Judy Wilkie is busier in retirement than ever before.
Judy (left) with fellow Carlyle Gardens resident Gwen
The Carlyle Gardens Retirement Village resident rarely lets a day go by without joining in on an activity, taking a class or catching up with friends.
“When I first came here in 2000, I thought, ‘I’ll do that, and that, and that,’ but you can’t physically do it all!” she said.
“There are a lot of different activities you can do.
“I do tai chi, I go to happy hour, I run the ‘Carlyle Capers’ newsletter and I’m in the computer club and the sewing circle.”
The sewing circle alters and mends clothing for a fee, which they donate to the Royal Flying Doctors of Australia.
In May, they received a Local Hero Award in recognition of their fundraising efforts.
“We were very surprised when we found out,” Judy said.
“We said, ‘we’re not really heroes—all we do is raise a little bit of money every year!’”
But for the people they help, the impact of their contribution is immense. In addition, the retirement village residents relish the opportunity to come together each week in service of a good cause.
When she’s not busy within the village or pursuing her passion for nature photography, Judy also volunteers with the Pacifique Surfriders Club. She says it’s a great way to stay involved with the community.
“I just enjoy talking to people,” she said.
“You’ve got to keep your mind and body active—it keeps you young!”
Judy is living proof, having picked up stand-up paddleboarding at the age of 80.
“I’d like to try surfing too but I’m probably getting a bit old,” the 82-year-old laughed.
“I might try boogie boarding when it gets a bit warmer!”