From Pakenham to a new pace of life: finding home at Bellarine Springs

AFTER more than four decades in Melbourne’s south-east – most recently 30 years in the same family home in Pakenham – this couple knew it was time for a change. What was once a quiet, semi-rural pocket had grown rapidly into a busy and congested suburban hub.

Their home, lovingly built and filled with years of family memories, had begun to feel too large after their three sons moved out.

Maintenance was mounting, and the sense of space had turned into something closer to “rattling around”.

Although extended family remained close by in the Pakenham area, Kerry and Peter Vellin had long held a clear vision for the next chapter: a move to a retirement village.

Over the years, the couple found themselves repeatedly drawn to Victoria’s coastal regions, holidaying along the Great Ocean Road and Apollo Bay.

The appeal was undeniable: a slower pace, open countryside and easy access to wineries, coastal villages and fresh sea air.

But they also wanted the reassurance of medical services and hospitals nearby and the convenience of local shops and professional services.

The Greater Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula area offered all this and more.

Their introduction to Bellarine Springs came during its five-year anniversary event in 2021. What they discovered felt more like a resort than a retirement village.

A tour with sales consultant Wendy left a lasting impression – especially on Peter, who was ready to sign on the spot. Just as compelling was the warmth of the community.

“We were struck by how friendly everyone was,” Kerry and Peter recall.

Still, it would take another five years – and visits to several other retirement villages – before they made their decision. None quite matched the feeling they had at Bellarine Springs.

In late 2025, they returned, met with sales manager Fiona, and found what they now call their forever home.

Downsizing didn’t mean compromising.

They chose a spacious three-bedroom Henderson home, ensuring room for visiting family and a dedicated study.

Practical features like level access, a smaller yard and reduced maintenance were key factors, allowing them to focus on enjoying an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

When their Pakenham home went on the market, they took the opportunity to travel, heading off to Vanuatu.

By the time they returned, the house had sold.

What followed was a whirlwind of sorting, downsizing and letting go, with garage sales and op shop visits helping to lighten the load.

 

“We don’t really miss the house,” Kerry and Peter say. “We were so pleased a young family with two daughters bought it. They’re making it their own now.”

Moving day in February 2026 marked the beginning of something special.

From the moment they arrived, they felt embraced by their new community.

Neighbours greeted them warmly, offering everything from homemade lasagne to practical help with the move.

“Nothing was too much trouble,” Kerry and Peter say.

“We feel incredibly lucky, not just to be here, but to have settled in such a wonderful street surrounded by wonderful neighbours.”

Since settling in, they’ve embraced village life wholeheartedly.

Peter has joined the Bellarine Springs cycling group and recently travelled to Bright on a group trip, with Kerry and other partners forming a support crew.

“It was a fantastic experience and we felt so included,” Kerry and Peter say.

Kerry has also immersed herself in activities, from water aerobics and exercise classes to tai chi and Zumba.

Family remains close in a different way.

All three sons have visited and are impressed with the new home – and are keen to return.

With space to host overnight guests, the couple can continue sharing time together, now with the added bonus of a coastal setting.

Looking ahead, the future feels full of possibility.

Travel is firmly on the agenda, with plans to explore more of Australia and an overseas trip to Scotland, Cornwall and Ireland later this year.

“It’s a true lock-up-and-leave lifestyle,” Kerry and Peter say.

For this couple, the move to Bellarine Springs wasn’t just about downsizing, it was about rightsizing their home and upgrading their way of life.

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