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At 68, Ross knows the value of a dollar better than most. Living in Maryborough, Queensland, Ross has spent a lifetime learning how to stretch his money further – and getting maximum bang for his buck!
Ross is now retired, but for decades he worked a sugar cane farm that had been in his family for generations. Farming life was never easy. Tight margins and unpredictable conditions meant there was rarely spare cash, so Ross had to be as resourceful as possible.
Running a farm, wasting money was simply not an option. It was all about making do with what you had.
Ross eventually made the difficult decision to sell the farm as his eyesight deteriorated. Now visually impaired, Ross has adapted to a new way of life but the financial habits shaped over years on the land have stayed with him.
Ross’s advice is to stay mindful of your spending, be resourceful, and look after your money wisely.
He's a strong believer in the principle that if you look after the cents, the dollars will take care of themselves.
That philosophy is clear in how he shops. Ross regularly visits up to four different grocery stores to find the best deals, comparing prices and hunting for specials. He isn’t afraid to look beyond big brands either, often choosing generic alternatives or picking up discounted items when they’re on sale.
He also shops at op shops for clothing and household items, seeing second-hand goods as a practical and affordable option, not a compromise.
Ross says small, everyday choices can make a big difference over time. It all adds up!
Ross’s top tips for saving money:
- Pay off your credit card on time to avoid interest charges.
- Choose cheaper cuts of meat for slow-cooked meals like stews and casseroles.
- Take a home prepared lunch or snack when you go out.
- Buy preloved clothing and furniture where possible.
- Go for generic brands, or wait for name brands to go on special.
- Reduce electricity costs by using appliances during off-peak times and switching off lights when you leave a room.
- Walk short distances instead of driving to save on fuel.
Today, Ross is comfortable in retirement, but he hasn’t stopped being careful with his money.
It’s not about spending as little as possible, he says. It’s about getting the best value for what you do spend.
The customer stories on this website are provided for illustrative and educational purposes only, they are general information. You should seek advice from a suitably qualified professional regarding your own circumstances.