AFTER making the move from the Yorke Peninsula to Gawler just over 12 months ago to be closer to family, Bev Brokate spent her first Mother’s Day in the area at her daughter’s South Gawler home on Sunday.

Ms Brokate said the move has proven to be the right one, as she’s gone from only seeing her kids on special occasions, to seeing at least one of them every week.

“At first I was a little bit apprehensive (about moving), because I thought Gawler was going to be too busy after living in a quiet area for a long time,” Ms Brokate said.

“But no, it’s much better and more convenient than I expected… I’m in a nice (Gawler Community Retirement Homes) village, which is maintained, and it’s made things a lot easier for me now.

“I’m turning 80, so I thought it was about time I was driven around, so I’ve since sold my car… but I can just walk down the main street if I need anything.”

As well as being able to celebrate special days with loved ones, the everyday companionship since the move has been more than welcome.

“Having the support from the family is just marvellous,” Ms Brokate said.

“I’m on my own in my unit, but being in a retirement village is also very good because you can see the people every day when you go up to the letter box, so you know they’re there, but you’re not in one another’s pocket all the time.

“I see the girls, in particular, because they come and make sure if I need anything, but it’s lovely to have the backup of the close family.”

Bev’s son, Scott Brokate, said while not everybody was able to make it, it felt like a normal Mother’s Day at the Brokate’s.

“We were restricted to 10 people, but we had a great day,” he said.

“I cooked prawn risotto, and it took me three hours, but with a couple of beers and a couple of wines, some lovely weather – we had a great day.”