Concerned residents have launched a comprehensive audit of Eeufees Oord Retirement Village after documenting what they describe as deteriorating living conditions affecting elderly pensioners.

The initiative, led by a volunteer group known as the Friends of Eeufees, aims to record the condition of every unit and identify urgent maintenance, health, and safety concerns that require intervention.

According to group member Brian Smith, the project began after he and his partner, Bronwyn, witnessed elderly residents living in conditions they believed no one should have to endure.

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He recalled seeing an elderly resident fall in complete darkness after inadequate lighting left parts of the village unsafe at night. The woman suffered a broken arm and severe facial injuries, an incident he said highlighted the seriousness of the situation.

Smith said the audit revealed widespread maintenance problems, including black mould, damp, leaking roofs, flooding, broken infrastructure, poor lighting, deteriorating paving, and neglected communal areas.

Security has also emerged as a major concern. Smith said the removal of security guards and a faulty gate motor have left residents relying on a basic lock-and-key system, while concerns have also been raised about theft, unauthorised access, and reports of non-pensioners occupying some units.

Among the most concerning findings were elderly residents living in unhealthy conditions.

Smith said one resident, in his 90s, is living in a unit affected by extensive black mould. While another elderly resident collapsed shortly after volunteers documented the condition of her home.

He added that some residents have resorted to maintaining their own units because they cannot afford repairs, including an 84-year-old pensioner who paints and repairs her home herself using her government grant.

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To provide immediate relief, the Friends of Eeufees launched an Adopt-a-Light campaign to improve safety throughout the village.

Volunteers have already replaced 20 streetlight globes and plan to install a further 25, along with repairing faulty day/night switches.

Smith said the broader audit documented plumbing, electrical faults, roof leaks, drainage problems, mould, paving, gardens, and other infrastructure issues to help prioritise urgent repairs.

He said the completed report will be presented to relevant city departments, housing authorities, businesses, and potential donors in the hope of securing long-term intervention.

“Our goal is to improve safety, restore dignity, and ensure the relevant authorities can no longer ignore the situation.”

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