Community At Its Heart | Graeme Bryant
General Interest
For Graeme Bryant, moving to Ranfurly Village wasn’t about starting over - it was about continuing the life he’s built over decades in the Three Kings area. Having lived locally for over 50 years, Graeme finds comfort in the familiar surroundings, close to the neighbourhood he knows and loves. "There’s a real sense of belonging here," he says. "It’s great to feel part of the same community I’ve been connected to for so long."
Graeme and his wife, Linda, spent their retirement years travelling, embracing new experiences. However, during one of their trips, he noticed subtle changes in Linda’s cognitive abilities. Over time, it became clear that they needed a long-term plan. When Linda moved into full-time care, Graham faced the decision of where he wanted to spend the next phase of his life. After visiting just a couple of places, he knew Ranfurly Village was where he wanted to be. The welcoming atmosphere, elegant design, and strong sense of community made it feel like home from the start.
Now, Graeme finds joy in the variety of activities and amenities on offer. From morning walks to shared meals with friends, his days are full and rewarding. The village’s swimming pool, gymnasium, cinema, and bowling green provide plenty of opportunities to stay active and social. A newfound passion for art has also become a major part of his life. "I never knew I could draw! I started taking lessons and soon realised how much I enjoyed it," he says. Now, he is part of a small collective of artists within the village, inspiring others to explore their creative side.
Family remains at the heart of Graeme’s life. His teenage grandchildren frequently visit, enjoying meals at Poppy’s Café before challenging him to games of billiards or snooker. "They usually beat me, but that’s all part of the fun," he laughs.
Beyond his personal pursuits, Graeme is passionate about giving back to the community. He volunteers at Three Kings School, taking part in a reading programme where residents help children improve their literacy skills. He is also involved in the ‘Garden to Table’ project, which teaches children about growing and preparing food. "Interacting with younger generations keeps you grounded - it keeps you feeling young," he says.
His advice to others considering a move to a retirement village? "Don’t leave it too late," he says. "It’s important to think about where you want your life to go. Moving while you’re still active and reasonably healthy means you can fully enjoy the opportunities here."
For Graeme, Ranfurly Village is a place where he feels truly at home, surrounded by a supportive, kind community and a renewed sense of purpose. "I’m delighted to be here," he says. "I think this is one of the finest. It’s a good place to be at this time of my life."
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