QCWA Annual Report 2018-2019

The Queensland Country Women’s Association • Annual Report 2018–2019

If not now, when?

It is estimated that by the year 2025, the number of seniors wanting to reside in a retirement village will have doubled to more than 400,000* people placing rising urgency on industry providers to expand to meet demand, not just in metropolitan cities but in outer suburbs and regional towns.

W ith over 14 years’ experience building and operating retirement communities, Oak Tree Retirement Villages is committed to providing quality retirement living options to all Australians, but has a focus on expanding into undersupplied regional towns. “For too long seniors in regional towns have been forced to move to larger cities to get the services they need; this in turn has had devastating effects on the communities of local towns, their values and their history, not to mention this move puts unnecessary stress on seniors who would prefer to remain local,” said Managing Director of Oak Tree Group Mr Mark Bindon. “Over the years we have seen a remarkable shift in culture from the previously highly sought after ‘sea- change’ in retirement replaced by the growing desire for retirees to want to stay more connected to their roots in the home towns they know and love. “As a private operator, we insist on a closer connection to our staff and our residents – that’s our point of difference,” said Mr Bindon. As Oak Tree expands they intend to follow their model building smaller, more boutique style communities which encourage supportive, friendly communities and are easier to maintain and service.

“By industry standards our Villages are smaller but we believe this is fitting for regional communities – we are about encouraging close-knit community cultures where it’s easier to socialise, get to know one another and support each other, just like what regional towns are like,” said Mr Bindon. As the industry continues to expand and as the ageing population more than doubles by 2050* the face of retirement stands to evolve with Oak Tree committed to carving their niche into regional towns supporting more Australian seniors. Don’t hesitate, it’s time. Take that first step towards your new life by calling 1300 367 155 or visit oaktreegroup.com.au

*Property Council of Australia Report 2017 – The 5 A’s of Retirement Living