A Labradoodle puppy that will become a Hearing Assistance Dog has been named ‘Laurel’ by residents at The Laurels Retirement Village, which is already home to a clever pooch that belongs to a resident with hearing loss.

The Adelaide Hills retirees had been vying for the honour to name the pup as the village’s operator, RetireAustralia, has exclusive naming rights because it is contributing towards the cost of training the puppy.

The winning puppy name was revealed at a special morning tea on April 5, an event which celebrated the ‘pawsome’ and enduring association between RetireAustralia and Australian Lions Hearing Dogs.

The Laurels has been home to Hearing Assistance Dogs in recent years, including a highly intelligent canine named ‘Spud’ that provides a set of furry ears for resident Bronwyn Paddick.

Now RetireAustralia is giving back to a charity that has benefited residents by helping with the cost of training a puppy, which will have a few visits to the village before being placed with its new owner.

Hearing Assistance Dogs play a vital role in the lives of their owners – they increase the quality of everyday living and help alleviate conditions often associated with hearing loss including depression, anxiety and communication withdrawal.

Residents at The Laurels are familiar with the work of Australian Lions Hearing Dogs, with Hearing Assistance Dog ‘Spud,’ moving into the village in September 2020. Since then, he has been alerting deaf owner Bronwyn to potentially life-threatening risks around her home.

RetireAustralia’s Industry and Community Liaison Anna Zinenko said the organisation’s contribution towards the training costs of the puppy was a fantastic opportunity for the village to strengthen its connection with the charity.

“It’s a way for residents to support Australian Lions Hearing Dogs,” she said.

“They get to name the puppy and the sponsorship money goes towards training the puppy.”

Australian Lions Hearing Dogs CEO David Horne said the contribution was valuable, given the charity is 100 per cent funded by donations and sponsorship, and training a Hearing Assistance Dog can cost upwards of $37,000.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support from RetireAustralia,” he said.

“They know the benefits that a Hearing Assistance Dog has on a person who is deaf or hard of hearing, seeing first-hand the impact on The Laurels resident Bronwyn with Hearing Dog Spud.”

Australian Lions Hearing Dogs Development Director Alix Katala said it was incredibly special for the charity, located at Verdun, to engage retirees who were part of the same community.

“To give The Laurels residents an opportunity to meet and name an adorable future Hearing Dog puppy is so rewarding, we look forward to sharing the puppy’s training journey with them,” she said.

ENDS

Lexi Connor, Boambee Gardens Retirement Village Manager

Lexi Connor knew exactly where she wanted to celebrate her wedding reception – at Boambee Gardens Retirement Village, just so residents could be part of her special day.

“The best part of our wedding six years ago was seeing residents in their RetireAustralia t-shirts running the bar; it was fantastic. The residents get so involved and they love you like you are part of their family,” she said.

Keeping community connection alive is Lexi’s focus at Boambee Gardens, which often means she seldom gets time for herself, but is precisely the drive she needs to keep going.

Between managing RetireAustralia’s Boambee Gardens, caring for her severely autistic son, planning special themed events for residents at the village and performing in her own band Magic Mojo, Lexi is not afraid to admit she is stressed.

“If you saw my desk, you wouldn’t believe extreme organisation is part of my life. I’ve had a goal to clean my desk for the past two weeks and it still hasn’t happened,” the Coffs Harbour resident said with a chuckle.

It is no surprise then she calls Coffs Harbour home. For the past 22 years, the tranquil seaside destination has offered her solace – counteracting her busy schedule.

“Everything is beautiful here in Coffs Harbour. We’ve got a great hospital and fabulous doctors and amazing restaurants,” she said.

The life and soul of the party

And just six minutes away is her workplace Boambee Gardens – where there is always an excuse to have a party; when there is one coming up, residents know exactly who to count on for a fun-filled night – Magic Mojo.

Not surprisingly Lexi is the lead vocalist of the versatile band. She played her first gig 24 years ago, and since then the band has notched up over 600 performances singing classic hits – from ACDC to Suzi Quatro – across Coffs Coast pubs.

Lexi is also famous for planning themed events at Boambee Gardens, which have been described as legendary.

“For our last birthday party, it was a 1970s theme. We decorated the walls with vinyl records, so the residents could reminisce about the music they used to buy from that era.

“They (residents) all got dressed up in 1970s apparel – plenty of bell bottoms and love beads, it was fantastic.”

Connections through COVID

Her innovativeness and ability to think outside the box provided a stabilising force for the village during COVID and earned Lexi the coveted NSW Village Manager of the Year in 2021.

From painting pebbles for Easter and hiding them around the village at night; acting as an elusive “chalk bomber”, leaving inspirational messages on village pavements to encourage residents to get outside and be active; and writing and producing a weekly Covid Chronicle during lockdown, complete with puzzles, crosswords, and colouring in, residents never felt isolated.

Family is everything

It is hard to contemplate four years ago Lexi almost did not take up the Village Manager role – out of fear; not because she could not do the role but because she couldn’t fathom how she was going to ‘juggle’ her life tasks in addition to work.

But thanks to a motivational push by her husband, Lexi took on the role and as they say, the rest is history.

Last year was big for Lexi. Her son Tom, 18, who is non-verbal, graduated from high school – news she undoubtedly shared with her Boambee family.

“The residents aren’t getting much out of him (Tom) in return. We taught Tom how to fist pump and he remembers some of their names – their faces just light up and it’s a wonderful feeling,” Lexi said.

“This is why I love working here. The residents celebrate with me, they show concern for me, and they worry about me. Where else would I want to be than right here in Coffs Harbour with my family from Boambee Gardens.”

A vibrant and supportive community

Boambee Gardens offers the perfect balance of relaxation and connection. The village’s laid back, holiday feel and vibrant social community offer something for everyone.

Located just moments from beautiful beaches and sweeping headlands, Boambee Gardens is close to cafés, shops, public transport and local clubs.

With a strong focus on connection, Boambee Gardens is characterised by an active, social community and welcoming environment. Choose to get involved in any one of the range of social events and activities from our extensive calendar; relax in the privacy of your own spacious home; or enjoy a stroll at one of the nearby beaches.

Boambee Gardens offers a range of living options and support services to meet your individual needs. Whether that means living independently in your own unit or seeking daily support in one of our serviced apartments, there is an option to suit you. Should you ever face health challenges, rest easy knowing you can access additional care and support if you need it.

It is a place to feel right at home – both now and in the years ahead.

Find a community that treats you like family

One of the most important decisions you will make in retirement is deciding where to live. This has an impact on your lifestyle, friends, location, and sense of wellbeing.

Maybe you’ve decided to stay in the family home but find it hard to keep up with maintenance, or have moved into an apartment but are missing a sense of community.

If you’re retired, planning your retirement, or just weighing up your options, it’s worth considering whether a retirement village is right for you. In this post, we’ve outlined five advantages of living in a retirement village.

Retirement villages

First, it’s important to understand what a retirement village is – and what it’s not.

Retirement villages are vibrant residential communities designed for older Australians. They’re perfect if you’d like the safety and security of village life, the convenience of maintenance being taken care of, and peace of mind knowing you can access care and support should you ever need it.

Conversely, an aged care facility is for those who need full-time care and are unable to live independently. The move into aged care often follows a significant health event or decline in mobility.

A land lease or lifestyle community is targeted at younger retirees and is often located on the site of a former caravan park. Land lease communities are legislated under the same laws as manufactured home parks and caravan parks, which means your right to remain in your home isn’t protected if the land lease operator ceases to exist. What’s more, land lease communities generally don’t offer care options so may not be suitable if your health or mobility changes.

Remember that circumstances change, and the decision you made five years ago may no longer feel right. And that’s ok! We’ve welcomed residents to our villages who found it too time-consuming to maintain the family home, and others who had already downsized into an apartment but found the experience isolating.

If you’d like to know more about retirement living options, check out our Retire Ready guide.

Remember that circumstances change, and the decision you made five years ago may no longer feel right.

Safety and security

Enhanced safety and security are one of the most important benefits of living in a retirement village. You can rest easy knowing you’re in a community of like-minded neighbours where everyone looks out for each other.

You can enjoy the space and privacy of your own home, while knowing the friendly on-site team are there if you ever need it. All villages have a dedicated Village Manager, and larger villages and those with care or serviced apartments also have administration and support staff, maintenance, gardeners, carers and chefs.

Many residents also love the option to “lock up and leave”. They can travel to visit family, knowing that someone will collect their mail and look after the gardens. This offers invaluable peace of mind, knowing your home and belongings will be in top condition when you return.

And we can’t talk about safety and security without mentioning the low-maintenance lifestyle – with no gardens to mow or house maintenance to take care of, you can focus on the activities and people you love the most. This means you’ll never find yourself up a ladder again, or hurting your back from arduous maintenance tasks.

Sense of community

Another important feature is the sense of community and belonging that’s inherent to village life. Not only will you be with like-minded neighbours at the same stage of life, but you’ll have ample opportunities for social connection.

Research has shown that community bonds can boost physical health and mental and emotional wellbeing. Social stimulation can even help stave off dementia and feelings of isolation.

While social activities vary by village, they can include regular happy hours, movie nights, morning teas, card games, lawn bowls, and day trips. You can participate as much or little as you like, and the social options are flexible, changing with resident interests.

The amenities in each village also add to a sense of community. Some are lively hubs of social activity, while others are peaceful places for a spot of quiet reflection.

Independence

One of the best parts about retirement village living is that you can maintain your independence and choose your own schedule, while benefitting from a community of support around you. Retirement villages have a range of living and care options suited to different stages of life.

Independent living villas re perfect if you want to enjoy life on your terms with the safety net of a like-minded community. With the time saved on gardening and maintenance, you can spend your days with friends and family, doing the things you love.

If you need a little extra daily support, you might be better suited to a care or serviced apartment. Here, you can take part in village activities while someone else looks after housekeeping, laundry, maintenance and cooking. You can also access personal care services if you need them.

And if you just need a little extra support from time to time, you can access flexible home care services from your own home.

All of these options differ markedly from aged care, in that retirement village residents can access extra support on their own terms when they need it. In contrast, those in aged care often require 24/7 assistance with nursing support and personal care.

Maintain your independence and choose your own schedule – all with a supportive community at hand.

Infection control and cleanliness

Infection control and cleanliness have never been more important. But you can rest assured that our number one priority is the health and wellbeing of our residents and team members.

Since the advent of COVID-19, we have reviewed and enhanced our Infection Control policies and procedures, and trained all team members on their individual responsibilities.

At a village level, we’ve increased hand washing stations in communal areas, we offer free flu vaccinations for all employees, provide PPE, and have adopted additional cleaning protocols and stringent cleanliness measures.

We’ve taken a village-specific response to community activities and facilities, considering different state restrictions, the unique built environment, and proximity to COVID-19 cases. Our response has been dynamic and flexible, so we can adapt to the ever-changing situation and maintain our villages as safe havens. This means residents can get on with their lives – in the safest way possible.

Keeping active

Living in a retirement village encourages you to stay active, which in turn fosters your health and wellbeing. Recent research suggests that regular physical activity is even linked with better cognition.

Our villages offer ample opportunities to keep your mind and body active – through both the amenities on-site and the social activities on offer. While each village is unique, these can include dancing, yoga, pilates, and exercise classes.

Amenities can include a swimming pool, gym, tennis court, and lawn bowls, to name a few. Some residents opt to get their daily exercise by taking a stroll through the leafy grounds. And, with many villages welcoming pets, you can include your furry friend and get fresh air at the same time!

Want to see for yourself?

If you’re thinking about moving to a retirement village, it’s a great idea to talk to the residents themselves. Why not book a tour at your local village, so you can get a feel for the community?

Visit your nearest community and see the advantages for yourself

Construction is well underway on 92 luxury apartments at The Green Tarragindi, with project completion anticipated in 2023. We can’t wait to welcome our first residents into what promises to be a wonderful community, blending a superb location with tailored care and support options and generous green spaces – including the rejuvenated Tarragindi Bowls Club.

Recently, we took a moment to sit down with RetireAustralia’s Development team to find out about the vision for The Green.

As Senior Development Manager, Angus Spencer helped conceptualise The Green and guided the project from the very beginning. While Angus takes on a new challenge at RetireAustralia, Sharon Waddell will steer The Green through construction to opening.

Here, they share RetireAustralia’s vision for the village, explain how design elements have been selected to help residents live and age well, and which features they’d secretly like in their own home.

Q. Can you talk us through the thought process behind The Green? Why did you choose Tarragindi as the site for this village?

Angus: What we love about Tarragindi is that it’s a great community full of young families and some of the best schools on Brisbane’s south side. But the character of the area was changing, with retirees moving out of the area, and younger people splitting up the larger blocks and re-building.

The knock-on effect of this urban regeneration is that as people get older, they move to the fringes of the city away from the community they’ve been tied to for so many years.

I’ve seen this first-hand with my own neighbour, who couldn’t find a retirement village in our part of Brisbane. So, she moved to Wynnum, away from her friends and community, as well as her hairdresser, local shops, doctor and dentist. Now every time there’s a family event, one of her adult children makes a 3-hour round trip to make sure she’s included.

And I firmly believe that people should have the right to live in their community when they get older.

Q. Why is it so important for people to stay in their community?

Angus: Staying in your neighbourhood allows you to stay close to friends and family. Especially as we get older, it’s critical to create connections and maintain friendships.

The Green allows people to continue to enjoy all the things they love in their neighbourhood, and be part of a like-minded community. Equally if you’re looking to change things up in retirement, The Green is situated in a wonderful community close to everything you could need.

Sharon: The other important element is that we can provide care and support in the community. Residents can receive a variety of home care options, delivered in your own home by people you know and trust.

Q. Let’s move on to their apartments themselves. What are the must-haves for an apartment that encourages you to live and age well?

Angus: We talk about having an intentional design and care philosophy and prioritising safety in design. This means we’ve thought through all the details, right down to catering for residents with hearing loss and visual impairments.

The apartments are contemporary in design while being equitable for all residents. For example they include elements such as hearing loops in our communal spaces so residents can connect their hearing aids. We’ve made sure there are zero thresholds, which means a smooth transition when you walk onto your balcony, or from your bedroom into the bathroom. Solid bathroom walls allow residents to install handles if they ever need them. All of these things are specifically designed to help keep residents safe. The flexibility within our design allows residents to age in place, in beautiful, modern apartments within their community.

Sharon: The circulation space in the bedroom has been carefully considered and is very spacious. All master bedrooms can accommodate a queen size bed and there’s room for a bigger side table too. Now when residents transition to an apartment from a large home, they don’t feel like they’re coming into a little box. Instead, their bedroom will feel like a sanctuary.

There’s extra circulation space in the kitchen too, over and above what you’d expect in a normal apartment. This comfortably accommodates residents with a wheelchair or walker.

Angus: Our development ethos is founded on meeting national accreditation standards including Green Star and the Australian Livable Housing Design Gold Standard.

Every element is designed for an older user. In the kitchen, we’ve lifted up the microwaves and ovens, so residents don’t need to bend over.

We’ve included additional spaces around the shower and WC in every bathroom, which meets the Liveable Housing Australia gold requirement. This means there’s sufficient space for a carer to help with showering if ever needed. It’s seamless.

Q. Can you tell us more about the interiors?

Sharon: Angus has touched on the intentional care philosophy already, but I’ll expand more on the design philosophy behind The Green, because that guided a lot of these decisions. In essence, we focused on three key areas – creating a low-maintenance, private and secure lifestyle for residents.

If we look at low-maintenance, you’ll see the apartments are exceptionally well-appointed, with Smeg and Fisher and Paykel appliances, stone benchtops and separate laundries. We know that by incorporating top-of-the-line fittings and appliances, residents won’t need to worry about replacing or maintaining them, so this helps with a low-maintenance lifestyle.

As for security, each apartment has a personal emergency response system with support available 24/7. There’s also secure underground parking available, with passive surveillance, lighting and security monitoring.

And finally, we know privacy is a top priority for many residents. To balance this with a sense of community, we’ve dedicated seventy per cent of the site to open space. This means residents can enjoy sub-tropical gardens without leaving The Green. Each apartment also has a contemporary design and private balcony, which invites buckets of natural light into the living room, bedroom and balcony areas.

Angus: We chose a light, neutral colour palette so it complements an array of furniture colours and styles – we know not every resident buys new furniture before moving into a village.

The colour palette is designed to the Stirling University requirements for light reflectivity variation. The idea is that it’s a measure of the colour tone of a surface and its contrasted surface next to it. So when you transition from a tile to a carpet in similar colour tones, you don’t feel you’re stepping off something.

Q. What technology solutions are incorporated into the apartments?

Angus: All apartments come connected to the NBN, but residents can choose their own provider. There are TV/ Aerial points in the living area and bedrooms and ducted reverse cycle air conditioning.

We also have a 24-hour personal emergency response system (PERS) embedded into every apartment, as Sharon mentioned. This operates everywhere in the village so residents can quickly get the help they need.

Sharon: There are also smart TVs in the common areas and a cinema. Technology solutions are designed to help residents stay connected and access health services, as well as be energy efficient.

Q. Can you talk us through the sustainability features of the apartments?

Angus: We’ve deliberately incorporated sustainable and environmental standards to keep energy and consumption costs at a minimum and reduce greenhouse emissions. The taps and appliances are energy efficient and save water, and all appliances are top-of-the range.

With communal hot water and air conditioning, residents only pay for what they use. The building also has natural cross-ventilation – larger eaves provide shade rather than relying on a manufactured cooling system. We also chose glass which filters out more heat and sunlight.

We take a very serious approach to sustainability and RetireAustralia is one of the first retirement providers to adopt Green Star targets.

Q. And finally, what aspects of The Green do you secretly want in your own home?

Angus: I think the absolute must-have is a kitchen that’s designed so that things are high and it’s functional and accessible for an older user. That, and being well located, in a community of like-minded people.

Sharon: For me, it would be having a beautiful outlook. There are three different aspects from the apartments – one from Mt Coot-tha to the city, one from the city to the Gateway Bridge, and one overlooking the bushland at Tarragindi Recreation Reserve. They’re all stunning in their own way.

I also like the way The Green has been integrated into the community, with the bowls club on the doorstep and seventy per cent of the site dedicated to green space. If there’s something that maintains your smarts and your mobility as you age, it’s having interaction with a broad range of people.

I don’t want to be isolated as I get older. I think if you can see the outside from your apartment and are surrounded by a caring community, you won’t feel that way.

Angus: It’s a really vibrant area. There’s a kindergarten and Scouts next door and an arts collective nearby. It’s an active community, especially with the Tarragindi Bowls Club. It’s all these things that make up a really wonderful tapestry of the Tarragindi community.

For more information please call our friendly sales team on 1800 955 070.

Older artists, who traditionally find it difficult to have their work exhibited, now have an outlet with a new exhibition highlighting the work of over-65s.

The Senior Artists’ Exhibition 2022 is giving older artists a real opportunity to share their work with the public, with dozens of retirees having their artwork professionally curated and sold at no cost at the event.

The over-65s from across the Southern Eyre Peninsula have submitted a variety of artwork, including paintings and sculptures, for the exhibition which runs until April 1 at Port Lincoln’s Nautilus Arts Centre (NAC).

Presented by RetireAustralia, owner/operator of Lincoln Grove Retirement Village, the exhibition also aims to improve seniors’ mental health and wellbeing by providing them with an opportunity to be creative while connecting with like-minded people.

Nautilus Arts Centre coordinator Sue Roesler said there was a real need for the exhibition.

“Older artists can be overlooked and may not have the same outlets to show their work,” she said.

“There are quality pieces at the exhibition. We have already sold several pieces and we expect many more will be sold.”

Retiree Jenny Sundelius has relished the opportunity to create art for the exhibition.

“I am self-taught and love the time I spend painting. It is so relaxing and with some background music the creativity flows,” she said.

“It gives a real boost to your mental wellbeing. I work on my paintings until I am happy and hope that other people will also enjoy my creativity.”

While entrants have the chance to become the People’s Choice certificate winner, the exhibition was never really designed to be a competition.

“The exhibition was created as a way to help improve the mental health and wellbeing of our seniors,” Lincoln Grove Community Engagement Consultant Janet Grocke said.

“Painting and sculpting are great ways to take your mind off the worrries of everyday life and studies have shown that activities like painting and sculpting help reduce stress levels.

“As Pablo Picasso once said, ‘art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life.”

ENDS

Stylish apartment living where you can have it all awaits on New South Wales’ idyllic Central Coast, with the final release of independent living apartments at The Rise at Wood Glen.

Offering stunning views in a private yet convenient location, the modern and expansive apartments are expected to be snapped up quickly. Construction is underway on the apartments, located in the second – and final – building at the highly sought-after village.

The first building at The Rise has sold out, and expressions of interests are now being taken for the last release. There are 32 two and three-bedroom residences to choose from, with various layouts to suit both couples and singles.

Set amongst the foliage at the base of Kincumba Mountain Reserve, The Rise offers a peaceful lifestyle in a secure environment. Its location within the well-established Wood Glen Retirement Village means residents enjoy access to resort-style facilities, award-winning gardens and a vibrant social calendar.

Everything you want or need is nearby, including stunning beaches, great shopping, restaurants and medical facilities. Just over an hour’s drive from Sydney, The Rise is an appealing option for retirees who want to enjoy the enviable lifestyle that the coast offers while still being close to an international city.

An apartment that suits your style

The Rise offers contemporary apartments with superior finishes and inclusions. Each residence has floor to ceiling glass to maximise natural light and bring the outside in, and a balcony that offers mesmerising views of the Erina Valley bushland.

There’s plenty of room to sprawl out and enjoy life, while European appliances and high-end finishes add a touch of luxury and refinement.

Intentionally designed for later in life, each apartment has been constructed with security and low maintenance living in mind.

Tucked away amongst lush greenery, The Rise provides residents with plenty of privacy in a secure community. While you will feel like you’re away from the hustle and bustle, you’ll still find everything you need right on your doorstep.

Located in the heart of Erina, The Rise is just a stone’s throw from some of the region’s best beaches, stunning nature reserves, and the Coast’s largest shopping centre, Erina Fair.

The village is also close to important amenities such as pharmacies and the Gosford Hospital, plus vibrant shopping and dining hubs.

Enjoy superb, five-star amenities in a caring community

Located within the well-established Wood Glen Retirement Village, residents of The Rise benefit from the strong sense of community and exceptional amenities including a heated swimming pool, spa, bowling green, gymnasium, hairdressing salon and country-club style community centre, The Lodge.

There’s also plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded people. Join your neighbours in the bar or over a game of billiards or enjoy dinner together in the barbeque area.

The village also offers a vibrant social calendar that can satisfy whatever it is that sparks your interest.

Look forward to spending your days relaxing in the privacy of your spacious apartment or out and about, enjoying the excellent amenities of the welcoming village and the local area.

Care and support you can count on

Enjoy the lifestyle you want now, with a safety net of care and support that you can count on should you ever need it.

The Village team is always ready to assist, plus all apartments are serviced by a dedicated team who take care of gardening and maintenance.

Residents at The Rise also have access to RetireAustralia’s Home Care services. The reliable and experienced team offers assistance with household chores, meal preparation, showering, dressing and medication support, to name a few. Care is tailored to exactly what you need and funded either privately or via access to an approved government funded Home Care Package (HCP).

There’s also the added peace of mind of knowing that if you need extra care later on there are flexible transfer options to RetireAustralia’s very own alternative to aged care, Glengara Care in Tumbi Umbi and to Tarragal Manor Serviced Apartments which are just across the road in Erina.

Have it all at The Rise.

Perfect for now, ideal for later.

Stage two coming soon

Register your interest

Lifelong friends Ruth and Hazel at Torrens Grove Retirement Village

That it is nice to have friends close by is something Hazel Wilson and Ruth Taylor can attest to. The 91-year-olds’  lifelong connection began in high school and has endured to today where they find themselves living a few streets apart at Torrens Grove Retirement Village.

It all started at high school

Hazel grew up on the York Peninsula and came to Adelaide for high school, boarding at Cabra Dominican College. It was there she met Ruth who was a day girl and didn’t fraternise much with the boarding school girls. The pair knew each other, they had classes together and graduated together. Little did they know, this would be the start of a lifelong friendship.

After school, Ruth went to nursing college and Ruth followed a year or so later and they both worked as nurses at the Royal Adelaide Hospital. But the parallels didn’t end there.

Both women married men named Brian, who happened to be great friends.

Ruth, Hazel and the two Brians moved into neighbouring Adelaide suburbs. Hazel and Brian had six children and Ruth and Brian had nine. The kids all knew each other – the boys went to St Michael’s College and some of the girls went to Siena College. The two families grew up together.

Leaving the family home

In 2014, it had become apparent to Ruth and Brian that they could no longer maintain their large six-bedroom family home, so they decided to move into an independent living unit at Torrens Grove Retirement Village.

“I didn’t hesitate because I knew we couldn’t stay in the big house and manage it, and I liked the units,” Ruth remembered.

“The units were airy enough and light. They were accessible because they were on the ground floor.”

Among their regular visitors were Hazel and Brian, who would regularly pop over on a Saturday night.

“They used to come over and play cards. A group of us would go from one house to the other,” Ruth said.

While both Brians sadly passed away within a few years of each other, Ruth and Hazel kept in touch.

Knowing Hazel was living alone in the family home, Ruth had planted the idea of moving into a retirement village, but not any retirement village, Torrens Grove.

Hazel was very familiar with the village and had considered moving but wasn’t quite ready to leave the comfort of her family home. It held too many memories.

A Care Experience

Hazel’s health started to decline, she was having falls at home and was in and out of hospital. After yet another hospital stay, Hazel and her daughter agreed to try out the Care Experience to see if the move to Torrens Grove would be a good fit.

Torrens Grove Village Manager, Michelle Cheetham, says our Care Experience offers potential residents the chance to stay in a fully-furnished serviced apartment to enjoy all the benefits of village life.

During this time, meals, cleaning, laundry and linen is taken care of and residents have full access to the village facilities and activities.

The Care Experience is also perfect if you need to recover from illness, injury or a hospital stay.

Hazel moved into a serviced apartment for two weeks. During this time, she got to know the other residents and the village team, and she had many visits from family and friends, including Ruth.

Ruth and Hazel had many conversations about what life is like in a retirement village but at the end of her stay, Hazel decided she still wanted to go home.

It was only when Hazel moved back home that she realised that she could no longer continue living there alone. It was then that she made the decision to move into a serviced apartment of her choosing, at the Torrens Grove Retirement Village.

Safety, security and support

Leaving the family home was a very emotional experience for Hazel but she says that she is really happy she made the decision. Hazel knows that having care and support available is exactly what she needs. This also provided her family with peace of mind that she would be looked after, especially if she had another fall.

Hazel loves the spaciousness and privacy of her apartment and what the village offers.

“You can meet up with a lot of people and they have quite a few activities,” Hazel said.

A lifelong friendship endures

Ruth and Hazel only live streets away from each other in the village and try to catch up with one another as much as possible. They appreciate having each other close by.

Although Ruth said, mobility challenges had become a bit of a hurdle.

“I’m a couple of streets away, but I’m getting older and having trouble getting down there,” she said. “I do get my Gopher (scooter) and go down.”

If that fails, there’s always the phone.

“We have always rung one another, even when she was at home,” said Ruth. “We have that connection; we call one another if we don’t see one another.”

“It’s good to be able to see her and have a good chat,” said Hazel.

Ruth simply said, “It’s nice to know she’s there”.

Be part of a vibrant, caring community at Torrens Grove

Popular for its inner north-west Adelaide location, Torrens Grove Retirement Village is just a short drive from the beach and the city centre. You’ll find the Armada Arndale Shopping Centre across the road, and transport and health services nearby.

Our tree-lined village is home to a friendly, social and supportive community. Family and friends will look forward to their visit and a stroll amongst the established gardens, while your pets* will love their new home just as much as you do. What’s more, with gardening and home maintenance taken care of, you’ll have more time for the things you love.

Torrens Grove offers a range of living options and support services to meet your individual needs. Whether that means living independently in your own unit or seeking daily support in one of our serviced apartments, there is an option to suit you. Should you ever face health challenges, rest easy knowing you can access additional care and support if you need it.

It is a place to feel right at home – both now and in the years ahead.

^{* Subject to approval so that all pets live harmoniously together.}

Find a community you’d be happy to share with your lifelong friends

If you’re thinking of moving into a retirement village, there are lots of things to weigh up – and money is one of the biggest considerations. You’ll likely have lots of questions, not just about how much it will cost to move in but how much it will cost on an ongoing basis, and when it comes time to leave.

We understand you need certainty about your financial future, and that you might feel concerned about affordability and hidden costs. Let’s walk through each step of the process so you know exactly what to expect.

Payments – how much, when, and will they change over time?

To increase financial certainty, we’ve made our contracts as clear and transparent as possible. We specify, upfront, which costs you’ll need to pay, and what they cover. Here’s a quick breakdown of the fees you’ll need to pay over the duration of your stay in one of our villages:

Entry payment

Your entry payment gives you the right to reside in your new home. The good news is that this is typically less than the local median housing price, making your move into a village more affordable and allowing you to maintain a healthy cash flow after the sale of your home.

Monthly service fees

Service fees are set at a cost-recovery rate only. These cover our operating costs as well as:

• Council rates
• Water rates
• Building insurance
• Building maintenance
• 24 hour emergency call system
• Access to and upkeep of communal village facilities

Retirement village operators don’t profit from this fee, and you can rest assured that it can’t be increased greater than the Consumer Price Index without the approval of village residents. For further peace of mind, these fees are audited by an independent party each year.

Deferred Management Fee (DMF)

When it comes time to leave the village, you’ll receive an exit entitlement, which is the purchase price minus the DMF. This fee is calculated on a sliding scale for your first three years in the village, starting at 10% and capped at 35% of the entry payment at the three year mark.

By charging this on exit – rather than incorporating it into the purchase price – you’ll not only free up your cashflow but find that your move into the village is much more affordable.

It’s important to note that the DMF is the only fee that allows RetireAustralia to reinvest back into your village, through capital replacement works, maintenance of communal facilities, and village upgrades. It also covers the refurbishment, sales and marketing costs of homes and the remainder is profit. This helps maintain value in your home and community, which is important when it comes time to sell.

What’s more, you’ll know the exact DMF you’ll pay before you move in, making your future budgeting clear and predictable.

What do I get for my money?

Our residents tell us that choosing to move into a retirement village is about far more than bricks and mortar. In reality, it’s a lifestyle investment. You’ll be moving into a friendly community filled with people at the same stage of life, and you’ll have access to a range of amenities. You’ll enjoy the facilities and low maintenance living and have peace of mind that there is a safety net of care and support should you ever need it.

Amenities vary depending on the village you choose but can include things like:

• Swimming pool
• Gymnasium
• Tennis court
• Bowling green
• Hair salon
• Community centre
• BBQ areas
• Resident’s bar
• Billiards room
• Library

You can also get involved in a range of interest groups, social activities and events from happy hour to mini-golf and more – it’s really up to you and the community.

What’s more, when you don’t need to worry about maintaining your house and garden, you’ll actually have time to explore new interests!

It’s also reassuring to know that care and support options are available should you ever need them. From extra support in your own home through to a suite of services available in a serviced apartment or a care apartment, or a stay in the homelike care environment of the Care Hub.

These intangible benefits are an important consideration, and should be weighed up alongside the financials. Moving into a retirement village is about so much more than the property. Residents tell us that the lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits enhance their quality of life immeasurably.

Cost of living comparison

A true cost of living comparison can only be obtained by spending time with a sales consultant in a village, talking through your circumstances and needs, and understanding the fees and inclusions in your chosen village. You also need to do your own homework and make sure you have an accurate picture of your current living expenses to make the comparison valid.

In a general sense, retirement villages offer great cost of living value but trying to put a specific dollar figure to this comparison can easily become misleading. Your own cost of living and those applicable to villages can vary substantially, so it’s best to check with your village of choice directly.

On top of the hard costs listed above which village fees cover, the costs associated with living in a retirement village also provide residents with a sense of community and belonging, support from friends and staff, and numerous opportunities to lead a happy, active and healthy life.

Get your exclusive guide to retirement village living

Every last detail at The Verge was designed by specialist seniors living architects, O’Neill Architecture, with one key concept in mind: perfect for now, ideal for later.

But what does this look like in practice? This blog dives into the design principles behind The Verge and what they mean for residents day-to-day.

Perfect for now, ideal for later

In a nutshell, we designed the village so it can seamlessly adapt to residents over many years, even as their lifestyle and health changes.

“Perfect for now, ideal for later” means the village is suitable whether you’re active and adventurous with no health challenges, or need some additional support in the comfort of your own home.

You can enjoy the safety and security of living in a community of like-minded neighbours, while maintaining your own privacy and accessing care when you need it.

“Enjoy the safety and security of a community of like-minded neighbours, while maintaining privacy and accessing care when you need it.”

A place for those you love

With incredibly spacious apartments, large balconies, and extensive gardens, there’s room for everyone. In fact, The Verge’s apartment layout and popular common spaces were specifically designed to help foster a strong sense of community.

“Working in a beautiful village like this one has been amazing, just seeing how big the apartments are and what we have to offer. I feel quite proud to be here,” says Village Manager Giselle Spice. “You get very close to your residents. Over the years, you get to know them and their families.”

The Verge is also pet friendly, which is ideal for Sharon’s parents, Pauline and Maurice, who were among the first residents to move in.

“[My chihuahua] Pablo has weekly sleepovers with my parents, and everyone makes such a fuss over him,” Sharon said. “It’s lovely to be part of the community here at The Verge. It is such a friendly, vibrant community.”

Friends and family make it home

Pauline and Maurice moved from Anglesea on the Great Ocean Road after a year of being separated from their daughter by border closures.

“We absolutely love living at The Verge. It’s the best decision we have made,” Pauline said. “One of the best parts is that you don’t feel like you are living in a retirement village.

“It really feels like we are a group of really good friends enjoying each other’s company – living the good life now.

“To be able to have this much fun in a safe and social community is a great feeling.”

“It’s the best decision we have made. It feels like a group of really good friends enjoying each other’s company.”

Spacious apartments that bring the outside in

Every last detail has been meticulously planned to enhance the connection between bright, airy interiors and the surrounding environment.

Apartments are spacious and well-appointed, with floor-to-ceiling glass doors and generous balconies that provide sweeping outlooks from every angle.

The open-plan layouts are designed to make the most of natural breezes and bring the outside in. As Pauline put it, “I love waking up to the beautiful view every morning and listening to the kookaburras laughing.”

You’ll find there’s plenty of space for entertaining and having friends and family stay overnight. There’s even a herb garden on the fourth floor terrace – perfect for adding natural, home-grown flavours when you’re whipping up a feast for friends.

Extensive, world-class facilities

The Verge offers a safe and supportive community, with extensive community facilities and ample activities should you choose to get involved.

You might find yourself chatting with neighbours over weekly happy hours, catching up with friends in the Tee House Café, or enjoying the expansive gardens with your grandkids.
Residents Elaine and Peter Hulme enjoy a busy lifestyle and appreciate that The Verge offers “security and friendship in a great location”. As Elaine points out, “we have made some really good friends [and] love the community feeling.”
Elaine makes the most of the Wellness Centre, which offers state-of-the-art exercise equipment, medical consulting rooms, and regular classes.

“I participate in tai chi, yoga and dance which is great,” she said.

“We can also walk out of here, down the path and into the golf course and have a drink or a meal.”

The village minibus is another drawcard, with its regular trips to local shops, eateries and attractions such as the botanic gardens, Mount Tamborine, wineries, and art galleries.

Whether it’s just you, or you’re bringing your best friend, sibling or partner, The Verge is perfect for now, ideal for later.

Interested in finding out more about The Verge? Book a Covid safe appointment with our friendly sales team by clicking here or calling 1800 955 070.

Offering luxury independent living, the multi-level villages are popping up in prime locations as a growing number of retirees seek low maintenance living close to all the action.

The Rise at Wood Glen is the first luxury vertical retirement village on the New South Wales Central Coast and caters for modern downsizers seeking an exceptional lifestyle.

Why vertical retirement villages are on the up 

Vertical retirement villages are modern facilities that feature multi-storey buildings. Some are high rises, but many aren’t including The Rise which spans five levels.

Typically, retirement villages have been constructed as single-storey buildings across large sites on the fringes of cities and towns. Vertical villages are built up rather than out, so they require less land which means they can be built in sought-after locations near cities and the coast.

Vertical retirement villages suit retirees who want to live in a convenient location while still enjoying a sense of community and security.

On the Central Coast that means being close to the region’s beautiful beaches, picturesque nature reserves, important amenities such as pharmacies and the Gosford Hospital, as well as vibrant shopping and restaurant hubs.

Just over an hour’s drive from Sydney, The Rise is an appealing option for retirees who want to enjoy a premium lifestyle on the coast while still being near an international city. Located in the heart of Erina, The Rise is just a stone’s throw away from sparkling sands, crystal waters, nature reserves, and the Coast’s largest shopping centre, Erina Fair.

Built within the well-established Wood Glen Retirement Village, The Rise offers residents a safe community with access to exceptional amenities, medical facilities, award-winning gardens and a vibrant social calendar.

Benefits of living at The Rise 

• Privacy: Tucked away amongst lush greenery, The Rise provides residents with a great sense of privacy. Each apartment is built with privacy in mind and there are a variety of floor plans to suit singles and couples.
• Luxury: The Rise offers a high level of luxury, with contemporary apartments that feature high quality finishes and expansive balconies boasting mesmerising valley views. Each residence has floor-to-floor ceiling glass to maximise natural light, a generous kitchen, European appliances, ample storage and high-end finishes.
• Location and Outlook: Set amongst the foliage at the base of the Kincumba Mountain, The Rise is quiet yet close to everything that you need. It is situated just minutes from beaches and is a seven-minute walk to Erina Fair Shopping Centre, which has great shopping, restaurants, café and medical facilities. The Rise’s location within the Wood Glen retirement Village gives residents access to five-star resort style facilities including a bar, hair salon, pool, spa, library, and bowling green.
• Safety and security: Vertical villages offer great security as there are fewer entrance points than traditional sprawling retirement villages. The Rise offers a great lifestyle in a secure neighbourhood where everyone looks out for each other.
• Connectivity: Everyone is made to feel right at home in a safe and supportive community. Being located within the Wood Glen Retirement Village means residents can enjoy resort style facilities and a busy social calendar while being surrounded by people they have common interests with. There is even a shared village bus that does regular trips to Erina Fair, Fountain Plaza, The Leagues Club and Gosford.
• Care when you need it: As we age, it’s important to have the right level of support to maintain independence and quality of life. The Rise apartments have been designed with convenience in mind and are serviced by a dedicated team who take care of gardening and maintenance. Residents also have peace of mind in knowing that if they need extra care down the track that there is a private aged care facility next door and several other operators located nearby.
• On-site support: Residents of The Rise have access to RetireAustralia’s Home Care services. The reliable and experienced team offers help with household chores, meal preparation, showering, dressing and medication support to name a few. Care is tailored to exactly what you need, when you need it and funded either privately or via access to an approved government funded Home Care Package (HCP).

Are you a downsizer looking for a lifestyle without compromise? Enquire now about The Rise. Stage 2 of the premier development is coming soon and is expected to sell out fast.

Download our brochure 

Call our friendly team on 1800 955 070