Meet the Littles

Stay in touch with old family and friends back home

We spoke with former Sydneysiders Frances and Eva Little who decided a move to the picturesque Hunter Valley was right for them.

It’s no secret the pandemic has changed people’s perspectives, causing many of us to shift gears and live life outside the fast lane. If you live in a busy city, you will understand that keeping up with the hustle and bustle can sometimes feel overwhelming. The move to remote working also means we are spending more quality time at home. Combine this with rising living costs and it is easy to understand why more people are choosing to make a “tree” or “sea” change.

Entering their last years of their 50s, Sydney couple Frances and Eva Little were in search of a slower-paced life when they decided to move to the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales – famous for its fine wines, mining and minerals, farms, and glorious countryside. By car, their new destination was less than two hours from Sydney, meaning they could still visit the city easily. “The decision to move from Sydney to Chisholm was easy,” Frances explained. “Compared to Sydney prices and cost of living, everything is just so affordable, and for us it was really about finding an area that we felt comfortable in and that had the services and amenities we know we will need as we get older.”

The move also meant the Littles could finally be closer to family and friends, and could access their favourite parts of the coast with ease.

“We now have such easy access to the M1, closeness to Newcastle, Nelson Bay and the vineyards and also closeness to my relatives at Weston. Not to mention the view across the Hunter Valley is absolutely fantastic – it adds such a sense of relaxation without having to leave home,” she said.

Frances added that moving to Waterford by AVID Property Group’s master-planned community in Chisholm really helped cement their decision to move. Such communities were not something you would stumble across in inner-city Sydney.

“A new community with a mix of age groups and a range of community amenities was appealing. The friendliness of the locals made our decision to move very easy.

“We are very much looking forward to having that slower pace of life compared to Sydney in a brand-new home that has everything we want in it. Home is where the heart is, and we are very much looking forward to our next chapter out of Sydney.”

To find out more about Waterford, please visit www.waterfordliving.com.au

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While parking problems will be a thing of the past, you may have a more challenging time finding that obscure vegan coconut yoghurt in the specific brand you love. Before you make the big move, explore what’s on offer, and get comfortable with what you may need to find an alternative for.

Be ready to be extra social

One of the most exiting parts of moving to a new town is the social aspect. It can certainly be daunting at first, but once you start to meet new people and make new friends this new town will truly start to feel like home. Be sure you’re putting aside some time to go to events, say yes to invitations and explore your new town.

3 Come with a plan

It’s important to have some sort of plan – write lists and makes notes, so you can plan what to bring, new things you may need to buy, admin chores you may need to complete. You can even make a list of goals for living in your new town: things to do, places to visit, sites to see.

4 Get out of your comfort zone

The best way to meet new friends and truly enjoy the new experience is to get out of your comfort zone. Show up at places or events alone or with your family, and come with an open mind and a willingness to meet new people. And don’t be afraid of strangers – ask for help.

It’s inevitable. At some point along the way you will feel a bit homesick and miss family and friends left behind. Make time to speak to those people and keep small reminders from your previous home that you can look back on fondly.

6 Get your walking shoes on!

There’s no better way to explore a new town than by walking it. You’ll run in to plenty of people and get to know your way around quickly. Don’t be scared to get lost on you wanders – it gives you a great opportunity to ask a stranger for help!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT LIVING AT WATERFORD?

“We drove through the community four years ago and instantly fell in love… we didn’t look at anywhere else but Waterford.” – Kristy

Baxter

Winter Warmers wrap up locals in song

Last year, Waterford held its first Winter Warmers/ Sunday Sessions Festival, spanning three weekends throughout the chilly season. Residents lapped up the Hunter Valley’s glorious sunny winter afternoons listening to fantastic live music from talented local artists. A range of musical genres featured, including a performance from five-time ARIA and three-time Logie award winner, Tim Harding from Hi-5! For more information about upcoming performances, please visit www.waterfordliving.com.au