Riverside Gardens
Diana Bevington was the first resident to move into Riverside Gardens at North Richmond eight years ago when it was newly built and since then has personally welcomed every resident at the over 55s village.
“I had lived in Blacktown all my life and my husband and I used to drive out her after visiting the Windsor markets. I really liked the area because it was nice and quiet.”
Chris Gyllies moved to her villa at Riverside Gardens not long afterwards from “around the corner” at North Richmond and the two are firm friends.
They are involved in numerous activities in the village and organise trips away for those who want to be involved.
When Fay Gray made the move from the Central Coast to be nearer her children in Sydney three years ago her main stipulation was that her dog Coco was allowed to live with her.
“(Before) I came here I didn’t have a friend in the world,” she said.
“The best part is having company. I meet a lot of people when I walk the dog. The residents helped me when I needed help and got me involved in everything. When I got sick Chris walked Coco for me. That was really really good. Our (village) manager Patricia is absolutely wonderful.”
Caroline and Lionel Barlow moved in seven years ago after selling their “beautiful house on the edge of Lake Macquarie,” where they had lived for 12 years.
They moved to be closer to their children and took “the plunge” choosing an Over 55s development.
“It’s the best thing we have ever done,” said Caroline. “We have never been lonely. There is something for everyone every day.” She plays bridge on Mondays and is involved in the art group. Lionel is in the mens club and plays snooker.
Colin Prosper and his wife Sharlene moved in four years ago from Glenwood. They love the community and as the BBQ whizz, Colin’s extremely popular at community gatherings.
The regular evenings include barbecues, bangers and mash, pizza nights, Friday trivia, art and craft, snooker and a men’s club.
Riverside Gardens is at 34 Beaumont Ave, North Richmond and has 44 two and 3-bedroom villas plus a block of six units.
There are currently two and three bedroom villas available. For details contact Patricia on (02) 4571 4545 or 0447 334 615.
Our front cover photo of pet-friendly Riverside Gardens features: Fay Grey and Coco, Diana Bevington and Rex, Back (L-R) Chris Gyllies and Larraine Foster.
