What’s happening?
Highfields couple Marian and Pieter de Kroon, both 72, will join a 65-strong contingent from Toowoomba at the third annual GemLife Games on the Sunshine Coast. The two-day event will run on September 11 and 12 at GemLife Palmwoods, bringing together more than 740 athletes, volunteers and spectators from across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.
Why it matters
The GemLife Games celebrates fitness, fun and friendship among Australians aged 50 and over. It encourages older people to stay active, try new sports, and connect with others. For Marian and Pieter, it’s also a chance to relive their love of ten-pin bowling, which they returned to after moving to GemLife Highfields three years ago.
Local impact
Toowoomba is well represented, with residents taking part in eight sports, from lawn bowls and pickleball to swimming and table tennis. For many, like Marian, the Games have become both a fitness goal and a social highlight. “Everyone is talking about the Games, getting involved and practicing,” she said.
By the numbers
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740 athletes, volunteers and spectators will attend the Games.
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65 competitors are travelling from Toowoomba.
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Eight sports will be contested, including lawn bowls, pickleball, tennis, swimming and virtual golf.
Zoom in
Marian said she and Pieter have a reputation to uphold, having brought home trophies each year they competed. “While Marian is happy to bowl over 100, she’s aiming for more than 130 during the Games. I’m not a real sporty person, and don’t like gym work, so for me it is a form of exercise,” she explained.
Zoom out
GemLife Managing Director and Group CEO Adrian Puljich said the Games had become legendary within their communities. “That’s what it is all about; encouraging over 50s to stay active and healthy, try new things, set new goals, and come together in a fun, supportive environment,” he said. He added that pickleball has become one of the most hotly contested sports, alongside ever-popular lawn bowls.
What to look for next
All eyes will be on September 11 and 12 as over-50s athletes, including Toowoomba locals, compete for trophies and friendships at GemLife Palmwoods.