Urban Life Magazine Issue 9

JANUARY 2017 VOL. 1, ED. 9

TWO-WHEEL REVOLUTION TAKING OVER NEW SUBURBS UDIA WINNERS • PRIZED SELECTIONS • MANU FEILDEL RECIPE

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DEVELOPMENTS

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contents JANUARY // 2017

WELCOME

6.

S

FEATURES

12.

20.

6

TAKE YOUR PICK Choosing the colours and fittings for your new home will take time, and plenty of thought

12

RIDE HERE, RIDE NOW Cycle paths are an integral part of every new land release, fitting in perfectly with our active lifestyles

20

HOME DELIVERY Celebrity chef Manu Feildel shares the magic and simplicity of his favourite home recipes

22

EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS The state’s best innovators and creations earn the spotlight at the UDIA awards for excellence

REGULARS 4 5 19 24-25 26-29

INSIDERS OBJECTS OF DESIRE PRACTICAL MAGIC INDUSTRY NEWS LAND ESTATES, DISPLAY HOMES DIRECTORY

22.

TARTING the year with a positive mindset, many people make New Year’s resolutions – myself included.

A popular one is to get fitter and there’s no better way than to start using pedal power to see the world around you.

I attended a launch last month at which Villawood Properties’ Rory Costelloe spoke with pride about how Armstrong Estate’s cycling paths were linking Barwon Heads Rd with Anglesea Rd. In our cover story, Manveen Maan examines how cycling and walking paths are making our communities healthier, more socially inclusive and happier, with a section on those important pieces of the infrastructure puzzle coming our way.

Following on from last month’s awards edition, we also feature the individuals, companies and developments chosen as the year’s best at the Urban Development Institute’s awards for excellence.

Speaking of choice, selecting fittings and colour schemes can tax the mind, but use our handy hints and hopefully it will become an enjoyable step in your home-owning journey.

I hope the year ahead - the Chinese Year of the Rooster - brings you good fortune, health and happiness.

We’ve been busy updating our website at urbanlifemag.com.au, so please feel free to check out the changes.

Ross McGravie EDITOR

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PUBLISHER Ross Copeland // MANAGING EDITOR Ross McGravie // DIGITAL EDITOR Manveen Maan SUB-EDITOR Cassy Polimeni ART DIRECTOR Kylie Mibus // SOCIAL MEDIA Tiffany Copeland // NATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Steve Kunesevic // ADMINISTRATION Gina Copeland

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INSIDER What attracted you to the industry (and when)?

I had a 27-year career in the corporate and consulting worlds.

Seven years ago I discovered the residential construction industry and found it to be a fundamentally different culture, less political and less hierarchical. As a result, we get on with the rewarding parts of our job. And there is nothing better than handing the keys of a new home to one of our customers.

never-lived-in-before home in your chosen location. But there is a journey between falling in love with a plan and moving in.

Buying land, selecting the house, working through designs, making product and colour selections (while sticking to budget), optimising siting, associated site costs, reading the contract, waiting for the builder to obtain approvals, waiting for the land to title and sorting out the loan – it isn’t easy.

What do you love most about the industry?

It is potentially relevant to everyone. New homes become the basis of people’s lives - whether it’s the excitement of a couple’s first home, the place a family grows up, or the special place people choose for their retirement.

If building tomorrow, what would you most like incorporated in your home?

A raked ceiling down the living side of the house, extended into the outdoor living area. I would have the kitchen on the external wall with a large island bench, a servery out to the al fresco, an appliance tower and a butler’s pantry with a large appliance bench. This connects indoor living with outdoor. I’d also like a well-appointed theatre room with a high-resolution screen and surround sound, and basic home automation for selected lights and entry door to be set on timers or controlled via my iPhone.

What do you consider your proudest moment?

Nurturing the development of so many talented people and watching their careers evolve is the element I get the greatest enjoyment and satisfaction from.

Biggest regret?

Building a home emotionally and financially is massive.

We understand this and respect, protect and nurture this journey. We get it right the vast majority of the time, but I regret the few that aren’t perfect. We always get it right in the end, but errors or misunderstandings can cause undue stress.

Worst trend?

I grew up when the Great Australian Dream was to own a home with plenty of space around it. I understand the practicalities, but don’t find boundary-to-boundary developments aesthetically pleasing.

Craig Rooney

What should prospective buyers look for when choosing a builder?

It is enormously important to select a builder that not only has great designs, but one that provides certainty and recognises it is a bold decision to build a new home and stands to respect, protect and nurture the client vision. Those contemplating building could benefit from builders that offer a range of housing solutions, buyer information guides, buyer information sessions and interior design specialists as all of these will help set expectations, make the journey enjoyable and end up with the best possible home.

PORTER DAVIS HOMES

Best change?

In my short time I have seen people from many backgrounds blending into an industry of passionate people who are also technically very capable. The industry will evolve to a new level with the blending of this talent.

If you had the power, how would you improve the process of building?

Building is a 6-12-month journey from deposit to handover, then the delay in land development and title in some areas can add a year or two to the client’s journey. It would be great to reduce the time between land deposit and title. Secondly, develop the ability to visualise the new home with a tool. Most clients struggle to translate drawings in their mind or imagine the changes they want from the display home. This can lead to “surprises” when their home gets under way.

What’s the biggest misconception people have of building?

That it will be quick and easy! The end result is a sparkling,

Regional Manager 4 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

What tips would you give for future-proofing a home?

Select classic or resort colour themes as they have a neutral palette. The personalisation can be captured in furniture, accessories and decorative pieces that can be easily updated.

Generously allocate power points.

And give as much consideration to your likely needs over the next 5-10 years as your immediate needs. The home will be yours for many years.

What do you think building a home will be like in 2030?

I imagine future homes will have a progressively increased focus on energy efficiency and include the evolution of more lightweight, energy-efficient cladding solutions as alternatives to brickwork. Construction could then become modular, with the use of prefabricated sections. I envisage a greater integration of indoor and outdoor living and potential emergence of multipurpose rooms. I would expect a significant increase in the use of technology with app-controlled wireless devices around the home.

OBJECTS OF DESIRE

Knock

1. Marchetti Adularia FG685 drinks trolley RRP: $2425 domo.com.au

2. “Love Bearer” seat, made from recycled messmate and rawhide leather strapping.

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By Nicole Bittar Since time immemorial, the sacred commodity of ancient forests has been a source of power, wealth and destruction.

In Roman civilisation, the author Pliny recognised trees as a supreme gift to mankind, providing seasonal food, foliage for carpet and bark used as aliment.

Sustainability and salvageable resources feature in the world-worn product of these covetable items, which form the basis for and soulful additions to the wooden heart of every home.

3. Slatted-door cabinet (commissioned for this year’s Sydney Botanic Gardens’ bicentenary exhibition, featuring timber from a salvaged fallen limb of a 200-year-old paperbark tree).

RRP: $6500. wildercoyle.com.au 4. Marchetti D20 chest of drawers RRP: from $6125 domo.com.au

Photography: MARTINA GEMMOLA. Styling: RUTH WELSBY

5. K2 Kitchen System, featuring Blackbutt veneer and custom-made solid-timber handles, for Beach Road House.

POA. Phone (03) 9387 5421 cantileverinteriors.com

5 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 5

Image: DENNIS FAMILY HOMES

DESIGN

Bigger Pickture Without direction, the sheer choice could make your head spin, but there’s an art to choosing the paint colours, decor and style that belong in your home.

ROSS McGRAVIE heeds some expert advice

N

O MATTER how many magazines you’ve drooled over or how many blogs or webpages you’ve stared at for hours on end, nothing quite replaces the ‘touch and feel’ experience. And that’s without taking into account the copious number of photos you’ve stored on Pinterest boards and pages of notes you may have assembled during your new-home journey.

Considering that most new-home buyers are confronted with about 100 home styling decisions that will affect the overall look of their home, it makes sense to see your choices in person, as well as having an expert helping hand or two. These selections may include the facade (bricks or Hebel, roof tiles or Colorbond, render, tiles or stone), garage door, liveability (insulation, soundproofing, ventilation, solar panels), floors (tiles, timber, laminate, carpet), internal decor (walls, doors, trims – architraves, cornices, skirting boards), electrical and lighting, bathrooms (basins, tapware, bath), kitchen and laundry (benchtops, cabinets, handles, splashback), wardrobes and window furnishings. And that’s only the beginning!

For this reason most builders have a design or display centre for selecting colour, decor and products. Among many others, Dennis Family Homes has its Colour Room, JG King has its Colour Selection Studio, Burbank Homes has its Edge Selection Studio, Carlisle Homes has Spectra, and Metricon has Studio M. But the big daddy of them all is Porter Davis’s

World of Style in South Melbourne – the country’s biggest and most comprehensive display centre that stretches over 2000sq m of floor space.

Opened in July 2014 in a former mechanical warehouse, the gallery-like World of Style is “designed to engage your senses, excite you with the possibilities, give you real-time quotes and plenty to explore. This is your opportunity to surround yourself in interior design – where you can touch it, feel it, see it and live it”.

Marketing manager Erin Field said clients were asked to identify their design style (Classic, Resort, Contemporary and Designer) in an interactive quiz (worldofstyle.com/findyour-style) to avoid “decision paralysis” before attending their appointments. Interestingly, Field said the majority of clients opted for Classic.

“People know what they like, but coming in here can bring to life the pictures in people’s heads,” Field said.

She recommended clients come to the centre at least twice before their official appointments were conducted. Anyone is free to attend for inspiration, and if you are the indecisive type, bring your partner or an interested friend along to help steer you in the right direction.

“Your home is the ultimate expression of who you are, so it make sense to take the time to ensure that it does reflect the real you,” Field explains. “And if you can’t choose, our team of passionate interior designers are here to make the decisions easier.”

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 7

DESIGN For example, staff from Kitchen Culture can discuss cabinet finishes and configuration, Argus staff are on hand for home automation and security advice, Birk Solutions assists with window furnishings, National Tiles helps with flooring, and Crystal provides wardrobe advice. Other builders also have specialist firms and suppliers on hand for quality advice.

Selections for single-storey homes typically require one day, while consultations for a double-storey design take two days. Within that, appointments are made for each section of the home (i.e. a two-hour slot for kitchen consultation, one hour for lighting, etc). Given the long time periods involved, it’s best to arrange for someone to mind your children so the focus can be on the task at hand. But if you’re only popping in briefly, there are usually designated play areas for kids.

IN most cases of selection, it’s a matter of keeping things simple. The No.1 consideration throughout the process should be sticking to your budget, as it can be easy to get caught up in the emotion of bringing your dream to reality.

American builder Shea Homes says buyers should rank the importance of rooms (kitchen, living room, bedroom, dining room, bathrooms or others) and factor in their lifestyle (have kids or pets, love cooking, primary residence, empty nester, etc) when prioritising decisions. The firm’s design counsellor Jaclyn Burrage said knowing what to prioritise can make the experience easier, as it often leads to a domino effect of decisions being made.

“Some people may think to themselves. ‘I spend a lot of time cooking, so I definitely want a killer kitchen that has high-end appliances and countertops,” she said. “A young couple with children and a large dog may not end up happy with a high-gloss hardwood floor as it will show scratches far more prominently than a highly distressed hardwood floor. And if they spend a lot of time in the kitchen, we may suggest more resilient alternatives that are softer underfoot than a ceramic tile or stone.”

Thankfully, technology is our friend and many builders have online tools to help you with selections. Beforehand, determine the standard inclusions and potential upgrades with your sales consultant. If possible, think ahead to five or 10 years down the track and set up the wiring for networking or home automation now, even if the budget doesn’t allow for your grand plans to be implemented right away. The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless. Good luck!

8 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Images: PORTER DAVIS, BURBANK, SHUTTERSTOCK

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DEVELOPMENTS

12 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

f o C s H l e

E ANG

Whe

COVER STORY

I

T WAS US president John F. Kennedy who remarked, “nothing compares to the simple pleasure of riding a bike”. And Albert Einstein, who said his theory of relativity originated when he was riding his bicycle. He added later, “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving”.

Both had a point. There’s little in this age of electronics that beats a two-wheel adventure in the great outdoors. It’s healthy, engaging with nature, and a great way to interact with friends and family.

Alongside topping Most Liveable City lists around the world, Melbourne is home to a collection of quality bike trails, and for good reason. With a host of benefits to go with its uber-healthy reputation, such as improving happiness levels and relationships, it’s no wonder more city slickers are choosing to ride the cycling wave.

Fortunately, many of our new estates are being equipped with fantastic walking and cycling trails. Perhaps we’re one step – or should we say a pedal revolution - closer to H.G. Wells’ observation that “Cycle tracks will abound in Utopia”.

Peddling a healthy respect for cycling, MANVEEN MAAN says smart planning will soon have us all on a joy ride

Image: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

C

YCLING is a popular mode of transportation in many European countries, as well as China, the most populous nation in the world. There are both economic and health gains to a more cycle-friendly population. For starters, congestion issues are cleverly worked around with more cyclists on the road. A bicycle user can cover about four times the distance of a pedestrian in the same time, which completely transforms how mobility can be achieved in a big city. For example, if a train station has a catchment radius of 0.5km-1km, with the cycling increase, the catchment radius becomes 2km-4km, which results in an increase in the number of people who can comfortably gain access to a train station without a car.

This ability for more people to access a train station without a car also creates a massive opportunity to transform train stations into more thriving centres, teeming with business activity, instead of simply providing a space for car parks.

The money saved by not building enormous, free commuter car parks could be more usefully spent on providing pedestrian and bicycle access, as well as building important facilities,

such as retail spaces near stations.

As such, bicycles can become a part of everyday life and can offer a practical alternative to mainstream modes of transport.

Need more numbers to throw into the mix? On a monetary scale, those who cycle to work save money on parking, petrol and public transportation fees. Sounds like a pretty good deal for the wallet.

H

EALTH, too, makes great gains from a more mobile population.

Sherlock Holmes creator and physician Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was another fan espousing the benefits of riding.

“When the spirits are low, when the day appears dark, when work becomes monotonous, when hope hardly seems worth having, just mount a bicycle and go out for a spin down the road, without thought on anything but the ride you are taking.”

In Australia, the number of overweight and obese adults has doubled over the past two decades, with Australia now being ranked as one of the fattest developed nations in the world.

Clearly, there needs to be a change in the diet and daily exercise regimes in our largely sedentary lifestyles.

Bicycles have the potential to play a significant role in providing the daily exercise required to improve the health and fitness of all Australians. Unlike most recreational activities, cycling is more than simply an enjoyable pastime that can build fitness.

Research has shown that regular physical activity is the key to maintaining great health. In fact, regular riders have healthier lungs, less body fat and a reduced risk of major illnesses, such as Type 2 diabetes, some cancers and heart disease. Cycling is also a great stressbuster, emanating feel-good endorphins in the same manner other forms of physical exercise do.

Stockland took the lifestyle benefits claim to the next level.

A five-year VicHealth study that concluded in 2015 at the Selandra Rise community at Clyde North examined how the design of a new residential community can improve the health and wellbeing of residents.

It found walking and cycling paths that connect communities with public transport, local destinations and community services help to

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 13

Image: DACLAND

reduce car dependency and support physical activity. Importantly, it also found that these walking and cycling paths encourage social inclusion and community engagement.

“We want to encourage our residents to leave the car at home if they are heading to the park, the shops or even to work. Having bike paths that

to travel on bike paths from a home at Stockland’s Allura community in the west to a home at Stockland’s Highlands community in the north, about 40km away.

If all else fails when hopping on your bike, at least you’ll get to know your neighbourhood better by riding through parks, paths and trails.

“Ride as much or as little, as long or as short as you like feel. But ride.”

- Five-time Tour de France champion Eddy Merckx are accessible helps that but so does having bike paths that are attractive,” Victoria Residential general manager Mike Davis said. “In our communities we build bike paths along waterways and through parklands, so cyclists can enjoy the scenery while getting to their destination. We also make sure our bike paths link with paths beyond the edges of our communities.”

Proof of this is that it’s possible

14 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

ALL GOING TO PLAN Staying healthy and active in new communities is as simple as your bike.

Dacland’s general manager of design Jonathon Fetterplace said the integration of pedestrian and bike paths into master plans helped neighbours meet each other and form friendships.

“Pedestrian and bike-friendly streets and paths encourage people to spend more time outside, which is how

neighbours meet and communities grow over time,” Fetterplace said.

“Dacland is hands on about promoting healthy, active lifestyles within all its communities and every resident has access to open space within a minute of their front door.

“We design attractive neighbourhoods that really encourage people to get active and we make our roads as safe as possible for pedestrians and cyclists.”

For example, a network of connecting roads and pathways at the awardwinning Mitchell’s Run community at Doreen enable adults and children to use pedal power to get around the community. It’s also a short, safe ride to shops and schools so people can reach amenities without using a car.

“Paths connect parks and wetlands with some great spots to stop and picnic or have a barbecue near a waterway.

The community is not hilly, so even the youngest of children can manage the ride,” Fetterplace said.

Dennis Family Corporation chief executive officer Peter Levinge echoed the sentiment.

“There is currently more emphasis than ever on including cycling and shared pathways within our residential

developments. This is in keeping with an overall objective of promoting a healthy lifestyle within our communities,” Levinge said. “We have numerous existing and future pathways of varying sizes and configurations incorporated within the planning framework of our estate portfolio.”

Among those routes already developed

by Dacland, Lochaven at Cranbourne allows children to ride to school and through the parklands to shops.

At Wynbrook at Wyndham Vale, there is a chance to connect with the existing Werribee River Trail.

Likewise at Tarneit’s Rothwell estate, there is a bike path along Skeleton Creek that connects residents to sports ovals to the north and the Tarneit train station and future town centre to the south.

Cyclists can then continue their journey all the way to Point Cook.

Dennis Family Corporation’s The Hunt Club at Cranbourne East includes 10km of shared bicycle and walking paths that wind through 20ha of parks, gardens, playgrounds and wetlands. A highlight is riding through the estate’s melaleuca forest.

Manor Lakes estate is another shining example of what can be achieved.

COVER STORY

LEFT Water views are just one of the attractions at Manor Lakes. The Dennis Family Corp development in Melbourne’s west takes advantage of Manor Lake and Lollipop Creek with 5km of off-road paths and 7km of on-road designated cycle paths ABOVE The cycling trails at Dacland’s Mitchell’s Run Estate at Doreen provide options for a rest or for non-stop action

Capitalising on the visual splendour of Lollipop Creek and Manor Lake, the 5km of off-road shared paths and 7km of on-road designated cycle paths provide easy access to recreation reserves, schools, shops and Wyndham Vale station. Stop-off points along the paths include playgrounds, fitness equipment and picnic areas. One path links to the Lollipop Creek Bike Trail, which is part of the City of Wyndham’s wider bike trail network.

CYCLING IN VICTORIA The good news is that the latest guidelines for transport planning in Melbourne’s growth suburbs benefit bike riders moving into these areas.

Bikes, pedestrians and public transport are high on the agenda, and there has been a clear shift to a more liveable, healthy and active lifestyle for these new suburbs.

In Guidance for Planning Road Networks in Growth Areas, chief executive John Merritt said VicRoads “places a strong emphasis on planning safe road networks to reduce the public health impacts of road trauma. It also incorporates urban design and placemaking principles, recognising a range

of human and social values beyond mobility”.

Among the initiatives outlined are that bike riders will have exclusive offroad bike infrastructure on all except the quietest and slowest of roads. Threemetre wide, two-way, bike-only paths are proposed for both sides of all new arterial roads, with one such path for more local connector streets.

VicHealth, too, has jumped on the benefits of cycling, and developed a Planning Checklist for Cycling in 2014 as part of the three-year Healthy New Suburbs in Urban Growth Zones project.

The checklist enables planners to make sure subdivisions meet the current planning and engineering requirements in Victoria and focuses on three requirements of an effective cycling network: Connections to destinations – providing cycling routes that connect to destinations Permeability of the suburb – providing a choice of direct routes across a suburb and to local destinations Quality of infrastructure – providing the correct cycling infrastructure to the target population, their trip purpose and the places they want to go.

POPULAR RIDES

Capital City Trail: 30km trail along car-free paths around inner Melbourne. Cycle along the Yarra River and check out Docklands, Federation Square, Royal Botanic Gardens, Como House, Abbotsford Convent, Dights Fall and Melbourne Zoo. A great starter trail, with no big hills St Kilda Beach to Half Moon Bay: 13km trail follows beachside path from St Kilda through to Brighton, Sandringham and Half Moon Bay. Great bayside views. A straightforward path with shops and homes on one side, and beautiful coastal views on the other Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail: 38km trail following the now-defunct train line from Lilydale to Warburton. Scenery is breathtaking with wineries and native forests. It’s an easy gradient with minimal road crossings and you can do shorter sections Bass Coast Rail Trail: 16km trail (one way) follows the disused railway line from Anderson to Wonthaggi (Gippsland). Variety of views of the Bass Strait and rugged coastline to flat farmland and coastal bushland Around The Bay: Serious cyclists will jump at this 210km route around Port Phillip Bay. Start at Alexandra Gardens and head to either Sorrento in the east or westward to Queenscliff. Catch the ferry and head back to Alexandra Gardens and show off your cycling chops LINKS www.bicyclenetwork.com.au roadcyclinguk.com

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 15

COVER STORY With all these initiatives aiding the bike trails and cycling culture already in place, it’s the best time to jump in headfirst and reap these benefits yourself.

PICK AND CHOOSE Choosing a bike is probably the best first step to take. There are usually four types of bikes, depending on what you’d like to achieve.

First up are hybrid bikes, a mix of road, touring and mountain bikes, resulting in a multi-purpose bike that can be ridden over various terrains.

Its priorities are comfort and efficiency over speed, resulting in it having wider tyres than road bikes for better stability.

Hybrid bikes are great for commuters and casual riders, and generally a cheaper option, making them a great choice for those starting out.

Commuter bikes are well, bikes you can commute on. Most of these bikes are designed for durability and comfort,

mainly because you can’t tell how long you’re going to be on the bike for. They also have extras, such as a rear rack or front basket for bags, or mudguards to protect your clothing while you ride.

Mountain bikes are for the serious cyclists. Designed for off-road riding, mountain bikes feature flat, wide handlebars and knobbly tyres used to navigate bumpy terrains.

Dual-suspension mountain bikes offer varying levels of front and rear suspension, and cater for crosscountry, downhill and freeride disciplines. Hardtail mountain bikes have suspension in the front forks only and are most commonly used in cross-country riding where lightweight frames are favoured. It’s important to note that mountain bikes can vary widely in design and price, so it’s best to test ride one before purchasing.

Finally, there are road bikes that are built for speed and only suitable for

MANZEENE VILLAGE (G)

ENERGETIC home buyers Johanna and Nic chose Manzeene Village at Lara for its proximity to things they love, including cycling tracks.

“We were travelling to Lara at least once a week to ride in the You Yangs and we just loved it.” Johanna said. “Now we’re surrounded by outdoor opportunities in every direction. The Surf Coast and the You Yangs are nearby, and we’re right between many of our widespread locations like Buxton, where we love mountain bike riding.”

The Dacland development has a shared path that runs through a central botanical park, ensuring 90 per cent of the open space is car free.

There is potential to link this path to an existing cycle trail.

16 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

use on paved surfaces. They usually feature a lightweight frame made from aluminium or carbon fibre, and have narrow tyres and clip-in pedals. Most have at least 18 gears and are generally on the more expensive side of things.

up doing many more pedal rotations than an adult - so it’s not surprising they need to replace all that energy.

Bite-size snacks are easy to carry and have more than enough energy to keep you going.

“Cyclists see considerably more of this beautiful world than any other class of citizens. A good bicycle, well applied, will cure most ills this flesh is heir to.”

- Dr K.K. Doty, How to Bicycle, 1892 Road bikes are designed for speed and often have quick handling, and a fairly aggressive riding position so it usually takes some time to get used to it.

THE NEXT GENERATION It’s all fine and dandy if you’re able to join a biking group and zip around with your buddies on the weekend. But what if you have kids? Riding with children is completely different from riding on your own or with other adults. Children get bored pedalling along at the same speed, and longer distances have to be cut down to ensure everyone can keep up. It is beneficial to instill healthy habits in children at a young age so you may have to work a little harder to keep them entertained when on long rides.

Cycling at a slower pace and stopping often is likely to be your riding pattern so it’s best to enjoy the moment and take in the scenery, as children do. It’s also important to ride behind the kids instead of in front. This way, you can see them and the road ahead and are able to communicate quickly and effectively if something comes up. It’s probably best to ride in a compact group and stop together when someone needs to pull over for a break.

Talking about points of interest along the way, such as the road, bike trail, buildings or nature surrounding the route, can help keep things entertaining for the young ones. It’s also important to carry plenty of snacks and drinks and encourage children to eat and drink constantly. Remember that most kids’ bikes only have one gear, so they end

Remember that with one gear, hills are more of a challenge. You’ll need to give them extra time to catch up.

Practice makes perfect, so getting plenty of bike riding in before setting off on a long route will help immensely.

You’ll understand each other’s rhythms, the pace you can expect to ride at and you’ll condition your bodies for riding. You will also practise your communication and learn how to ride comfortably together as a group. And have fun, of course!

GOING GREEN Bike riding uses minimal fossil fuels and is a pollution-free mode of transport. Bikes also reduce the need to build, service and dispose of cars so every time you get on your bike, you’re helping the planet. Cycling 10km each way to work would save 1500kg of greenhouse gas emissions each year – and that’s just one person’s contribution. Also, as traffic delays and interruptions to traffic flow in Australia’s six major cities account for about 13 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year, getting on a bike during peak hour would contribute to further emission reductions by reducing congestion and improving traffic flow. So, you’ll get fit and do your part for the environment – it’s a win-win scenario.

Whether it’s to boost your fitness, health or bank balance, or as an environmental choice, taking up riding could be one of the best decisions you ever make.

CHECK OUT …

HIGHLANDS, CRAIGIEBURN At Highlands, a network of bike trails winds through 150ha of parkland. You can cycle around the picturesque Highlands Lake, make your way along Malcolm Creek and through the Malcolm Creek Regional Parkland. Once you get onto the Grand Boulevard bike trail, you can cross to the Craigieburn Bypass Trail that runs alongside the Hume Fwy to the Western Ring Road trail. The latter connects with bike paths that go to the city or the eastern and western suburbs.

MERNDA VILLAGES, MERNDA More than 10km of bike paths wind through the community on a scenic route that takes in the Mernda wetlands, parkland with stunning 100-year-old River Red Gum trees, and each of the 13 playgrounds through the community.

IN THE PIPELINE WESTBROOK (W) DEVELOPER: DENNIS FAMILY CORPORATION A total of 32km of shared paths and trails will feature within Westbrook at Truganina. Highlighting the natural attractions of Skeleton Creek and the Forsyth Waterways, the paths will allow residents to ride or walk past water pools and creeks that will support local flora and fauna. Two-wheeled commuters will have easy access to Tarneit station, while future paths at Westbrook will link to the Skeleton Creek Trail, which connects to the Federation Trail and Bay Trail West.

EUCALYPT (N) DEVELOPER: STOCKLAND More than 3km of bike paths are being built along both sides of Findon Creek, connected via two pedestrian bridges with existing trails throughout Eucalypt and the wider Wollert community.

HIGHGROVE (S) DEVELOPER: BROWN PROPERTY GROUP

Image: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Connecting 3.2km of off-road shared trails with 1.6km of shared paths on external roads, the Highgrove pedestrian and cycling paths meet at the central Outlook Park, which captures the most elevated viewing point of Clyde North. The shared paths will provide easy access to the Clyde Recreation Reserve, and future schools and community centres. A green link has also been proposed on Moorgate Rd between Outlook Park and the future town centre in the neighbouring Ramlegh Springs.

path. The estate will deliver 5.2ha of open space along the banks of the Moorabool River, including a proposed junior football field, large parklands with walking tracks and a children’s playground.

WOODLEA (W) DEVELOPERS: VICTORIA INVESTMENTS & PROPERTIES AND MIRVAC More than 15km of shared path has been approved in the first two precincts, servicing the estate’s first 2500 residents. Connecting all public open space via radial and arterial tracks, paths will be lined with trees for shade, surrounded by grass and groundcover plantings.

They will include wayfinding nodes at intersections to direct users to parks and other tracks. Fitness stations will also be in each park.

CLOVERTON (N) DEVELOPER: STOCKLAND The city-sized community at Kalkallo is designed as a walkable city. A planned network of bike and walking paths will link future homes, schools, town centre, recreational facilities, the existing Donnybrook station and a proposed train station nearby.

DELARAY WATERS (S) DEVELOPER: VILLAWOOD PROPERTIES Walking and cycling paths are just one component of the healthy living ethos of this Clyde North estate. They will complement a 9ha sporting precinct, expansive wetlands, parklands and the resortstyle Club Delaray with gym.

THE HEIGHTS (G) DEVELOPERS: ASSET1 AND RIVERLEE

ASHBURY (G) DEVELOPER: DENNIS FAMILY CORPORATION

Herne Hill’s new master-planned community will deliver the missing link in the 12km Ted Wilson Trail as part of its landscaping design.

Part of the 178-lot community, the path upgrade will allow users to soon walk the entire length of the

Upon completion, this project between Geelong and Torquay will feature about 18km of trails for residents, all of which will link to similar trails that wind through adjoining estates in the greater Armstrong Creek area. To retain

the rural landscape, some of Ashbury’s shared pathways will follow the original unsealed roads that ran around the farmland and will not be used for vehicles. Other shared walking and cycling paths will provide easy access to schools, shops and other community facilities, such as sporting grounds, playgrounds and two pocket parks.

JUBILEE (W) DEVELOPERS: LOTUS LIVING Jubilee at Wyndham Vale will feature walking, bike and fitness trails through its 77ha of open space, including its extensive parklands and wetlands. The majority of these paths will be offstreet, providing a designated bike path away from traffic for all ages, young and old. Jubilee encourages a healthy and active lifestyle for all of its residents.

MODEINA (W) DEVELOPER: DENNIS FAMILY CORPORATION Modeina will feature a continuous shared path along the picturesque Kororoit Creek. Designed to link to existing paths to the Caroline Springs Shopping Centre, it will also complement a native vegetation regeneration project along the creek trail and secure environments for endangered plants and wildlife.

Modeina’s trail will link to the Kororoit Creek Trail, which meets the Western Ring Road path and later, the Federation Trail. A bonus is the confirmed future construction of a pedestrian/cyclist bridge that will link Modeina to an awardwinning children’s playground within the Isabella Williams Memorial Reserve at Deer Park.

THE GROVE (W) DEVELOPER: STOCKLAND A new bike path will be constructed along the length of Davis Creek at Tarneit’s The Grove estate, joining up with the Werribee River trail that connects to the Federation Trail at Altona.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 17

available until 28/2/17

PRACTICAL MAGIC

Arteriors, Jarrod small pendant www.boydblue.com RRP: $1235 Sea drift bowl, 15cm (set of 12) www.zanui.com.au RRP: $153.90

Dot design jug www.oxfamshop.org.au RRP: $29.95

Going

Gold spot napkin www.zimba.com.au RRP: $9.95

dotty Sunday cushion www.zanui.com.au RRP: $69.95

Amigos De Hoy – black splotch hide cushion www.arthide.com.au RRP: $139

Nel Lusso miniature vase round www.zimba.com.au RRP: $7.95

Lisa Bengtsson Tillsammans (Together) poster ‘Betty’ www.norsu.com.au RRP: $25

Feather wall hanging - Spotty www.miafleur.com RRP: about $37

Medium navy & white spot pot plant www.cranmorehome.com.au RRP: $29.95

Gold spot salt & pepper shakers www.mozi.com.au RRP: $29.95

If you’d like to feature a product in Practical Magic, email urbanlife@publicitypress.com.au

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 19

COOKING

No place like home

Keeping things simple works best for Manu Feildel when preparing meals for his family

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Home cooking is more popular than ever. Why do think in the past we may have lost our appreciation for cooking?

I’m not sure if Australians had lost their appreciation of cooking or if it was never appreciated, but what matters is that now they do. I just think that foreigners like me and other chefs have come to this country and shared their knowledge through restaurants and obviously TV shows. I think it’s fantastic for the last generation, our kids.

What dish or dishes do you think everyone should be able to master?

I don’t think there is any dishes in particular that anyone should master. I think everyone is different with a different type of cuisine. Anyone should cook with the joy of cooking for his or her family and friends.

I believe you performed in the circus before becoming an apprentice chef. What were your specialties and what made you run away from the circus?

My time in the circus was short. Far from being a professional clown - that was one of my dreams as a kid, to make people smile and laugh. Back then it wasn’t as easy as it is today to enter the world of circus, so I ran away from it to start a safer option - cooking!

The rise of My Kitchen Rules must have made your move into TV satisfying. Is it hard to juggle (pardon the pun!) your various commitments?

MKR has been an incredible change to my life as I have been trying to juggle my TV career, as well as my restaurant career and of course my family and other commitments. I slowly got to find it difficult to stay focused and give 100 per cent to everything, so last year I decided to take a break from the restaurants for the moment and concentrate on my TV career.

What’s the biggest mistake that contestants and most home cooks make?

Not getting in the kitchen with a proper plan and cooking things they’ve never cooked before or having enough time to nail the recipes properly.

What do you enjoy most/least about being a celebrity chef?

What I enjoy least is the title of celebrity chef. What

I enjoy most is that my job is different every day of my life.

In More Please! you mention that you love to cook for your fiancee and vice-versa. What dish has made the biggest impression on her and the family?

As always it’s the simple dishes but cooked with love that make the biggest impressions. They love a traditional roast as this is not something they traditionally have in their culture.

The book is cleverly divided into sections, such as Weekday Meals, Noodles and Rice, sides and For When Friends Come Over. How often does your menu change at home?

Our menu changes on a daily basis unless we’ve got leftovers. That’s what makes us happy.

You have one rule for the kids: ‘Taste before you judge’. How adventurous and receptive to new flavours are they?

My son Jonti use to eat everything we gave him until he was nine years old and he then started to become fussy. It must be part of growing up but that is reason why we’ve came up with the rule. It doesn’t always work, but hopefully he’ll get back to appreciate food again soon.

What ingredients are staples in your pantry?

Butter, soy, fish sauce, rice and dry shrimp and chili sambal.

Which appliance in your kitchen would you miss most, and why?

A sharp knife and a non-stick frying pan. No chef can work with a blunt knife. It’s safer and the key to precision in the kitchen. A non-stick frying pan is so versatile.

Any tips when shopping (for freshness)?

Buy what’s supposed to be in season.

If you were forced to survive on only one dish for a year, what would it be?

I don’t think you can go wrong with a good bacon and egg sandwich, although for a year I’d be really bored.

Recipes and images from More Please! My Family Recipes You’ll Love to Cook and Share by Manu Feildel with Clarissa Weerasena. Murdoch Books

What’s not to like in this crowd-pleasing recipe? Easy to cook and even easier to eat, it’s everything you want in a noodle dish. As with all stir-fries, make sure you have all the ingredients and sauces prepared and close to your wok before you start cooking.

INGREDIENTS 250g pork scotch fillet, thinly sliced 1 bunch choy sum 1kg hokkien noodles 100ml peanut or vegetable oil 3 small garlic cloves, finely chopped 12 raw prawns (shrimp), peeled and deveined, tails intact 250ml chicken stock 1 tablespoon soy sauce, plus extra to taste 1 large brown onion, diced sea salt, to taste 2 fresh long red chillies, thinly sliced (optional) MARINADE 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine 1 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper ½ teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon sugar 2 tablespoons oyster sauce 2 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch) To make the marinade, combine all the ingredients in a bowl.

Add the pork and stir to coat thoroughly, then cover and set aside for 30 minutes.

Wash the choy sum well, then separate the leaves from the stalks and cut into 5 cm (2 inch) pieces.

Bring a kettle of water to the boil. Put the noodles in a colander set over a large heatproof bowl and pour over the boiling water to rinse. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Heat a large wok over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. When the oil is starting to smoke, add the pork and marinade and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and prawns and stir-fry for another minute. Add the choy sum stalks and toss to combine, then pour in the chicken stock and half the soy sauce and cook for 2 minutes. Add the choy sum leaves and stir until wilted. Transfer to a bowl or plate and set aside.

Hokkien noodles with pork and prawns Serves 4-6

Heat the remaining oil in the wok over high heat. When the oil is smoking, add the onion and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Add the noodles, spreading them evenly across the wok, and leave to crisp slightly at the bottom. Drizzle over the remaining soy sauce and stir-fry for a few seconds.

Add the pork and prawn mixture and toss to combine. Season with salt and extra soy sauce to taste, and serve garnished with fresh chilli, if desired.

Recipes and Images from More Please! by Manu Fidel with Clarissa Weeraseena (Murdoch Books)

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 21

U D I A AWA R D S

Saratoga Townhouses

Exciting developments L

IVEABILITY, affordability and innovation were the order of the day as the Urban Development Institute of Australia recognised the property industry’s finest work at its annual awards for excellence.

The 21st annual UDIA awards highlighted the work of 15 winners and numerous finalists from exceptional projects across the state.

Armstrong

22 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

From Hastings and Wodonga to Keysborough and Carlton, the awards covered the full spectrum of environmental excellence, leadership, urban renewal and landscaping in various land, medium-density, high-density and retirement living developments, and the key figures behind them.

“This year we received a record

number of award entries. The highcalibre submissions prove that Victoria’s industry has a deep respect for design, development, innovation, sustainability and, most importantly, delivering high-quality projects to meet the needs of current and future Victorians,” UDIA Victoria chief executive Danni Addison said.

Among the winners, Villawood Properties won the Landscape Award for its Armstrong, Mount Duneed project in the Bellarine and Geelong region, and Intrapac Property was hailed for its environmental excellence at Somerfield, which also won the best residential development. Stockland accepted the master-planned development gong for its work at Selandra Rise, and Urbanedge Homes helped ID_Land secure the best medium-density development for the Barkly in Brunswick.

Wolfdene’s Saratoga Townhouses (Park Release) at Point Cook was awarded as the Judges Winner in metropolitan Melbourne. City West Water’s Greening the West initiative took the Government Leadership award for its regional approach to deliver increased vegetation and public use of open space.

Among the highlights, judges said the Somerfield development has taken “severely ecologically degraded and environmentally impacted infill land, and turned it into a state-of-theart, beautiful and highly sought-after land estate”.

Selandra Rise, in the south-east growth corridor, also earned high praise.

“When it comes to the creation of healthy, highly liveable and sustainable communities, Stockland’s Selandra Rise is quite literally a blueprint for future development,” judges said.

Senior strategic planner at Victorian Planning Authority Alexandrea Malishev was crowned the Young Professional of the Year, and Caydon Property Group’s Georgia Willis was awarded the Women in Leadership prize.

“One of her strongest assets is her ability to engage with various stakeholders and, in actively listening to their concerns, developing solutions to create a win-win development outcome for all parties,” judges said of Willis.

The UDIA advocates for the urban development industry. In Victoria, UDIA informs and engages government and industry members, enabling better policy and better business decisions.

UDIA AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE OUTLOOK & ID_LAND YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Alexandrea Malishev, Victorian Planning Authority

The Barkly

UDIA & FRASERS PROPERTY WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARD Georgia Willis, Caydon Property Group AFFORDABLE DEVELOPMENT Lifestyle Hastings, Lifestyle Communities Limited ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE Somerfield, Intrapac Property MASTER-PLANNED DEVELOPMENT Selandra Rise, Stockland RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Somerfield, Intrapac Property Finalist: Banbury Village, Cedar Woods HIGH-DENSITY DEVELOPMENT Upper House, Piccolo Finalist: Nord, North Melbourne, Oliver Hume Property

Upper House

Georgia Willis

MEDIUM-DENSITY DEVELOPMENT The Barkly, ID_Land Finalist: Canopi Valley Lake, MAB Corporation GOVERNMENT LEADERSHIP Greening The West, City West Water SPECIAL PURPOSE LIVING Monash University Logan Hall, McBride Charles Ryan URBAN RENEWAL Polaris 3083, ClarkeHopkinsClarke Finalist: Living Carlton, Frasers Property and Citta Property Group

Alexandrea Malishev

Somerfield

CONSULTANT’S AWARD Spiire, Boulevard Estate and Kilgour Place JUDGES WINNER – METRO MELBOURNE Saratoga Townhouses (Park Release), Wolfdene JUDGES WINNER – REGIONAL VICTORIA The Junction, Wodonga, Places Victoria LANDSCAPE AWARD Armstrong, Mt Duneed, Villawood Properties Selandra Rise

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 23

INDUSTRY NEWS

Make yourself at home in Kelly country Aquarevo rains supreme with world-first water tech

SALES of the first lots at the groundbreaking Aquarevo residential development at Lyndhurst in Melbourne’s south east are performing well.

The 460-lot estate has a range of innovative water and energy initiatives that will enable residents to cut drinking water demand by up to 70 per cent and reduce stormwater run-off by 25 per cent.

Developed by South East Water and Villawood Properties on the site of a decommissioned water purification plant, Aquarevo was officially opened

by Victorian Water Minister Lisa Neville in November.

Each water source in the home has been specifically chosen and integrated into the supply using technology and systems developed and proven by South East Water.

The estate will also house an onsite water recycling plant connected via an intelligent pressure sewer network.

Central to the Aquarevo home is the rain to hot water system, in which rainwater is captured from the roof and stored in a tank at each property.

The rainwater undergoes screening, filtration, UV and heat treatment before supplying hot water taps in the shower, bath, laundry trough and clothes washing machine.

Drinking water is automatically supplied to the hot water system as a backup if there is no rainwater in the tank.

24 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Class A recycled water will be produced by a fully enclosed, onsite water recycling plant, which will treat all wastewater from the estate, and return it to each home for use in toilets, gardens and, optionally, clothes washing machines.

Thanks to South East Water’s OneBox, Aquarevo properties will be the first homes in Australia able to track and monitor all energy and water use in near real-time on a single app.

Home owners will be able to visualise usage patterns and adjust usage behaviour to become even more water and energy efficient.

“Using our technology and innovation expertise, South East Water has shown with Aquarevo that there’s a better way to use water at home – without losing the health and liveability this precious resource offers us. We’re excited about what this means for our customers, and for the broader water industry,” South East Water managing director Kevin Hutchings said.

All Aquarevo homes will be fitted with a minimum solar panel installation of 2.5KW, and will be battery and mini-grid ready.

“This will be a high-quality residential community where families can positively impact the environment just by moving in,” Villawood Properties executive director Rory Costelloe said.

The Aquarevo Discovery Centre is at 28 Boland Drive, Lyndhurst. For more details, visit www.aquarevo.com.au.

A TOWNSHIP in Melbourne’s north that includes the childhood home of bushranger Ned Kelly could house up to 3500 new dwellings.

The Victorian Planning Authority released the Beveridge Central Precinct Structure Plan for exhibition. It outlines the vision for a new suburb that will accommodate more than 10,000 people within a 290ha parcel of land bounded

by Rankin St to the south, Camerons Lane and the existing Beveridge township to the north and north-east, Stewart St to the east and Patterson St to the west.

Developers will contribute $95 million to community infrastructure, which includes three convenience centres, a sports reserve with soccer ovals and tennis courts, and a heritage trail around the Kelly House Park, as the area develops.

The plan also facilitates the development of the Camerons Lane interchange, providing future access to the entire Beveridge growth front.

Within a 10-minute drive of key employment hubs, including the future Merrifield Business Park and Craigieburn, Beveridge will connect to the planned future Lockerbie station and is about 7km from Donnybrook station, which runs a V/Line service.

For more details, go to vpa.vic.gov. au/project/beveridge-central.

ELSEWHERE in Melbourne’s north, the VPA released the Sunbury South Precinct Structure plan to guide new development.

Prepared in consultation with Hume City Council and government agencies, the Sunbury South PSP will provide up to 11,800 homes to accommodate a population of more than 33,000 people.

The 1798ha precinct will deliver a new major town centre, two new employment areas, regional parklands along Jacksons Creek, a Jacksons Creek road crossing, a new train station near Jacksons Hill, and a range of schools, sporting fields and community facilities.

The precinct abuts a number of existing communities, including Goonawarra and Jacksons Hill.

It complements the Lancefield Rd plan that applies to a 1095ha precinct to accommodate about 800 homes.

Together, the plans for 30 years includes an extension of Elizabeth Dr to complete a ring road around Sunbury, two new road crossings of Jacksons Creek and two new train stations with car parking. They will provide more than $800 million in development levies.

Member for Sunbury Josh Bull said the plans would guide infrastructure, better services and community facilities.

“While it will take another 30 years for Sunbury to develop, we need longterm plans in place which have input from the community,” Bull said.

More details are at vpa.vic.gov.au/ shapevictoria.

Land prices still rising THE cost of vacant land across most capital cities has increased over the past year.

The median vacant land sales price was recorded at $270,350 across the combined capital cities (up 8.1 per cent) and $164,250 for the combined regional areas (down 1.9 per cent). This equates to a 65 per cent difference – the largest differential since September 2003.

The median size of land in the city was 450sq m within the cities, compared to 812sq m in the regional areas.

CoreLogic reports this equates

to the land selling for $584 per square metre across the cities and $177 across the regional areas. This means city land is 231 per cent more expensive than land outside of the capital cities, which is the largest differential on record.

“An increase in the amount of land available for development, as well as lower fees and charges applied to land development, and more competition amongst developers would likely reduce land costs,“ CoreLogic property market analyst Cameron Kusher said.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Kids hop aboard The Grove playground fun

A FROG-themed playground is proving a drawcard for young families for The Grove community at Tarneit.

The playground will include a viewing tower with views across the community, double helix slides, trampolines, a giant lily pad swing and a climbing net. It also includes a “metamorphosis of the frog” climbable sculpture, with motionactivated frog sounds.

A building boom is under way at the Stockland community, where the playground is being constructed next to a new sales and information centre and cafe.

The first residents have moved into the community, new streets are taking

shape and work continues on hundreds of houses.

The Grove recently received the highly coveted 5 Star Green Star – Communities rating from the Green Building Council of Australia.

Stockland’s senior development manager Callan Ainsaar said the playground would be a destination for many families.

“The Grove will be a great place to live and to raise a family, with one of the best playgrounds in Melbourne’s west and innovative homes, as well as excellent retail facilities and a selection of great schools already in the area,” Ainsaar said.

The Grove sits between Davis Creek and the Werribee River, 31km from Melbourne’s CBD. Homes will be surrounded by parkland and both waterways will undergo extensive environmental upgrades to become family-friendly destinations and havens for local wildlife.

Planning is under way for the first neighbourhood park, which is opposite Davis Creek, with work expected to start early next year.

When complete, The Grove will have more than 2500 homes and become a community of more than 6000 people.

Details at stockland.com.au/thegrove.

Extra station enhances Mernda Rail Extension Geelong taps into plumbing expertise

A NEW train station at South Morang will be added to the $600 million Mernda Rail Extension project.

The Hawkstowe station, near Hawkstowe Parade, is in addition to the stations already announced at Mernda and near Marymede Catholic College at South Morang.

To be built by John Holland, the stations are expected to ferry more than 8000 passengers each day.

Construction of the Mernda Rail Extension will begin this year, and

trains will be running on the new line by 2019.

The project includes new walking and cycling paths, better bus connections, and train stabling at Mernda. There will also be extensive bike storage and up to 2000 new car spaces across the stations.

“The Mernda Rail Extension will change people’s lives for the better – creating work for thousands of people, and connecting one of Australia’s fastest-growing communities to employment, education and the rest of Victoria,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

Information sessions were held in December, where locals could see the latest designs and talk to the project team.

For more information, go to levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/merndarail.

Buyers upgrading at The Heights CONSTRUCTION has begun at The Heights in Geelong.

The 51ha master-planned community on the banks of the Moorabool River has been designed by developers Riverlee and Asset 1 to maximise its views of picturesque green plains.

More than 30 per cent of sales have occurred after word-ofmouth recommendations.

“The Heights have exceeded expectations that we had, receiving a substantial amount of interest from local buyers who are looking to remain in the area but searching to upgrade to their second or third family home,” Asset 1 sales director Mark Adams said.

“The commencement of State 1 construction is a significant milestone for The Heights and will see the beginning of the bulk of earthworks for the complex site, before construction for Stage 2 and 3 commence early in 2017.”

Stage 4 includes 38 parkfront blocks within the 178-lot development. They range in size from 336sq m to 2390sq m and in price from $193,000 to $360,000.

For more information, go to theheightsgeelong.com.au.

TRADIES in Geelong can now upgrade their skills at the state-of-the-art Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre.

Only the state’s second PICAC after Brunswick’s award-winning centre, it has been established after an industry partnership supported by industry groups and the Plumbing and Pipes Trades Employees Union.

Ensuring workers have the skills needed to deliver the next generation of sustainable and water-efficient buildings, it will focus on water reuse methods, installing water-efficient products to solar water heating and embracing new technologies.

The centre will also play its part in retraining retrenched automotive and supply chain workers, and allow them access to the growing number of jobs in the construction sector.

A Narre Warren facility will also be built.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 25

LAND ESTATES ABIWOOD Berwick (S) Gera Waters gerawaters.com.au

Clyde North (S)

Open 10am-5pm

Officer (S) Cherrington, 320 Princes Hwy cherringtonliving.com.au

1 2 3

Simply download the Urban Life Magazine app from the App Store or Google Play.

Open the app and then hold your phone over the advertisement or editorial page (those marked with the Urban Life app Icon).

Truganina (W) Westbrook Sales Office: Leakes Rd (near cnr Morris Rd) westbrookestate.com.au Open 10am-5pm

FRASERS PROPERTY Clyde North (S)

Open daily, 11am-5pm

Berwick Waters, 5 Riverstone Blvd frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Berwick-Waters

Clyde North (S)

Open daily, 11am-6pm

Highgrove, Cnr Berwick-Cranbourne Rd & Newbridge Blvd highgrove.com.au Cranbourne North (S) Meridian Clyde, Cnr Thompsons Rd & Stoneleigh Rd meridianclyde.com.au

DACLAND Open daily, 11am-5pm Cranbourne West (S) Lochaven, 665 Hall Rd lochaven.com.au Lara (G) Manzeene Village, 5 Manzeene Ave manzeenevillage.com.au Tarneit (W) Rothwell, Dohertys Rd, Tarneit rothwellvillages.com.au

King’sleigh, 46 Alfred Rd kingsleigh.com.au Wyndham Vale (W) Wynbrook Wyndham Vale, Cnr Ballan & Hobbs Rd wynbrook.com.au

Greenvale (N) Greenvale Gardens, 1075 Mickleham Rd frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Greenvale-Gardens Open Sat-Wed, noon-4pm Point Cook (W) Life, Point Cook, Cnr Point Cook Rd & Saltwater Prom frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Point-Cook Open Sat-Wed, 11am-5pm Sunbury (N) Sunbury Fields, 275 Racecourse Rd frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Sunbury Open Sat-Thu, 11am-5pm Wallan (N) Wallara Waters, 54 Wallara Waters Blvd frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Wallara-Waters Open Sat-Thu, 11am-5pm

HALLMARC Waterhaven (W) Waterhaven Blvd, (off Dunnings Rd) Point Cook

INTRAPAC PROPERTY Alwood (W)

DENNIS FAMILY CORPORATION (Open seven days) Armstrong Creek (G) Ashbury sales office: 460 Boundary Rd ashburyestate.com.au.

Open 11am-5pm

urbanlifemag.com.au

Manor Lakes sales office: 2 Eppalock Dr manorlakes.com.au

BROWN PROPERTY GROUP

Werribee (W)

The app will then seamlessly deliver you to the digital link behind the page. This may be a competition offer from us; a builder’s website offering a virtual reality display home tour; it may take you to a selection of new home or interior ideas; or you might find rich media offerings, like video related to the page you scan.

By appointment Manor Lakes (W)

The Radius, 291 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd theradius.com.au

A unique interactive experience:

Modeina sales office: 6 Lexington Drive, Burnside www.modeina.com.au

Carrum Downs (S) Silverbark, Cnr Wedge & McCormicks Rd silverbark.com.au

Clydevale, 660 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd (Cnr Hardys Rd) clydevaleliving.com.au

It’s easy & free!

Burnside (W)

Alfred Rd, Werribee Quay 2 (G) Surf Coast Hwy, Torquay Sales office opening soon Somerfield (S) Cnr Perry Rd & Westwood Blvd, Keysborough

HIGHGROVE ESTATE (S) NATIONAL PACIFIC PROP. (Open seven days, 11am-5pm) Clyde (S) Eliston, Discovery Centre: 20 Pattersons Rd eliston.com.au Hartleigh, 100 Pattersons Rd hartleighclyde.com.au

Highlands (N) 1 North Shore Dr, Craigieburn Mernda Villages (N) Cnr Bridge Inn Rd & Galloway Dr, Mernda The Address (W) 333 Point Cook Rd, Point Cook The Grove (W) 534 Hogans Rd, Tarneit

Curlewis (G) Bayview, Centennial Blvd bvbellarine.com.au Donnybrook (N) Kallo, Cnr Donnybrook Rd & Langley Park Dr kallo.com.au Mernda (N) Wellington Rise, Blackwattle Court wellingtonrise.com.au Officer (S) Park Central, Rix Rd parkcentralestate.com.au Tarneit (W)

VILLAWOOD PROPERTIES (Open 11am-6pm) Barwon Heads (G) 18th Fairway Villas, Plantation Dr, 13th Beach Golf Links 18thfairway.villawoodproperties.com.au Clyde North (S) Delaray, Delaray Waters, 460 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd delaray.villawoodproperties.com.au Leopold (G)

Reflections, Cnr Sayers Rd & Derrimut Rd Refelectionsestate.com.au

Estuary, Melaluka Rd estuary.villawoodproperties.com.au

PEET

Lyndhurst (S)

Acacia Botanic Ridge (S)

Aquarevo, 28 Boland Dr aquarevo.villawoodproperties.com.au

Craigs Rd, Cranbourne Aspect Greenvale (N) Mickleham Rd (cnr Destination Dr & Horizon Blvd), Greenvale Aston Craigieburn (N)

Open by appointment only

Marriott Waters, Cnr Thompsons Rd & Rymada St marriottwaters.villawoodproperties.com.au Mickleham (N)

2/8 Valiant Cres, Craigieburn

Waratah, 425 Donnybrook Rd Waratah.villawoodproperties.com.au

Cornerstone Werribee (W)

Mount Duneed (G)

383 Black Forest Rd, Werribee

Armstrong, 7-21 Armstrong Blvd armstrong.villawoodproperties.com.au

Haven (W) 830 Leakes Rd, Tarneit

Plumbton (W)

Little Green (W)

Aspire, Sales office temporarily closed (Reopening mid 2017) Refer to aspire.villawoodproperties.com.au

Cnr Leakes Rd & Tarneit Rd, Tarneit Livingston (S) Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East Newhaven (W) Tarneit Rd, Tarneit Quarters (S) Lot 1647 Harper Cres, Cranbourne West Summerhill (S) 53-65 Craig Rd, Botanic Ridge

Point Cook (W) Alamanda, 2 Paradise Pde villawoodproperties.com.au Sunbury (N) Sherwood, Racecourse Rd villawoodproperties.com.au Redstone Hill, Redstone Hill Rd villawoodproperties.com.au Truganina (W)

STOCKLAND Allura (W) 11 Mainview Blvd, Truganina Cloverton (N) Cnr Dwyer St & Design Way, Kalkallo

Albright, 755 Dohertys Rd albright.villawoodproperties.com.au Wollert (N) Rathdowne, Craigieburn Rd East Rathdowne. villawoodproperties.com.au

Artist Impression

ENJOYING the great outdoors is just one highlight of Clyde North’s Highgrove Estate, which has been celebrating many achievements over the past 12 months.

More than 70 per cent – or more than 650 blocks – of the community has been sold since it was launched in May 2014.

Residents began moving into Highgrove in early 2016, with more than 200 homes currently under construction. When complete by mid-2018, Highgrove will be home to about 3000 residents, or 950 families, living in 1000 homes, including townhouses.

“Over the past 12 months a number of significant milestones have taken place at Highgrove,” Brown Property Group marketing manager Graham Nolan said. “Our impressive entry statement and linear park have been completed. The park features a range of sculptures that took inspiration from the Cranbourne meteorite that was discovered in the local area in the 1800s. Our new display village also opened, showcasing more than 25 homes from 12 of Melbourne’s best builders. On top of all of that we also welcomed our 500th family to purchase at Highgrove back in September.”

Residents will be able to lead an active lifestyle with the future Outlook Park proposed to feature park’s grassed play zones and multi-purpose sporting courts, barbecue facilities, picnic tables and children’s play equipment.

Nolan said the estate encouraged residents to stay connected with their wider community by taking advantage of the planned shared path networks that will link the 1.5ha Outlook Park to the rest of Highgrove’s neighbourhood parks.

The regular ‘meet your neighbour’ events (once a stage has been titled) provided an informal setting for future residents to meet and discuss their community, Nolan said.

“As more residents join the community and our neighbourhood parks are completed we will be organising residents events. We recently held a family fun day to showcase our new linear park and our display village, which was a great success. Both existing and future residents were excited to have the Carlton Football Club attend, as part of our recent partnership,” Nolan said.

Website: highgrove.com.au Block sizes: 362sq m-505sq m Price: $248,000-$291,000 Address: Cnr Berwick-Cranbourne Rd & Newbridge Blvd, Clyde North Open: Seven days, 11am-5pm

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 27

GEN FYANSFORD (G)

ENTERTAIN in style with this single-level dwelling that treasures privacy and relaxation in equal measure.

Part of the Designer by Metricon series, the Botanica 32 Ascent is highlighted by its sumptuous main bedroom suite, which incorporates his-and-her walk-in robes, en suite with freestanding bath, walk-in shower and twin-basin vanity.

Beyond is the chic kitchen with butler’s pantry, informal living zone, three further bedrooms with built-in robes, bathroom and a smart rumpus room that opens to the decked al fresco.

It is open on weekdays from noon-5pm and weekends from 11am-5pm.

7 Casey Blvd, Fyansford Price: From $309,500

DISPLAY HOMES

DIRECTORY ARDEN HOMES

BURBANK HOMES

(Open seven days, 11am-5pm)

(Open seven days, 11am-5pm)

Clyde North (S) Cnr Flowerbloom & Lilydale Ave, Berwick Waters Estate

Armstrong Creek (G) 11 Coastside Dr, Warralily Coast Estate

Keysborough (S) Cnr Westwood Blvd & Alderberry Rd, Somerfield Estate Point Cook (W) Cnr Gramercy Blvd & Flagstaff Cres, The Address Estate Wollert (N) Cnr Bloom Cres & Dundee Rd, Lyndarum North Estate

Clyde North (S) 30 Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters 6 Murphy St, Clydevale Estate Craigieburn (N) 18 Dashing Rd, Aston Estate 3 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate

Mernda (N) 18 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Mickleham (N) 48 Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate Officer (S) 20 Hardwick Pl, Timbertop Estate Point Cook (W) 24 Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook 12 Gramercy Blvd, The Address Estate Rockbank (W) 5 Rush St, Woodlea Estate Sunbury (N) 10 Rosenthal Blvd, Rosenthal Estate Tarneit (W) 56 Heartlands Blvd, Heartlands Estate Taylors Hill (W) 25 Peppermint Grove, Taylors Hill Estate Truganina (W) 18 Everholme Dr, Allura Estate

Clyde North (S) Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters Estate Moxham Dr, Highgrove Estate Craigieburn (N) Dashing Rd, Aston Estate Cranbourne East (S) Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate Cranbourne West (S) Red Maple Dr, Casiana Grove Estate Diggers Rest (N) Sully Court, Bloomdale Estate Greenvale (N) Flourish Circuit, Greenvale Gardens Estate Mernda (N) Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Estate Mickleham (N) Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate

Wantirna South (S) 2B Appledale Way, Harcrest Estate

Mount Duneed (G) Native Ave, Armstrong Estate

Cranbourne North (S) 5 Lucinda Lane, Tulliallan Estate

Werribee (W) 3 Charter Rd, Riverwalk Estate 5 Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate

Ocean Grove (G) Sacramento St, Oakdene Estate

Cranbourne West (S) 3 Erindale St, Clarinda Park Estate Doreen (N) 1 Mensa Circuit, Plenty River Estate

(Open weekdays noon-5pm, 11am-5pm weekends)

Fyansford (G) Casey Blvd, Gen Fyansford Estate

Craigieburn (N) 11-13 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate

Greenvale (N) 20 Destination Dr, Aspect Estate

Mernda (N) 22-26 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages

Keysborough (S) 3 Olivetree Dr, Somerfield Estate

Truganina (W)

Lucas (Regional) 18 Eleanor Dr, Lucas. Open Mon-Wed 11am5pm, weekends 11am-5pm

28 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Melton South (W) 10 Ladbroke St, Atherstone Estate

Burnside (W) Lexington Dr, Modeina Estate.

Open Thu & Fri only

Cranbourne East (S) 23 Bathgate Cres, Livingstone Estate

BENTLEY HOMES

4-6 Nova Ave, Gateway Estate

Melton (W) 1 Willandra Blvd, Willandra Estate

Williams Landing (W) 7 Harvey St, Williams Landing Estate Wollert (N) 24 Bloom Cres, Lyndarum Estate Wyndham Vale (W) 15-21 Memory Cres, Jubilee Estate

DENNIS FAMILY HOMES (Open 11am-5pm daily. Ph: 1800 336 647) Armstrong Creek (G) Coastside Drive, Warralily Coast Estate.

Native Ave, Armstrong Estate

Officer (S) Penshurst Cres, Timbertop Estate Rockbank (W) Panning Circuit, Woodlea Estate Williams Landing (W) Harvey St, Williams Landing Estate Wollert (N) Timble Cl, Eucalypt Estate Bloom Cres, Lyndarum North Estate Wyndham Vale (W) Dalrymple Blvd, Manor Lakes Estate

EIGHT HOMES (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) 103-104 Lampard St, Warralily Coast Estate Craigieburn (N) 7-9 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate Cranbourne East (S) 13 Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate Cranbourne North (S) 268 Alisma Blvd, Tulliallan Estate Cranbourne West (S) 14-16 Erindale St, Clarinda Park Estate Melton South (W) Ladbroke St, Atherstone Estate

Mickleham (N) Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate

Mernda (N) Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages

Cranbourne East (S) Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate

Mount Duneed (G) Native Ave, Armstrong Estate

Officer (S) Upton Dr, Timbertop Estate.

Cranbourne North (S) 6 Stoneleigh Rd, The Avenue 2 Estate

Point Cook (W) Gramercy Blvd, The Address Estate

Point Cook (W) Gramercy Blvd, The Address Estate

Cranbourne West (S) 12 Fintona Cres, Clarinda Park Estate

Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate

Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate

Rockbank (W) Cross Lane, Woodlea Estate

Rockbank (W) Woodlea Blvd, Woodlea Estate

Diggers Rest (W) 135 Sullt Ct, Bloomdale Estate

Tarneit (W) Bandicoot Loop, Habitat Estate

Romsey (Regional) Melbourne-Lancefield Rd, Lomandra Estate

JUBILEE ESTATE (W)

Keysborough (S) Westwood Blvd, Somerfield Estate Lara (G) 4 Caddys Rd, Lara Central Estate

Point Cook (W) 20-22 Liverpool Street, Upper Point Cook Estate

Melton West (W) 3 Willandra Blvd, Willandra Estate Mernda (N)

Rockbank (W) 14 Panning Circuit, Woodlea Estate

21 Riberry Cres, Berry Lane Estate Lot 6218 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages

Tarneit (W) 36-38 Bandicoop Loop, Habitat Estate

JG KING (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Clyde North (S) Lilydale Ave, Berwick Waters Craigieburn (N) 6-8 Star Way, Aston Estate Cranbourne (S) 39-41 Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate Cranbourne North (S) 9-11 Lucinda Lane, Tulliallan Estate

Mickleham (N) 3-5 Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate

EMPTY nesters and first-time buyers need look no further than this single-storey treat.

Burbank managing director Jarrod Sanfilippo said the Deepdene 246 was part of the affordable Gen collection and one of the most popular designs.

The 26.1-square dwelling has four bedrooms, two bathrooms and informal living space.

“The Deepdene 246 is incredibly spacious, with a large open-plan kitchen, meals and family area, a separate rumpus room and an al

Lara (G) 121-123 Flinders Ave, Lara Central Estate

PORTER DAVIS

Melton South (W) Cnr Bridge Rd & Astley Dr, Atherstone Estate

Armstrong Creek (G) Armstrong Blvd, Armstrong Estate

(Open daily 11am-5pm)

Mernda (N) 24-26 Merino Dr, Mernda Village

Ballarat (Regional) Eleanor Drive, Lucas Estate

Mount Duneed (G) 465 Surf Coast Hwy, Armstrong Estate 18-20 Coastside Dr, Warralily Coast Estate

Bendigo (Regional) Swanson Blvd (off Strathfieldsaye Rd), Imagine Estate

Point Cook (W) 333 Point Cook Rd, The Address Estate

Brighton East (S) 333 South Rd

Rockbank (W) Lot 145-146 Woodlea Blvd, Woodlea Estate

Clyde North (S) Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters Estate Callow Ave, Highgrove Estate

Romsey (N) Greenfields Blvd, Lomandra Estate Werribee (W) Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate

LONG ISLAND HOMES

Greenvale (N) 44 Flourish Cres, Greenvale Gardens Estate Grovedale (G) 295-297 Torquay Rd, Grovedale Estate

Mernda (N) 23 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages

Williams Landing (W) 61-63 Sayers Rd, Williams Landing Estate

Drysdale (G) 7 Centennial Blvd, Curlewis Park

Craigieburn (N) Valiant Cres, Aston Estate Cranbourne East (S) Lineham Dr (off South Gippsland Hwy), Mayfield Estate

fresco,” Sanfilippo said. “A grand main bedroom suite with walk-in robe and en suite is a stand-out feature at the front of the home, offering plenty of room to rest and relax.

“Even the minor bedrooms are generous in size, and each includes its own walk-in robe, so storage space is never an issue.”

It is open from noon-5pm weekdays, and 11am-6pm on weekends.

Price: From $199,900 Memory Crescent, Wyndham Vale Sunbury (N) Rosenthal Blvd, Rosenthal Estate Tarneit (W) Bandicoot Loop, Habitat Estate Truganina (W) Brunswick Dr, Elements Estate

Mount Duneed (G) Native Ave, Armstrong Estate Officer (S) 12 Hardwick Pl, Timbertop Estate Point Cook (W) 261 Sneydes Rd, Featherbrook Estate Rockbank (W) Panning Circuit, Woodlea Estate Romsey (R) 2671 Melbourne-Lancefield Rd, Lomandra Estate Sunbury (N) 233 Gap Rd, Gap Road Estate Tarneit (W) Leakes Rd, Heartlands Estate Taylors Hill (W) Belmont Ct, Taylors Hill Estate Werribee (W) 18 Bloom St, Riverwalk Estate Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate

Wantirna South (S) Appledale Way, Harcrest Estate

Williams Landing (W) 21 Palmers Rd, Williams Landing Estate

Werribee (W) Charter Rd, Riverwalk Estate

Wollert (N) 51 Evolve Espl, Summerhill Estate

Williams Landing (W) Cnr Palmers Rd & Opsum Way, Williams Landing Estate

Bloom Cres, Lyndarum Estate

Wollert (N) Bloom Cres, Lyndarum Estate

URBANEDGE (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm)

SIMONDS HOMES

Armstrong Creek (G) 9-11 Decourcy Way, Warralily Estate

(Open weekdays noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm)

Cranbourne North (S) 264 Alisma Blvd, Tulliallan Estate

(Open daily 11am-5pm)

Greenvale (N) Destination Drive (off Amira Blvd), Aspect Estate

Clyde (S) 50 Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters Estate

Greenvale (N) 21-23 Destination Dr, Aspect Greenvale Estate

Armstrong Creek (G) Lampard Ave, Warralily Coast Estate

Keysborough (S) Westwood Blvd, Somerfield Estate

Clyde North (S) Callow Ave, Highgrove Estate

Keysborough (S) 5 Olivetree Blvd, Somerfield Estate

Diggers Rest (N) Sully Ct, Bloomdale Estate

Lucas (Regional) Eleanor Dr, Lucas

Craigieburn (N) 79 Whitfield Cres, Highlands Estate

Williams Landing (W) 65-69 Sayers Rd, Williams Landing Estate

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 29

IT ALL STARTS WITH FINANCE.

entourage.com.au

LOCATION • LIFESTYLE • COMMUNITY

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

Image: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

A

S DIVERSE culturally as its geographic spread, Melbourne’s south-eastern region is fast becoming the destination to call home.

And for good reason – the rural ambience created by its natural beauty of creeks, ridgelines and Dandenong Ranges views is complemented by its proximity to the coast and the chilled environs of Mills Beach or Mt Martha Beach at Mornington.

And foodies flock to Dandenong for whatever culinary slice of the world takes their fancy.

Better still, much of the infrastructure is already established in nearby areas, with education, health and shopping centres providing greater incentive for would-be residents to make the move.

Rail and road links also keep the region connected to the

rest of Melbourne, including the central business district, to keep the wheels of industry turning.

Data released last year by the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed Cranbourne East was the largest-growing suburb and second fastest-expanding suburb, with 88 people moving in each week. Young families and migrants are increasingly being lured by its affordability and block sizes, and it’s a pattern that is being repeated across the region.

The municipalities most recognised within the south-east region are Bayside, Cardinia, Casey, Frankston Glen Eira, Greater Dandenong, Kingston and Mornington Peninsula.

The City of Casey is the epicentre of activity for new housing estates, with Clyde and Berwick expanding each day. Likewise, Cardinia encapsulates suburbs and townships including

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 3

Pakenham, Officer, Cockatoo and Koo Wee Rup, and Greater Dandenong includes Keysborough and Lyndhurst.

Central Dandenong is viewed as the CBD of the south east, but the blueprint for the region is already taking shape.

Dandenong South has been named as a national employment cluster, while job prospects will be enhanced by future initiatives such as creation of town centres in the new estates, the Cranbourne-Pakenham Rail Corridor Project and a possible south-east airport.

Plan Melbourne identified Dandenong, Fountain Gate/ Narre Warren and Frankston as metropolitan activity centres, with 205,000 dwellings to be constructed by 2031. This is split between 95,000 detached dwellings and up to 115,000 others (up to 25,000 apartments and 95,000 townhouses, flats and units).

More than half of these dwellings would be built in growth areas.

The Victorian Planning Authority vision is clear: “Development of the South-East Growth Corridor will continue to enhance the region’s self-sufficiency, sustainability and distinctiveness by providing a good range of new employment opportunities, which are well connected by appropriate transport links between homes and new and existing jobs. New job opportunities will be provided at Pakenham, Thompsons Rd and South Gippsland Hwy, as well as in the existing and identified town centres and within new residential communities.

Dandenong and the south-eastern suburbs will also continue to be a major focus for employment, services and facilities provision in the region. The existing sense of place will be enhanced through the design of precincts enabling residents to enjoy access to a network of waterways, biodiversity corridors and open spaces, as well as providing ready access to vibrant town centres, local services and job opportunities. Opportunities to integrate the waterways, the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, local hills and views to more distant hills, including the Dandenong Ranges, will be maximised.”

4 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Image:CRANBOURNE TURF CLUB

Image: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS VICTORIA Picture: JANUSZ MOLINSKI

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

P

ICTURESQUE coastline and aquatic pursuits are a short drive away, but the south-east provides its residents with a sporting chance that is the envy of others.

Despite the fact there are no grand stadia such as the MCG or AAMI Park yet, the southeast has several renowned sports events and venues for community use.

Perhaps best known internationally are the many championship-standard golf courses in Melbourne’s sand belt that often host Australasian Tour events, such as the Australian Masters or Australian PGA Championship.

Casey Fields is the training venue for Melbourne FC, one of the world’s oldest sporting clubs, and the 70ha complex also houses netball and tennis courts, a HPV cycling track, rugby fields, regional athletics centre, golf practice cage, walking paths and four football/cricket ovals.

Fans of the Sport of Kings have Pakenham and Sandown racetracks to bring the thoroughbred action to life.

For those who prefer their action supercharged, many opt for Sandown Raceway at Springvale. One of very few permanent race circuits close to the heart of a city, Sandown has been synonymous with motorsport since the early 1960s. Nowadays, it is restricted to

five major motorsport events each year, which include the Sandown 500 endurance event and the Heritage Round of the Supercars Championship in November.

You too can emulate the feats of driving greats, such as Peter Brock and Mark Skaife, and enjoy a hot lap driving or enjoying a ride in a purpose-built V8 around the circuit. The adrenalin-pumping V8RACE experience will appeal like little else. Details at v8race.com.

For a more passive experience, the annual Portsea Swim Classic and many sailing championships for all kinds of boat classes are frequent during the summer months.

Blessed with first-class facilities such as the Cranbourne Indoor Sports Centre and Casey Indoor Leisure Centre, this region can host all kinds of sporting passions.

The stadium mightn’t be far away, too. A consortium of the area’s biggest soccer clubs including Dandenong City, Berwick City, Casey Comets, Springvale White Eagles, Dandenong Thunder and South Springvale - have made a case to be considered for an A-League licence for season 2017-18. It identified Dandenong Showgrounds and Casey Fields as potential venues.

EVENTS Jeep Portsea Polo Jan 14 Point Nepean National Park

24th International Island Classic Jan 27-29 Back Beach Rd, Cowes

Two Bays Trail Run

Miss Muddy Mar 25 Sandown Racecourse

Jan 15 Dromana to Cape Schanck

Balnarring Picnic Race Club Jan 15 54 Coolart Rd, Balnarring Australian Chainsaw Carving Championship Jan 17-22 SkyHigh Mt Dandenong

Melbourne Portsea Swim Classic Jan 21 Point Nepean National Park Memory Walk and Jog Jan 22 Point Nepean National Park

- TIFFANY COPELAND

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 5

Images: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

M

ELBOURNE’S reputation as a foodie capital spreads much farther than the confines of its inner-city boundaries.

Having long been heralded as a multicultural foodie haven, Dandenong has gained a reputation in recent times as the place to be for authentic food experiences.

With a resident population that hails from more than 150 countries, Dandenong is firmly known as the best place to get a fix of Afghan kebabs, Iranian desserts, Indian naan, Polish sausages and Lebanese bread.

The diverse population has catapulted the suburb into a veritable treasure trove of food, boasting its own Little India and Afghan Bazaar precincts, along with cafes and restaurants serving food from Ethiopia, West Africa, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Turkey, Poland, the Balkans and Mauritius. About an hour from the CBD, Dandenong’s culinary melting pot has attracted many a foodie for its delightful dining experiences, from the fresh produce at the nearby Dandenong Market, to the array of restaurants and cafes that line the main boulevard.

Bakeries alone make up a sizeable chunk of the delicious fare on offer and Middle Eastern heavyweight A1 Bakery takes first dibs in the baked-goods stakes.

Serving traditional Lebanese food, A1 offers a range of pizzas, dips, sweets and a large range of grocery products from all over the Middle East. Another main player is Maiwand Bakery, the first Afghani bakery

in Melbourne, selling about 1000 flatbreads each day, straight out of the traditional clay oven.

Polish delis are aplenty in this suburb so if you’re after a fix of pierogi (dumplings), cabbage rolls, sauerkraut, beetroot soup or sausages, Dandenong has got you covered. Central Asia’s Uighur cuisine also takes centre stage with shish kebabs, polo (pilaf rice platters), hearty dumplings and hand-made noodles.

Dandenong is celebrated for its South Asian cuisine, and local favourite MKS Spices ’n Things needs no introduction. Serving up a smorgasbord of mouthwatering rice and curry dishes at bargain prices, it’s no wonder there’s a line snaking out the door on most days. Lakshmi Vilas, a vegetarian cafe serving mostly southern Indian food for those masala dosa cravings, is another popular option, while Bikaner Sweet & Curry Cafe provides the sweet relief you’ll need after all that spice.

Afghan cuisine also features prominently in Dandenong’s culinary stakes with a selection of chicken and lamb skewers, kebab and rice dishes, and excellent mantu dumplings (stuffed with minced lamb and served with lentils and yoghurt) at local institution Afghan Tasty Food.

There’s something for every tastebud, so bring your appetite (and sweatpants)!

- MANVEEN MAAN

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 7

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MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

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Image: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS VICTORIA. Picture: JANUSZ MOLINSKI

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URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 11

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

L

EARNING is just one component of what makes a great community, and south-east residents are fortunate in being spoiled for choice.

From select-entry schools, Chisholm Institute at Berwick, Dandenong, Cranbourne and Frankston, and university courses at Monash University campuses at Berwick and Frankston, there are many options for those pursuing academic excellence.

But some of the greatest gains are being made in community centres and neighbourhood houses.

Courses and group sessions are available in almost every practical topic. Just consider some - Men’s discussions group, walking, tablet training, knitting, card games, business mentoring, gardening, bingo, choirs, book clubs, fitness, art, gardening and contributing to the community cafe are available within the City of Casey alone.

12 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Image: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS VICTORIA Picture: JORGE DE ARAUJO

MELBOURNE’S EAST COMMUNITY SOUTH EVENTS Saturday & Sunday, Jan 14-15 The Waterfront Festival 11am-10pm Free activities, live music, rides and amusements. Fireworks at 9.45pm on Saturday.

Frankston Waterfront Thursday, Jan 19 (ongoing) Funky Bunch Trivia From 7pm-9.30pm at Settlement Hotel, South Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne. For those aged 18-plus Friday, Jan 20 (until March) Cameo Outdoor Cinema 1628 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave.

Get in early for one of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets. Only 150 tickets each night. Details: cameocinemas. com.au Sunday, Jan 22 Summer Series at Bulong Estate Live music and fine food and wine at the winery, 70 Summerhill Rd, Yarra Junction, from noon-5pm Thursday, Jan 26 Australia Day Various celebrations Berwick, 10am-3pm Pioneers Park, Cnr Peel St and Lyall Rd Cranbourne, 11am-4pm Balla Balla Community Centre, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd

February/March Ventana Fiesta This annual celebration of Latin American, Portuguese and Spanish cultures provides intimate and authentic experiences through dance, music, food, art, crafts, film, poetry, language, sports and educational workshops. It will be held at various venues in Frankston and Carrum Downs Dandenong Market One of Victoria’s oldest markets has something for everyone. Open Tues 7am-4pm, Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-4pm, Sun 10am-3pm at cnr Clow St & Cleeland St

Saturday, Feb 12 (ongoing) Berwick Springs Parkrun Every Saturday at 8am, the free weekly, timed 5km run takes place in Berwick Springs Blvd, Narre Warren. Each participant in the volunteer-run event must register (one-off registration) before running. More details at parkrun.com.au/berwicksprings Monday, Feb 14 Cycling for fun and fitness Lynbrook, 9am-11am Casual riding on cycle paths a safe distance from the roadside. Meet at Lynbrook Community Centre, Cnr Lynbrook Blvd & Harris St

Sunday, Feb 5 Kymmy’s Family Market 9am-2pm Cranbourne Public Hall, 166-178 South Gippsland Hwy Monthly market, mostly indoors, that supports local home-based businesses, such as crafts, candles, baby items, clothes and food

Friday, Feb 24 (ongoing) DJ’s Night Market On the fourth Friday of each month, it has stalls to shop from, including fresh produce, jewellery, candles, children’s clothes, skincare, face painting and kids craft workshop.

Entry by gold coin donation at Lynbrook Community Centre, Cnr Lynbrook Blvd & Harris St

Wednesday, Feb 8 (ongoing) Netball Star Academy Players of the future can finetune their skills at Berwick Lodge Primary School, Mansfield St, Berwick.

Contact: 1300 372 300

Sunday, Feb 26 (ongoing) Gembrook Market On the fourth Sunday of each month, it has a wide range of mostly locally grown and made crafts and produce. Held at Puffing Billy Station, 60 Main St, Gembrook

Open Mic (ongoing) Pony Music Studios Open to all musicians and bands, Open Mic allows them time to have a play (three songs or 20 minutes per act) with a full PA system and backline supplied, with an audio engineer. From 2pm-5pm on the last Sunday of the month at Factory 3, 37-41 Hallam South Rd, Hallam.

Bookings: 9702 3244 Fri-Sun, March 3-5 Seven Sisters Festival 60 Hearn Rd, Mt Martha Allow yourself the time to be yourself and be surrounded by inspiring women and nature.

There are expert presenters, indepth discussions performances, practical life-changing classes, art projects, and more than 100 alternative and complementary health practictioners Saturday, March 25 Casey Kids Carnival, 11am-4pm Akoonah Park, Cardinia St, Berwick A free day of activities for kids, the event will include live performers, rides, interactive games, arts and crafts, and live animals

(Listings courtesy of aroundyou. com.au, eventfinda.com.au, weekendnotes.com)

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 13

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

P

ROPERTY values in Melbourne’s south-east region have experienced some dramatic increases since 2014 – and there’s no sign of that trend abating.

Real Estate Institute of Victoria figures show that despite a six per cent drop, Narre Warren North ($870,000) still holds the lead as the most expensive suburb in the region. Endeavour Hills ($590,000), Berwick ($576,250), Narre Warren South ($525,500), and Narre Warren ($507,500) round out the top five.

Endeavour Hills has soared over the past year with the most dramatic increase of 27.4 per cent.

At the other end of the scale, Cranbourne ($380,000), Hampton Park ($385,750) and Cranbourne West ($390,000) were among the most affordable suburbs.

As for areas with the largest increases in value since 2014, Doveton (30.9 per cent), Cranbourne North (26.4 per cent), Hallam (22 per cent) and Cranbourne West (21.9 per cent) ranked among the top-10 increases. Endeavour Hills (40.6 per cent) and Narre Warren (33.6 per cent) topped the list.

14 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

REIV chief executive Geoff White expects the number of affordable options to decrease as an increasing number of first-home buyers and investors flock to the outer ring.

White said record low interest rates and a strong market were driving price growth, with four of the top-10 affordable suburbs delivering double-digit growth over the past year.

According to White, the latest quarterly figures indicate strength and potential in the Victorian market.

“Recent national data from the Real Estate Institute of Australia shows that most states, apart from Melbourne and Adelaide, have experienced moderating home prices in the opening months of 2016.”

However, White also states price growth is slower than at the market peak in late 2014 and early 2015.

“Just over a year ago we were seeing quarterly price growth just above five per cent. While growth is now below four per cent, it is still solid, given market conditions,” White said.

- TIFFANY COPELAND

Suburb

Median 2016

1 Year Growth

2 Year Growth

Median 2015

Median 2014

CRANBOURNE

$380,000

9.8%

17.4%

$346,000

$323,750

CRANBOURNE EAST

$470,000*

13.4%

17.5%

$414,500

$400,000*

CRANBOURNE NORTH

$455,000

15.2%

26.4%

$395,000

$360,000

CRANBOURNE WEST

$390,000*

13.0%

21.9%

$345,202

$320,000*

-

N/A

N/A

-

-

CLYDE NORTH

$468,500*

6.5%

N/A

$439,900*

-

OFFICER

CLYDE

$460,000*

20.4%

N/A

$382,000*

-

OFFICER SOUTH

-

N/A

N/A

-

-

NARRE WARREN

$507,500*

6.8%

33.6%

$475,000

$380,000

NARRE WARREN NORTH

$870,000*

-6.8%

1.5%

$933,750*

$857,500*

NARRE WARREN SOUTH

$525,500

10.1%

11.2%

$477,500

$472,500

NARRE WARREN SOUTH

-

N/A

N/A

$530,000*

$528,750*

BEACONSFIELD UPPER

-

N/A

N/A

$1,350,000*

-

BERWICK

$576,250

4.8%

10.8%

$550,000

$520,000

DOVETON

$401,000*

15.2%

30.9%

$348,000*

$306,250*

ENDEAVOUR HILLS

$590,000*

27.4%

40.6%

$463,000

$419,500

HALLAM

$463,500*

17.3%

22.0%

$395,000*

$380,000*

$385,750

4.3%

12.4%

$370,000

$343,250*

HAMPTON PARK

(Source: REIV)

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST GUMBUYA PARK SELLS FOR $4.65M THE founders of Carsales.com. and Jayco Caravans have joined forces to secure popular amusement park Gumbuya Park, near Pakenham, for $4.65 million.

The investor consortium, comprising Gerry Ryan of Jayco Caravans and Wal Pisciotta of Carsales.com.au, acquired the south-east Melbourne park, which has been operating since 1978.

“A change of hands of this iconic park will ensure it remains one of Melbourne's most popular, small-scale amusement parks, frequented by both local residents and interstate visitors.”

The new owners plan to undertake a major revamp of the venue.

Gumbuya Park is on the Princes Highway, just outside of Tynong and about 66km from the Melbourne CBD.

The park features more than 300 animals, with numerous species of wildlife including dingoes, cockatoos, wombats, koalas, emus and various native Australian birds.

Comprising a 166.26ha landholding, Gumbuya Park also features several rides and attractions including paddle boats, mini cars, waterslides, pony rides, a mini golf course and toboggans.

CBRE's David Minty, Stephen Adgemis, Duncan McCulloch and James Beer managed the sale on behalf of the vendor.

Minty said the incoming owners planned to inject new life into the much-loved park, which is just outside Pakenham.

“The buyers will look to introduce new attractions and some accommodation, helping bring the park back to its former glory,” Minty said.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 15

HOME LOAN SPECIALISTS

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