An elderly couple who fled their care home because they reportedly hated it have been found safe after a 32-hour search. Colin Geraghty, 89, and his wife Claudette, 83, disappeared from Ryman Nellie Melba Retirement Village in south-east Melbourne at about 11:15 am on Saturday, July 13, 2026.
Couple's Disappearance and Discovery
The couple drove away in their white 2015 Mazda 2, stopping at the Glenn Shopping Centre to buy medication before leaving around midday. Their neighbour, Sharon Jeikishore, alerted staff when she tried to check on them in the afternoon and got no answer. The couple's daughter, Linda McKelvie, grew concerned because Colin has Alzheimer's and Claudette lives with vascular dementia and experiences seizures.
Police were alerted earlier that week after the couple had first attempted to flee the care home. They were eventually located in Maryborough, north-west of Melbourne, on Sunday night. Linda said she believed they were unhappy at the facility, having moved in only the previous Tuesday.
Family's Concerns and Couple's History
Linda told MailOnline: "I think because they were recently in respite care it was such a change for them. They didn't really like being in care and I think they just wanted to be home together. Dad thinks he can help her … they feel like all their choices are being taken away."
Colin and Claudette have been married for 65 years, having met on a dancefloor. On the day they fled, Colin sent a message to Linda: "Don't worry, thank you for your help, I'll make sure I look after her." Linda responded with a plea: "Please come home mum and dad, we are all so worried about you. Even the grandkids. We are all so worried about you."
Impact and Aftermath
The couple's disappearance highlights the challenges faced by elderly individuals with cognitive impairments in care settings. According to Victoria Police, the couple was found in good health and reunited with their family. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for better support and communication in care homes to prevent such occurrences.
