With homes selling quickly, now is the time to secure your place.

Visit the Sales Centre at 273–308 Buckley Road, Burpengary East or call 1800 954 214 to find out more.

Care closer to home

Many Moreton Bay locals facing cancer treatment still believe they need to travel into Brisbane for care, but Cancer Care Moreton Bay says many patients may have more options than they realise.

Located within the Caboolture health precinct opposite Caboolture Hospital, the clinic is encouraging patients to better understand their choices and feel empowered to ask questions about where they receive treatment.

Chief Growth Officer Renae Lopez says one of the biggest misconceptions the team continues to encounter is the belief that treatment must automatically happen through major Brisbane hospitals.

“There’s still a lot of misinformation out there. A lot of patients don’t realise they can access treatment locally, closer to home, with a referral from their GP,” Renae says.

For many patients, receiving treatment locally can significantly reduce the physical, emotional and financial pressure that often comes with a cancer diagnosis.

Daily travel into Brisbane, parking costs, fuel expenses and time away from work or family can quickly become overwhelming, particularly during radiation treatment, which may require multiple appointments across several weeks.

Radiation oncologist Dr Megan Carroll says one of the most confronting things she discovered when she first began working in the region was how many patients had declined radiation treatment altogether because they believed travel made it unmanageable.

“I was really shocked to hear how many patients had declined radiation treatment simply because it was too far to travel,” Dr Carroll says.

“There is no need for many patients to travel to Brisbane for radiation treatment.

Radiation oncology is available locally, and for public patients it can be bulk billed.”

Dr Carroll says patients should feel comfortable asking questions, seeking second opinions and exploring treatment pathways that work best for their circumstances.

“Patients have a choice, and they deserve to understand those options,” she says.

“It’s important people advocate for themselves and have conversations with their GP or specialist if being treated locally is important to them.”

Cancer Care Moreton Bay supports both public and private patients and works

alongside healthcare providers across the region to help patients better understand available treatment pathways.

“We’re here to support local patients closer to home and work positively with both public and private healthcare providers,” Renae says.

“We really want people to know they can pick up the phone, ask questions and understand what options may be available to them.”

Receiving treatment locally can also help patients maintain some sense of normality during an already difficult time, allowing more time at home, less travel fatigue and easier access to support networks.

The clinic also provides onsite nursing and allied health support as part of its broader patient care approach.

“Time is our most precious resource, and that becomes even more important when someone is unwell,” Dr Carroll says.

“Being treated closer to home can make a significant difference, not only physically, but emotionally as well.”

Above all, both Dr Carroll and Renae say the most important message for locals is simple: understand your options, ask questions and know support is available locally.

Cancer Care Moreton Bay is located at 128 McKean Street, Caboolture, within the Caboolture health precinct opposite Caboolture Hospital.

Free onsite parking is available.

“Cancer Care Moreton Bay is already having a positive impact across our region by providing world-class radiation oncology services locally, reducing the need for vulnerable patients to travel long distances for treatment.

Ensuring patients can receive treatment closer to home not only eases pressure on families, but also supports better health outcomes and quality of life.”

-

Ariana

Doolan

MP, Member for Pumicestone

What patients should know

Patients may be able to access radiation treatment locally at Cancer Care Moreton Bay with a referral from their GP or specialist.

The clinic encourages locals to:

• Ask their GP about local treatment options

• Request a referral to Cancer Care Moreton Bay if they would prefer treatment closer to home

• Call the clinic directly to discuss available services and support options

• Seek a second opinion if they would like more information about their care pathway

A new era of comfortable dentistry

For many people, memories of visiting the dentist still come with a sense of anxiety.

The sound of drills, uncomfortable procedures and lengthy appointments shaped the way generations viewed dental care. But modern dentistry has evolved significantly, with today’s treatments focused not only on oral health, but also on patient comfort, wellbeing and experience.

At Platypus Dental in Strathpine, that evolution is being embraced through modern technology, minimally invasive techniques and a philosophy centred on making patients feel more at ease.

Founder Dr Terry Pu said one of the biggest changes in dentistry over recent years had been the shift toward more comfortable and conservative treatment methods.

“Modern dentistry has moved away from the old ‘drill and fill’ mentality.

We now focus much more on preserving natural tooth structure wherever possible and making treatment a more gentler and less invasive experience for patients.”

- Dr Terry Pu, Founder, Platypus Dental

One of the technologies helping drive that change is EMS Airflow air polishing, which uses a gentle stream of air, warm water and fine powder to remove plaque and surface staining.

Unlike traditional scaling methods, the treatment is designed to minimise abrasion and reduce sensitivity both during and after appointments.

“For many patients, especially those with sensitive teeth or dental anxiety, the difference can be quite noticeable,” Dr Pu said.

“People are often surprised by how gentle modern dental treatment can feel compared to what they remember.”

- Dr Terry Pu, Founder, Platypus Dental

The clinic’s approach also focuses heavily on minimally invasive dentistry, aiming to reduce unnecessary drilling and preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible.

According to Dr Pu, patient expectations around healthcare experiences are also changing.

“Patients today want to feel informed, comfortable and supported throughout their treatment,” he said. “Creating a calm and welcoming environment is just as important as the clinical side of dentistry.”

Alongside patient comfort, Platypus Dental is also exploring ways to reduce its environmental impact through more sustainable systems and technologies.

“As a clinic, we’re always looking at ways we can reduce waste and adopt smarter technologies while still delivering highquality care,” Dr Pu said.

As dentistry continues to evolve, clinics embracing comfort-focused care and modern technology are helping reshape long-held perceptions around visiting the dentist.

Located in Strathpine, Platypus Dental combines modern technology with a patient-first approach designed to create a calmer and more personalised dental experience.

Established in 2022 by Dr Terry Pu, the clinic offers a range of services including family dentistry, dental implants, wisdom tooth removal and smile restoration treatments.

The team focuses on minimally invasive care, modern treatment methods and helping patients feel informed and at ease throughout their visit.

Suite 5, 32 Dixon Street, Strathpine (07) 3881 2887 platypusdental.com.au

Finding strength after 50

For many women, life after 50 can bring enormous change. Hormonal shifts, changing energy levels and reduced mobility can all begin to affect everyday life, often at the same time women are juggling work, family responsibilities and caring for others.

At Fernwood Fitness North Lakes, trainer and club coordinator Tammie Rafferty says this stage of life can also become an opportunity for women to feel healthier, stronger and more confident. During a recent personal training session, Tammie and Fernwood member Karyn Arthur spoke with Moreton Daily about the importance of staying active and building strength as women age.

Fernwood member Karyn says regular training has transformed not only her physical health, but also her energy and confidence in everyday life. After joining the women-only gym more than three years ago, she now attends several times a week, combining strength training, reformer Pilates and group fitness classes.

“I’d been to other gyms before, but I gave up because there was no support,” Karyn says. “Here, there’s so much more support.”

Karyn says exercise has helped her manage the effects of menopause and improve everyday activities that once felt difficult.

“I can keep up with my grandchildren and do things that used to leave me out of breath,” she says. “Even getting up the stairs at the train station is easy now.”

Tammie, who is currently nominated for AUSactive’s People’s Choice Exercise Professional of the Year, says many women feel intimidated about returning to exercise after years away from a gym environment, particularly after spending years caring for others or putting themselves last.

“The

hardest

part is usually just walking through the door for the first time. Women often think they need to already be fit before they start, but fitness is something we build over time.”

- Tammie Rafferty, trainer and club coordinator, Fernwood Fitness North Lakes

As women move through perimenopause and menopause, Tammie says the body naturally begins to change, often leading to a loss of muscle mass, bone density, balance and mobility if women stop moving. Strength training becomes increasingly important with age, helping women maintain independence, improve posture and balance, and make everyday activities easier and safer.

At Fernwood North Lakes, the focus is not simply on fitness, but on creating a

Staying strong as we age

• Supports bone density and muscle strength

• Improves balance, posture and mobility

• Helps manage menopause-related symptoms

• Assists with everyday movement and independence

• Boosts confidence, energy and overall wellbeing

supportive community where women feel comfortable moving at their own pace. Programs such as strength training, Reformer Pilates, group fitness and functional movement classes are designed to help women improve mobility, coordination and overall wellbeing in a welcoming environment. For Tammie, staying active later in life is about far more than appearance or weight. Regular movement can support mental health, sleep, energy levels and long-term wellbeing, while helping women continue doing the things they love for years to come. “You do not need to be the fittest person in the room,” she says. “You simply need to start.”

Fernwood Fitness North Lakes is a supportive women-only gym offering personal training, group fitness classes, Reformer Pilates and strength-based programs for all fitness levels.

Historic memories of family home

Before Margate Parade was a road, before the boardwalk and the cafes and the weekend crowds, there was a house on the waterfront.

Banyandah has been in the same family since 1927. Next month, that changes when it goes to auction after 99 years.

The home, on Margate Parade, was built in 1927 by Jane Moore’s grandfather and has always been used for family holidays.

It was renovated in 2022 and Jane’s grandchildren are the sixth generation of her family to holiday at the threebedroom house.

“It’s sad selling the house one year short of a centenary. I loved sitting on the front deck looking across the bay to Moreton Island.” - Jane Moore

But, due to personal circumstances, Banyandah is being sold along with almost a century of family memories.

It was built before Margate Parade was a road, when those at the house could walk out the front yard and straight onto the beach.

Jane remembers Margate Pde as a “narrow road along the front” and (around 1961) when Banyandah lost more front yard which was reclaimed

“Even on rough days I find the sea interesting - and on calm days it’s beautiful! I love walking along the front, on the boardwalk. Just wonderful.

“My brother lives nearby but I don’t know how I’ll feel seeing the house (after it is sold). I hope they don’t pull it down, it’s in such a prominent position.”

Before Jane and her brother started school they would stay at BanyandahTurrbal for Home By The Sea - from Christmas until Easter.

“Margate was obviously quieter then,” she said, “but the same families tended to go there for holidays each year so we got to know all the other people.

“When I was growing up it (Banyandah) was a high-set Queenslander, not enclosed under the house, but there was one room to the side as my father had a billiard table as a child.”

Jane, who grew up in Newmarket, said: “Everyone has loved going to Margate, even when moving to NSW we still went to Margate for holidays”.

“In fact, every school holidays we went there as my father could commute into the city where he worked.”

Bathing Boxes

Nearly a century on, four bathing boxes still stand on the Banyandah property, each one a small window into another era of Margate life.

Box 1

A wash house, complete with copper boiler

Box 2

The girls’ changing room

Box 3

The boys’ changing room

Box 4

Always a workshop

The boat house, moved back level with the house around 1961, stands beside them still.

Banyandah remained “fairly original until 2017”, when Jane’s father died and left the house to her.

“My husband and I did a fairly big renovation on it in 2022, raising the house a little because it wasn’t quite the legal height to build underneath,” she said.

“But we tried to maintain the character of the house … and I think we’ve done that.”

Banyandah is going to auction with Baylife Real Estate on Saturday June 6 at 5pm. If not sold prior.

Find out your home’s true market value and understand your selling options. Scan to book a free appraisal today.

The moments you cherish deserve to be heard clearly.