Our reason to move to Kangaroo Valley in October 2010 was due to a sudden health issue which we knew would impact on our busy life-style.
Our rented ‘Jumbuck Cottage’ (since 2003) was calling us to come down from Sydney to make a ‘sea-change’ and finally make it our permanent home. The cottage came with an acre of ground, was situated just across the road from the river and Hampton Bridge, so it seemed an appealing idea – go regional and start afresh. Hard to ignore the idea, moving to a beautiful area which reminded us of some favourite country places in England.
Must be honest, it was with some apprehension when we made the move. We knew no-one in the valley, or surrounds, and with Bert’s disability from his stroke it seemed a somewhat daunting prospect to be accepted and make new friends.
Our first visit to the Post Office changed all that. The Postmistress at the time soon told us what went on in the valley and greeted us by our names thereafter. A good start!
I found out that becoming a volunteer was the best way to meet the locals. No shortage of choices were available where help was needed – the Pioneer Museum, Community Garden, K.V. Annual Show, the Arts Festival, the Folk Festival, joining a ukulele group and helping to raise money for charity.
After eight wonderful years being part of a close community, we were told by many people that, if we were going to down-size, we should not leave it too late!
A mistake many people make.
We didn’t want to move far, so the best solution was somewhere in Berry. We chose the retirement complex ‘The Arbour’, only 30 minutes drive over the mountain, enabling us to keep in touch with our K.V friends. It was perfect.
In hindsight, it was a very wise decision. No house maintenance to worry about, railway station close by for trips to Sydney, plus the security as one gets older – a definite plus.
We still get pangs of nostalgia when we make visits to the valley. We miss the unique village atmosphere, beautiful mountains and escarpment – and in particular, going to the river for a swim under the bridge, to cool off during the hot summer.
Kangaroo Valley is, and always will be, a little piece of England.
Catherine & Bert Nieuwendijk
