Downsized Country Living – A Perfect Fit For ‘Voice of the Ekka’

After more than 50 years living on farmland and acreage, well-known Australian Show Announcer and ‘Voice of the Ekka’, Angus Lane OAM, was surprised at how easily he and wife Vick adapted to downsized living when they moved to GemLife Highfields over-50s lifestyle resort.

“It didn’t take any time at all to adjust. We chose a corner block which overlooks shrubs and trees and the home has a great sense of privacy. It’s been beautiful here,” said Angus.

A familiar face at shows across Australia, Angus’ deep, velvety voice is recognisable to thousands of regular show-goers. Even as a nine-year-old boy growing up in Brisbane, Angus knew being a royal show announcer was his dream job.

“The announcer back then made everything so personal and had tremendous warmth. I wanted to be able to do that too,” he said.

“My main goal when commentating has always been to bring country and city folk together as one. Having lived in the city and the country, I want to bridge the gap between the two.”

Since taking up his first announcing role 35 years ago, Angus has become a regular announcer at small rural shows and major events including the Perth, Canberra, Darwin and Toowoomba Royal Shows, and his dream job as the chief announcer at the Royal Queensland Show.

Vicki and Angus, who have been married for 52 years, work as a team. Vicki prepares his materials and provides essential behind-the-scenes back-up on the show circuit.

“I’ve been blessed with a beautiful wife and a beautiful life. I couldn’t have done it without Vicki,” said Angus.

With the couple travelling the Australian show circuit for ten months of the year, the security of GemLife Highfields’ gated community was a big plus. “My advice is that people shouldn’t leave it too late [to move]. It’s a totally different lifestyle, you retain your independence and gain so much,” he said.

“There are no entry or exit fees, and the cost is affordable, plus there are all the great facilities. Vicki and I love to swim so we use the pool most days when we’re home and the grandkids enjoy playing ten-pin bowling with us when they visit. We’re rapt.”

But most of all, the Lanes value a sense of community.

“We love the Highfields community. It’s important to be humble and to give back. When I talk to younger people, doing motivational speaking, I tell them ‘It’s about we, not me,” he said.
Angus and Vicki looked at other resorts before settling on GemLife Highfields.

“The thing we loved about GemLife was the attitude of the people. Adrian, Andrew and Rachael were so obliging. The people made our decision easy because they go the extra mile and are courteous, respectful and flexible,” he said.

“The resort manager Rick and Cheryl are lovely. And they dance like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers,” he quipped.

In addition to his role as a show announcer, Angus gets a lot of enjoyment from getting behind the mic working as a celebrant, officiating at weddings, birthdays and funerals.

“There’s so many interesting people out there, with interesting stories. Actually, I’d love to take the mic and talk to people living here. Now there’s an idea!”