Bribie besties: Retired fireys reunite after 20 years

More than 20 years after losing touch, retiree firies Allan Ford and Noel Lane could not believe their luck when they discovered they’d be near neighbours at GemLife Bribie Island.

Since reconnecting at the resort, the pair – who last saw each in the early 90s when based at Kemp Place Fire Station in Brisbane prior to being transferred to other stations – picked up where they left off many years ago quickly becoming best mates and embracing an adventurous new lifestyle.

“I couldn’t believe how great Noel looked, it was so good to see the big guy again after all these years, especially knowing we would be living just two doors down from each other,” said Allan.
“It was such a terrific surprise! We’ve definitely been making up for lost time,” said Noel.

Since moving to Bribie, the duo has become inseparable, enjoying busy social lives together with their wives Maxine and Catherine – who’ve become firm friends in their own right – and taking advantage of all the activities on offer at the resort.

“GemLife has given us a new lease on life. We enjoy ten-pin bowling, coffee at the café, taking the resort bus out on social trips, the movie theatre and the magic country club,” said Allan.
“Life has changed dramatically for the better since moving here. We love having drinks overlooking the resort’s lake, playing social billiards games and taking the pontoon boat out on the water,” added Noel.

The friends also make the most of the active, social lifestyle at Bribie by kayaking, taking boxing classes and enjoying regular gym workouts.

“Bribie Island is a beautiful location. There’s a lot of great restaurants and cafes, swimming and surf, with so much to do, there’s never a dull moment at Bribie – we’re loving it.”