Arnhem Land: Tim Nielson to feature in TV series Ageless

Such is Tim Nielson’s story, the newly proud Territorian is set to feature in a TV series.

Tim Nielson will feature in TV series Ageless for his incredible move from Adelaide Hills to Arnhem Land.

Tim Nielson was living a comfortable life on a pear orchard in South Australia when he decided he’d had enough.

For more than a decade Mr Nielson and his wife had dedicated themselves to farming, but realised they wanted a change of profession.

“As my fifties approached, I realised I no longer had a spark for farming, so I decided it was time to try something else.”

It was not just the profession that would change, but the scenery too.

“I spent my childhood in Darwin surrounded by rich culture and had always had a passion and deep respect for the lands of Indigenous cultures in the Northern Territory,” he said.

“So, in 2019, when I saw a touring company called Top End Day Tours was available, I decided to purchase it and start the next chapter of my life.”

Despite having never worked in tourism, Mr Nielson said he had enjoyed the new experience.

“I came into the touring industry with no prior knowledge, I didn’t even know how to process a booking,” he said.

“However, like most things in life, I took each day as it came.

“Now, I’m 54 years old and I wake up each day grateful for the choice I made.”

Tim Nielson was living a comfortable life on a pear orchard in South Australia when he decided wanted a change.

The couple’s courageous move caught the attention of TV producers, with Mr Nielson soon to appear in Ageless, a new eight-part series which follows the experiences of 11 remarkable people over the age of 50 who have a thirst for new challenges.

Mr Nielson said he hoped his testimony would inspire others of his generation to chase their dreams.

“I know a lot of people entering their fifties feel like they can’t make a significant change because the perceived risk or fear of starting over feels too intimidating for them, or they are happy to be on autopilot waiting for retirement,” he said.

“There is nothing wrong with that, but I think those willing to bet on themselves would be pleasantly surprised and would regret not trying even more.”

Alongside Mr Nielson, a variety of unique stories feature on the show, including a 70-year-old widow running a 20,000ha outback property on her own and a 56-year-old blind motorcyclist who aims to become the fastest vision-impaired person on earth.

GemLife director and chief executive Adrian Puljich said the show aimed to spark new conversation.

“We want the show to encourage viewers of all ages to question how they define ageing and embrace the concept of agelessness,” he said.

“We see people who defy stereotypes in our community every day and we want the wide community to understand there is more to age than a number.”

And what does being ageless mean, according to Mr Nielson?

“To me, being ageless means staying curious,” he said.

“It means embracing each day as a gift – an opportunity to try something new.

“I’m a testament to the old adage that you’re never too old to pursue your dreams.”

Originally published as Arnhem Land: Tim Nielson to feature in TV series Ageless