At The Pavilion North Kirra retirement community, residents are empowered to shape, take ownership of and make decisions about the community in which they live.

Our residents organise their own busy village activity calendar so there’s always something to do. You can join a bus trip, meet your new neighbours for cocktails at sunset, head up to the rooftop garden to potter, join the craft group, or meet in the community areas for a morning tea, a barbecue, a celebration or a game of billiards.

Whether it’s a chat in the hallway or a cup of coffee in The Pavilion Café, you’ll have friends nearby who ‘get’ you and are there when you need them.

Your family are always be welcome to visit the village. In fact, try keeping them away after they see all the facilities and the beach!

As empty nesters in 2012, Kim and Bill Horne moved to the Gold Coast. “After a couple of moves and downsizing to a unit in Kirra we literally stumbled across The Pavilion site one morning while walking,’’ Bill says. “We were in a three-storey walk-up complex so had been thinking about our future living arrangements for our ‘forever home’.  We had been exploring other retirement village options around the area and so when we discovered The Pavilion we knew it was right for us and committed within 24 hours.”

While awaiting completion of The Pavilion North Kirra, the couple took advantage of Aura Holdings’ Transfer Program and resided temporarily at Kingsford Terrace Corinda, in Brisbane’s western suburbs. In November 2021 when building work was finished, Kim and Bill moved into The Pav, as they call it.

“It’s still a bit surreal waking up to a sea breeze and a sparkling ocean view each morning,’’ Kim says. “We’re still at the pinching ourselves stage. Beautiful new facilities, friendly and accommodating staff and the knowledge we don’t even have to change a lightbulb rounds out the perfect living situation for us. It’s like we’re on holidays … all the time!’’

Why did you decide to downsize?

“I was sad to leave my own home but the maintenance became too much and the garden that I once enjoyed was a chore. I was looking forward to an easier lifestyle where I could read, paint or just soak up the lifestyle without feeling guilty for not doing the yard or the housework.”

What appeals to you most about living at an Aura village?

“I enjoy sharing my life with like-minded people. I didn’t want to be a lonely old lady trapped inside her home. I like being out there, enjoying my life.

“I make good use of the community facilities, especially the rooftop terrace. It has become an extension of my living space. I also love sitting outside, so I spend a lot of time on my balcony just taking in the view.’’

Previously a scientist in the agricultural industry, Robert keeps active with his love for gardening. In fact, if you were to visit Robert’s balcony today, you would see a flourish of bright flowers and fresh herbs.

“I love to garden but I am grateful not to have to worry about home maintenance anymore. You won’t find me mowing the lawn, trimming trees or painting; it’s really nice to have that behind us.

“It’s been a really positive experience living in an apartment in a retirement village. My advice is, don’t leave it too late to really consider making the move.”