What Our Lifestylers Say: Gwen & John Brennan

We feel like we haven’t moved out of the hills…we’re just so happy here,” explains John Brennan.

The 75-year-old and his wife, Gwen, recently traded life on their half acre property for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home at Helena Valley Lifestyle Village.

“Four years ago, we looked at coming here and it wasn’t the right time, but then last year we decided to make the move,” says John.

The Brennans shifted into their new home, which keeps them close to their family and friends, mid this year.

“We’re so central to everything; it’s nine minutes to Bunnings in Midland and it’s really quiet,” says John. “It’s absolutely perfect, it’s like a resort and when you drive out there are horses and paddocks and kangaroos across the road.”

The couple’s also been thrilled to discover the Village connects to a large tract of bushland with both sealed and unsealed pathways.

“There are some gravel trails which are good because they’re a bit of a challenge and you can do a short walk or a longer one; that was a bonus to find that,” shares Gwen. The 72-year-old has also found herself enjoying the various Village exercise classes, which are all run by Village volunteers.

“I used to have to go out to go to exercise but now I can walk there in three minutes because our house is close to the Clubhouse and pool,” Gwen says.

“I’m swimming more than I used to because before I had to drive to the pool. I absolutely love that I don’t have to do that anymore.

“It’s also nice to have a small garden and not all the work of a large property.” John agrees, adding that his new small shed is more than enough. And he’s happy to be living in a gated community.

“Security is important and collectively these places will become more popular because they’re secure,” says John.

As long-time caravanners, Gwen says living in closer proximity to neighbours hasn’t been an issue.

“In suburbia these days houses are so close together anyway – except there you don’t get to know anyone,” she states.

“Here, we’re in a community of friendly, like-minded people, including many who are much younger than us.”

Information in this article is true and correct as of 5 January 2026.