Author of 28 books on cooking, craft, home decorating and DIY, Tonia Todman, was the keynote speaker at a special event at Uniting AgeWell’s Amarco Apartments retirement village in Kingsville on June 16th.

Her message to the audience was simple and important: the keys to ageing well are to eat well, exercise, remain mentally stimulated – but most of all be a great mentor to younger generations forging their own paths.

Tonia, best known for her roles on shows Healthy, Wealthy and Wise, Good Morning Australia, and Creative Living with Tonia Todman, spoke of personal anecdotes and her life story, including the hardship her family endured moving from a drought-stricken farming way of life to the city, where ultimately she built a successful career in television and media.

She also reflected on her senior years as being “the indulgent stage of life.” As people are now living longer, she reinforced the notion that remaining healthy as you age should be a priority. Tonia also encouraged seniors to pass their lifelong knowledge onto younger generations.

“You are never too old to learn, to start a new career or begin a new project. Follow and do what you are passionate about; it will lead you to a full and rewarding life,” Tonia said.

Amarco Apartments Sales and Marketing Coordinator Anita Ukalovic said Tonia’s principles reflected Uniting AgeWell’s approach to ageing well – supporting people to remain independent, connected to their community and living with choice and peace of mind.

“Moving to retirement living doesn’t mean giving up the things you love,” she said. “In fact, at Amarco Apartments it means people have more time to do what they enjoy most and really celebrate life.”

Tonia’s event is part of a series of regular public events at the Uniting Agewell village, that will host informative and vibrant morning teas along with guest visits from notable celebrities.