Suzanne and Warwick were the very first buyers at Oak Tree Broadmeadow, proudly earning the “badge of honour” as the pioneers of the community! “We started exploring different options about two and a half years ago,” Suzanne shared. “We visited several Oak Tree villages nearby, and my brother even moved into Oak Tree Mudgee!”

After touring the multi-level Oak Tree village in Jesmond, the couple was thoroughly impressed. “That’s when we thought—let’s just do it!”

Since moving into their apartment at Oak Tree Broadmeadow, their life has changed significantly, offering them more opportunities and freedom. Warwick no longer has to handle the lawn mowing or home maintenance, giving them more time to focus on what matters. “Warwick has had to give up his garage and tools, but he’s found camaraderie with the other men in the community. “They’re all commiserating together,” Suzanne jokes.

The smaller, close-knit nature of the village has been one of the key highlights for them. “Because it’s a small community, we all know each other. In bigger places, you get lost, you’re just a number. But here, it’s a real community.”

Both Suzanne and Warwick are active participants in village events, enjoying the social aspect. “We go along to the events. Why not?” Suzanne said. “It’s always fun to go along, even if it’s just for a nice cup of tea and a chat. “There’s always something to look forward to, and the people here really make it special.”

Despite downsizing to an apartment, Suzanne and Warwick have made it truly feel like home. “It’s still our little nest,” Suzanne shared. “It may be smaller, but it’s completely ours. It’s private, quiet—you can’t hear anyone else. We’ve put our own personal touch on the space, and now it feels just right.”

When asked about the downsizing process, Suzanne acknowledged that it was an adjustment, but they approached it with the right mindset. “It’s all about how you approach it,” she said. “You plan it, you deal with it. People who move into retirement villages already have the mindset that they want to downsize, so it’s a matter of choosing when.” Having worked in aged care, Suzanne is well aware of the importance of planning ahead and making the decision when you’ve still got freedom of choice. “We made the choice to downsize when we wanted to, not because we had to. Now, we’ve got the time to make the most of the vibrant lifestyle here at the village!”

Reflecting on the benefits of their decision, Suzanne added, “We’re in control of our lives. We’ve got time together, and if something happens to one of us, we’re still in a community. We’re not in a big house by ourselves.”

“It’s reassuring knowing we’ve made a proactive choice, and we have the peace of mind that we’re in the right place at the right time.”

Suzanne and Warwick are also enjoying the sense of security that comes with living in a community like Oak Tree Broadmeadow. “The security here is great,” Suzanne mentioned. “It’s so comforting knowing that the community is safe, and that we’re looking out for each other. You just don’t get that kind of support in a traditional neighbourhood.”

Ultimately, the choice to move into Oak Tree Broadmeadow has allowed them to live independently, participate in a vibrant community, and enjoy the flexibility to explore new activities. As Suzanne summed up, “we’re so glad we made the move when we did. It’s given us a new lease on life. We feel like we’ve got everything we need right here, and we’re able to enjoy each day with fewer worries.”