Eight years ago, David and his wife swapped a large Adelaide home for a brand-new villa at Oak Tree Retirement Village, Kingston, in Hobart. The decision was both practical and personal: their house was simply too big, their daughter was in Hobart, and the search for something right-sized and well-designed led them to Kingston.
“We looked at a few options,” David says. “We liked Hobart, and the value here stacked up for us. Oak Tree had exactly what we were after – and it was new. We were impressed.”
Why here, why now
Downsizing meant less to look after and more ease day-to-day. “Back in Adelaide, we had a huge place and a big block,” David explains. “Here, the home is much easier to manage.” Being closer to family has been a bonus. Their daughter lives in West Hobart, and time with the grandkids is happily part of the weekly rhythm.
Life at his own pace
David enjoys a balance between quiet days at home and joining in with the village’s social activities. “There’s plenty going on, but you don’t have to do everything,” he says. “You can choose what suits.” Over the years, he and his wife have made the most of happy hours and afternoon teas, joined neighbours for the occasional lunch, and enjoyed the easy sociability of village life when it fits.
A new hobby on the green
One unexpected highlight has been bowls. “I’d never bowled in my life,” David laughs. “A couple of blokes I met at happy hour were heading up, so I went along – and I’ve kept at it.” What began as a try-it-and-see afternoon has turned into a regular part of his week. There’s also the odd game of snooker, and favourite local cafés for coffee meet-ups.
Comfort, support, and the right design
What David values most about the village is the practical comforts that make everyday living simpler: the level layout of his villa, its modern finishes – it’s a home that just works. As his wife’s health needs have changed, the smaller, easy-care setting has been a real help – and there’s a reassuring layer of support around them. “It’s a good place for us,” he says.
Kingston, and the best of Hobart
The couple enjoy Kingston’s relaxed feel and the convenience of being close to shops, services, and the river – with the city an easy trip when they want it. “Tasmania’s a lovely place,” David says. “We like the pace here.”
Choosing what matters
Asked what he’d say to someone thinking about retirement living, David keeps it straightforward: “Come and have a look. See what’s available and make sure you’re happy with the facilities and the layout of the home.”
For David, it was also about finding the right balance – enjoying privacy when he wants it and community when he chooses. Oak Tree Kingston fits that perfectly: a quiet, comfortable place to live, with everything he and his wife need close at hand.
To find out more about what living looks like at Oak Tree Retirement Villages, visit oaktreegroup.com.au or call 1300 367 155.