Planning for your retirement…is like training for a triathlon

Shane Lee • July 28, 2015

I thought I was relatively fit. And then I decided to do my first triathlon! It was only a short distance and I did make it (just), but it got me thinking about what I needed to do to make my next goal, and just how much training for a triathlon is like retirement planning.

Start early. It’s a lot harder competing in your first race at age 60. If you’d started training younger – at least in your 30s – you’d find that you have the stamina and techniques in place. The same goes for retirement planning, start making small contributions towards your nest egg as young as you can.

Will you have enough? You think you’ve got enough steam to last, until you realise the distance is longer than you thought. We are all living longer, so make sure you have estimated the amount of money you’ll really need for a comfortable retirement.

Be disciplined. Training requires consistency. In the same way, you need to take control of your superannuation, keep good records, be actively interested in what it’s earning and where it’s invested. Remember, super is your money.

Remember the end goal. There is no better feeling than crossing that finish line, knowing you’ve done your very best. When it gets tough, keep focussing on the euphoria you will feel when you’re experiencing the freedom of the retirement you dreamed of.

Get a coach. Retirement planning is a tricky area, especially if you are looking at aged care accommodation options. Don’t go it alone. Get good advice so that you can plan out the steps to reach your goals and have someone in your corner helping you get there.

Adrian Rasmussen retires after decades supporting Regional Queensland

By BMO • June 30, 2026
After an incredible career dedicated to supporting regional businesses, farming families and rural communities, BMO Business Centre Partner Adrian Rasmussen will officially retire from the partnership effective 30 June 2026. For many across the Western Downs and beyond, Adrian has been far more than an accountant or advisor. Over decades in business, he has built trusted relationships grounded in honesty, loyalty and a genuine understanding of regional life and the people who live it. Adrian’s connection to the country and agriculture has always been at the heart of who he is. He has worked alongside generations of farming families and business owners through seasons of growth, challenge and change, becoming a steady and respected presence for clients, colleagues and the wider community alike. Reflecting on his time at BMO, Adrian said the relationships formed throughout his career have been among the most rewarding parts of the journey. “It has been a privilege to work with so many wonderful people over the years; not only clients, but colleagues and communities who have become lifelong friends,” Adrian said. “Regional communities are built on relationships, trust and supporting one another, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of that throughout my career.” BMO Business Centre Managing Partners Kelvin Tyler and Michelle McVeigh said Adrian’s contribution to both the business and the region would leave a lasting legacy. “Adrian has played an incredibly important role in shaping BMO into the business it is today,” they said. “His care for clients, commitment to regional communities and calm, practical approach have earned enormous respect across our industry and the communities we serve. While we will certainly miss having him in the office, we are excited for Adrian and his family as they enter this next chapter.” While stepping away from the partnership, Adrian is looking forward to spending more time with family, on the farm and enjoying a well-earned change of pace after many years dedicated to supporting others. Everyone at BMO Business Centre extends their sincere thanks to Adrian for his years of service, friendship and leadership, and wishes Adrian and his family all the very best for the future.

Your 30 June superannuation checklist

By Nikki Ashurst • June 4, 2026
Five easy ways to get more into your super fund before the end of the financial year.