Life at Wheller on the Park: Two couples share their story
Choosing the right retirement living community is about more than downsizing. It’s about finding a place that supports your lifestyle, wellbeing, and sense of belonging. For residents Christine and Bill, and Claire and Brendan, moving to Wheller on the Park has opened the door to a vibrant, social way of life, surrounded by choice and convenience.
For Christine and Bill, the decision to move was brought on by changing circumstances at home. “Mainly where I lived before was a fair-sized house with a big swimming pool and a lot of gardens and a big yard to mow. After a bit of illness [and also] back surgery, I decided to move on and downsize and come to an area which would suit me to live the rest of my life,” Bill explains. Christine adds, “Yes, and someone there to do all of those things for us.”
Location also played an important role in their decision. With family nearby and easy access to everyday essentials, the move felt natural.
We're very close to the shopping centres, doctors, schools and transport, which makes it easier for both of us at this stage.
Since moving in, both couples describe a lifestyle that is busier and more fulfilling than they expected. “We can't get enough hours of the day to do what we want to do. There's always something to do. The hours just fly at present,” Bill shares. Christine agrees, highlighting the variety on offer. “There’s a wonderful lot of activities that they have here. And I think that’s a big important thing; not every independent living centre may have [that].”
For Brendan, staying active has always been part of who he is. “I played football, cricket, tennis, squash – I think nearly everything!” he says. Retirement has not meant slowing down. Instead, it has been an opportunity to try something new. “I enjoy the bowls; I’ve been a fairly good sportsman all through my life but I’ve never tried bowls. So, I thought I’d try myself at bowls. Never thought I would – thought I was too young to play. But the time has come.”
With plenty of walking paths, fitness facilities and organised activities close by, Brendan has found it easy to stay active and socially connected. “If you don't want to do anything, you don't do anything. If you do want to do something, you do do something,” he says. “It’s just so handy with everything.”
Health and wellbeing services located on campus are another standout feature for residents. Christine says:
I love this village really because we can access so much in our therapy centre. You can access all of your services on the one campus, which is just really good. Really good.
For Claire and Brendan, the sense of security and friendliness has been one of the biggest benefits. “Possibly the best part about living here is the security and also the friendliness of the other residents. It's lovely,” Claire says. “It doesn't matter where you go. Everyone just speaks to you.”
That feeling of connection is something all four residents value deeply. “It’s a very close community once you move in here,” Bill reflects. “Everybody looks after each other here. It’s a privilege to have this sort of situation."
When asked what they would say to others considering the move, Christine puts it simply. “Just put your name down and come. Apply. Because it is certainly well worth it. There’s so much to offer.”
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