HOME IS WHERE THE HILLS ARE

When the time came for Helen and Eddie to downsize from their existing Blackwood Park home to begin retirement, they knew they wanted to stay close.

“It was as simple as the fact that we loved the peaceful environment,” Helen said. “We’d been in Blackwood Park for five years and we just couldn’t imagine ourselves anywhere else!”

So stay close they did.

The couple moved literally “down the street and around the corner” to a custom-built home earlier this year – and they couldn’t be happier.

“We were originally hills people but we’ve lived and worked in the city too so we know there is nothing quite like what we have here,” Helen says.

“It’s idyllic – the trees, the birds and the kangaroos.

“It sounds so cliché but it really is so peaceful and relaxing – a real escape.”

There’s no doubt Helen and Eddie need some relaxation. With 11 grandchildren, they’re often kept busy helping out.

“Blackwood Park is a brilliant environment for children,” Helen says.

“In how many suburbs can you say there is a creek at the bottom of the garden where the children can search for tadpoles and watch the birds flock?

“Our daughter already lives locally and our son is looking at moving into the area after seeing all it has to offer.”

Backing on to a reserve, the couple’s new block suited a modified Medallion Homes design – but Helen said the process was “exceptional”.

“The planning, design and building process were all smooth sailing,” she says.

“We may have downsized, but the feeling of spaciousness and the benefits of the new location have exceeded our expectations.

“We’re certainly looking forward to spending many more years here as we settle into retirement.”