Halcyon Days – Issue 2, 2023

My Halcyon Days ISSUE 2 2023

Welcome to Armstrong Creek CELEBRATING HALCYON HORIZON

Judged Australia’s best VICTORY FOR HALCYON GREENS

The power of

friendship Three neighbours find community at Halcyon Rise

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STOCKLAND | HALCYON COMMUNITIES

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HONEY, HONEY, HONEY

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ARMSTRONG CREEK

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GOOD NEIGHBOURS

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STOCKLAND | HALCYON COMMUNITIES

CONTENTS 04 Good neighbours

How three neighbours found new friends right on their doorstep at Halcyon Rise.

08 Victory for Halcyon Greens Judged Australia’s best at PCA Awards.

10 Displays streets ahead

Stockland’s Halcyon Promenade opens it’s much-anticipated display village.

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15 Friends moving together

HALCYON PROMENADE

Best friends find their forever homes at Halcyon Nirimba.

19 Rockin’ the suburbs

Meet B by Halcyon’s brand new rock band.

20 The more the merrier

Why you should bring your friends on your next overseas trip.

22 Having a bowl

Discover the benefits of a friendly game of lawn bowls.

24 Cappuccino crème brûlée

Learn how to make this decadent Miguel Maestre recipe.

26 Honey, honey, honey

Why beekeeping is more than just a hobby.

34 Sisters reunited

Meet the sisters who are coming together at Halcyon Rise after 76 years apart.

38 Welcoming a new community

Halcyon Horizon opens its Welcome Centre at Armstrong Creek.

44 Socials

Around the grounds at our latest community events.

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THE MORE THE MERRIER

COVER IMAGE: JOHN LECOMTE, CAROL WILSON AND CHERYL BUDGE AT HALCYON RISE (QLD)

Disclaimer - whilst all care has been taken in the preparation of the information contained herein, no warranties can be given and interested parties must therefore rely on their enquiries. Prices and details correct at time of printing. Effective as at September 2023.

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023

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Good neighbours Good friends 4 STOCKLAND | HALCYON COMMUNITIES

When John, Cheryl and Carol all moved to Halcyon Rise on their own, they never thought they’d become great friends with their closest neighbours.

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ohn LeComte never thought he’d ever end up moving to Australia. Having grown up in the Canterbury region of New Zealand, where he also met his wife Marilyn, whenever John was asked by his son-in-law when he’d finally move across the ditch, John would always say, “there are too many gumtrees and too many crocodiles for me!”

Even when Marilyn passed, John hoped to settle near Tauranga on New Zealand’s North Island.

However, life – and COVID – had other plans for John, and he eventually found himself securing a home at Halcyon Rise.

After returning to New Zealand and preparing for his international move, John arrived back in Australia and was driven to Halcyon Rise by his daughter, who he had specific instructions for.

“I put a sleeping mask over my eyes, and I told my daughter I didn’t want to see my place until it was right there in front of me,” John explains.

The moment John removed the mask and saw his new home, he said he felt an incredible wave of emotions rush over him.

“Honestly, I was speechless,” John reflects, with those same emotions seemingly rushing over him again as we speak.

“I felt like I was going to cry, mainly because my late wife Marilyn and I, we’d bought a brand new house before the children were born, and then shifted to Taupo where we stayed. That was John and Marilyn’s house, now of course it’s not Marilyn’s, it’s John’s house – just mine.”

John was one of the first homeowners to move into his area of Halcyon Rise and says that despite feeling like an outsider at first, he now feels like a strong member of the community.

He says he met his new neighbours – and friends - at a street party, one of whom happens to be fellow New Zealander, Carol Wilson.

Carol lives on the same street as John and moved to Australia 26 years ago with her late husband Barry.

They lived at Halcyon Waters together before moving to a unit in Wynnum to be closer to one of their daughters.

When Barry passed away, Carol moved in and out of different residences and even considered moving back to New Zealand until she settled at Halcyon Rise.

“I knew I was going to like it,” Carol explains.

“Having lived at Halcyon Waters many years ago, it was an easy decision to make, and I knew I absolutely made the right decision in moving here”.

Carol didn’t know anyone when she arrived, but now she’s become a very popular member of the Halcyon Rise community.

“I walk the dog a lot, and everyone knows me now,” Carol explains.

“I’ll be walking up and down the street and I’ll hear people saying, ‘Hi Carol, ‘Hello Carol’.”

“Here, I know everyone down the street, and even the married people will tell you to come in for a chat.”

As well as walking her schnauzer, Carol enjoys staying active by swimming at the pool and visiting the on-site gym.

“I swim 1km a week, I go to the gym two or three times a week to do weights, and I’m going to the movies every Wednesday night with people from the community, as well as playing pool every Sunday night.”

Like John, Carol has gotten to know quite a few of her neighbours, including Cheryl Budge, who lives directly next door to John.

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Cheryl left the Australian Defence Force after 30 years of service, because she felt it was time to try something new.

“I wanted a new career, so I went to work in a prison, went to uni, and got my degree when I was 50,” Cheryl explains.

Cheryl graduated from James Cook University in Townsville with a Bachelor of Community Welfare, which then led to her working in child protection for over 17 years.

She officially retired in 2022 and decided to move to Halcyon Rise following a visit with a friend, who also happened to be searching for a new place to settle.

“I’d been to a lot of other places, like some of the other developments around this area, and met people and talked to them, but the day I came in here with one of my friends and met Andrew the Sales Representative, I walked out, sat in my car, and told my friend ‘this is it, this is where I want to live’,” Cheryl explains.

Cheryl never thought she’d live somewhere like Halcyon Rise, but says she enjoys the strong sense of community, which reminds her of her childhood.

“When I was a child, you knew everyone on the street, and you knew all your neighbours,” Cheryl says.

“As an adult, and even in Defence, (because they put their houses everywhere now), I didn’t know any of them, and the difference in here is I know all the people near me.”

Although Cheryl likes to stay busy, she’s found time to volunteer at many Halcyon Rise community events and says one of the best things about her new home is that every time she walks out the door, someone is willing to chat and get to know her.

“Now in society, people don’t tend to mix. They’ve got their own lives and they don’t have street parties; they don’t have barbecues, they don’t do what we used to do – it’s so different,” Cheryl says.

“Here, I know everyone down the street and even the married people will tell you to come in for a chat – it’s just so different, the whole atmosphere is so different.”

Despite all living separate lives, John, Carol, and Cheryl love the warm community at Halcyon Rise and agree that the friendliness of their neighbours, as well as the exciting activities available on their doorstep, are what makes their new home so special.

The power of friendships • Friendships are good for your physical health, with studies showing those with meaningful relationships are more likely to live longer.

• Social connection helps to prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation and can also help to reduce stress and boost cognitive health.

• Friendships and social groups provide a sense of belonging and purpose.

• Basically, being surrounded by friends makes you happy!

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Halcyon Greens judged Australia’s best Victory for Halcyon Greens at Property Council’s National Retirement Living Awards.

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tockland’s Halcyon Greens was named Best Land Lease Community Development at the prestigious Property Council of Australia’s National Retirement Living Awards in June.

Executive General Manager of Stockland Halcyon Communities Richard Rhydderch said it was an honour for Halcyon Greens to be recognised by a national industry body and take out the award.

The community judged on a number of factors including project vision and innovation, quality of design and finish, customer facilities and satisfaction as well as industry and community perception.

“Halcyon Greens has redefined the benchmark for modern seniors, providing the Baby Boomer market with the choice, style, and quality they are looking for,” Richard says.

“Over 50s lifestyle communities are no longer located on secondary land sites and simply cut up for maximum density.

“Instead, the modern senior demands prime locations, thoughtful masterplanning as well as extensive facilities and contemporary and environmentally sensitive home designs,” he says.

“Halcyon Greens has enjoyed outstanding sales success and market acceptance, with the community selling out in May last year, 17 months ahead of schedule.”

“Halcyon Greens has been a real game changer for the industry, being the largest over 50s community in Australia with a strong focus on sustainability and extensive facilities to rival a luxury holiday resort.”

Located on a 34ha island on the Gold Coast, Halcyon Greens is surrounded by native wetlands, nature reserves and sits adjacent to Gainsborough Greens Championship Golf Course.

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The Crazy Bull opens $10 million lifestyle precinct at Halcyon Rise

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elebrity chef and Stockland Food Ambassador Miguel Maestre was a special guest at the opening of the new country retreat-inspired lifestyle facilities at Halcyon Rise.

Following the official ribbon cutting, homeowners from the over 50s lifestyle community were treated to a paella cooking demonstration from the Spanish born chef, also known as the ‘Crazy Bull’.

Miguel says, “I’m so excited to continue working with Stockland and to visit all the wonderful homeowners at Halcyon Communities to share my passion for cooking and the joy of connecting over good food.”

“The homes and facilities at Halcyon Rise are first class and you can tell how impressed the homeowners are with their community.”

The Halcyon Rise Homestead features an array of lifestyle and leisure facilities including a clubhouse, private dining room, gold-class style cinema, heated magnesium salt pool, hair salon and treatment rooms, gym, pickleball courts and a bowling green.

Project Director Chris Carley said the opening of the facilities was a great milestone for the community, which is set on 100 sprawling acres fronting the Logan River.

“Driving everything we do is a deep commitment to delivering an outstanding masterplanned community with quality homes and an abundance of facilities to keep our homeowners active and socially connected,” Chris says.

“As an over 50s lifestyle community, we’re focused on improving the health and wellness of our homeowners and the new facilities are the perfect way to achieve this,” he says.

“Homeowners will be able to gather to enjoy all of the social, wellness, active and creative spaces which are on offer,” he says.

With six new display homes now open too, it’s the perfect time to book for a small group tour.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER, VISIT: STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES/ EVENT/RISE-DISCOVERY-TOUR.

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023

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Halcyon Promenade displays are streets ahead

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n July, Stockland’s Halcyon Promenade opened its much-anticipated Display Village featuring four quality-designed homes that have proved the most popular with buyers.

Halcyon Promenade Project Director, Andrew Astorquia, said it was an exciting milestone for the community.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming people on-site to experience the impressive quality and design our homes are known for.”

“There’s something for everyone with the display homes we’ve delivered,” Andrew says.

“They showcase a range of colour schemes, floorplans and a variety of upgrades available so that homeowners can personalise their homes to their tastes and needs.”

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The community, located in Burpengary East on Brisbane’s northside, is really beginning to take shape, with homeowners now living on-site and construction progressing smoothly.

“What we’re creating at Halcyon Promenade is very special in terms of expansive facilities, quality homes, and a focus on eco-friendly initiatives.”

“Through thoughtful masterplanning, we’re creating a bayside community with that northside feel, a tribute to popular northern Brisbane suburbs.”

“Over the past month, we’ve welcomed 15 homeowners and we’re looking forward to many more joining the community as development continues,” Andrew says.

Construction of the community’s Sports Club and

Wellness Centre will begin later this year, featuring a gym, an undercover 25m magnesium salt pool, courts, an outdoor barbecue area and an inside function space.

Burpengary East local Maureen Spratt was the community’s first home buyer and one of the first to move in to Halcyon Promenade.

“For me, it was a very special and emotional move. I’d lived on Caulfield Drive in our family home for 40 years, but after losing my husband and with my children moving out, I decided it was time to downsize.”

“I sold my land to Stockland and then purchased a home at Halcyon Promenade.”

“My new home is located on my old block of land, so it makes me feel very happy and comfortable.”

“Since moving in, I’ve formed great friendships with my neighbours in our growing community and the quality of my home is excellent, so I know I’ve made the right decision.”

Halcyon Promenade is set across 24 hectares of prime land on Brisbane’s northside and when complete, will feature 370 homes, state-of-the-art leisure and lifestyle facilities, and plenty of green space for all to enjoy.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HALCYON PROMENADE BY SCANNING THE QR CODE

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NEW DISPLAY HOMES NOW OPEN Discover the new Village Hub and Creative Arts Precinct Buderim’s luxury lifestyle community designed for over 50s, B by Halcyon, has been thoughtfully designed with an array of exclusive resort-quality facilities so you can take it on or take it easy.

Featuring a Wellness Centre, Recreation Club and Creative Arts Pavilion, B by Halcyon provides you with everything you need and then leaves it all up to you.

Visit our display centre – Call 1800 050 050 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday | B by Halcyon 2 Retreat Drive, Buderim, Qld 4556

All photographs, illustrations, statements, pricing and information in this advertisement are for illustrative purposes only and are based on information available to and the intention of Stockland at the time of creation August 2023 and are subject to change without notice. No diagram, photograph, illustration, statement or information amounts to a legally binding obligation on or warranty by Stockland and Stockland accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person who relies on them either wholly or in part. Indications of location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change.

PROFILE

People at the heart

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eople are at the heart of everything we do at Stockland Halcyon Communities and are the key focus that drives us to continue striving for excellence and creating quality, liveable over 50s communities where fun, friendship and connection are fostered. As most of you would now be aware, Stockland recently acquired five additional land lease communities from the Living Gems Group in Queensland. Of these, one is an established community, Halcyon Ridge, and we warmly welcome the homeowners and team to our family. It’s an exciting time for Halcyon Communities and our growing scale in this sector is a true testament to our people, not just our team members, but our wonderful homeowners who truly embrace our offering and are passionate advocates for the lifestyle we provide. Earlier this year, Halcyon Communities undertook a Liveability study to understand how we are performing in relation to a number of categories including the quality of home and community design, access to amenity and facilities,

sustainability, community engagement and health and wellbeing. It was encouraging to see that overall, we are performing extremely well. In reviewing the data, we also took into account the Personal Wellbeing Index, a national study by Deakin University that looks at people’s personal quality of life. Pleasingly, we achieved above the national average with our homeowners particularly happy with their lifestyle and standard of living, their health and wellbeing, their relationships, and their sense of belonging and connection within their communities.

As we enter the second half of the year, there’s plenty more to look forward to as we continue our growth journey and national expansion. Enjoy this edition of My Halcyon Days.

Richard Rhydderch Executive General Manager, Stockland Halcyon Communities

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PROFILE

New community will keep buyers’ young at heart Halcyon Evergreen’s first home buyers, Paul and Diana Abel, are excited to immerse themselves in community living when they move into their new home next year.

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riginally hailing from the United Kingdom, Paul and Diana have lived in Australia for more than 36 years and are currently residing in Frankston, Victoria.

Paul runs his own carpentry business and Diana is working from home, assisting with the business’ administration.

“I’m semi-retired and Paul is aiming to retire next year,” Diana says.

“Being in our mid-60s, we’re looking forward to making the most of our move to Halcyon Evergreen.”

The couple had been considering a move to a lifestyle community for some time, and did a lot of research before purchasing at Halcyon Evergreen.

“We’d looked around at all the options and weren’t interested in retirement villages,” Diana says.

“But then we came across Halcyon Communities on Facebook and signed up for a tour of Halcyon Berwick.

We were very impressed by the quality of the homes, which is a huge compliment given Paul’s background in carpentry!”

“The decision was made for us, but we still consulted

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our children, who were very excited. They said we’ve worked hard all our lives and now it was time to enjoy it.”

The couple were also very impressed with the expansive facilities that Halcyon Evergreen will offer.

“We’re both quite social, so we’re really looking forward to meeting lots of people and trying new things,” Paul said.

“At our age, you need to respect where you’re at physically, so the health and wellness facilities will be important for us as we get older.”

“We want to make the most of everything on offer to keep us young at heart.”

Diana agreed and said they are excited to try something new.

“We’ve never played pickleball, but we’ve been watching videos and it looks so fun,” she says.

“There’s so much on offer, right on our doorstep.”

Halcyon Evergreen will feature 295 homes and stateof-the-art leisure and lifestyle facilities including a goldclass style cinema, games room, social dining space, enclosed pool, spa and health and wellness precinct.

Headscarf and sunglasses at the ready When your best friend moves to the Sunshine Coast, it’s only fitting that you pack your bags and hit the road to join them.

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o Cook and Andrea Curtain first met fundraising together at a Rotary Club in Redland Bay and began a friendship spanning close to 15 years.

Now both on their own with families grownup and independent, the ladies found themselves considering where they would like to live as they headed toward retirement.

Jo, who still works full-time for Suncorp, was the first to make a move, buying off the plan at Halcyon Nirimba in Stockland’s master-planned Aura community and moving in early 2022.

“I can work from home and have a nice office set up at the front of the house. After hours, there are plenty of things to do. I use the gym or pool most mornings before starting work too,” Jo says.

“But retirement isn’t too far away. I’m looking forward to making the most of so many other activities here in the community.”

Andrea was initially concerned that her friend was buying off the plan.

“But once Jo had moved in, I popped up to see her with a bottle of champagne to celebrate. I thought, ‘Oh, this is quite nice’. But I still wasn’t sure it was for me,” Andrea recalls.

“I began to visit regularly. Then one weekend, when I stayed there, we went on a bus trip with others and joined an evening barbecue. The appeal of being a part of a community of people in a similar age group had struck a chord.”

Andrea is preparing to move into her new home later this year.

A nurse for 41 years, she will continue to commute back to Brisbane to work one day a week and continue singing with a local choir.

But as full retirement approaches, she looks forward to settling in properly, making friends and getting more involved in her new community.

“My place is closer to The Clubhouse than Jo’s,” she chuckles, “so we’ve decided it will be the gathering point before we go out.”

“It’s great that you have all these things on your doorstep. You don’t need to get in the car and find a park.

Everything is so easy because you can walk there.”

Through community interest groups, Jo has already begun learning to paint watercolours and is eyeing a jewellery-making course too.

“Once I have more time, I might pick up racquetball or pickleball,” Jo says.

Meanwhile, Andrea has taken up lawn bowls in preparation for her move north.

“I quite like watching the AFL,” Andrea says, “I’m hoping I’ll meet some people to watch it with!”

For both women, being a part of a community was an essential factor in their decision.

“When you are older and on your own, it’s important to be somewhere you can make new connections,” Jo says.

“And once Andrea moves up, it will be nice to have someone to explore the area with too.”

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Artist’s impression. Subject to change.

Discover the Easy Living home series Freedom, beauty and lifestyle in equal measure Halcyon Rise is our sprawling 40-hectare lifestyle community designed for over 50s. Surrounded by green open space and natural parklands, it offers an easygoing way of life.

Introducing the Beechmont design, providing the perfect balance of low-maintenance living and an active lifestyle.

This home is perfect for those looking to enjoy resort-quality facilities at your doorstep or the convenience of a lock-and-go lifestyle.

Come and discover a relaxed country lifestyle only 33km from Brisbane CBD. Visit our display centre today: 8 Halcyon Way, Logan Reserve Scan the QR code to find out more or call 1800 050 050 *All photographs, illustrations, statements, pricing and information in this advertisement are for illustrative purposes only and are based on information available to and the intention of Stockland at the time of creation September 2023 and are subject to change without notice. No diagram, photograph, illustration, statement or information amounts to a legally binding obligation on or warranty by Stockland and Stockland accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person who relies on them either wholly or in part. Indications of location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change.

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Peaceful and calm coastal retreat Mark and Tara Ellis were helping Mark’s parents look for a new home when they came across B by Halcyon nestled in the foothills of Buderim.

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hey loved it so much that they put down a deposit for their own home and the chance find has changed their lives.

The couple had been renting an apartment at Alexandra Headland but felt like strangers among their neighbours.

They had also bought a block of land at Bli Bli, where they planned to build their own home until they discovered B by Halcyon.

“We are relatively new to the coast and as you get older, integrating and building new networks can be harder. But here, people want to be active and part of the community,” explains Mark.

“I just had no idea that these sorts of places exist and that they could be so nice!” says Tara, who is originally from the United States.

The couple still works, running two fitness studios on the Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane.

Tara teaches classes several mornings a week at the Alexandra Headland studio and enjoys a part-time job in retail while Mark works behind the scenes looking after customer enquiries and bookkeeping.

“I get a little envious of Mark who can do most of his work from home and stay local. I really love the days I spend here because there is so much to do,” Tara laughs.

“We’ve been volunteering at the coffee shop on site, which is a great way to connect with more people and any time you go down to the recreation club, there is an atmosphere and a buzz.

“I have snuck in here a little early, thanks to Mark being over 50. A lot of my friends think I live in a nursing home but I tell them it’s more like living on a cruise ship,” Tara says.

“All the fun I want but also access to my own private space. It’s also great being around like-minded people who care about their neighbours.

“Last November we both had

the flu and were very unwell. I cook a lot and after a couple of days, the neighbours noticed the absence of smells coming from my kitchen. They called to check everything was okay. It was nice to know we live somewhere that people look out for each other.”

Mark enjoys playing cards and has also joined a pool competition.

“The layout of the neighbourhood is great as well with everything maintained for you,” he says.

“And we are surrounded by National Park which leaves you feeling peaceful and calm. We are almost in the middle of the rainforest and yet we are still only five or 10 minutes from the beach. It has been like finding a hidden gem; an oasis almost.”

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Community fosters connection across generations As friends before they became family, it was an easy decision for Vicki Hall and Ian and Narelle Grayson to move into the same community at Stockland’s Halcyon Nirimba.

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nitially meeting through the local football club, their friendship of more than 25 years became a family affair when Vicki’s daughter, Sarah, and Ian and Narelle’s son, Wade, hit it off.

Sarah and Wade eventually married and are now the proud parents of 14-year-old Bailee and 10-year-old Indie, granddaughters for Vicki, Ian, and Narelle.

Vicki had begun looking to downsize when Ian and Narelle joined her on a site visit to Halcyon Nirimba.

Stockland’s master-planned Aura community on the Sunshine Coast, where Halcyon Nirimba is located, ticked all the boxes for Vicki and she signed up the next day.

“I had a lovely house in Little Mountain with nice neighbours,” says Vicki, who worked in retail before retiring, “but it is nice to have people around all the time now and things to do every day.”

“There are street parties, Sunday sessions, BBQs and impromptu get-togethers every week. I love pickleball, though it is a little harder for me these days. But I still enjoy a hit and a giggle.”

Ian and Narelle, who met as teenagers, retired from their work with the Queensland Forestry Service in 2006.

Narelle worked in IT management, providing training and support to staff around the state, while Ian, a cartographer, worked on developing Geographic

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Information Systems (GIS).

“We had travelled around Australia in our caravan and saw a few lifestyle communities. Ian had been keen to make the move since we retired but I didn’t want to leave Caloundra, where I have lived most of my life,” Narelle says.

“The location was perfect and the house we chose was beautifully presented, ticking all our boxes. We signed up the day after Vicki.”

“As we prepared to move, we sold our house and moved into our caravan, living by the beach. We are still only a short drive away from the coast and there are many lovely walks to enjoy around us here too,” Ian adds.

Shared grandparenting duties have also become easier for the two households.

“We share some of the school runs for Bailee and Indie and although they live locally, they love a sleepover,” Narelle says.

“We both downsized to two-bedroom homes,” explains Vicki.

“The girls could stay with us at the same time but one likes to stay at one house and one at the other, that way, they have their own rooms and then they switch over.

They can also chat with each other through the intercom and make great use of the lifestyle facilities we have right on our doorstep.”

Rockin’ the suburbs in Buderim Just like U2’s Larry Mullen Jr back in 1976, it was a drummer who first put a ‘musicians wanted’ call out at Stockland’s B by Halcyon.

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inger, pianist and band coordinator Rob Shinner is one of the founding members of the group that formed six months ago.

“Unfortunately, our original drummer had to leave due to health reasons, but our new drummer Rusty recently joined us for the first time. He hadn’t played for 51 years, but wow, he is good!” Rob explains.

“We have Beverley Pool who plays the guitar and sings. Bev had performed in bands in New Zealand.”

“Chris Knox plays lead guitar and the bass, and he played in bands in South Africa.”

“Carolyn Sargent plays the piano and used to perform with an old-world dance group, and Chris BrownridgeJones – he’s quite new – plays the acoustic guitar.”

The band members, all aged in their 60s and 70s, get together for a jam session every Wednesday.

“We are working on getting some songs down; covers of ‘70s and ‘80s rock bands like Creedence Clearwater Revival and a few country songs.”

“I’m new to piano. I only started to learn and play for

myself in the past five years, so Bev has been teaching me how to play as part of a band. It’s quite different working with other musicians and a singer. We are learning how to blend.”

B by Halcyon is the first Halcyon community with a designated music studio complete with a piano, drum kit and speakers.

“Stockland Halcyon Communities has been so supportive. We worked with the community team to develop this new facility and determine what equipment would be useful. It’s kind of a test case for something they might be able to offer in other communities in the future.”

With a little more practice, the yet-to-be-named band hopes to perform from time to time at the B by Halcyon Recreation Centre, which has a dance floor..

“We already hold a Sunday Chill session where everyone comes to relax, listen to music and have nibbles and drinks. Perhaps if we play on a Friday night we will get everyone up for a dance!” Rob says.

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TRAVEL

The more the merrier Why you should consider taking your friends on your next trip away.

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ravelling overseas is a wonderful experience that allows you to dive headfirst into a new culture.

Whether you’re going somewhere you’ve been many times before or to a brand new location, there’s always so much to do and so many amazing memories to be made. This kind of travel on your own can be nice, but it’s always a lot more enjoyable travelling in a group.

Group travel is a very underrated way to see the world.

Many people currently book trips overseas with their significant others or perhaps with a family member, but there’s something so much more thrilling about getting together with your closest friends, dreaming about the destinations you’d all like to visit, and then working together to make those dreams a reality. Do you have friends who’ve always wanted to wander the streets of New York City? Have you shared your craving for tasting authentic Italian pasta in Puglia? Then why not book a flight or a luxurious cruise with the whole gang and get going? Not only will you be able to do things you’ve always wanted to do, but your best friends will also get to share the experience with you. Want to know more about why group travel can be so fulfilling? Then read on to see

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why you should plan a group trip the next time you’re thinking of exploring a new part of the world.

It deepens your relationships When you travel with others, you’ll be able to witness them interacting with new people in new environments.

This will then allow you to see them from a new perspective and even help to deepen your understanding of how that person thinks and operates. When you travel with friends or teammates, they may want to do things you’d never expected them to do. Your bowls teammate may want to try something as ambitious as escargot, even when they’d normally be an otherwise picky eater and one of your closest friends may have the street smarts to get you from one side of town to the other, even though they’re usually a complete homebody. When you travel in a group, you’ll learn so many things about the people you’re travelling with that you may not have found out by simply seeing them at home. It’ll help you understand them on a deeper level and when you return, you’ll feel so much closer to them.

It encourages you to try new things If you tend to need a little push to try new things, travelling with a group can motivate you to step outside of your comfort zone and encourage you to branch out a bit further than you normally would. You may even develop a new skill or hobby, simply by trusting those in your travel group to organise an activity you would otherwise dismiss.

The group may want to try a cooking class in Spain where you learn to prepare a seafood paella with a local chef.

Your friends may also want to take you on a walk through the mystical Scottish Highlands, or in a hot air balloon overlooking the bustling streets of Morocco! Being open to new experiences when travelling with a group can push you to do things you wouldn’t normally do whilst being surrounded by those you trust the most. They’ll guide you through the process and support you through any moments of unease, while you broaden your horizons and take a leap of faith with them by your side.

Tips for travelling in a group • Assign roles so everyone is a part of the planning process • Create an itinerary that caters to everyone’s tastes • Be open to new experiences • Set aside time for yourself

It makes you feel more confident When you’re travelling in a foreign country for the very first time, it can be a bit daunting, especially if English isn’t the locals first language. Luckily, when you’re travelling in a group, you’ll have the support of your loved ones to help you navigate any foreign terrain and make sure you have the most spectacular time while doing it! You may have someone in your group who knows the local language, or a few people in your travel team may have visited the location before and already know where to find the most delicious dinners and divine wine. Group travel puts your mind at ease because you’re not experiencing having to experience everything foreign travel has to offer, all on your own. When you need a good breakfast spot or the best view in town, you’ll be able to lean on your nearest and dearest to help you navigate each destination and make sure you feel confident every step of the way.

You’re creating lasting memories So, we know that group travel can help to deepen the relationships you already have with the people you’ve chosen to travel with, give you the confidence to try new things and make you feel safe as you navigate foreign locations. However, by far the best thing about group travel has to be creating lasting memories that you and your fellow travellers will fondly look back on for years to come. Travelling with a group allows you to share a wide variety of experiences with people you already cherish.

Add new activities, delicious food, beautiful scenery and hilarious hiccups into the mix, and you’ll all have a library of precious moments that may not all have been captured on camera but, will be etched into your memories forever.

As you can see, there are so many wonderful reasons why travelling with a group is a great idea. From learning more about the people you already love, to experiencing new things with those you feel the most comfortable around, group travel really is something everyone should do at least once in their lives. If you have a travel destination you want to visit, why not tell your friends about it? They may think the trip you’re planning sounds so exciting that they’ll want to join in. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get planning!

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023 21

WELLNESS

Having a bowl of a time Friends, fitness, and fun! Why lawn bowls is more than just a game.

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here’s nothing like a good team sport to get your exercise in. Sure, you can go for a walk for a bit of cardio, pop into the gym for some weight training, or attend a mindful yoga class, but if you’re a social butterfly that doesn’t mind a dose of friendly competition, then lawn bowls may be for you.

Lawn bowls is a precision sport where the goal is to roll slightly asymmetrical balls, which are also known as the bowls, towards a smaller white ball called a jack. The game can be played in singles, pairs, triples and fours; with the latter three being team events. Lawn bowls is similar bocce, however there are some key distinctions that make lawn bowls slightly more appealing to players. Firstly, a bocce ball is round, whereas a bowl is round in only one direction and elliptical in the other. This gives the bowls their asymmetric design and allows them to curve when

22 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

rolled. Bowls also come in different sizes and weights to suit the preferences of the bowler (similar to bowling balls), whereas bocce balls are all the same size and weight. When playing bocce, balls are thrown directly towards the jack ball, whereas in lawn bowls, the bowls are rolled towards the jack and are aimed off centre to allow for the bowls to curve.

There’s a lot more to lawn bowls that meets the eye, but don’t let that deter you. Lawn bowls is a wonderfully strategic sport that not only can be casually enjoyed amongst friends, but it’s also an incredibly enjoyable way for you to stay fit and exercise regularly. You may be wondering how rolling bowls down a green can improve your health considering how relaxed and effortless lawn bowls seems to be. Well, it turns out lawn bowls is actually great for your physical fitness, but your mental fitness as well.

PHYSICAL BENEFITS Lawn bowls is a low-impact sport, meaning that although you won’t always break a sweat when you play, you’ll still be able to slowly raise your heart rate and improve your overall health. Lawn bowls involves a lot of walking, as you change positions on the green at the end of each round some players have even walked over five kilometres during a game! Walking helps to increase your cardiovascular fitness, improve bone strength, boost muscle power, and enhance endurance, so if you’re looking for another way to get your steps in, lawn bowls is a great option. Regularly playing a game of lawn bowls can also help to improve your muscle strength. Strengthening your muscles helps to improve flexibility, mobility, and core strength, and during a game of lawn bowls, your arms will be getting a workout as you perfect your rolling technique and carry your bowls around the green. Your leg muscles will also get a workout as you lunge into each roll and bend down to take a closer look at who’s bowl has rolled nearest to the jack. Finally, once you’ve played a few games of lawn bowls and started to perfect your technique, you may also notice that your hand-eye coordination has improved. Lawn bowls requires a lot of concentration and precision, but as you play you may also notice your coordination getting better and that you’re able to use your hands more effectively whilst performing other daily tasks.

MENTAL BENEFITS While the physical benefits of playing lawn bowls are wonderful, the mental benefits are just as good! Playing lawn bowls can significantly help your mental health as it reduces your stress levels to improve your overall mood. Exercise allows your body to release endorphins, which triggers a positive feeling throughout your body. You may have noticed this happen before when, after experiencing a few tricky situations, you’ve decided to go for a walk, run, or even swim to clear your head, only to return feeling significantly better than when you left. That change in mood is all thanks to your endorphins and playing a game of lawn bowls can help your body produce more of these endorphins and ensure no matter what the final score is, you still leave feeling fantastic.

gathered together, or with friends when you’re looking for something to play that involves a dose of friendly competition. Playing lawn bowls is also a wonderful way to make new friends, whether you’re playing a singles or a team game. With a full-sized bowling green at all Halcyon Communities, you can learn the ins-andouts of the game alongside your neighbours and even take part in the Halcyon Communities Bowls Masters.

The Masters takes place once a year and sees various Halcyon Community members, who also happen to love playing bowls, come together for a day of friendship and exhilarating game play.

Lawn bowls is an incredible sport that isn’t just fun to play, but it also has a long list of physical, mental and social benefits that’ll keep you coming back for more.

So, if you love a good chat, a friendly competition, and are looking for a low-impact exercise to keep your heart pumping and your endorphins boosted, then head on down to your community bowling green and have a bowl at bowls!

Want to give lawn bowls a go?

Here are a few tips to help you get started • Warm up and stretch before each game and cool down when the game ends • Consider lessons to help you develop a good technique and learn the basics of the game • Have fun! Lawn bowls is a great game to play with friends, so make sure you’re enjoying yourself every time you step on to the green

SOCIAL BENEFITS As well as great physical and mental health benefits, one of the most positive things people experience when playing lawn bowls is a sense of community.

As lawn bowls is a low-impact sport, it means everyone can play whether they’re eight years old, or 80 years old. It’s a great game to play with family during a special occasion where you’re all

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2 23

MIGUEL MAESTRE’S RECIPE

Cappuccino crème brûlée Serves 4 people Prep time 20 mins Cook time 25 mins

24 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

MIGUEL MAESTRE’S RECIPE

tip >> For kids, omit coffee.

You can replace with drinking chocolate powder for a chocolate version if you like.

INGREDIENTS 600ml carton pure cream ½ cup milk 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped 3 teaspoons instant coffee granules 8 egg yolks ½ cup caster sugar Extra 1/3 cup caster sugar Whipped cream, grated chocolate and shortbread biscuits, to serve Semolina to dust

METHOD Preheat the oven to 150C (fan-forced). Place 4 ovenproof ramekins or coffee cups (250ml capacity each) in a deep roasting pan.

Place cream, milk and vanilla bean and seeds in a medium saucepan. Stir over a medium heat until hot, but don’t boil. Stir in coffee granules until dissolved. Remove from the heat and stand 5 minutes to infuse.

Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a large heatproof bowl until smooth. Strain the hot cream over a fine sieve into a large jug. Gradually whisk the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture until smooth, then divide evenly among ramekins. Pour enough boiling water into pan to come halfway up side of ramekins.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until just set, with

a slight wobble in the centre. Remove pan from the oven, then remove ramekins from water bath. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight.

Just before serving, sprinkle 1 tablespoon sugar over each custard and use a kitchen blow torch to caramelise the sugar until golden brown. Stand until set.

Top brûlées with cream, scatter with grated chocolate, and serve with shortbread biscuits.

Blow torches are available from kitchen stores.

Alternatively, you can place brûlées under the grill to caramelise the sugar.

To make vanilla sugar, rinse and dry vanilla bean after straining cream mixture and place in a jar of caster sugar.

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023 25

Honey, honey, honey Beekeeping isn’t just a calming hobby, it’s also an incredibly rewarding way to help the environment!

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icking up a new hobby is always an exciting journey. It’s even more exciting when you find a hobby that gives you a sense of purpose and helps the environment — like beekeeping!

Beekeeping is the art of maintaining bee colonies in man-made beehives by planning, organising, controlling, coordinating and operating apiaries (also known as bee yards), to help bees produce honey, queen bee pollen, beeswax, royal jelly and pollinate nearby crops. These bee yards don’t have to be located on a farm or hidden out in a deep corner of

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Things you may not know about bees • Australia has over 2,000 species of native bees • We’re the only country that has stingless bees • One bee colony can pollinate 300 million flowers a day.

acreage either. Beehives can thrive just as easily in a small suburban backyard or on an inner-city rooftop!

There are so many reasons why beekeeping is such an appealing hobby. Not only are you able to indulge in the honey you’ve helped your bee colonies to create, but you’re also able to contribute to developing the local agriculture. So, if you’re thinking you might want to join the rapidly growing beekeeping community, then let us take you through some of the other benefits of taking up beekeeping as a new and exciting hobby.

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS When you learn the art of beekeeping, you’re not only helping to protect your own beloved colony of bees, but you’re also contributing to the overall pollination of local flowers and crops. Bee populations have been rapidly declining around the world due to toxic insecticides being applied to vital pollinating plants. By keeping bees and protecting them from the harmful chemicals found in insecticides, you’re not only nurturing the bees and ensuring the population doesn’t decline any further, but you’re also making sure your bee colony is full of strong and healthy workers who’re able to go and pollinate as many plants and crops as they can, every single day.

This pollination process is especially important here in Australia. Native Australian bees pollinate native Australian plants which unfortunately, European bees (who were introduced to Australia about 200 years ago) cannot do. Some plants need vibration to release pollen, which native Australian bees are able to do through a process called buzz pollination. So, by helping native bees thrive in your own native beehive, you’re also helping our country’s native flora to flourish!

Other ways you can do your part to help the bees • Plant a bee-friendly garden with flowers that are valuable sources of pollen and nectar like lavender and alyssums • 30% of bees live inside hollow trees, plant stems, and logs, so leave a couple around your garden to give the bees a safe home to live in • Support local beekeepers in your area by purchasing locallymade honey and beeswax products such as soaps, lotions, and candles.

PERSONAL BENEFITS While there’s an endless number of environmental benefits to beekeeping, there are also plenty of personal benefits to learning how to take care of these precious little pollinators.

Studies have shown that beekeeping can help reduce stress and anxiety, as it delivers a sense of calm and allows you to think more clearly.

Some beekeepers find the buzzing sound of the bee colonies soothing, whilst others have found visiting the bees helps them reset after a particularly tough day. Some beekeepers also find that when they start beekeeping, they feel responsible for their bees and feel prouder of themselves when they can see the colonies they watch over buzzing with activity.

One of the best things about becoming a beekeeper though, is learning from other people who enjoy bees as much as you do. Many of our Halcyon communities have their own native beehives and Committees that work together to make sure these hives are nurtured, and every beekeeper has the support they need to contribute to the health of the hive. So, not only can beekeeping be a great way to calm your nerves and unwind after a long day, but it can also be a great avenue for socialising and getting to know your neighbours who also have a keen interest in helping the environment.

If you’re looking for a new hobby that can relax you and provide you with a new sense of purpose, then beekeeping may be just the ticket.

Not only will you feel a great sense of pride when your colony is continually buzzing with healthy bees, but you’ll also find a brand new community of fellow bee lovers who can share their wisdom with you and support you on your new beekeeping journey.

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE TWO 2023 27

Victorian expansion continues Halcyon Jardin and Halcyon Highlands are launching later this year.

All photographs. illustrations. statements and information are for illustrative purposes only and are based on information available to and the intention of Stockland at the time of creation and are subject to change without notice. No diagram. photograph, illustration, statement or information amounts to a legally binding obligation on or warranty by Stockland and Stockland accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person who relies on them either wholly or in part. Indications of location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change.

28 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

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ith two new communities launching later this year, Victoria is fast becoming the hub of Halcyon Communities’ national expansion.

General Manager of Stockland Halcyon Communities Victoria, James Westh, said it was exciting for Halcyon Communities to continue expanding in the Victorian market.

“As awareness of land lease communities has increased, more people are seeking the benefits of the lifestyle that an over 50s community offers.”

“We’ve been able to take on the learnings of the Halcyon Communities success in southeast Queensland and create a compelling value proposition for the Victorian market,” James says.

“A key differentiator in Victoria is the financial benefits our lifestyle communities offer. We offer no Deferred Management Fees, no exit fees and our homeowners keep 100 per cent of the capital gains.”

“With careful consideration of optimal locations in Victoria, we’ve been creative with our masterplanning, not only considering what facilities we’ll deliver within our communities, but also leveraging the amenities from surrounding areas to create truly connected lifestyles for our homeowners,” he says.

Halcyon Highlands

Halcyon Jardin STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023 29

HALCYON JARDIN Location, location, location

HALCYON HIGHLANDS Live the Highlands Life

Halcyon Jardin is located in the south-eastern growth corridor of Clyde, just a short drive from Halcyon Berwick and Halcyon Evergreen.

Inspired by tranquil gardens, Halcyon Jardin combines peaceful, open green space with a strong sense of connection. Ideally positioned next to the St Germain town centre, everything you need is right on your doorstep.

Featuring 278 architecturally designed homes, Halcyon Jardin will feature resort-quality facilities including a social clubhouse, swimming pool, health and wellness precinct, gold-class style cinema, sporting grounds and more.

In Melbourne’s northern suburb of Mickleham, Halcyon Highlands is located on Craigieburn Road within the broader Stockland masterplanned community.

As Stockland’s first lifestyle community in Melbourne’s north, Halcyon Highlands offers the convenience of a reno-proof, low maintenance home, and state-of-the-art facilities. The community is well connected, close to local shopping precincts including Craigieburn Central, as well as medical centres, public transport, parklands, golf courses, wineries, and much more.

Featuring 239 architecturally designed homes, Halcyon Horizon will feature exclusive resortquality facilities including spaces for socialising, sporting, and wellness pursuits, all built around the beautiful local Red Gums.

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT: HALCYON JARDIN | OVER 50S LIVING VICTORIA | HALCYON (STOCKLAND.COM.AU)

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT: HALCYON HIGHLANDS | OVER 50S LIVING VICTORIA | HALCYON (STOCKLAND.COM.AU)

Artists impression only. Supplied by st germain group.

30 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

New homes from 589k*

Artist’s impression. Subject to change.

A new over 50s lifestyle in the heart of Armstrong Creek.

Discover Stockland’s new lifestyle community, designed for over 50s, where you can enjoy the very best of country and coast – keeping all your capital gains too.

With a range of beautiful 2 and 3 bedroom home designs to choose from and no DMF or stamp duty fees, Halcyon Horizon is where you, can do you!

Visit our Welcome Centre – Now open 529 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Armstrong Creek Open Monday – Friday from 10am – 4pm

Halcyon Horizon

Scan the QR code to find out more or call us on 1800 050 050

Halcyon Horizon

*All photographs, illustrations, statements and information in this advertisement are for illustrative purposes only and are based on information available to and the intention of Stockland at the time of creation September 2023 and are subject to change without notice. No diagram, photograph, illustration, statement or information amounts to a legally binding obligation on or warranty by Stockland and Stockland accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person who relies on them either wholly or in part. Indications of location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change.

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2 31

Welcoming

Halcyon Ridge

32 STOCKLAND | HALCYON COMMUNITIES

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n an exciting time of growth for Halcyon Communities, Stockland has announced the acquisition of one community and four development sites in southeast Queensland.

This includes four communities for future development at Beerwah, Burpengary East, Logan Village and Eagleby Heights, as well as an existing community in Toowoomba, which will be renamed Halcyon Ridge.

Executive General Manager of Stockland Halcyon Communities Richard Rhydderch says the acquisition is a true testament to our people, and our offering in the over 50s market.

“The acquisition of this portfolio adds significant weight to our development pipeline and builds on the continuing success of Halcyon Communities.”

“Our ability to grow is a testament to our people, not just our team members, but our wonderful homeowners who embrace our offering and are passionate advocates for the lifestyle we provide,” Richard says.

“We especially look forward to welcoming our newest homeowners at Halcyon Ridge to our growing family.”

“The community in Toowoomba is well established with 200 home sites and resort-quality facilities, plus a number of staff who we’ve

welcomed at Stockland.”

Husband and wife team, Mark and Julie Lister, are the Resort Managers at Halcyon Ridge, and have been there for about seven months.

“We made the move to Toowoomba from the Gold Coast, so it’s a nice country change for us,” Julie says.

“Toowoomba is still a big enough city that everything you need is close by, but there’s much less traffic!”

Mark agrees, and says when Julie wanted to downsize, he was the one who suggested the country move.

“We have a lovely community at Halcyon Ridge, with roughly 400 homeowners, who are quite active.

There’s lots of different interest groups like water aerobics, bowls, tennis, and music, so we’re enjoying the change,” Mark says.

Halcyon Ridge perfectly combines the charm of country living with an active lifestyle in a secure, relaxed environment, and is just minutes away from the vibrant heart of Toowoomba.

The community features an array of resort-quality facilities including the Country Club with a magnificent grand ballroom and bar, heated indoor swimming pool and spa, gym, cinema, and tennis courts.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HALCYON RIDGE BY SCANNING THE QR CODE.

33

Sisters state their case for a reunion After 76 years living in Sebastopol near Ballarat, Gwen Quince is preparing to join her sister in Queensland as homeowners in Stockland’s Halcyon Rise community in Logan Reserve.

DIANE AND JEFF MCLENNAN

34 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

FEATURE

GWEN QUINCE

A

fter Gwen’s parents retired to Mermaid Beach on the Gold Coast in the early 80s, her two sisters soon headed north also.

Gwen, however, remained in Victoria, venturing north each Christmas to visit her parents and siblings while raising her family of five.

Gwen’s sister Dianne McLennan and her husband Jeff were looking to move from their home at Nerang to somewhere smaller.

When they told Gwen about Halcyon Rise, a spark was lit.

“Since COVID, I haven’t done much. I couldn’t go anywhere, no one could visit and I realised I would rather be up in Queensland, enjoying my sister’s company at this point in my life,” Gwen explains.

Gwen’s adult children are spread between Ballarat and Darwin, with one son on the Gold

Coast, and her grandchildren live everywhere in between.

“I haven’t visited Halcyon Rise but my son and daughter-in-law, who live locally, checked it all out for me and agreed it was a great opportunity for me to make the move.”

“The heated magnesium pool was the selling point for me. I’m not a great walker but I can walk in the pool so I bought the block right opposite the pool! It’s great how it’s all included in your price of living. I’m also looking forward to joining in some get-togethers and making new friends.”

Dianne and Jeff have been married for 53 years and are very active in their community. Dianne volunteers at Vinnies and Jeff at the Animal Welfare League. They still drive down to Victoria to stay with friends and enjoy the AFL Anzac Day match most years.

When the yard at their Nerang home became increasingly hard to maintain, they found Halcyon Rise and discovered all the green space to be enjoyed without the work involved.

Leaving the big gum trees that graced their backyard, they are now looking forward to having a small garden of their own while still enjoying the sprawling acres of the lifestyle community that fronts the Logan River.

“We have a grand-dog who spends much of the week with us so it will be a lovely place to take him out for walks,” Gwen chuckles.

Jeff was the manager of the Mt Gravatt Bowls Club before he retired and still plays bowls there, however, Dianne has her eye on one of the local greens.

“I used to play. With a bowling green right there, I might get back into that and you never know, I might even talk Gwen into playing too,” she says.

“It will be lovely to be in the same complex with Gwen. We talk every day anyway but now it will be so easy to spend time together.”

“I would rather be up in Queensland, enjoying my sister’s company”

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023 35

No entry or exit fees

A resort-quality over 50s lifestyle, that lets you do you A lifestyle community in the Sunshine Coast’s best backyard, that lets you do you. Halcyon Nirimba is redefining over 50s living from its location in Stockland’s masterplanned community of Aura. Enjoy access to more than 200 kilometres of walking and cycle paths that connect homeowners to a network of shops and facilities.

With brand new homes from $630,000* and resort-quality clubhouse facilities within the gates of the community, at Halcyon Nirimba you can live the lifestyle that you choose – keeping all your capital gains too.

Visit our Display Centre 25 Banya Avenue, Nirimba Open Monday to Friday, 10am–4pm

Halcyon Nirimba Scan the QR code to find out more or call us on 1800 050 050 *All photographs, illustrations, statements and information in this advertisement, are for illustrative purposes only and are based on information available to and the intention of Stockland at the time of creation July 2023 and are subject to change without notice. No diagram, photograph, illustration, statement or information amounts to a legally binding

obligation on or warranty

by Stockland and Stockland accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person who relies on them either wholly or in part. Indications of STOCKLAND | HALCYON 36 location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change.

A connected community Stockland’s Halcyon Nirimba was Australia’s first land lease community to be deliberately designed within a broader masterplanned community.

L

ocated in the heart of Stockland Aura on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Project Director for Halcyon Nirimba, Andrew Astorquia, says the design was intentional to drive a strong sense of belonging and connection for homeowners.

“Our vision for Halcyon Nirimba was to create a modern, resort-style community, with the added convenience and benefits of living within a wider masterplanned community,” Andrew says.

“In addition to the magnificent onsite $6.7m leisure and recreation facilities, Halcyon Nirimba is positioned close to Aura’s future City Centre, with easy access to the future Bells Creek Arterial Road and a number of parks and open green spaces surrounding the community.”

“Driving everything we do is a deep commitment to delivering an outstanding over-50s community with

quality homes and an abundance of facilities to keep our homeowners active and socially connected, both inside and outside the gates.”

Halcyon Nirimba homeowner Sam Romeo has been living in the community since 2020.

“I really enjoy the location. Not only do I have a well-designed, quality home at Halcyon Nirimba, I also have easy access to all that’s on offer in the broader Aura community.”

A new bus service has recently commenced in Aura, connecting Nirimba, Baringa, and Caloundra West to the broader Sunshine Coast.

Stockland recently delivered the Bells Creek Arterial Road, providing direct connection for Halcyon Nirimba homeowners and Aura residents with direct access to the Bruce Highway.

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023 37

A new community on the horizon in Armstrong Creek Halcyon Horizon officially opens its Welcome Centre.

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ocated in Armstrong Creek, the $176 million development is close to Geelong and is approximately 12kms to Torquay’s famous beaches, the Great Ocean Road, and the Bellarine Peninsula.

In May, an event was held to celebrate the opening of Halcyon Horizon’s on-site Welcome Centre, the main hub for sales appointments and home customisations for the community.

Pre-launch interest has prompted Stockland to unveil its foundation release, which includes 18 homes that offer minimum maintenance and maximum style.

Project Director Lachlan Atkins said he was excited to see the strong interest in the project already, following the success of Halcyon Berwick, Stockland’s first lifestyle community in Victoria.

“As awareness of land lease communities has increased, more people are seeking the benefits a lifestyle community catering for over 50s offers,” Lachlan says.

“At the event on Thursday, we had more than 40 prospective buyers keen to learn more about what’s on offer at Halcyon Horizon. We’ve had strong enquiry rates already, which is a testament that we’re creating

38 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

something special in terms of expansive facilities, quality homes, and a focus on eco-friendly initiatives.

“With the opening of the Welcome Centre, buyers can now visit us on-site, view the community masterplan, and explore our home choices gallery where there’s a range of upgrades and customisations they can make to their homes.”

Earthworks have commenced on-site in Armstrong Creek, with construction of homes to start within the coming months.

Halcyon Horizon will feature 234 homes as well as state-of-the-art leisure and lifestyle facilities, master planned into precincts for socialising, health, wellness, and sporting pursuits.

The extensive facilities will feature an array of social and entertaining spaces including, a gold class-style cinema, library, games room, outdoor resort style swimming pool, indoor swimming pool and spa, beauty salon, sauna, steam room, bowling green, and Pickleball courts.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: OVER 50S LIVING & LIFESTYLE COMMUNITY IN GEELONG & TORQUAY | HALCYON HORIZON (STOCKLAND.COM.AU).

Going ‘round the horseshoe bend!

Halcyon Horizon’s first home buyers and Torquay locals, Trevor and Ann Hunt, are making the move to downsize and won’t have to change their address, much!

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oving from their current home on Horseshoe Bend Road in Torquay, where they’ve resided for eight years, Trevor and Ann have purchased a home within one of our newest Victorian communities, also on Horseshoe Bend Road.

“It was purely a coincidence, but a very happy one,” Ann said.

“We currently live in a huge home. We have 11 grandkids, so we wanted the space originally, but with only two little ones coming over on a regular basis now, we are only using half the house.”

“We hadn’t heard of Halcyon Communities, but after looking at other places and doing a lot of research, we decided it would be the perfect move for us.”

Trevor agreed, saying Halcyon Horizon ticked all their boxes, including staying local to be close to their family.

“There were a lot of factors that went into our decision making, but ultimately, the purchasing process, location and the social aspect of community living were really important to us,” Trevor said.

“We went on one of the bus tours to Halcyon Berwick and after that is was a really quick and easy decision for us.”

“We were also very impressed with the no Deferred Management Fees as it gives us more financial freedom.”

The couple, who have been married for 52 years and are now both retired, also enjoyed the home customisation aspect of purchasing their new home.

“We’ve already met with the Home Specialist and made our customisations. We purchased a Grove home and went with the Country Bold colour scheme,” Ann said.

“We thought it was really special having the opportunity to make customisations and can’t wait until our home is ready.”

Trevor and Ann are already counting down the days until they move in and the next chapter of their lives begins.

“We’re really not compromising on our lifestyle, in fact, it will only get better.”

“The facilities at Halcyon Horizon are going to be amazing and we’re excited to see the community grow,” Ann said.

“We can’t wait to make good use of the alfresco dining and BBQ areas with our family and friends, plus I’ve never learnt to swim, so I’m going to purchase a pool noodle and make the most of it!”

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023 39

B by Halcyon opens new luxury display homes

E

arlier this month, Stockland’s B by Halcyon opened four new display homes in the newest stage of the community, setting a new standard of luxury in over 50s living.

The display homes have been designed to meet the market’s demand for an exclusive Buderim lifestyle and overlook the community’s Central Park district.

B by Halcyon Project Director Andrew Astorquia said the impressive homes are leading the way for luxury over 50s living.

“The new display homes were specifically designed to showcase what’s on offer in the final stages of the project and for the buyers we knew would be looking for something that is a little bit special,” Andrew says.

“Central Park forms the heart of Stages 4 and 5 at B by Halcyon and offers homeowners plenty of private, open green space with lakes, a waterfall, and an array of walkways to explore.”

“The homes surrounding this area are some of our largest and most luxurious, with a variety of aspects to choose from, including some north facing sites, as well as exclusive private sites with no rear neighbours.”

“There’s also an impressive range of upgrades included as standard.”

Through thoughtful masterplanning, B by Halcyon has created a lifestyle community that complements the natural surrounds of Buderim.

“A large majority of our buyers are locals, so it was important for us to create a community with a boutique, village-style atmosphere and plenty of green space.”

“Buyers want all the benefits of a Buderim lifestyle but are excited to move into a luxury community where they don’t have to worry about maintenance, mowing lawns, and also have access to expansive facilities, right on their doorstep,” Andrew says.

Recently, the community opened its $17.5 million Recreation and Creative Arts Precincts, adding to the impressive range of facilities already available to homeowners.

The facilities include a gold class style cinema, an enticing resort pool, an exclusive private dining room, a bar that invites the outdoors in, a music studio, library, and arts studio.

TO VISIT THE NEW DISPLAY HOMES, CALL 1800 050 050 TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT.

40 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

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Halcyon Berwick celebrates 50th settlement At the end of May, Stockland’s Halcyon Berwick settled its 50th home, welcoming Craig and Billie-Jean Wood to the growing community.

A

fter Craig underwent a double lung transplant five years ago, the couple decided to prioritise opportunities to live life to the fullest by moving into a community that offered them financial freedom and security to make it easier for them to travel.

Billie-Jean sold the women’s gym she owned and operated and Craig recently retired from his role as a corporate account manager.

“We have just taken our first overseas trip since my operation,” Craig says from Bali, where they are celebrating his recent retirement.

“We loved the new facilities and homes available but the 24/7 security was a key factor in our decision to move into Halcyon Berwick. We can lock up and rock out when we want to, knowing our place is safe and secure.”

The couple are passionate about maximising good health and are enjoying the pool and gym. They also look forward to participating in croquet and bowls when summer arrives.

“At 55, I’m the second youngest homeowner and Craig

42 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

is only 62 but overall, it is quite a young community so Friday night happy hours are a fun way to catch up with everyone,” Billie-Jean says.

“We only moved in five weeks ago but the community of people have been magnificent. We are already making lots of friends.”

“And I’ve already joined the social committee!” says Craig.

Their gorgeous Maltese X Shitzu furbaby, Hamilton, has also received a warm welcome, given a personalised doggy bowl from the Stockland Halcyon Communities team on settlement of their new home.

Having lived in the local area for over 20 years, it was a convenient move for Craig and Billie-Jean with their four children as well as other friends still nearby.

Halcyon Berwick is part of the Stockland masterplanned community of Minta, located 48 kilometres southeast of Melbourne CBD, and set within a beautiful natural reserve with safe access to kilometres of walking pathways.

A lifestyle streets ahead Halcyon Promenade display homes now open Modern living gets a makeover with architecturally designed houses that innovate, impress and evolve with all of life’s chapters. Think seamless open plan spaces, non-step entries and wide hallways and doors.

At Halcyon Promenade, live in a gated community with lush parklands, leisure and lifestyle facilities at your doorstep. Just five minutes to the seaside of Moreton Bay and with easy access to Brisbane and surrounds, this is a place you will be proud to call home.

Artist’s impression only.

Artist’s impression only.

Visit our Sales & Information Centre 1-37 Caulfield Drive, Burpengary East Qld 4505 Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm

Halcyon Promenade Scan the QR code to find out more or call us on 1800 050 050 *All photographs, illustrations, statements and information in this advertisement, are for illustrative purposes only and are based on information available to and the intention of Stockland at the time of creation July 2023 and are subject to change without notice. No diagram, photograph, illustration, statement or information amounts to a legally binding obligation on or warranty by Stockland and Stockland accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person who relies on them either wholly or in part. Indications of location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change.

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2 43

LIN AND ROD EVANS

RAY AND CARMEL WILLIAMS, DEBBIE AND ROSS FEDDERSEN AND PAM MARTIN

44 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

ROB VERMAY, PHYLLIS AND IVAN CRAMER

SOCIALS

Halcyon Berwick Christmas in July Community spirit was alive and well as homeowners and buyers at Halcyon Berwick came together for their Christmas in July celebrations. Donning their festive outfits, they mingled over mouth-watering food and drinks while enjoying Christmas carols.

HEATHER AND BARRY KARAFILIS

JOE GUASTELLA

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023 45

B BY HALCYON

HALCYON GREENS

HALCYON PARKS

46 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

HALCYON RISE

HALCYON LAKESIDE

HALCYON GLADES

HALCYON LANDING

Halcyon Communities Lawn Bowls Masters This year, the Halcyon Communities Lawn Bowls Masters were held across two regional events – one for our southern Queensland communities, and one for our northern Queensland communities.

Halcyon Water’s took out the southern championship, while B by Halcyon came from behind to take out the competition in the north. There was plenty of support from the sidelines as everyone enjoyed a day of friendly competition, comradery and excitement.

HALCYON WATERS

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ANGELA NEYLON, MIGUEL MAESTRE, DONNA INGVOSEN, PER INGVORSEN

HILARY AND MYLES MARTIN

48 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

IAN AND SANDY KINGSTON

SOCIALS

Halcyon Rise Homestead Opening Earlier this year, homeowners and buyers at Halcyon Rise came together to celebrate the opening of The Homestead, the community’s lifestyle precinct inspired by Australia’s best country retreats. Celebrity chef and Stockland Food Ambassador Miguel Maestre was a special guest at the event, where delicious food and drinks were shared amongst friends and current and future neighbours mingled and connected.

CHRIS CARLEY, MIGUEL MAESTRE, SCOTT NG

MIGUEL MAESTRE

STOCKLAND.COM.AU/HALCYON-COMMUNITIES | ISSUE 2, 2023 49

CHRIS AND WENDY WILKIE

Halcyon Promenade Display Home Opening In July, Stockland Halcyon Promenade celebrated the opening of its Display Village featuring four quality designed homes and officially welcomed the community’s first homeowners.

Following a short project update, owners and buyers had the opportunity to mingle and also had an exclusive sneak peek of the new display homes.

NARELLE AND JOHN OLDING, DOUG AND JO FULLER

50 STOCKLAND | HALCYON

DAVID AND ANNE HONEY

JOHN AND RHONDA COLLINS

OWNERS AND BUYERS EXPLORE NEW DISPLAY HOMES

MERRYL COSTIN

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SOCIALS

B by Halcyon Bowling Green Opening In June, B by Halcyon homeowners celebrated the opening of their new six-rink bowling green. Around 200 homeowners turned up to try their hand at bowls and enjoy an afternoon of mingling with neighbours on the green. The celebrations were topped off with a BBQ and drinks amongst friends.

BARRY OWENS, PETER SILK, RICHARD PHILP AND ROD MCINTYRE

HOMEOWNERS TESTING THEIR SKILLS

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ROGER BUTTENSHAW

JENNY MAYNE, BRENDA SILK AND BRIDGET TUELIER

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Halcyon Communities

Halcyon Nirimba

Halcyon Promenade

25 Banya Ave, Nirimba QLD Display homes open 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday*

17-23 Caulfield Dr, Burpengary East QLD Sales Office open 9am - 4pm, Monday - Friday*

B by Halcyon

Halcyon Rise

2 Retreat Dr, Buderim QLD (off Whites Rd) Display homes open 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday*

8 Halcyon Way, Logan Reserve QLD Display homes open 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday*

Halcyon Berwick

Halcyon Evergreen

21 Sunset Blvd, Berwick VIC Display homes open 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday*

1965 Ballarto Rd, Clyde VIC

Halcyon Nirimba offers 10 impressive homes to choose from that are generously sized, energy-efficient, and built to flow seamlessly from private yard through open-plan living and out to the front patio.

Nestled in the foothills of Buderim and wrapped in subtropical rainforest, B by Halcyon offers a community retreat to nature just minutes from beaches.

Located in the highly sought-after suburb of Berwick, you will feel at home the moment you move in, with everything you need for a relaxed lifestyle just around the corner.

Close to beautiful Moreton Bay and set across 59-acres of prime northside land, our secure gated community features a vibrant, pedestrianised main street that connects the two communities.

Downsize to an acreage lifestyle 30 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. Located in Logan Reserve and set on 100 picturesque acres fronting the Logan River.

Inspired by nature, Halcyon Evergreen is a community with natural charm. For those wanting to escape to the county without the maintenance of country living, this community has it all.

Located in Armstrong Creek, Halcyon Horizon is a community where country meets the coast. Only a 10-minute drive to Torquay’s famous beaches and the Great Ocean Road, it’s the perfect location for the modern senior.

529 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Armstrong Creek, VIC Coming soon *Saturday appointments available on request, contact 1800 050 050

Halcyon Ridge

Halcyon Ridge perfectly combines the charm of country living with an active lifestyle, in a secure and relaxed environment, surrounded by everything Toowoomba has to offer.

500 South Street, Glenvale Toowoomba QLD

Image property of St. Germain Group.

Halcyon Highlands

Halcyon Jardin

640 Craigieburn Road, Mickleham VIC 3064

Cnr Thompsons Road & Bells Road, Clyde North VIC 3978

Halcyon Highlands is a well-connected community in Melbourne’s north, offering the convenience of a reno-proof, low maintenance home, and state-ofthe-art facilities.

Ideally positioned next to the St Germain town centre, Halcyon Jardin combines peaceful, open, green space with a strong sense of connection.

Sunshine Coast Halcyon Parks

42 Meridan Way, Meridan Plains QLD

Halcyon Lakeside 1 Halcyon Way, Bli Bli QLD

Halcyon Landing 7 Wagani St, Bli Bli QLD

Gold Coast Halcyon Greens 7 Halcyon Dr, Pimpama QLD

Vision by Halcyon 11 Grant Ave, Hope Island QLD

Halcyon Waters 1 Halcyon Way, Hope Island QLD

Moreton Bay Halcyon Glades 34 Ardrossan Rd, Caboolture QLD

Call one of our friendly team to find out more on 1800 050 050

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

Halcyon Horizon

Image is artist’s impression only. Subject to change.

No DMF, entry or exit fees

A lifestyle community with natural charm Located in Clyde and designed for over 50s, Halcyon Evergreen has no deferred management, entry or exit fees.

Downsize in space while upsizing in living by moving into Halcyon Evergreen, a secure gated community inspired by country living. Enjoy two state-of-the-art community precincts right at your doorstep equipped with facilities such as a gold-class-style cinema, three pickleball courts, a gym, magnesium-infused pool, library, bar, games room and much more.

With prices starting from $535k*, Halcyon Evergreen features 11 new two- and three-bedroom floorplan designs that can suit a variety of lifestyles with options for multipurpose rooms, RV garages, dualfronted lots and private courtyards. Each home can be further customised with a range of upgrades, colour schemes and landscaping options.

If you’d like to arrange a private appointment to learn more or to visit our display homes, visit our website today or call 1800 050 050. *Price correct as at August 2023. Subject to change. Price is based on the standard plans and specifications and standard inclusions under the home purchase agreement. Price does not include additional costs that may be incurred under the home purchase agreement. Applies to selected home only. Subject to availability.

Image is artist’s impression only. Subject to change.

Image is artist’s impression only. Subject to change.

Scan the QR code to find out more or call us on 1800 050 050