More than just a place to live

Published: 

6 December 2024 2:56PM

Gayle and Joyce’s Capalaba social housing complex is more than a home – they’ve helped turn it into a supportive community for the group of older women who live there.

'We’re not in each other’s pockets but we’re there for each other. When we see the other ladies around, we say hello, wave and have a chat,’ says Gayle, a former production manager who moved from Victoria to Queensland when her daughters were young.

Joyce initially moved in with her late husband Thomas, a retired bricklayer.

'I love it here, it’s great and I’d never be able to afford the rent out there. And I like being around people, I think if I lived on my own, I’d be scared,’ says Joyce.

Top-floor neighbours, Gayle and Joyce catch up a few times a week and have supported each other through thick and thin.

'We don’t go to the movies or shopping or anything like that, but when Tommy died I’d make meals and things, and help where I could. We check the mail for each other when we’re away, put the bins out, things like that,’ says Gayle.

Gayle says she loves living in the Redlands, where she can be close to the ocean as well as the family and friends she’s made over a lifetime of work and sport. She and her 2 daughters played softball for many years.

'I’m 71. We didn’t have superannuation when I was working. Getting this place means everything.’

If you or someone you know needs housing help

Call 13 QGOV (13 74 68) or contact your local Housing Service Centre.

If you are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness, contact the Homeless Hotline for free on 1800 474 753 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

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