Anita finds safety and connection as a single resident

"As a single woman it was all-important that I knew that I was going to be safe and comfortable and there has been no incidences where I haven't felt that.”

Four years ago, Anita faced one of the most significant transitions of her life — moving into a retirement village. As a single woman, safety and comfort were her top priorities. When she met Kate, the village manager and toured several villas, she knew instantly she had found the right place, "Transitioning in was a nervous time. I saw a few villas and I knew exactly what I was looking for but hadn’t been able to find anywhere else. The safety facilities and the sense of security here made all the difference. As a single woman it was all so important that I knew that I was going to be safe and comfortable and there has been  no incidences where I haven't felt that.”

From the very beginning, Anita was impressed by the friendliness and professionalism of the management team, a quality that has remained consistent throughout her time in the village. But what truly sets her experience apart is the vibrant community she’s become part of. "People here are so kind and I have been able to slot into the community with activities and groups that I have become part of. That is one of the benefits that you can’t put a price on.”

Looking ahead, Anita is excited about the village’s upcoming extension. For her, it’s not just about new amenities but also the opportunity to meet new people and create even more connections. “This stage of life is like an adventure. I’m looking forward to meeting all the new residents.”

With the release of 45 brand new 2 and 3 bedroom premium villas, now available for sale, the thoughtfully designed, low-maintenance homes offer a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The upcoming extension will also feature lush greenery, inviting spaces and the beautifully restored historic Homestead for residents to enjoy along with the impressive clubhouse with a library which is a perfect place for residents to gather and form connections.

Mick and Julie enjoy the security and friendship

“There are so many benefits to living here and we’ve never had a second thought about our decision. It’s been fantastic, that’s for sure.”

For Mick and Julie, moving into the retirement village in June 2017 was a decision they have never regretted. Julie says, "I often go for walks in the night and I know I can walk safely around the gardens and the village." Mick echoes her sentiment, highlighting the security features that make the village stand out. “One of the biggest attractions for me is the gated access after hours, which means no through traffic. It’s just so safe and quiet here.”

Beyond the safety and serenity, what truly stands out for Julie is the sense of connection and purpose she’s found within the community. "I have made wonderful friends in here. I am a bit of the social butterfly and like to get involved in the community. I have been here in the Residents’ Committee and in the Social Committee. I even help organise dinners with another resident. It’s these social activities that I really love.”

Mick and Julie also appreciate the support they receive from the village management team. "They’ve been incredibly accommodating. Whenever we’ve had an issue, they’ve listened and done whatever they could to help. We’ve not had a single grumble."

"We couldn’t wish for anybody to be more helpful," adds Julie.

Looking to the future, both Mick and Julie are excited about the village’s growth and the opportunities it will bring. “I’m really looking forward to the expansion and the new amenities. A bigger village means more people to meet and even more activities to enjoy,” Julie says. Mick nods in agreement. “There are so many benefits to living here and we’ve never had a second thought about our decision. It’s been fantastic, that’s for sure.”

Kathy thrives in comfort and wellbeing after life’s transition

"I enjoy lots of activities here. The first thing I joined was aqua aerobics in the swimming pool, which I still love. Then I started playing Mahjong, going to luncheons, sausage sizzles, music nights — there’s just so much to do. Movies, events, all sorts of activities. It’s like being on a cruise!”

A few years ago, Kathy and her husband Ted made the move to a retirement village, seeking a supportive and vibrant community for the next chapter of their lives. What Kathy found was not just a home but a community that helped her transition smoothly after Ted tragically passed away. "From the moment we arrived, everyone was incredibly supportive. They helped me settle in and even assisted with caring for Ted until he passed. The people in the village have really wrapped their arms around me and I feel like I have been here forever.”

Kathy has since embraced the many opportunities for connection and activity within the village. "I enjoy lots of activities here. The first thing I joined was aqua aerobics in the swimming pool, which I still love. Then I started playing Mahjong, going to luncheons, sausage sizzles, music nights — there’s just so much to do. Movies, events, all sorts of activities. It’s like being on a cruise!”

For Kathy, the village isn’t just about socialising — it’s also about maintaining her health and wellness. "My health and wellness needs are supported by using the pool on a regular basis, using the gym, walking my dog in all the surrounding areas which are lovely to walk in."

Reflecting on her decision to move into the village, Kathy recalls something Ted said during their first week: “We should have done this years ago.” Her advice to others considering retirement living? “Go for it. The support, the activities and the sense of belonging are truly priceless.”

Lisa and Michael made the right move at the right time

"The village provides such a sense of community, but it's up to each individual to decide how involved or not they wish to be. It’s a place where you can really connect with other."

When a health diagnosis meant they’d eventually have to move from their home with steps, Lisa and her husband Michael began exploring their options. After looking at places that didn’t feel right, they say serendipity led them to their new home at The Grove Ngunnawal. Lisa shares, "Moving to the village was one of the best decisions we've made. We’d lived in our house for 30 years, and it's only now that I can look back and realise how isolated we were living there. I don't know what it is that makes a place truly a home. But from the moment we moved here, we felt this was indeed a true home. I expected to experience buyer's remorse and feel a bit down after leaving our familiar surroundings, but it simply never happened."

Lisa says, "The village provides such a sense of community, but it's up to each individual to decide how involved or not they wish to be. It’s a place where you can really connect with others. And human connection is key to an enjoyable life. This is where the clubhouse comes into its own. It’s a wonderful place to go and catch up with people."

A plethora of activities

Lisa continues, "I love that here in the village, there are so many things to do. We've also started doing Tai Chi and I’ve really gotten into it. I also enjoy going out to the bush, we're lucky around here as we have many beautiful calm spaces. Someone commented that it's like a little Italian village in the mountains. There really isn't a 'typical' day, as each day is different. But there’s definitely a wonderful rhythm to living here. Some days I get up super early and go for a walk. On other days it's a more leisurely start depending on what I've got on. On Wednesday afternoons, I join in what I call 'crafternoon'. It involves a group of women meeting up for coffee, talking and knitting or crocheting. The guys then come in later to meet up, talk and have a drink.  Friday afternoon is happy hour and most Saturdays, there’s a movie or some type of social activity going on. We have a gardening club on Saturday morning."

Grandkids, adventures and space to retreat

Lisa says, "My days are full, but it's often hard to put my finger on why I'm so busy. Many residents have grandchildren after school and it's lovely seeing them in the village and having these intergenerational relationships. Connecting with younger people is great for everyone involved. We're actually looking at running some play days in the village for grandkids."

Welcoming new residents and wonderful new friendships

Lisa enjoys making sure new residents feel welcome to join the activities and village goings on if they wish. "We all know what it's like to feel intimidated in a new environment and approaching new people. It's like going to a new school or workplace. Navigating new places happens at every stage of life! So I'm thrilled to be able to help new residents with the settling-in process and facilitate introductions." Friends of ours have said, 'You've made the move at the right time by moving in younger.’ It’s so true! It’s allowed us to get more involved with activities, connect with new people and develop wonderful friendships. Combined with the safety of living in a gated-style community, we couldn't recommend it more highly."

                                                                                         Back to The Grove Ngunnawal