Why The Green is the perfect fit for Carl and Louise

In mid-June 2024, Brisbane couple, Carl and Louise, returned from an 11-week adventure across the USA, Europe, the UK, Canada, and Alaska. It was the kind of trip they’ve always loved – full of discovery, culture, and movement.

But at 80, they stepped back through their front door, looked at one another and admitted:

“It was exhilarating … but it absolutely wore us out,” says Carl.

After decades of adventure, including emigrating to the UK in 1983, then again to Australia in 1989, they realised it was time for a new chapter. They’ve built a big life together since marrying in 1965, a milestone they will celebrate again soon with their 60th wedding anniversary.

With 4 children and 9 grandchildren, most living in nearby, they knew the next stage of life should be easier, more enjoyable, and closer to loved ones. And so, the search for the right retirement village began.

Finding the right place to call home

They explored Brisbane’s top retirement villages, wanting somewhere modern, supportive, and social. The moment they arrived at The Green Retirement Village in Tarragindi, something just clicked.

“We walked in, looked around, and said, ‘This is it’,” says Carl.

The village was brand new, beautifully designed, and intimate, with just 92 apartments. It offered all the lifestyle features they were looking for, including:

• Pristine bowling green
• Café
• Cinema
• Fully equipped gym
• Beautiful gardens
• Generous hotel-like amenities, such as reception, library, resident kitchen and BBQ, private dining room and resident lounge.

And the location sealed the deal – close to the city, QPAC, medical services, shops, and public transport.

“Everything we enjoy is right here or just a short walk away,” says Carl.

“When we look out our window, we love the way the sunlight dances on the leafy hills and the higgledy-piggledy roofs of Tarragindi,” says Louise.

Within 3 weeks, they had picked their apartment and made the move. They soon discovered that this decision was one of their best.

“We’ve made a lot of big decisions in our life, but moving to The Green has been the best decision we’ve ever made,” says Carl.

A home filled with light, comfort, and charm

Their new apartment quickly became a sanctuary. Every detail felt intentional and welcoming.

• Generous bedrooms.
• A modern kitchen that leads into a cosy lounge.
• Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that fill the home with light.
• A safety-screened balcony lined with potted lilies and vases of flowers.
• Shelves inviting them to display the nicknacks collected from a lifetime of travel.

“How can life get better when your home wraps its arms around you like this?” says Louise.

Their bathrooms offer the same sense of ease: non-slip tiles, simple one-touch shower mixers, and neat mirrored cabinets with everything in reach.

The walls, now alive with their treasured paintings, books, and keepsakes, make the apartment feel unmistakably theirs. And with 2 walk-in robes and ample storage, everything has a place.

Life at The Green

They quickly discovered that the team were every bit as impressive as the facilities.

“They’re warm, they’re genuine, and nothing is ever too much trouble,” says Carl.

That level of care gave them a sense of safety and comfort that mattered more than they expected.

It isn’t just the village team who make them feel at home, from the very first day, the residents welcomed them with open arms.

“There’s so much warmth and wisdom here, people offer help before you even ask,” says Carl.

Having lived in 3 different countries over the years, they immediately recognised something special: a community that feels close-knit without being closed off.

Their diary filled faster than it had in decades. With so many activities available, they’ve become more active, more social, and more connected. Happy hour, catered dinners, opera group, Tai Chi and Zumba, line dancing, bowls, and group outings are just a few of the favourites.

“We’ve never been so busy, and we’re loving every minute of it,” says Louise.

Taking on the role of Chairman of the Resident Committee has been a highlight for Carl.

“The more you get involved, the more rewarding the lifestyle becomes,” he explains.

Why they recommend it

After navigating big international moves, raising 4 children, and embracing grandparenthood, they know the value of choosing the right place at the right time. And for them, choosing retirement living, especially at The Green, has been one of the best decisions of their long and love-filled life together.

“There was no crisis, no pressure from the family. We simply wanted comfort, connection, and a lifestyle that supports ageing well,” says Carl.

Their children are delighted with their decision, and the couple say they now have the perfect balance of independence and support.

“If home maintenance feels like a burden, or you want more community in your life, don’t wait. Retirement living can be life changing,” says Carl.