Supporting child safety at the Dance for Daniel

Reside Communities was proud to attend the 21st Dance for Daniel event at Brisbane City Hall on Saturday evening, marking our fifth consecutive year supporting the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. 

Hosted in the iconic City Hall, the annual event brings together community leaders, supporters and advocates committed to keeping children safe. This year’s event once again highlighted the important work of the Foundation in educating children and young people about personal safety and empowering them with the tools to stay safe. 

The Reside team was joined on the night by our ambassador, Kay McGrath, a long-time advocate for child safety and a passionate supporter of the Foundation’s mission. 

Funds raised through Dance for Daniel support the ongoing delivery of vital programs, including education initiatives and the continued impact of Daniel’s Law, helping to strengthen protections for children across Queensland and beyond. 

Reside Communities is proud to stand alongside the Daniel Morcombe Foundation and support their important work, which continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and families. 

We extend our congratulations to Denise, Bruce and the Morcombe Foundation team for another successful event and for their ongoing dedication to creating safer communities. 

Reside Communities CEO Glen Brown said the partnership reflects the organisation’s commitment to building safe, connected communities. 

“Being involved in Dance for Daniel is a meaningful way for us to come together and support a cause that touches so many families,” he said. 

“But supporting the Daniel Morcombe Foundation is about more than one night, it’s about contributing to safer communities for future generations. 

“We’re proud to stand alongside the Foundation and play a small part in helping deliver education and awareness that can have a lasting impact.”

/by

New community heart coming to Samford

Construction has officially commenced on the Samford Parklands Village Green, marking the start of a major new community space that will become a focal point for the valley. 

The project, backed by a $4.4 million investment from the City of Moreton Bay and the Australian Government, will deliver open event lawns, shaded picnic areas, accessible walking paths, landscaped gardens and new play spaces for families. Once complete, the Village Green is expected to host everything from markets and music to everyday gatherings and recreation. 

For residents of Reside’s Samford Grove Retirement Village, the significance is not just what is being built, but how close it is. 

Located within Samford Parklands on Mount Samson Road, the Village Green is around 1.7 kilometres from the village, making it a short drive away from our community. 

That proximity makes it an ideal walking goal for active residents, a practical destination for regular village outings, and a perfect place to spend time with visiting grandchildren, with playgrounds, lawns and picnic areas all in one location. 

As the works progress toward expected completion in late 2026, the new Village Green will effectively become a shared “backyard” for the Samford community – and a valuable lifestyle asset right on Samford Grove’s doorstep. 

/by

Ukulele group shines on Australia Day

Samford Grove’s talented ukulele group took centre stage this Australia Day, proudly sharing their music with the wider community during a special visit to the Samford Museum. 

The group delighted audiences with a selection of much-loved Aussie classics. From the iconic Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport to Click Go the Shears, their performance captured the spirit of the day, celebrating community, connection and homegrown talent. 

Samford Grove resident John Pollock has been involved in the group since its conception two-and-a-half years ago and said it was fantastic to be able to entertain others. 

“I’m not musically inclined but the ukulele is very easy to learn,” he said.  

“We rehearse every Thursday at 3pm with our external band leader Donna Farrell who is just fantastic. We are always on the lookout for new members from inside the community as well as in the wider Samford area. 

“Having fun is the primary goal.” 

The group stages three or four concerts at Samford Grove throughout the year as well as playing at external events including a Christmas concert at Samford RSL. 

Beyond the enjoyment of performing, playing the ukulele offers valuable wellbeing benefits, helping maintain flexibility, coordination and strength in the hands. But perhaps most importantly, it brings people together. 

The Australia Day performance was a proud moment for Samford Grove, and a reminder that music, friendship and a willingness to give something new a go can create truly special community moments. 

/by

Bagpipes hit the right note for our residents

Samford Grove residents were treated to a special visit from the Queensland Police Pipes & Drums, whose lively performance filled the village with music, energy, and plenty of smiles. 

Residents were thrilled to enjoy the traditional bagpipes and drums up close, tapping their feet and clapping along to the rousing tunes.  

The Queensland Police Pipes & Drums (QPP&D) was founded by a dedicated group of police officers in 1956 and was officially sworn in in August 1958. The band made their first public appearance in their official uniforms during the Australia Day Parade on 26 January 1959.

The Samford visit was not just about music, but also about community connection. Events like these offer residents the chance to enjoy something out of the ordinary, spark conversations, and strengthen friendships across the village. 

It’s these special moments that make life in our community so vibrant and memorable! 

/by

Samford ladies strike a pose in spring fashions

It was a morning of fashion, fun, and fabulous community spirit as residents came together for a very special Spring Fashion Parade at Samford Grove. 

The event, which was organised by residents in conjunction with mobile fashion house U&I Designs, saw plenty of women take to the runway to model the latest spring fashions from the label, showcasing a range of styles and plenty of personality.  

While the ladies wowed the crowd with their confident strut, the gentlemen suited up and played perfect hosts – serving champagne and adding a touch of sparkle to the occasion. 

Residents also enjoyed a delicious morning tea, and many couldn’t resist taking a piece of the runway home, snapping up new outfits straight from the collection. 

Resident Margaret Kimber, who organised the event, said the clothing was bright and colourful and suitable for all shapes and sizes. 

“We were very happy with U&I Designs and the feedback was excellent,” she said. “No event is successful without a small team of wonderful volunteers who helped make the day so special. I could not have done it without them.” 

Samford Grove Village Manager Maureen Kooiker said it was a wonderful occasion full of connection and creativity. 

“There were so many residents involved, from modelling and catering to decorating the clubhouse. It was amazing to see everyone come together and have such a great time,” she said. 

/by

A very memorable Day for Daniel as residents step out in red

There’s no better time to wear red than Day for Daniel. And this year, our residents led the way in memory of Daniel Morcombe.

As proud partners of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation, Reside Communities’ villages across Southeast Queensland always participate in fundraising activities to raise awareness and educate people on the important role grandparents play in child safety education.

This year, the day packed an extra punch, following the passing of Daniel’s Law in State Parliament.

The landmark legislation announced on October 30, honours the legacy of the Sunshine Coast schoolboy, who inspired two decades of advocacy for stronger child protection laws.

At Samford Grove community spirits were high as we began the day with a lovely breakfast, followed by a raffle with lucky door prize.

Later on, we went for a stroll around the Village with the buggy decked out in red in support of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. We’re proud once again to raise funds for such an amazing organisation.

Along with fighting for the causes they believe in, Daniel’s parents Bruce and Denise have worked hard to ensure the Daniel Morcombe Foundation is at the forefront of child safety in Australia and providing up-to-date resources for children, parents, schools and communities.

Reside Communities CEO Glen Brown said it was important to recognise the role that grandparents have to play in child safety.

“It’s not only parents who have a role to play in keeping children safe,” he said. Grandparents are often key role models, and our residents have a wonderful opportunity to share wisdom and guidance that helps younger generations stay safe and aware.

“It was inspiring to see so many of our communities come together in support of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation and this incredibly meaningful cause.”

/by

Faces of Reside!

According to Eris and Russell Platt, no one walks alone at Samford Grove. 

The couple, who have been living in the community since March 2023, have started a Lunchalots Club, and at the end of every function they link arms with friends and sing You’ll Never Walk Alone. 

“We started a Lunchalots Club because we lunch a lot,” said Eris. 

“We love to have music at our functions because we believe that music brings people together and makes them happy and encourages them to love each other. 

“When you are in the Samford Grove Village, you will never walk alone. We love living here with such wonderful people. We ask everyone to join together with arms around each other and sing You’ll Never Walk Alone.” 

Russell added: “There are people living here who we used to know from school and work, so we have reconnected with them. I go to the gym and use the pool and library. We are loving it.” 

/by

Burgers, banter and the mighty Maroons

It was great to fire up the grill for International Hamburger Day at Samford Grove, and as an added bonus, the event coincided with the first State-of-Origin match of the year! 

International Hamburger Day, held on May 28, is a global celebration of one of the world’s most beloved meals. From classic beef patties to creative gourmet toppings, it’s a day to honour a true food icon. 

Our residents certainly embraced the occasion, enjoying a delicious burger together in their Origin colours. 

Days like these bring more than just great meals – they bring our community together through laughter, shared memories, and a few playful sporting jabs. 

Samford Grove Village Manager Maureen Kooiker said the event was a fantastic example of how food and fun can bring people together. 

“The timing couldn’t have been better,” she said. 

“Everyone was in great spirits, well fed, and ready to cheer on the mighty Maroons.  

“Of course, there were a few loyal Blues supporters holding their ground too, which only added to the fun.” 

Roll on next year!

/by

Time to connect over flowers and sweet treats

The Samford Grove ladies were out and about recently, when they enjoyed a delightful outing to the beautiful Brookfield Garden Centre. 

The venue was a real treat for the senses, with vibrant blooms, lush greenery, and charming displays sparking inspiration and conversation.  

Afterwards, residents enjoyed tea, coffee, and sweet treats at the renowned Wild Canary, nestled within the gardens, which proved to be the perfect spot to unwind and chat. 

Everyone agreed that the morning was made even better by the fact that the rain held off just long enough for everyone to soak up the fresh air, fragrant gardens, and wonderful company. 

Outings like these are not just enjoyable; they offer meaningful moments of connection, exploration and joy, and remind us of the simple pleasures that make life at Brookland so special. 

Bring on the next adventure! 

/by

Reside Communities awarded prestigious medallion under Retirement Living Code of Conduct

In an exciting coup for Samford Grove residents and staff, we are proud to announce that we have been awarded the prestigious Retirement Living Code of Conduct Medallion – a powerful endorsement of our unwavering commitment to transparency, exceptional care, and resident wellbeing. 

The Code of Conduct sets high benchmarks across all aspects of retirement community operations, from marketing and sales to day-to-day management and resident engagement. 

It is a voluntary, independently governed framework developed by peak bodies Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) and the Property Council of Australia and is designed to ensure the highest levels of trust and accountability within the sector. 

Reside Communities Chief Operating Officer Craig Syphers said the formal recognition reflected our continued focus on delivering retirement living environments where residents feel supported, respected and empowered. 

“Becoming a Code signatory reaffirms our promise to residents that we will always act in their best interests, communicate openly, and provide a welcoming, well-managed community they are proud to call home,” he said. 

“We’re proud to join other leading operators across Australia in upholding these national standards.” 

The Code outlines best practices for every stage of the resident experience, from initial enquiry and move-in, to community living and departure. It also includes expectations around staff conduct, dispute resolution, clear and honest communication, and the handling of feedback and complaints. 

To become a signatory, retirement village operators must undertake a comprehensive self-assessment and commit to aligning their operations with the Code’s provisions.  

Following the achievement, we are now able to display the Code of Conduct brand mark across within all our villages, acting as a visual assurance of our commitment to accountability and resident satisfaction. 

“This is another step forward in our mission to deliver outstanding experiences across all our communities,” added Mr Syphers. 

“From our team culture to our resident communications, we are committed to doing things the right way, and the Medallion helps keep that promise front and centre.” 

All Code signatories are publicly listed on the Code’s independent website www.awisemove.com.au 

 

/by