Hall's Angels prove age is just a number on Mandurah's cycling paths

Less than a year ago, Dini Ball was recovering from spinal surgery and struggling to walk.

Today, the 79-year-old is cycling up to 15 kilometres a day around Mandurah with her two best friends, proving that age and setbacks don’t define what’s possible.

Dini is part of the “Hall's Angels”, a trio of BaptistCare Parkland Villas residents who ride their three-wheeled bicycles through Halls Head and Mandurah's scenic bushland, coastal paths and waterways.

What started as a way to rebuild strength and mobility after surgery has grown into a daily ritual of friendship, fitness and fun.

“I never thought I'd ever be able to cycle, I was just happy to be able to walk again,” Dini said.

After undergoing spinal surgery in October 2025, Dini spent months in rehabilitation before deciding to try a trike to support her recovery.

She was soon joined by neighbour Barbara McShane, 67, who has undergone two hip replacements, while Elizabeth Waterson 69, was already a keen rider who regularly explored the area with her miniature poodle, Yannie, riding in a basket on the front of her trike.

The group has become affectionately known as the Hall's Angels, a playful nod to their Halls Head home.

“There are 130 people in the village, but this has built our friendship to become very strong – we're like the Three Musketeers,” Dini said.

The women say the benefits extend well beyond physical fitness.

“It's very social,” Dini said.

“The trikes lift our spirits. We might stop for a coffee, have a laugh and enjoy the scenery.
“We even have matching jackets.”

Barbara said the group had gradually built their confidence and endurance.

“When we started, we were only doing a couple of kilometres,” she said.
“Now we're doing 12 to 15 kilometres and tackling hills.

“You’re never too old to start. In a group it's inspirational because you don't want to let each other down.”

Elizabeth said the group's commitment to riding together kept everyone motivated.
“We ride rain, hail or shine,” she said.

“There's no motor doing the work for us, it's all pure woman power.”

The Hall's Angels have become familiar faces around Mandurah, with locals regularly stopping to chat and offer encouragement.

BaptistCare Parkland Villas Village Manager Belinda Barnes said the women are a wonderful example of positive ageing.

“Low-impact exercise such as cycling can help maintain muscle strength, balance, confidence and independence as we age,” Ms Barnes said.

“But equally important is the social connection that comes from activities like these. Strong friendships and a sense of purpose can have a significant impact on health and wellbeing.
”The Hall's Angels are supporting each other, staying active and embracing life.“

As Dini prepares to celebrate her 80th birthday in a couple of months, the group hopes their story encourages others to give something new a try.

“Age is just a number,” Barbara said.