10 October 2025
October is Queensland Seniors Month and Southern Downs Regional Council is inviting people of all ages to connect and celebrate the valuable contributions seniors make to the region’s strong community spirit.
Council’s portfolio Councillor for Healthy Communities, Cr Sarah Deane, celebrates our true locals during Seniors Month and said the region’s appealing lifestyle is also a drawcard for tree-changers.
“One of the greatest strengths of the Southern Downs is our multigenerational families. Grandparents, parents and children living near each other, sharing land, stories and laughter,” Cr Deane said.
“These family networks knit together our communities, build layers into our economy and help make our region more resilient, caring and grounded.
“We are seeing more people make the decision to relocate to the Southern Downs, not just retirees, but families, professionals and creative minds drawn by the balance of nature, community and essential services.
“We offer wide skies, orchards, national parks, walking trails and towns with the quality amenities people expect — health care, retail, arts and easy connections to Toowoomba, Brisbane and the coast without the congestion or pace of city life.
“Domestic migration numbers tell more than just growth – they reflect a shift in aspirations with more Queenslanders and interstate movers choosing regional life.”
Warwick retiree and Visitor Information Centre (VIC) volunteer, Betty Wells, captures the sense of connection and purpose many feel in our region.
“I love welcoming visitors at the VIC, being involved in the Southern Downs Steam Railway and cheering on our family at the Warwick Polocrosse,” Ms Wells said.
“There’s such a strong sense of community and adventure here, and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”
Stanthorpe retiree and VIC volunteer, Max Hunter, promotes the Granite Belt’s charms with pride and backs it up with hands‑on engagement.
“The Granite Belt is a special place. The vineyards, orchards and mountain air make it a lifestyle people fall in love with,” Mr Hunter said.
“I enjoy sharing that story with visitors, and even as a weather reader for the Stanthorpe station, I feel closely connected to this region.”
Queensland Seniors Month on the Southern Downs is also an opportunity to showcase the region’s unique lifestyle, the ability to live surrounded by nature and community, while having access to essential services, engagement and a pace of life that fosters wellbeing.
“This October we honour the people who choose to live here, to stay involved, to bring life to our events, to volunteer, to help shape place,” Cr Deane added.
“The Southern Downs offers the chance not just to retire, but to live fully — to stroll orchards, breathe mountain air, join community groups, stay active and feel part of something real.”
Queensland Seniors Month recognises that strong communities are connected communities and all Queenslanders are invited to come together to connect and celebrate older Queenslanders and the enormous contributions they make to our communities.
Residents can also meet Council staff at the following community expos:
Event: K-Life Mindful Living for Seniors – Wellness Day
Date: Friday 24 October 2025
Time: 10am – 1pm
Venue: K-Life Courtyard, 7 Eucalyptus Street, Killarney
Event: Warwick Seniors Expo
Date: Thursday 23 October 2025
Time: 9am – 12pm
Venue: Warwick Turf Club, 170 Victoria Street, Warwick
Throughout Seniors Month, Queenslanders of all ages are encouraged to join in one of the many great activities offered across the state. To find fitness classes, art and craft workshops, technology courses, social events, concerts, excursions and expos, visit
www.qldseniorsmonth.org.au.
Last edited date 10 Oct 2025