Denis’s vertical street

Denis Setches says his home in Victoria Harbour is part of “a neighbourhood in the sky”.

Denis and his wife Kay have lived in an apartment at Dock 5 for almost seven years and can’t imagine living anywhere else.

Like many long-term residents, Denis and Kay bought off the plan and watched their new home rise from the ground before moving in.

Since moving in the pair haven’t looked back.

Denis said it was great waking up to a view of the harbour every morning and being able to take a walk around the harbour each day.

Denis is currently the chair of the Dock 5 Owners Corporation and has been involved with the OC for about three years.

He said he joined the OC because he felt it was important to take an interest in the local community.

Denis said there was a strong community in Docklands and in the Dock 5 building.

“I heard one chap describe the building as a vertical street,” Dennis said.

“I know more people in this vertical street than I did when I lived in a horizontal street in Thornbury.”

Denis said Dock 5 was a very friendly building, with a strong social element, not only on a day-to-day basis, but also through events such as the annual Christmas party.

It also has some unique elements, according to Denis, such as the car wash that also features dog-wash facilities.

“It’s a pet-friendly building,” Denis said.

Another great thing about living in Dock 5, according to Denis, is the proximity to great bars and restaurants.

“It’s so easy to have a great night and enjoy yourself and then walk home afterwards,” Denis said.

He also said Docklands’ public transport links were great and made travelling to and from home easy.  

“Ten minutes and you’re in the middle of the city,” Denis said.

“And every train that comes into this state passes through my local station.”

Now in the midst of retirement Dennis said his days in Docklands were filled with spending time with family, his OC work and plenty of leisurely strolls around the harbour.

“I think living here is just great,” Denis said.