Living her best life: How Marianne is thriving in retirement

Two actions that led to Marianne’s dream retirement

When Marianne retired as a secondary school teacher ten years ago, she had the same worry many people do: would her super last? Now, at 72, she realises it was an unnecessary fear.

“I thought I’d see my balance go down,” she says. “But in retirement, it’s still growing. I’m really happy that I’m able to do all the things I dreamed of. I believe it’s because of two important steps that I have taken that have enabled me to have a happy retirement.”
 

Paving the way to retirement

Throughout my teaching years, I knew that when I retired, I wanted to be comfortable. To do that, I needed to plan ahead – so, I salary sacrificed. Putting some money away toward my retirement has been instrumental in allowing me to have the retirement I want. The team at NGS Super have helped me plan over the years. Marianne has stayed in close contact with the NGS Super team, who she says have been “fantastic.”

“They’ve called, emailed, and met with me when needed. Super Specialist, Eric, checks in to reassure me that everything is tracking well. That personal touch means so much.”

Eric works with members across Victoria, helping them reach their retirement goals. “It brings me a lot of joy when I see members enjoying a great retirement. One of the key actions that helped Marianne reach her retirement goals is salary sacrificing. She did that throughout her career, and now is enjoying the benefits,’ says Eric. ‘It’s a great example of how making small contributions along the way can create a comfortable retirement.”
 

Knowing what you want

In retirement, Marianne swapped her 27-acre property in country Victoria for a vibrant apartment in Fitzroy, and she couldn’t be happier.

“The garden was getting too much,” she admits. “Now I can walk everywhere, to art galleries, bookshops, and film festivals. It’s all on my doorstep.”

She’s joined a walking group, exploring new suburbs and finishing with a well-earned coffee. She also volunteers cooking and serving community meals, helps with a community garden in North Carlton, and still makes time for the gym.

Marianne’s retirement isn’t just comfortable, it’s rich with meaning.

“When you retire, you think you’ll lose your identity,” she says. “But by joining groups, volunteering, and giving back, you find a new purpose. Teaching was about service, and I’m still able to give in other ways to the community, which is incredibly fulfilling. Understanding what I wanted from my retirement has been the second.”

That sense of purpose even took her overseas. In her first year of retirement, she travelled to Vietnam to help set up a school library through the School Library Association’s program. “It was such a great way to transition, doing something useful while still travelling.”

Since then, she’s explored Sri Lanka, camped her way from Perth to Darwin, and her next journey will take her across Portugal by train.

Super is there for your retirement, use it to live the life you want. My top tips are:

Plan early. Salary sacrifice when you can; you’ll thank yourself later.

Stay connected. Keep in touch with your fund and ask questions - they’re there to help.

Stay healthy. Exercise and eat well, it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Give back. Volunteering keeps you active, social, and fulfilled.

Enjoy it. Retirement isn’t an ending; it’s a chance to live fully.”
 

Ready to plan the retirement of your dreams, too?

If you’re looking for help to meet your financial goals, we’re here to help. Whether you’re after simple advice over the phone or fully tailored financial planning, the choice is yours. NGS Super offers a range of advice, no matter where you are on your journey.
 

Helpline

Sometimes a quick phone call is all you need. To speak to someone from our Financial Advice Helpline, contact us on 1300 133 177 and we’ll set up a time for you.
 

Super Specialist

Chatting with a Super Specialist could be the right option if you're looking to delve a little deeper, but don't need an entire financial plan. Chat with a Super Specialist Super Specialist.
 

Financial planner

NGS Financial Planners can give you expert strategies tailored to your circumstances, to help you achieve your financial goals. Meet our Financial Planners
 

The views expressed in this testimonial are the personal experiences of one member and may not be typical. This testimonial was provided for general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, or making an investment decision, consider whether it is appropriate to you and read our Financial Services Guide, Product Disclosure Statements and Target Market Determinations available at ngssuper.com.au. You should also consider obtaining financial, taxation and/or legal advice tailored to your personal circumstances before making a decision. This information has been issued by NGS Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 003 491 487 and AFSL 233 154, as trustee of NGS Super ABN 73 549 180 515.

Call us on 1300 133 177 if you would like to speak with us further, or you can discuss matters with one of our NGS Super Specialists or an NGS Financial Planner.