(Even if you have failed at your first attempt!)

Doesn’t matter how old you are, it becomes part of the planning for the future.

And when you get to my age, it certainly plays a major role in your thinking.

Where to go is a big consideration.

I am always confused by the desire of people once they retire, to leave their family and friends, and head off somewhere else where they think it will be Retirement Heaven.

Most head to the coast of course, but some return when they realise that it is not quite the same lifestyle they are used to.

It makes much more sense to me to try and retire somewhere close to the family, where you have always felt comfortable surrounded by friends.

So I was thrilled with the news this week that an Over 50s lifestyle estate is going to be established in Parkes (the story appeared in Wednesday’s edition).

Bruce Hodges and his family first mooted the idea seven years ago and have been working hard on seeing it come to fruition ever since.

I guess many residents thought it would never come about.

After all, it is a huge project with 400 units, aged care facility and associated amenities.

But it now looks very certain to be here sooner rather than later, with work expected to start next year.

It’s a huge project, which will fill a much needed void in Parkes.  

It will ensure our shire residents, and others nearby, will be able to retire in style right here in our backyard.

Southern Cross Village has been magnificent for us, and is currently building some  40 more units.

This complex - to be known as Gracelands Parkes Garden Estate (love the association with Elvis!) - will complement these facilities beautifully.

I met the developer  behind the Over 50s complex - which incidentally will be built behind the existing hospital towards Shallow Rush - Alan Marshall, and he is certainly passionate about providing a quality style of existence for people in the estate.

The villas are all quite large and there will be a country club with five star facilities.

Alan has decided against a bowling green because Parkes already has two; and is including a golf attraction so residents can actually have a swing if they are unable to actually play a round.

He been associated with constructing mining villages for decades and is all geared up to commence work quite soon, using local labour and resources wherever possible.

The first stage will include 100 villas and efforts are now being made to secure names of people wishing to be included.

As you would imagine, there are huge infrastructure considerations but they have mainly been dealt with.

I understand council has been very supportive and obviously is keen to see it take off.

The first 40 names will receive a very generous offer.

Alan and Bruce will be holding public meetings on Thursday, December 4, at the Coventry Room to clearly explain to residents what the complex is all about and how they can secure a place.

It’s an exciting time but will need strong community support of course.

I know there are people already who are keen to learn all about it and possibly prepare for their future years.

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Last week I had a most enjoyable experience by being given a behind-the-scenes look at how our local police force operates.

It was part of a unique awareness day which was the very first held in this region - and possibly in country NSW.

I have been involved with the local police for most of my working life, so have had some idea of how they go about their business.

But I have to say that I was really blown away by just how much goes on with our local boys and girls in blue.

There is so much more than what we see in the public arena.

I have always had the utmost respect for our coppers, but more so now.

They are just ordinary people (as they point out) but they do an extraordinary job.

During the course of the program, I was placed in the back of a paddy wagon, sat in the driver’s seat of a highway patrol vehicle, finger-printed, locked up and watched how physical their defence training is. 

I hope I never have to encounter them in an unlawful manner.

As I said, it was an eye-opener and I have no doubt they deserve our complete support.

- - - - 

THOUGHT FOR

THE WEEK:

“Age is not a particularly interesting subject. Anyone can get old. All you have to do is live long enough.”