Finding her true north
Since moving to James Evans Court 10 years ago, Dorian Marsland-Smith has embraced a life defined by independence, curiosity and a willingness to keep discovering what’s possible.
A retirement living resident with ACH Group, she is someone who has never followed a straight path – but instead forged her own, guided by instinct, resilience and an enduring sense of adventure.
A life in search of meaning
Born in Perth and coming of age in the 1960s, Dorian grew up in a time when the world – and the role of women within it – was rapidly changing. It was an era shaped by new freedoms, bold ideas and a questioning of the status quo.
Dorian embraced it fully.
Leaving school at 16, determined to find her own way, she stepped into the world without a clear plan – but with a strong sense that life was something to be explored, not prescribed.
From early jobs in Perth to an abandoned nursing stint, and eventually across the Nullarbor in an old EH Holden, Dorian followed opportunity wherever it appeared.
It was in New Zealand that things shifted. Working in a dental surgery in Wellington, she trained as a dental nurse – beginning a decade-long career that would support her travels across Australia, Europe and South Africa.
Moments of courage and change
After returning from South Africa with a husband, Dorian again chose independence -leaving the marriage and setting off alone for further travels through the United States and Canada.
It was during this time that she began to find clarity.
Determined to make a difference, she returned to Australia, enrolled in university, and discovered a sense of purpose. Completing a Bachelor of Arts with a focus on Youth Studies, she went on to build a meaningful career working with vulnerable young people – particularly those experiencing homelessness and substance use challenges.
Her work spanned decades across South Australia, in roles that included frontline support, advocacy, policy and leadership. When she retired in 2018, it was with the quiet confidence of knowing she had made a difference.
A new chapter at James Evans Court
Life shifted again in her sixties, following the sudden end of a long-term relationship.
What could have been a period of uncertainty became another turning point.
After visiting a friend at James Evans Court, Dorian made the decision to move – drawn by the sense of community, safety and freedom it offered. Ten years on, she describes it as a place that has allowed her to continue living life on her own terms.
Without the demands of home maintenance, Dorian has been free to focus on what she loves most – travel, connections and new experiences
Independence, redefined
For Dorian, independence is about embracing life fully.
That meant revisiting a long-held dream: travelling Australia in a motorhome. While it was once a shared plan, she chose to pursue it solo, stepping into the unknown with determination and curiosity.
Joining a network of solo travellers opened the door to a community built on shared experiences, mutual support and a love of the open road.
It also led to unexpected passions.
From motorhome rallies to music festivals, Dorian discovered a love for dance – particularly rock and roll. What began as something new quickly became a joyful part of her life, keeping her active, connected and continuously inspired.
Living fully, every day
Today, Dorian describes herself as curious, adventurous and passionate – and her life reflects that in every sense.
Whether travelling through the vast landscapes of the Australian outback, spending months exploring Tasmania, or dancing her way through festivals across the country, she continues to seek out moments that bring energy and meaning.
For her, a good life is simple but powerful: connection, variety and a sense of fun.
“If it’s fun, I’m in,” she says – an approach that has carried her through every chapter of her life.
Finding her true north
Underlying Dorian’s story is a deep commitment to staying true to herself.
From choosing sobriety more than four decades ago, to building a career with purpose, to embracing solo living later in life, she has continually chosen growth over comfort and possibility over fear.
Her advice reflects that same spirit, “Be curious. Stay open. Challenge yourself. And above all, don’t underestimate what you’re capable of.”
For younger people still working out their direction, Dorian offers this advice:
“Be curious, ask questions, be a life-long learner. Investigate things for yourself rather than have others tell you what to think and believe. Be open to new ideas and be prepared to change your views and opinions if new information warrants it. Find your own style – don’t try to be like everyone else. No-one can do YOU better than you. Do what you love, as long as it doesn’t hurt you or others.
For those later in life ready to try something new, Dorian reflects:
“Push the boundaries of your comfort zone to experience more of yourself. You don’t know what you are capable of inside your comfort zone, only what you’ve become comfortable with over the years. You are more capable than you think. It doesn’t mean you need to jump out of a plane (I wouldn’t!!) but there will be places in your life where you have settled for less than what you really want for yourself. Although change can be scary, don’t fight it. It’s a sign you are ready to experience something new.”
Because, as Dorian’s journey shows, it’s never too late to find your own direction – and to keep moving towards it.
If you’re inspired by Dorian’s lived experience, you can read her full story.
Retirement Living at ACH Group
If you’re thinking about downsizing to a more manageable lifestyle, an ACH Group home is the smart move for retirement living.
ACH Group has a variety retirement living communities across metropolitan Adelaide.
Learn more about the benefits of retirement living you may not know and register your interest today.
