Full of surprises

For Wendy O’halloran, retirement has given her the time to pursue her passions

After running a number of Perth fashion boutiques for 40 years, Wendy O’halloran, 65, retired with many of her regular customers as great friends. She was also lucky enough to have family close by.

“My husband and I decided to stay living in the family home where we raised our three kids, Tom, Jack and Mikaela. It was an easy decision; I’m a bit of a homebody and was keen to stay in the place where I’ve made lifelong friends. My daughter lives in the same area, which will come in handy when she starts a family. I’m also just a few kilometres from my 97-year-old mum, who still lives at home independently. I see her every day and we have lots of laughs together,” says Wendy. Retirement has not only given her more time with family but it’s also allowed her to explore her passion for sport and singing.

“Fitness is a big part of my life with my husband, and we’ve always enjoyed running together.”

“Fitness is a big part of my life with my husband, and we’ve always enjoyed running together, particularly now I have more time. I joined the West Australian Marathon Club when I retired and have been volunteering on the committee as Public Relations Co coordinator. I also started running competitively – I’ve surprised myself by winning the Club Champion in my age category five times! I also took up golf and singing in a small community choir. I recently started jamming with a band of three other girls, which has been a real blast – something I never thought I’d do!”

With some solid planning behind her, Wendy’s financial security has given her the peace of mind to enjoy her newfound passions.

“We’ve lived life our way, but while we were working we always ensured we kept our superannuation contributions up, which has been a blessing.

“The other blessing has been my first grandchild, a little girl named Joy. She is the light of my life and I try to spend as much time with her as possible,” says Wendy.