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The Benefits of Retiring in Queensland

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The Benefits of Retiring in Queensland

Interstate migration continues within Australia with the majority of those moving to Queensland. Out of that figure, just over 10 percent of the newcomers to the Sunshine State are 65 years of age or older. This means that Queensland is fast becoming a retirement destination for many Australian residents. But what is attracting them to the area? Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of retiring in Queensland to see if there is a clear answer.

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Healthcare Services

The word “robust” is often used to describe the healthcare system in Queensland. The state is home to several public and private hospitals. There are also many specialist facilities and other healthcare services to choose from. As can be expected, the quality of services is greater in the major cities but retirees living anywhere in Queensland should find easy access to a wide spectrum of health services, and all of these services are constantly improving and evolving through regular investments made by the state and federal governments.

Affordability

Although property pricing is climbing, Queensland continues to be affordable compared to other major centres in different parts of Australia. What this means is that retirees looking at downsizing 

into a smaller, more affordable home will have many options available to them. This will also provide them with the opportunity to maximize their retirement savings. Queensland also has a lower cost of living compared to other states with more affordable utilities, and overall living expenses (groceries, fuel, entertainment) which attracts many retirees to the region.

 

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Transportation

Getting around in and around Queensland is quite easy. That is because there is a lot of infrastructure in place including a complete network of roads and highways. There are several different transportation modes available ranging from taxis and buses to trains, a subway system, and even several regional airports. All of them work together to connect people to where they need to go. The systems that exist in Queensland are not complicated to follow and are quite extensive.

Climate

Probably one of the most attractive features of Queensland that draws tourists and retirees alike is the climate.Most parts of the state receive no less than 300 days of sunshine per year. This means that outdoor activities can be enjoyed throughout the calendar year. The climate in Queensland is 

 

categorized as subtropic and tropical which translates to mean winter is warm and summer is hot. For retirees trying to get away from cooler temperatures and experience a milder, warmer climate, they don’t call it the Sunshine State for nothing.

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Lifestyle

If lifestyle is what you are after retiring in Queensland, you won’t be disappointed. If you are seeking tranquility, Queensland has it. If you are after adventure, you’ll find that in Queensland. If you want leisure, Queensland also has that. Your choices are many ranging from beaches, wilderness, and urban settings. There’s golf, fishing, boating, national parks and reserves, hiking, bird watching, and anything else you can imagine for spending (and enjoying) time in relaxed atmospheres that surround you in Queensland.

Social

If your plan to retire in Queensland includes increasing your social network, then you have come to the right place! Locals are well-known internationally as being some of the friendliest people on the 

planet. Plus, the Sunshine State has a reputation for being the location of a vibrant social scene. There are countless volunteer opportunities or if all you want is to participate in activities and meet new people, there are many clubs, groups, and organizations in operation across the state. Several of these groups are specific to seniors.

 

Conclusion

 So, what appears to be attracting retirees to Queensland? Well, there is not one single answer to that as there are many things that are part of the state that make it a desirable destination for all. However, if your intention revolves around retirement, you will find Queensland to your liking. A lot is going on in the Sunshine State that retirees will appreciate. From the affordability of real estate and reasonable cost of living to a wonderful lifestyle, there isn’t much more you need to make the move to Queensland. Add a solid healthcare system, extensive transportation networks, the climate, and social opportunities, it’s no wonder Queensland is such a magnet.

 

Storm Season Prep

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Be Prepared During Storm Season

 Storm season runs from October to the end of April in Queensland. While extreme weather is commonplace in many parts of the world, storm season in Queensland can be quite severe. It is the time of year when Mother Nature throws all she’s got into this part of Australia. It is not unusual to experience hail storms, lightning, strong winds, flooding, and even cyclones. This is why it is always a good idea to take precautions and prepare you, your family, and your property for Storm Season.

How bad can it get?

Well, there have been record-setting storms in Queensland. One of the most notorious was Cyclone Yasi. This was a Category 5 cyclone that hit the coast of Queensland on February 3, 2011. Yasi had wind gusts estimated at 285 km/h and was 1,450 kilometres in diameter. The storm was moving at a rate of 25km/h and forced thousands of residents of Cairns to evacuate. As it turns out, the storm did not hit there, but flattened banana and sugar cane crops, trees, and several buildings. Yasi became the most costly cyclone in Australian history with an estimated $3.6 billion in damage.

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Fortunately, storms like Cyclone Yasi are the exception. However, that does not mean you should ease up on protecting yourself and your home. They call it storm and cyclone season for a reason. It means that there are weather events that can cause damage to your property if you are not prepared properly for the possibility.

 How do you do that? We have put together a short list of tips to help you get prepared for the potential of a dangerous storm. Remember, it is always best to prepare for the worst.

 Preparation Tips For Storm Season

Tip #1

Have A Plan In Place

In case the storm is severe, and you are on evacuation alert or are about to be evacuated, there are a few things you need to attend to before leaving your home. They include:

  • Turn off all utilities
  • Follow community disaster preparedness plans
  • Have a place pre-selected where all family members can meet and be accounted for
  • Also, have an evacuation plan for your pets

Tip #2

Secure The Outside of Your Home

Remove all large outdoor furniture from patios and decks. Also remove any potted plants, bicycles, toys, or other loose belongings. Trim any large trees or shrubs and if you have large outdoor sculptures, wrap them in burlap and tie them with rope.

Tip #3

Use Storm Shutters

To give doors, windows, and skylights added protection, cover them with shutters or impact-resistant glass. For additional coverage, nail plywood sheets over windows.

Tip #4

Secure Wall Hangings

If there is artwork hanging on exterior walls, remove the pieces and store them indoors. Secure all interior artwork and document any with current damage. Photograph all of them for a record that you can update with new photos, if necessary.

Tip #5

Move All Vehicles

In case of a flash flood, it is a good idea to move all vehicles to higher ground. If that is not an option, park them inside your garage but against the garage door. Places you should not park your vehicles when a storm is on the way are in low-lying areas, near powerlines, or under a tree.

Tip #6

Fill Up Everything

Just in case services go down during a severe weather event, you don’t want to be caught without. So, fill the tanks of any vehicles. Also, charge up mobile phones, and test your power generator. Ensure you have adequate fuel for it in case there is an extended power outage.

Tip #7

Unplug Household Appliances

All household appliances should be unplugged from power sources when a storm alert has been issued. For smaller appliances, store them securely in cabinets and move all household fixtures and large appliances away from exterior doors and windows.

Tip #8

Secure Important Papers

Documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, insurance papers, banking documents, and any other legal paperwork should be either stored in a safety deposit box away from your home. If that is not an option, store them in a bolted safe sitting in an interior closet in your home. Also, lock away valuables including jewelry.

Tip #9

Have An Emergency Kit

It is always a good idea to have an emergency kit handy. You can quickly put one together by gathering the following items:

  • A battery-operated flashlight, with fresh batteries
  • A portable radio
  • Bottled water
  • Non-perishable food
  • Blankets
  • Clothing
  • Toiletries and medications
  • Cash

Tip #10

Designate A Home Shelter Room

A room inside your house, which is completely enclosed and located on the first floor, should be used as your shelter room. It should be in the centre of your home and have no windows. This room is a good place to stay until the storm passes.

Man Preparing Windows for a Storm
Visit Redcliffe QLD image of a house and wooden boards covering the windows in preperation for a storm

Additional Planning Information

It is always best to be prepared for a severe storm long before one approaches. This is why it is important to plan months ahead. Take a good look around your home and yard and do some clean-up and organising so that if a storm does develop and is heading your way, you will be able to do emergency preparation without the panic of rushing to complete it.

If the exterior of your home contains potential storm hazards, such as glass ornaments or plenty of small fixtures, replace them with items that are easy to store and won’t cause further damage in a storm. Reduce clutter on decks and patios. Look inside your home and decide what you can do to further protect it from serious damage resulting from a severe storm.

The better prepared you are long before a storm arrives, the better your chances of getting through it unscathed. For more storm safety tips, or advice to help you protect your home, contact the nearest emergency preparedness centre or search for the emergency preparedness website serving your area of Queensland.