Nestled in the picturesque Yarra Valley with Mt Evelyn and many award-winning wineries just a stone's throw away, Evelyn Ridge retirement village might be one of our most romantic retirement communities.
No wonder that residents Pam and George fell in love after meeting at the village. Their shared passion for great food and wine as well as the many amenities and social activities available at their village led to a bond that ultimately ended in a beautiful wedding, followed by a reception in the village's community centre.
Read on to find out what brought Pam and George to Evelyn Ridge and what has made them not only fall in love with each other, but also with their new retirement lifestyle.
George, who moved to the village in 2020, had initially planned to settle there with his late wife. "My late wife and I had earlier decided that village life was for us and that Melbourne was the preferred location, providing a greater variety of things to do and places to go," he recalls. However, the global financial crisis of 2008 put their plans on hold.
After his wife's passing in 2018, George felt a pull towards Evelyn Ridge. "The Yarra Valley, the quaint township of Mt Evelyn and the rural environment were significant influences," he explains. The proximity to his children, just an hour away, also played a crucial role in his decision.
Pam's story is equally compelling. She moved to Evelyn Ridge nine years ago with her late husband, Alan. Initially hesitant about retirement village life, Pam's doubts vanished as soon as they drove through the gates. "I was impressed by the modern villas, beautiful gardens and the spectacular view," she says.
The community centre, with its swimming pool, gym and bowling green, sealed the deal. "Village living allowed us to travel without worrying about property maintenance and still pursue our hobbies and sporting commitments," Pam adds. After Alan's sudden passing, the support and care from the village community reaffirmed that they had made the right choice.
The swimming pool is just one of the many amenities Pam and George enjoy at Evelyn Ridge
George and Pam's paths eventually crossed at Evelyn Ridge, thanks to their shared love for good food and fine wine. George started a food and wine group in the village and Pam became a member. "We agreed to go out for coffee one day to get some background on how the wine group and its members might operate," George recalls. This simple coffee date led to more meaningful conversations and eventually, dinner.
For Pam, the connections with George were formed during social days and happy hours in the community centre. "Grand Final Day celebrations stand out in my memories," Pam shares. "A casual conversation allowed me to discuss some of my feelings about Alan’s death. We found that our spouses of nearly 50 years had died within two weeks of each other four years previous."
Their mutual love of good food, wine and social activities brought them closer. "People in the village commented often it was lovely to see me 'happy again'," Pam says.
Both George and Pam found that village life offered a sense of safety and community. "Neighbours look out for you and assist as needed," George notes. "We have always felt very safe in our village." Pam adds, "Sport has played a big role in my life before moving to 'the Ridge'. I play Lawn Bowls at the Village and we have an inter-village competition and social days which allow us to get to know our neighbours better while enjoying time outdoors."
Both value the strong sense of community and support at Evelyn Ridge. "Friendships are not confined to one or two immediate neighbours," George explains. "Staff are very supportive and helpful — with advice on tradies, local activities, etc." Pam echoes this sentiment, highlighting the caring and thoughtful staff who have built great relationships with the residents. "It is of great comfort that we have such caring and thoughtful staff," she says.
George describes how their friendship eventually blossomed into love. "There followed much discussion with and about families, spirituality and values and hopes and expectations for the future." Their discernment process took a few months, involving visits to Canberra and meetings with families. "I think we were wise and mature enough to be clear about our future and how family and villa integration might work," George says.
After George and Pam started 'going out,' the residents were very supportive. "The ladies gave me a 'Hen’s Night' at the community centre," Pam shares. "On our wedding day, lots of our neighbours came to the church in support and it was wonderful to look around and see so many of our friends from the Village." The week after their wedding, they held a reception in the community centre, attended by about 85 of their neighbours.
Pam and George at their wedding reception
George and Pam have some advice for new residents: "Be open and engage in social activities even though it might be hard initially. Hermit life in a village has its limitations. Start slowly and pick your activities and people. Use the buddy system which is a new initiative. Don’t leave it too late; make the move while you are able to make adjustments to living conditions and while you are still keen to join in social activities. Village life offers a sense of security and support."
For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550 or send us an email here.
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