Dad was previously living in an independent unit at another Aveo Village – Edrington in Berwick but after the death of Mum, his failing health and loneliness prompted my sister and I to find him a new home – somewhere that offered the level of support he required and somewhere closer to us. We were extremely fortunate to find the Kingston Green apartments. Roy initially tried a period of respite there and he responded well to the staff and surroundings. That positive response gave us the confidence to make the move a permanent one. From the very beginning we received enormous support; in particular from the Manager.

And that support came in many forms:

Prompt, practical advice and assistance to put as much in place to protect and improve Dad’s health and to make him and us comfortable;

Respect and genuine care – Dad was shown the greatest courtesy by all staff and was able to ease into his new home at his pace;

Surroundings – the apartments and common areas are beautifully maintained and also allow Dad to take exercise safely and in comfort; and

Companionship – there is a steady flow of visitors to Dad’s room in the course of the day, staff come to clean, deliver breakfast, encourage him to join activities and outings or just stop to chat or share a joke. He enjoys the company of other residents for freshly prepared lunch and evening meals in a very inviting dining room. Our move to Kingston Green gave us as a family not only great peace of mind but also great pleasure watching Dad’s health and sense of wellbeing return and grow stronger.

Lynne Pocknee (Daughter of Roy Wade)
Aveo Kingston Green
Cheltenham VIC

We have lived and raised three children in North Balwyn and Balwyn since 1962 and have many interests and friends here so have always wanted to remain in the area.

In December 2007 we noted the start of the Sackville Grange Independent Retirement Apartment complex in Kew and made enquiries. We were very impressed with what we saw and the facilities that were being offered. In consultation with our family we made the decision that this become our home, hopefully for the rest of our life.

We watched the buildings evolve from the street and moved in on 7th February 2008.

Any doubts about the move swiftly faded as we settled in, met like-minded people and felt very comfortable. We find we can be as private as we wish or part of any of the activities of the Community Centre. The pool and wellness centre have been invaluable for Ron as he has undergone a hip and two knee replacements in the last two years.

We feel very secure and safe here and when away on extended leave always look forward to returning home to Sackville Grange.

June & Ron Phillips
Sackville Grange
Kew VIC

I am writing as the daughter of a resident to express my appreciation and gratitude for the care my mother receives at Elston Lodge, where she has been living since June 2010, five months after the eath of my father. It was not necessarily an easy decision for her to make to move there, but it has been a decision neither she nor her family have regretted.

My mother finds herself in a warm and caring environment, where there are always people she can talk to or just sit with. She no longer has the concern of how to prepare her meals, and there are many activities which my mother enjoys participating in at Elston Lodge, such as craft, putt-putt, movies, music sessions on Sunday nights and the regular day trips to surrounding Gold Coast areas.

Several times a year the staff of carers headed by Diann Richards organise a bigger activity in which all of the residents participate as well as their family and friends, should they wish to. These events are truly wonderful, usually the general dining area is beautifully decorated by the carers including Diann, Bonnie, Kay, Margaret and Heather, who work hard to make it a festive and well organised occasion, and outside entertainers come and perform to a delighted audience. Diann mostly has the role of MC as well as that of singing to the admiring residents. Often towards the end of the evening, prizes will be awarded and if there is a resident/s who has been experiencing particular difficulty in some way, they will be acknowledged for their courage with a gift. I myself have attended at least two of these celebrations and they have been a highlight.

I am in the fortunate position of living about 2 kilometres away from Elston Lodge, and therefore am able to visit my mother frequently. I am always very pleased to walk in to the main general area of Elston Lodge as it is so well kept and is a very pleasant place for the residents and staff to meet, and chat and have a coffee if they wish, sit outside underneath the sails in the barbecue area, or sit further down the back and enjoy reading the books on the library shelves.

The carers have genuine empathy with the people living there, and on the odd occasion when I have come very early in the morning before most people are awake, it is heart-warming to see one of the carers sitting chatting with a resident who would otherwise be alone.

My mother's apartment, which she is gradually furnishing to her own taste, is clean and comfortable and we are pleased that there is an emergency button by the toilet as well as the portable Vitalcall necklace. I am happy that she is in good hands, and enjoying the company of one or more of the many lovely people around her.

I have had occasion to call Diann and ask her to have a chat with my mother about certain health treatment issues, and she has been very helpful in encouraging my mother. I have no doubt that my father would be very pleased with the life his beloved wife is living and would also be very grateful for the opportunity she has to live in Elston Lodge as well as for the staff and residents who make it a cosy place to live.

Karen Holland (Daughter of Roma Holland)
Elston Lodge
Aveo The Domain Country Club
Ashmore QLD

Coming home to Minkara. Leaving our beautiful home of many years was a severe emotional wrench and, even though we had carefully researched the retirement village options, including the Central Coast, we could not be certain that we were doing the right thing moving to Minkara.

We were sustained by the fact that, every single person we met on our many visits to the village over a period of one year, said something like "This is the best thing we ever did" or "Our only regret is that we did not make the change earlier".

Six months after moving in this is our view too! We love the freedom from the chores of big home ownership and we love the vibrant social life which enables us to be as involved or not, as we choose, with some really great new friends.

From the first day we have felt that we have come home to Minkara Resort.

Kindest regards,

Etta and George Little
Aveo Minkara Resort
Bayview NSW

I made the decision to sell my unit, Unit 123 at Fernbank, St Ives and listed it with a local agent. Unfortunately after three months of being on the market with that agent there was still no result.

I changed and listed the Unit with Maura Herlihy, the onsite Sales Manager at Fernbank, and was immediately happy with my decision. Being onsite to answer questions and to show my Unit any time of the day was a major benefit to the sales process. Mrs Herlihy listened to my requirements, gave me frank and accurate advice giving me confidence in my choice.

Not only did Maura receive offers straight away on my Unit but she achieved an excellent sales result.
I am extremely happy with the efficiency, communication and attention to detail shown by Mrs Herlihy and would be happy to recommend her to anyone considering selling their Unit at Fernbank .

Regards,

Dr John Roger. M.B.B.S
Fernbank
St Ives NSW

I had turned 60, my friends suggested it was time I thought about a retirement village as I had no family, I have to admit I was insulted, I was too young for this lifestyle, it would be like having one foot in the grave. They went ahead anyway making an appointment to see a unit at Crestview on my behalf, reluctantly I agreed, how wrong I was, it was beautiful with large well kept gardens and facilities, the unit was perfect for my needs, while walking around I met some residents all were welcoming friendly and happy. The Licence and Agreement gave me benefits I never thought I would have, as I signed on the dotted line followed by one of my friends as witness, with an accompanying smug smile, my new life had begun on 28 August 2009.

I have been part of this family for nearly 2 years, every day is a joy and I know when the time comes Aveo will be there for me when I need to move into Assisted Living.

Regards and thank you Aveo.

Christine Houston
Aveo Crestview
Hillcrest SA

When I decided to move back to Melbourne to be closer to my family, my daughters took it upon themselves to find somewhere that was both close to them and a nice place to live. They looked around for some time until they discovered Fountain Court.

I remember their excitement as they were describing the village to me and how beautiful it was to drive in the entry and see the wonderful manicured gardens and the units set amongst these gardens with ample space between.
I remember my first visit with my daughters. The decision to move to Fountain Court was made straight away as everything they described was true, but to me, even better than first thought.

I have been here for many years now and I can honestly say that the village is my home. The Community Centre is very appealing and functional and the Independent Living Units give you a sense of security and strength. The village is a tribute to our wonderful gardening staff and village management. All my fellow residents love the village and we often say that new residents are not strangers, only friends we haven’t met yet!

Alf Smith
Aveo Fountain Court
Burwood VIC

My wife and I still wonder at our luck in choosing Mingarra, after visiting so many other villages. The social climate is pleasant and well organised with interests for everyone and our Community amenities include pool, sauna, gym, library and a beautiful Centre for our use. As well as the neighbours in our court as friends, we have, in less than two years, made friends of many others spread over the rest of the village. This makes the social functions that much more of a gathering of friends than just other village residents.

As we drive around the wide, leafy and undulating roads we see all the gardens on both sides and enjoy the view and the open space of the village.

The village enjoys an ongoing cordial climate, with Management working closely and happily with an elected Residents Committee towards the common good of the village. The staff are regarded as our friends, and there is a shared sense of fun in our dealings. A pleasant and fun village to be in.

Terry Macdonald (President, Residents Association)
Aveo Mingarra
Croydon VIC

Since becoming a resident of Aveo The Braes in November 2010, I am constantly counting my blessings. I live in a flexi unit and continue to enjoy a full and independent life, combined with participating in some of the many social activities provided. My compliments and admiration go to the staff who maintain an excellent level of care for our needs and lifestyle.

I appreciate the ‘open door’ office policy in the event I need questions answered and prompt assistance to any maintenance requests in my unit.

I ‘live well’ here.

Margaret Lennox
Aveo The Braes
Reynella SA

With the decision to shift to a new state and a different way of living, I was more than a little apprehensive about meeting new people and settling into a new home.

My concern however was quickly swept aside by the helpful and friendly staff of the Manors who introduced me to everyone and made me aware of the activities and advantages provided. It was a great feeling.

I made an appointment to have a look at Nightingale Manor. I was so impressed I bought my apartment there and then.

Walking in the front door I was amazed at the size and decor of the area. It was just like walking into the foyer of a hotel and I instantly knew I would be very happy living in such a beautiful place. The village has a very friendly atmosphere and I have no regrets moving into the Manor. I live my life here the same way I did in my own home. I have my independence and I also feel very safe and secure. Both Management and Staff are very helpfuland friendly and I had no trouble settling in as everyone made me most welcome.

Lorna Cook
Aveo Bridgeman Downs
Bridgeman Downs QLD

I am very happy to be here. It’s hard to find a village where one can retain one’s independence and privacy. It is marvellous to have access to great facilities such as a heated swimming pool, library, theatre and gymnasium. All of this is topped by caring staff who are always available if I’m in trouble or need to chat! Meeting all the residents is easy in our splendid dining room where if one desires, one can join in a game of cards, play scrabble or do a jigsaw puzzle, or just sit and have a coffee.

Elizabeth Stevenson
Aveo Peregian Springs Country Club
Peregian Springs QLD

I moved from independent living to a serviced apartment at Aveo The Haven. The apartments are just the size we need. We have exercise class, carpet bowls, craft, cards, jigsaws and a library. The gardens are pleasant and the staff are excellent. I love living here.

The main point that influenced our decision to move to Rose Grange Retirement Village was owning the property title to the house and the land it was on (freehold).

The other notable points were the peacefulness and quite surrounds, the village residents' warm welcome and being made to feel part of the village community. Management is always available to help with the transition into a village lifestyle environment. We knew this was going to be our home.

From where you came from to where you are, it was the right decision to make.

Irene & Bob Hannah
Rose Grange
Tarneit VIC

“Life at the Heath”

Welcome to Hampton Heath Retirement Village. A compact village of 52 units where there is the feeling of extended family amongst the residents Families are all part of the friendly atmosphere. Lasting friendships are evident within the community, along with the knowledge that residents are able to come and go, particularly when winter comes they are able to leave their units (and cars if necessary) in the safe care of the manager and neighbours.

Our two bedroom units fit into the landscape, with areas of common gardens and lawns. Large trees dominate the western boundary, residents care for their gardens. The community centre is the hub that is well used for many activities including darts - it is amazing how many more darts now reach the board whereas earlier most ended up on the floor.

Social activities are arranged by the Residents' Association Committee. Bus trips, dinners, barbecues, and special events such as Melbourne Cup Day. Bingo is the best attended activity, because our numbers are not great we play for small financial returns in the kitty, much buoyed up with small chocolate bars. Bingo is an excellent pastime with the friendly, slightly competitive spirit, the social atmosphere is good for those who spend most of their time in the village, keeps them alert listening to and keeping their numbers in order.

The village is maintained by friendly staff. Further assistance is always available through our "blue" phones, just one push of the button and there is immediate response - so important to those on their own 24 hours a day.

The village is close to a shopping centre, within walking distance if you don't have a car, doctors and ancillary medical services are available within the shopping precinct. Twice a month we use a Community bus to travel to Westfield's Fountain Gate Shopping complex, about 5 minutes away, a large regional shopping centre with all the usual shopping choices. The overall feeling in the village is a safe, friendly community working together.

The writer of the above is the longest residing member of the community, over the years there have been various upgrades in comfort and safety. Home is the most popular place to be and we are at "home" at Hampton Heath.

Dawn Dakin
Aveo Hampton Heath
Hampton Park VIC