Community spirit flourishes at Winzor Retirement Estate

You can mostly find ECH Winzor Retirement Estate resident Martin chatting to everyone he meets.

His friendly nature has seen him develop a passion for connecting with people and keeping the social spirit of the village flourishing.

Martin, and his wife Stella, moved into the village in December 2020 where they enjoyed getting to know residents but wanted to grow the social calendar.

The village has had several craft groups over the years, who have knitted teddies and donated them to the Royal Flying Doctors. They’ve also made cards for the troops in Afghanistan, that soliders could then use to write a note home to their families back home.

Martin says there is always room for more people to get involved.

“A lot of people support us by coming to the events, but they are unable to physically help so we rely on the same people to do the heavy lifting – we want more people to become involved, so we all share the load,” he says.

“I think it is so important for the residents to get together, it’s for their wellbeing. We are a secure village so more of the independent residents like to go out in groups rather than on their own; these events and activities are an opportunity to go out and meet others.

“Everyone is very proud of this village – it’s their village and we try to encourage that.”

Since late 2021, Martin has been the driving force behind an informal social group which meets on a Sunday afternoon to discuss events for the village.

“Sometimes we get six people coming along but other times, we can get as many as 18. Everyone is welcome to join.

“In November last year we travelled to Murray Bridge and went on the

Captain Proud for a three-hour cruise and then went to Woodside and visited Melba’s Chocolate Factory.

“We also have regular trivia and pizza nights that are well supported as well as live entertainment, and we are keen to invite a broader range of reporters over time.”

To celebrate Christmas last year, a group of residents organised an afternoon tea where crafts were on display.

Everyone brought a plate of food to share and enjoyed the company of others. ECH Chief Executive Claire Scapinello was the special guest where she mingled with residents and heard lovely village stories.

“Everyone was really pleased with how it went, it went better than anticipated. We are so grateful that everyone chips in but the success of it does tire you out,” Martin laughs.

Do you have connection with others, or a special event in your village that you’d like to share? We would love to hear your story. Let us know at keepconnected@ech.asn.au