Resident profile · July 2026

Fred Thompson

Born in Belfast, shaped by nearly 60 years in South Africa, and now quietly reorganising our Level 3 library – meet one of the Precinct’s most characterful residents.

Fred Thompson holding his memoir in the Precinct library

“It’s not what you know, or who you know – it’s how many people you know.”

If you haven’t yet met Fred Thompson, this is your invitation to do just that. Friendly, curious and always ready for a conversation, Fred is one of those residents whose story reminds us how much we can discover simply by stopping for a chat.

Born in Belfast during World War II, Fred set off for South Africa in the early 1960s as a young man looking for opportunity, adventure and a new life. After nearly 60 happy years there, he retired and moved to Perth four years ago to be closer to his sons and their families.

On the library shelves

Not Bad for a Boy from Belfast

Fred’s remarkable life is captured in his self-published memoir, which you’ll find on the shelves of the Precinct library on Level 3. It’s a wonderful read, and an even better reason to get to know the man behind the story.

If you spot Fred in the library, around the building or enjoying the shared spaces he speaks so fondly of be sure to say hello.

In his own words

Getting to know Fred

How long have you lived here?

I’ve been in Australia for four years, and I’ve called the Precinct home for the past 18 months.

Is apartment living a new experience for you?

Most definitely. Apartment living is very different from anywhere else I’ve lived, but the Precinct is, in my mind, one of the best living establishments I’ve ever known. Everything here is designed for the residents, and it’s fantastic! The library, the pool, the walking area, the gym – it’s all incredible.

Do you live on your own or with family?

I spend two weeks at a time living here with my son and daughter-in-law on the 18th floor, then two weeks living with my other son north of the river. I love being here with my family and living in such a great place. I’m a lucky man!

Why did you choose apartment living?

My son and daughter-in-law had a house in Mt Pleasant, with a yard and a garden, but they have busy lives, so moving here just made good sense. It was a lifestyle choice. It’s better for them, better for me, and very convenient.

What is your favourite space in the building and why?

The third floor is my favourite. The walking area, the gym, the pool and the library are all unbelievable. I’d love to see more people using the library – it’s fantastic! I love books and I read everything. Some of the authors and stories I’ve come across have been incredible. I’ve been organising all the books in the library so people can find a good book to read – books about famous people, sports people, or just stories. There are so many great books to choose from.

What facilities or services would you like to see in the building?

I’d simply like to see more people using the facilities we already have. Anyone who lives here is very privileged.

What advice would you give someone to get the most out of life here at the Precinct?

Talk to each other, read, enjoy the library and make the most of what’s here. Use the steam room, the gym and the pool – it’s all here so you can be active and feel good. That’s something very dear to my heart. When I was a young boy, I took up boxing, and I loved the way it made me feel good about myself. If you can’t feel good about yourself, it’s hard to feel good about everyone else.

What’s your favourite part about living in the Precinct?

For me, it’s all the fantastic facilities here and the people you can meet if you want to. Everyone has a story. This place has so much to offer – just make the most of it every day.