Community
5 May, 2024
‘Ageless’ dream of couple
RETIREMENT isn’t an option for couple Mark and Judy Evans, who share their remarkable story of finding their true calling running North Queensland tourism attraction, Paronella Park, in a new eight-part TV series Ageless.
The couple, now in their early-70s, discovered the Spanish-inspired castle and grounds, nestled alongside picturesque Mena Creek about 120km south of Cairns, in 1993 and set about transforming the property into one of the region’s leading experiences. The couple’s episode, ‘Adventure never grows old’, screened on April 29 but is available on demand at 9Now or online on the GemLife website: www.gemlife.com.au/ageless
It chronicles their journey, trading luxury cars and a Sydney suburban lifestyle for the road less travelled, eventually bringing them to the lush topics of Mena Creek and Paronella Park, which they lovingly restored.
“Throughout our lives, we’ve always pursued adventure and embraced life wholeheartedly – first leaving the corporate world to live mostly in Perth, where we had our two children before moving the family to Singapore,” said Mrs Evans.
“Following six years abroad, and the birth of our third child, our deep connection to Australia saw us return home.
“In our red panel van, we explored the country for 18 months before coming across Paronella Park, our home for the next 30 years.
“It was smooth sailing for the first 10 years, then we were suddenly faced by cyclones, floods and health challenges.
“As we navigated these, we were reminded of the preciousness of each moment. It’s not about dwelling on setbacks but embracing them as part of our journey. "
