The ASX-listed Over 50s developer GemLife has had a look at where the residents in its boutique Rockhampton community GemLife on Dean have come from and why.
Buyers are making the move from across Central Queensland, the Callide Valley, Isaac region, Southern Downs and Far North Queensland to the $32 million Over 50s lifestyle resort in the city suburb of Berserker.
While local purchasers are still leading the charge, the growing trend towards rural buyers signifies a shift in the market, with people like GemLife on Dean future resident Peter Limpus seeking social connection after living in a rural community long-term.
Peter, 63, hails from the rural town of Biloela, population 5,692. He said moving 143km to GemLife on Dean will bring a welcome change of lifestyle.
“I’ve lived in Biloela my whole life, and after my elderly parents passed away, I decided I wanted a change of scenery, as rural living can be isolating, with limited amenities and public transport,” he said.
“My sister lives in Rockhampton, so I wanted to move closer to family and find a place within easy reach of everything in town.
“When I came across GemLife on Dean, I was sold. I liked everything about it – the location, security, and the sense of community. I’ve heard the phrase ‘no strangers here, just friends we haven’t met’ and thought that could apply to living at On Dean.
“The inclusion of a clubhouse with a pool, gymnasium and recreational facilities provides the opportunity to meet new people and forge friendships with my neighbours.
“My plan is to move to GemLife on Dean mid-year once I finish up work in Biloela and use my free time as a retiree to volunteer and give back to my new community, which will also help me expand my social network.
“I’m really looking forward to a whole world of new opportunities opening up in this next chapter of life.”
GemLife Managing Director and Group CEO Adrian Puljich said making new social connections was an important part of the downsizing journey, and GemLife on Dean had been designed to foster community spirit.
“We are seeing more downsizers choosing to relocate, whether it’s to be closer to family, for financial reasons or a lifestyle change,” he said.
“That’s why GemLife on Dean has its own clubhouse, complete with a range of resort-style amenities to encourage residents to come together for activities and events.
“We’ve also designed our homes to be private and low maintenance, while providing space and storage to welcome visitors and entertain family and friends.
“Pets are welcome, which helps with the transition and often provides a great ice breaker when people take their four-legged friends for a walk through the community.”
GemLife on Dean will boast 5,000sqm of resident facilities, including a clubhouse, outdoor pool with sundeck, gym, hall and bar, pickleball court, barbeques, dog run, and RV parking. Its clubhouse is due to open before the end of the year.
The community’s 57 homes each feature two bedrooms plus a multi-purpose room with a private alfresco or front porch.
More than $19.86 million in homes have already sold, with demand fuelled by the limited opportunity to break into the Rockhampton market, said Adrian.
“Property in Rockhampton is tightly held, and available stock is selling fast, with more than $12 billion in major projects in the pipeline across the region,” he said.
“It’s the economic heart of Central Queensland, blending the best of country and urban living, making it a popular choice for those moving from rural properties.”
The final release of 22 homes is now selling, priced from $645,000.