Urban Life May 2017

MAY 2017 VOL.2, ED.1

RESTING EASY • HOME REVIEWS • PRACTICAL MAGIC DISPLAY HOMES & LAND ESTATES DIRECTORY • INDUSTRY NEWS

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contents

04.

MAY // 2017

WELCOME W

HAT’S cooking tonight in your home? It’s a question family members are asking more and more as high-rating TV food shows enhance our love affair with all things culinary.

This issue we speak to four home cooks making a major difference in their community.

Ranging from those working wonders with addictions to those foraging and those promoting sugar-free and vegan diets, we highlight their excellent work in spreading the word about healthy eating. We hope their work inspires you in the kitchen.

Just as important is the value of a good night’s sleep. We examine how it all starts with your mattress, and how you can improve your productivity just by resting properly.

We also feature our regular favourites, such as Practical Magic, Insiders and display home reviews.

In case you didn’t know, we’re turning one this month.

From our first issue with Jamie Durie and Spanish cooking with Miguel Maestre through to infrastructure, buying land, apartments and townhouse living, we’ve tried to inform you about all the many options for first-time buyers.

We trust you have enjoyed the first 12 editions and hope you can join in our birthday celebrations with the chance to win some great prizes via our Facebook page.

To enter, simply Like, Comment and Share.

It’s that easy.

As always, enjoy the read.

FEATURES 4–6

HIPS DON’T LIE The science of sleep is as much about your mattress as your health

10–17 FOOD FOR THOUGHT

We shine the spotlight on cooks making a major difference in their community

07.

REGULARS 3

INSIDERS

7

OBJECTS OF DESIRE

8, 22

DISPLAY HOME REVIEWS

18–19

PRACTICAL MAGIC

24–25

INDUSTRY NEWS

26–27

LAND ESTATES

28–29

ISPLAY HOMES D DIRECTORY

18.

Ross McGravie EDITOR

SCAN ME! 10.

28.

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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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PUBLICITY PRESS PTY LTD ABN 31 005 490 068 1 Albert St, Richmond Vic 3121 Australia PO Box 4331 Richmond East Vic 3121 03 9804 4700 // reception@publicitypress.com.au urbanlifemag.com.au

Housing Industry Association (HIA) is an industry body which supports over 40,000 tradespeople in the residential building industry. Our members are equipped with the latest industry advice, ongoing training and support and are committed to provide ethical and high quality service to their clients.

Dreaming of a new space, a new look, a new home?

HIA members can make your dreams a reality.

We stand by our members.

HIA members agree to adhere to the HIA National Code of Ethics (the ‘Code’), under which they commit to competence, fairness, value, honesty and integrity in dealing with consumers. You are in good hands with an HIA member!

Don’t forget to visit housinglocal.com.au to find great ideas, design tips, and practical information on getting started.

You will find: > Construction tips – applying for building permits > Design – cool tips and trends > Environmentally friendly products > Features and finishes – making your home stand out > Checklists that are helpful to the process > Insurance information > Products gallery for information and inspiration

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

As a qualified town planner, with an interest in planning, building and housing policy I could see there was an opportunity to simplify the system and to improve the building process for all involved. I’ve worked at HIA for 15 years, and also in senior roles in state and local government. I spend my time collaboratively working across all industry areas, and contributing to government policy, to make sure we are meeting the needs of the community by providing homes for Victorians. I have always been a practical person and am excited by the many areas we can implement positive changes.

What do you love most about the industry?

Our members, who do an amazing job every day building homes. Whether they are developers, builders, manufacturers, suppliers, trade contractors, designers, draftsmen, planners or anyone in between, everyone contributes. I also love that our industry provides people with a place to live, it provides their home and helps create sustainable communities throughout Victoria. Seeing the sheer size of the industry, the skills involved and the endless possibilities is exciting.

What do you consider your greatest industry challenge/s?

Victoria faces ongoing challenges with housing affordability, planning delays, red tape and excessive taxation on new homes. These issues need to be seriously addressed by all levels of government. The housing industry is the backbone of the Victorian economy and we need to ensure we support our members.

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

Governments seem to be continually adding to requirements without cancelling anything out. Regulations are added on top of the other, making things more difficult. We should focus on what we are trying to achieve and have a simple regulatory framework to accomplish this. I’d also like to see delays in the planning process dramatically reduced. With affordability and an ageing population in mind, it is in the interest of the whole community to ensure small developments can proceed through the system quickly and efficiently.

What’s the biggest misconception people have about building?

That delays in the process don’t cost anything and developers and builders have an endless bank balance to pay for the extra taxes and regulatory costs. This could not be further from the truth. Our members are passionate about the work they do, and go the extra mile to make the homes they are building exceptional. But sometimes it just takes a long time. Council delays and a slow process mean the costs add up. The planning approval time for medium-density developments can often be greater than the time it takes to build these homes. That simply doesn’t make sense.

Fiona Nield

HOUSING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

Biggest regret?

Sometimes governments do not seem to understand the impacts of the decisions they make and how it can affect all Victorians. At times policies are implemented in a reactionary manner, without a proper understanding of the consequences they have. It’s up to us to clearly communicate our concerns and ultimately make the case for change. This takes time and can be frustrating.

Worst trend?

The way in which governments seem to justify placing costs on housing, and thinking the costs can be absorbed along the way. These decisions directly push up the cost of housing in an already competitive market. New regulation must be paid for and it’s housing affordability that suffers.

Best change?

The competitive flexibility and versatility of the industry to adjust to trends. It results in the number of home designs we see, and the flexibility consumers have to find a product that really fits the bill for their lifestyle and budget.

If building tomorrow, what feature would you most like?

A big light-filled kitchen and family meals area. The kitchen is the heart of the home, where everybody gathers and talks. It’s a communal space for family and friends, and cooking and sharing food is one of my favourite pastimes. I would also love a “mud room” for dumping messy items, including shoes, bags and coats, and keeping them out of view.

Any tips for future-proofing a home?

Rather than buying for now, consider all options and uses your home might have in the future. Many people have options for working from home, so it might be wise to consider a dedicated office space. Or if you plan on having a family, or extended family, consider the spaces that might work for you.

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

I think many homes will become more customised ... and even more of an expression of personal taste. There will be a need to build a greater number of medium-density options as we have an ageing population and strong population growth. And as land costs increase, medium-density living may become more of the norm. There might also be more lightweight construction options, more off-site construction, increased modular options, and a prominence towards homes that can accommodate extended-family living. As technology continues to excel, we’ll also see spaces that integrate working lives with the family home.

Executive Director – Victoria URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 3

BEDROOMS

Images: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Investing in a quality mattress should mean taking the time to find what works best for you – and not just a 30-second trial in a bedding store. Do your homework and you’ll be rewarded for years to come

4 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

BEDDING DOWN COMFORT – A CHECKLIST

A

SK any parent of a newborn what they would pay for a decent night’s sleep and it’s abundantly clear you’d either be very rich or a modern-day Aladdin’s Genie if you had the power to grant them that wish.

Likewise, those with back pain can only dream (pun intended) of counting sheep without tossing and turning in endless discomfort.

At its most basic, sleep is not a choice – it’s a necessity. And a quality deep sleep should be the priority.

One person who ignored this basic advice was a Chinese football fan who attempted to stay up and watch every game at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

After days of resisting what his body was telling him, the 25-year-old from Suzhou died from sleep deprivation.

It repeated the mistakes of another Chinese supporter, 26, who spent 11 sleepless nights with friends in Changsha watching Euro 2012 and who died from exhaustion exacerbated by alcohol, tobacco and sleep deprivation.

The effects of not getting a good night’s sleep are numerous. The Australian Centre for Education in Sleep (sleepeducation.net.au) said modifications in behaviour and emotions were quick to surface. Among many other symptoms, this could include aggression, irritability, moodiness, lack of concentration, diminished problemsolving ability, clumsier motor coordination, a weaker immune system and difficulty to

DOES YOUR BED? Maintain spinal alignment Provide complete support for your body retain learning.

Manoeuvre easily // Suit children // Feature extra edge support And that’s before you Work in unison with your pillow // Absorb minimal body start the working day. impressions over time // Minimise partner disturbance Feeling groggy or Easily accommodate sheeting // Help avoid morning backache unsatisfied after a restless Come in a variety of densities for choice night is only natural.

(Source: SLEEPY’S) It’s estimated that those with sleep apnoea have their deep Rapid Eye Movement (REM or deep sleep) sleep disrupted on average an unhealthy 160 times a night. These disruptions vehicle accidents and $517 million for may range from twisting and turning to workplace accidents. getting up to take a toilet break. Healthy sleepers, in comparison, are disrupted HEN you spend a third of your only 60 times a night. life lying down, it makes sense Another issue is overheating. to invest time and your hardFor example, it is said our body’s earned cash in a quality mattress. And core temperature must drop to 32C while it’s out of sight, out of mind for before we are ready to fall asleep. So most, it pays to remember that your when your body temperature rises with humble bed will receive more use than extra blankets and doonas in the cooler the expensive couch that takes pride of months, there is a tendency to wake up place in your living room. in the middle of the night. That’s where Yet about 95 per cent of customers temperature-neutralising foam (within take the wrong approach when buying a mattresses) comes in, as the bed loses mattress. heat within 4.5 seconds.

That’s the view of Sleepy’s store In 2011, Deloitte Access Economics manager Gary Shtiner, who said many estimated that 1.5 million Australians, people choose a mattress based on or 8.9 per cent of the population price rather than their specific needs. suffered from a sleep disorder, such It’s fair to say mattress technology as obstructive sleep apnoea (abnormal has come a long way since the Sealy pauses in breathing when sleeping), Posturepedic revolution of the laterestless legs syndrome or primary 1970s. There’s memory foam that helps insomnia. moderate body temperature and relieve Its 2011 report for the Sleep Health muscular pressure for athletes, and Foundation, Re-awakening Australia, most fabrics are now non-allergenic. estimated the economic cost of sleep But those innovations are the disorders in 2010 resulted in an annual exception rather than the rule. $818 million health care cost and Shtiner said many of the mattresses another $3.1 billion in lost productivity. on the Australian market were still This included $129 million for motor using 40-year-old spring technology

W

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 5

research to provide its customers with better rest. Its range of mattresses, which are tested and approved over a nine-to-12-month period by the Chiropractors’ Association of Australia, use a spring system with five-zone support to assist in correct spinal alignment.

“Sleep is that golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.”

– Thomas Dekker

As the CAA explains: “A bed that is too firm will elevate the hips and shoulders, causing the spine to sag in the lower back region. Similarly, a bed that is too soft will cause the

CORRECT SLEEPING POSITIONS “The spine naturally curves forwards in the neck, backwards in the mid back and forwards again in the lower back. In this position, the spine is relaxed with minimal pressure on nerves, muscles and spinal discs.”

STOMACH

SIDE

BACK

This will eventually create problems with your spine – it puts unnecessary pressure on your neck due to twisting your head and placing strain on your back

Try lying with your lower leg relatively straight and bend your upper leg at the hip and knee.

Place a pillow between your knees to reduce pressure on the spine and provide alignment.

Your pillow should keep the neck straight

Place a pillow under your knees to maintain the natural curves of your spine and reduce lower-back strain.

The head pillow should also keep the neck straight to reduce strain on its curves.

(Source: CAA)

6 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

spine to sag at the hips, resulting in both localised pressure on the spine that can lead to disrupted sleep and longer-term health problems,” the CAA asserts. “The CAA-endorsed beds include a range of features that provide correct spinal alignment for healthy, invigorating sleep. The

graduated zoning cradles the hip and shoulder regions to maintain proper spinal alignment. The body contouring zones not only gives increased support where needed, but also provides a more comfortable, restful sleep.”

I

T’S a common complaint that the mattress marketplace is anything but clear in terms of comparing apples with apples.

Choice magazine alleged in its March edition that “manufacturers work with retailers to make buying a mattress confusing, even anti-competitive, by using practices designed to take bargaining power away from shoppers while fattening profit margins”.

It said mattress manufacturers will sell retailers the same model mattress but with a look exclusive to each retailer. “There might be some minor differences, such as the fibres used in the padding, but otherwise the technology inside will be identical.

And shoppers won’t be able to draw comparisons between products because they’ll be sold under different names.”

Bearing in mind that the body can take up to two months to adjust to a new mattress, customers should be given a trial period in which they can test the mattress over an extended period.

Choice also noted that sales and discounts were commonplace throughout the year as mattresses often had large mark-ups. Salespeople in many retail outlets were also driven by commission payments.

It summarised its review: “We found that a $1000 mattress can be

as comfortable over its lifetime as one priced at $3000. Beds are incredibly subjective. What one person might consider comfortable, another might find punishing. Many will find innerspring mattresses and latex/foam mattresses equally comfortable.

We suggest trying different types of mattresses in a store to compare for yourself.”

Choice’s advice for those considering buying an inner-spring mattress was to look up a manufacturer’s range online beforehand, visit a few stores and ask for quotes.

“Take off your shoes, spend time lying on them, get comfortable. And then, once you’ve found the model for you, negotiate an aggressive discount.”

O

NCE you have chosen the most suitable surface on which to lie, mattress protectors are another way of safekeeping your investment.

It’s estimated that the average person perspires about 250ml a night, which has the potential to stain mattresses, linen and pillows.

Furthermore, this can lead to bacteria and mould, causing health issues such as asthma or eczema. Factor in also that humans shed and regrow skin every 27 days and skin cells are the primary food source for dust mites, and it’s clear why sleep hygiene is paramount.

Sleep hygiene is best defined as habits or routines that can help us or stop us from sleeping. Establishing a regular routine is paramount, particularly with kids. It’s a great idea to reward them for complying with bedtime rules. Start by creating a relaxed environment for bedtime, such as ensuring the temperature, light and noise factor set the tone for winding down. Sleepeducation.net.au recommends that TV, computer games and mobile phones be strictly limited before bedtime, and that exercising, eating hot and spicy foods and drinking coffee are completed long before this period. It also suggests that you use a sleep diary to check how many hours you are sleeping.

Once your routines are established, it won’t be long until you’ll be resting easier – and hopefully on a mattress that suits you.

Images: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

that did little to provide quality sleep over the lifetime of the mattress. And many cheaper imported mattresses can contain petroleum-based foam and arsenic-based fire retardant, among other issues. “(By not paying attention to what we are paying for), we are literally putting ourselves and our families at risk,” Shtiner said. “We eat well, we exercise and try to do the right thing by our bodies and then most of us go home to sleep on a mattress that doesn’t suits us. It’s the worst possible thing because sleep is your health.”

Most mattresses should have a life of seven to 10 years, but less if it is subjected to continual stresses, such as if a heavy person is the user, or if kids frequently jump on the bed.

Shtiner said his company used

OBJECTS OF DESIRE

Kitchen

whiz

By Nicole Bittar As the hub, engine room, heart and soul of the home, it makes perfect sense to keep your new kitchen ticking to maximum potential.

Clean lines, smooth surfaces and primo appliances speak volumes about production values. Combination ovens, designer stoneware and the latest sous-vide equipment keep the steam where it should be, within.

Now you’re cooking, in style.

1. Miele DGD 6800 XL steam combination oven $7299 Available at Miele retailers, Miele Experience Centres around Australia and Miele online shop at miele.com.au 1300 464 353 2. Miele EVS 6214 vacuum sealing drawers $3999 Available at Miele retailers, Miele Experience Centres around Australia and Miele online shop at miele.com.au 1300 464 353 3. Caesarstone Sleek Concrete (selected by New York-based designer Todd Bracher, pictured, for Das Haus 2017 – Imm Cologne) RRP from $500sq m installed caesarstone.com.au 1300 119 119 4. The ‘Control Freak’ induction cooking system RRP $2500, including GST. Email info@sousvideaustralia.com or sousvideaustralia.com

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 7

D I S P L AY H O M E

Urban Edge – Altisse 6-53

E

DOUBLE STOREY

WE LOVE ü Super stylish fittings and attention to detail ü Luxurious and private parents’ retreat

URBAN LIFE SAYS: “Luxury living

at its finest.”

ü Impressive kitchen complete with an adjoining butler’s pantry and a servery to the al fresco

XUDING cool curves, clean finishes and classy designs, the Altisse 6-53 is the epitome of chic.

As you walk through this contemporary home of 53.52 squares, it’s the attention to detail and sleek finishes that catch the eye.

To the right of the entry sits the home office, decked out in dark wood and holding plenty of storage. A full-height glass panel allows views into the state-of-the-art home theatre.

Across the passageway is a powder room with floor-to-ceiling windows and funky sinks.

Further in, the dual family living areas share a glass fireplace.

The stylish kitchen has a marbletopped island bench with double sinks and spray taps. Top-notch appliances include a double-sized canopy rangehood that sits over a stunning industrial-sized, seven-burner cooktop and grill, impressive double ovens (900mm and 600mm side by side), dishwasher and microwave. A huge laundry with storage space is off to one side, while a butler’s pantry runs horizontally on the other side, with a servery overlooking the al fresco and sophisticated tiered garden.

Upstairs is a huge rumpus room, which is next to a study equipped with mini fridge, microwave, sink and storage.

The main suite is tucked away from the other bedrooms, and has access to the front balcony. The en suite has a large tub, double vanity, mirrored cabinets and a huge rain shower.

The U-shaped walk-in wardrobe is equipped with numerous compartments and drawers, and is kitted out with a dressing table and mirror.

Two bedrooms have walk-in wardrobes and share a large bathroom and powder room, while the third bedroom is larger in size, with its own en suite - also with a rain shower and vanity.

Designed to fit a 16m x 32m block, the Altisse 6-53 is every luxury homeowner’s dream.

4 BEDROOMS, 3 BATHROOMS, 4 LIVING AREAS, DOUBLE GARAGE // PRICE: FROM $438,900 // URBANEDGEHOMES.COM.AU 8 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

COVER

“We have lost our connection to food and one another ...

We eat in front of screens ... We have made isolation and neglect the norm.

My workshops change that. We talk, we cook, we sing, we dance and then we eat.”

Food

love of

10 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Photos: KYLIE MIBUS

C

Care Facto r

OOK extraordinaire, mother to many and passionate advocate for caring and sharing, nutritionist Kate Borland is on a mission to keep it real in every facet of her life.

As a drug and alcohol nutrition group facilitator, she sees the devastating effects that years of substance abuse and personal neglect can have on people of all ages. It also surfaces in horrific stories that would be incomprehensible to most. But Kate overcomes the gloom with compassion, understanding and the power of food to change the mood.

“To me, food means love. Food means sharing a very important extension of yourself. It means community, gathering, care, health, hope, taste and joy … Food means love and is the loveliest way you can care for someone. To offer and share what is our purest life source of energy is an honour, a blessing,” she said.

“Food breaks down barriers and brings people together. It is a therapeutic experience - the whole process from purchase to preparation and ingestion. It is a lovely way to spend time together.

“What I try to impart to the people and groups I work with - young and old - is to keep food simple: keep it as close to its natural state as possible. We mishandle it too much. I often see gorgeous and natural produce destroyed by too much manipulation, additional ingredients and overcomplicating it.”

Kate said her upbringing taught her to appreciate the simple things in life.

“My love of food came from a childhood that was full of colour and entertainment. I grew up in a time where an avocado cost about $10. They were my mother’s favourite food and she would stuff them with tomatoes and eggs for dinner parties. She loved entertaining and it was in a time when dinner parties were where all the ripe discussion took place.

Mum would cut an avocado in quarters and we would all have a piece with lemon and salt. It was a luxury as I grew up in a family of seven.”

It’s a world away and yet so close to where she finds herself during her working week. Dealing with people aged 14-70 whose health has been compromised, Kate said the barriers she breaks down with food in her workshops lead to major breakthroughs.

“Many have limited finances or knowledge around healthy eating. When you engage … about the journey of life, you witness an incredible opening-up process. This creates a safe space in

which you can relate and, in turn, it encourages participation,” Kate said.

“I start with a discussion and end with a finished product. I never force anyone to eat a food they do not like; it is about not focusing on a negative aspect of food choice or like/dislike but creating a positive one. I cannot name how many times over the years I have had such beautiful turnarounds and gratitude for the forgiving of a negative memory around food. Often I meet people more than once and they love telling me, ‘I eat sushi now’ or ‘I do not drink CocaCola any more’. It is the most wonderful feeling to have made a difference to someone’s life. It is about the focus on self-care rather than being a parent, doctor or teacher. Lecturing them will not work. I become one with the people I work with; we truly share an experience of mutual respect and kindness.”

Opening the lines of communication enhanced experimentation, she said.

“Without making a big deal (because I like people to shine) if they have a way of doing something or an ingredient or herb they want to add, I allow that. I encourage the non-use of recipes. I like people to just get comfortable with flavours, and experiment with what I provide.”

Kate lost her mother when she was 16 but feels “I am now living the life she should have lived”.

“Everything I prepare I put love into.

She loved feeding people and I do too.

It’s a joy to care for people and for them to feel cared for. This is what life is for. Unfortunately, we are being told otherwise. People are moving toward a more selfish attitude. I will never change, I have tried to not care, but I cannot. I love people. I love the people I work with. This is the most real place I have been.

“The greatest compliment I have received is after I recently designed and implemented the new menu in one of the detox facilities I work in. A young man said to me, ‘I could actually consider becoming a vegetarian now. I have never eaten fruit and vegetables but now I actually love them’.

“I also run fortnightly workshops, so I hear first hand the response to the menu. Many discuss how they are now able to go to the toilet. They make the direct connection between the food they are eating and how they feel. Good food, good mood. This is incredible to hear. The only thing I hope to achieve is a love for preparing food. To make cooking and food preparation easy and affordable.”

KATE’S THOUGHTS ON …

NATURAL SOLUTIONS “We need to avert our attention away from comfort in food to comfort in increased fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds and wholegrain consumption.

We are eating the wrong foods. We need to go back to our roots, before food became processed and tainted.

It does not have to be expensive; it can be as easy as a poached egg on wholegrain toast, with avocado used as butter, fresh leaves and herbs.”

ASSISTING KIDS “We have failed as a society to provide a future for our kids. They are looking at the world through hopeless-coloured glasses. Drugs and alcohol seemingly become a haven for sadness and loss. We need art, music, exercise and nutrition therapies. Talk to them about what they want, how they feel and help to ease their burdens. They need guidance, encouragement, strategies and love. I have listened to stories no one should ever have to tell, but I am honoured that the young person has felt safe enough to share it with me.

It may become my burden, but it has finally met the light of day.”

HOW WE CAN ALL HELP “Invite a neighbour for tea. I live in a community steeped in diversity and culture. I have learnt so much from them about sharing what you have got. My hope is we can build more grassroots campaigns that break down food as an elitist commodity.

I hope we build more community spaces that embark on this journey.

I hope schools continue with home economics programs. I hope I can be instrumental in dietary behavioural change of all the people I work with. And I hope that you invite your neighbour over for dinner tonight.”

TUNING IN “My partner is in film and saw this as a great chance to create videos of recipes we do in my workshops.

At the moment we are looking for funding to make more videos. They are a great way for people to learn how to create healthy and nutritious offerings for themselves.” Go to: vimeo.com/177214817/454f6cfcc2

Tuna Nicoise Salad

SERVES 6

INGREDIENTS

METHOD:

1 cos lettuce 1 avocado, diced into cubes 1 can tuna in oil (Sirena, drained) 1 punnet cherry tomatoes, cut in half 6 soft-boiled free-range eggs (boiled for 3 minutes) 1 chopped Lebanese cucumber 1 cup pitted olives, seeded and halved 1 cup green beans, blanched 1 red, 1 green capsicum, diced 1 salad onion (or finely diced Spanish onion, or spring onions) 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 2 x cloves freshly crushed garlic 1 lemon, freshly squeezed 1 cup chopped fresh parsley

Wash cos lettuce and tear with hands on to a large platter

Dressing: ½ cup Norganic whole egg mayonnaise (available in the health food aisle at all supermarkets) ½ orange, freshly squeezed (if it seems too thick, you can use the juice of whole orange) Salt and pepper, to taste Place all ingredients into a jar and shake well

Drain tuna of oil and flake the tuna meat over the cos lettuce Cut eggs in half and set aside Dice remaining vegetables into bite-size chunks and scatter over lettuce and tuna mix, then add olives Sprinkle garlic over the top of salad ingredients Place eggs around the top of salad Squeeze lemon juice over the entire salad Scatter with chopped parsley, mint or coriander Pour well-shaken dressing over the top of salad Optional: Chilli can be served in a bowl separately. Fresh mint or coriander can be used instead of parsley

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 11

I

T WAS on the other side of the world, in the hallowed surrounds of the Sistine Chapel, where arguably Australia’s highest-profile dentist Matthew Hopcraft discovered the reach of MasterChef.

Far from divine intervention, it reminded him of the great memories, shared experiences and lasting friendships that characterised his time on the seventh season of the show.

“The fame thing is funny. I didn’t go on to the show expecting or wanting fame, and I still find it odd when people stop me in the street to talk about the show,” Matt said. “The weirdest place was probably in Rome, and I was standing in the Sistine Chapel admiring the amazing work of Michelangelo, when someone tapped me on the shoulder to ask if I was Matt from MasterChef! But it really reinforces how important MasterChef has been in encouraging people to reconnect with food, and get people back in the kitchen.

“MasterChef was an amazing experience. On the one hand, it had the highs of cooking for some of the world’s best chefs - Heston Blumenthal, Marco Pierre White or Rick Stein - to the lows of

watched shows like MasterChef and Jamie Oliver. Plus, my brothers and sister are all great cooks, so there is some healthy sibling competition going on.”

Not surprisingly as a father of two, it’s family that remains at the core of his endeavours and inspired his motto “Food to Feed the Family” and his cookbook.

“I truly believe cooking at home is one of the most important roles of a parent.

Encouraging healthy eating, bringing the family together to share a meal, teaching your children important life skills. There is so much enjoyment in food, and I love sharing that with people,” Matt said.

“Nothing gives me greater pleasure than watching other people enjoy the food I have cooked, and sharing stories and laughter. I make a point of having dinner at the table with my family every night where we can – it’s a great opportunity to sit down as a family to talk about our days. And there is the health and nutrition side – something that I am spending more time on now. Not only enjoying good food, but also making sure that it’s the right food. Nutrition plays such a key role in our health, and I think with the growth

The

Sugar Fix

sweet strife 12 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

being away from my wife and kids for so long, and missing out on five months of their life.

“From a cooking point of view, I learnt a lot. I used to be very reliant on recipes - it was probably the scientist in me, cooking like it was an experiment.

Follow the recipe to the letter, and a delicious meal will appear. However, on MasterChef I learnt very quickly how to create new dishes, balance flavours and to constantly taste my food.”

Matt’s kitchen journey began decades earlier, when he spent time with his mum baking “probably just so I could get to lick the beaters when she was baking cakes”.

But since he left home for university - armed with the Country Woman’s Association Cookbook his mum gave him - his passion for cooking resurfaced.

“I lived in a series of share houses, and I was always cooking - nothing fancy but we had to eat. Over the years, I accumulated more cookbooks and

in fast food and processed food, we have forgotten how important that really is.”

Listing salt, butter, extra-virgin olive oil, dark chocolate and eggs as the five pantry ingredients he can’t live without, Matt said the secret to healthy eating was enjoying everything in moderation.

It’s a message he swears by, and for good reason. Now that he has returned to the world of dentistry as a Clinical Associate Professor at the Melbourne Dental School, Matt is trying to mix the best of both worlds – combining his passion for improving dental health and acting as an advocate for healthy eating.

SugarFree Smiles is a project he heads with good friend Dr Sophie Beaumont, who “spends too much of her time removing decayed teeth from children as young as two or three”.

“The biggest problem is with the added sugar in our diet, and all of the highly processed foods that we are eating,” he said. “The average Australian

Photo: KYLIE MIBUS

“Cooking at home is one of the most important roles of a parent.”

COVER

INGREDIENTS 500g dry fettucine (fresh pasta recipe online) 3 zucchinis 60ml extra virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced 1 red chilli, finely sliced 125ml white wine 1 cup baby spinach salt grated parmesan cheese, to serve

METHOD Bring a large pot of water (about 5 litres) to the boil and then add 4-5 teaspoons of salt.

Cut the ends off the zucchini, and cut in 4cm pieces. Slice each piece lengthways 3mm thick. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat, then cook the zucchini slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Add all of the zucchini back into the frying pan, and add the garlic and chilli. Cook for 3-4 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta in the boiling water according to instructions until just cooked through. Drain and set aside.

Add the white wine to the zucchini, and simmer until reduced by half. Add the spinach leaves and chilli, and cook until the spinach has wilted. Add the pasta, and toss through.

Fettucine with Zucchini, Garlic & Spinach has 60g (15 teaspoons) of added sugar per day, and teenagers are having up to 80g (20 teaspoons) per day. That’s well over what the World Health Organisation recommends – six teaspoons for adults and three teaspoons for kids. A can of soft drink has 10 teaspoons of sugar or a bottle of sports drink has nine, so it’s easy to see why we have a problem.

Breakfast cereals now are more like desserts, and many people are starting the day with five to six teaspoons of sugar.

“Around one in two Australian kids have tooth decay in their bay teeth by the age of six years, and one in 10 kids aged six years has 10 baby teeth with decay. By the age of 12, one in two kids has decay in their adult teeth, and tooth decay rates have increased by 50-70 per cent since the 1990s. Obesity and type 2 diabetes rates are also skyrocketing, and it all has to do with the food that we are eating.

“So we’ve been working with groups to help promote good oral health. Sophie was instrumental in getting our soccer

club FC Birrarung to introduce a ‘no sugary drinks’ policy, and we’ve been advocating for some broader policies, like a sugar tax and changes to advertising and marketing to kids.

“People can check out what we are doing at sugarfreesmiles.com or on Facebook and Twitter. We also work closely with a group called SugarByHalf (sugarbyhalf.com), encouraging people to look at ways to halve their sugar consumption. They have lots of great practical tips, recipes and healthy food ideas, which I help contribute to.”

After hours, it’s back into the kitchen where Matt has been perfecting the recipes for his cookbook.

“I’m in the final stages of selfpublishing a cookbook, which I’m very excited about. It’s a combination of some of my favourite recipes that I cook all the time at home, and some new creations for special occasions. Expect to see it available online in the next few months at www.matthewhopcraft.com.”

Serve with some grated parmesan cheese.

TIPS TO REDUCE SUGAR • Drink water. It’s free, and the best way to hydrate. Carry a water bottle with you. There are now more and more water fountains with bottle refill taps popping up – even Etihad Stadium has them • Read food labels. Check how much added sugar is in the food you’re buying • Shop the outside (aisles) of the supermarket. Most of the healthier food tends to be around the outside, and all of the highly processed food is in the middle

• Plan a menu for the week, write your shopping list and stick to it.

Then see what you can do to make the job of cooking a bit easier when you get home • The freezer is your friend – I often use the weekend to cook things in bulk, and freeze them, so that you always have something healthy and homemade for those really busy times, such as spaghetti bolognaise, soups, chicken stock and slow-cooked casseroles

• Start cooking more, especially with your kids. Once you get into the habit of doing it, it becomes much easier. I have a go-to list of favourite recipes that kids love

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 13

COVER

S w eett trea

Every post a

S RASPBERRY & WHITE CHOCOLATE SLICE INGREDIENTS For the base: 130g (1 cup) raw almonds 75g (1 cup) coconut flakes ½ teaspoon salt 240g (3 cups) Medjool dates, pitted For the filling: 300g (2½ cups) raw cashews, soaked for 3–6 hours 190ml (¾ cup) coconut milk 125ml (½ cup) maple syrup or rice malt syrup 125ml (½ cup) water 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract with seeds 80ml (¹⁄³ cup) melted cacao butter 80ml (¹⁄³ cup) melted coconut oil 100g (1 cup) frozen raspberries

METHOD 1. To make the base, simply pulse the almonds, coconut flakes and salt in a food processor until a fine meal forms. Add the dates and process until it begins to stick together into a dough. Press into a lined 10×20cm (4×8 inch) loaf tin and freeze.

2. Drain and rinse cashews. Blend them with the coconut milk, maple syrup, water and vanilla in a high-powered blender until no lumps remain. Keep blending and slowly add the cacao butter and coconut oil.

3. Pour over the base. Disperse frozen raspberries evenly throughout the slice and then smooth the top.

4. Freeze the whole slice for 3–4 hours until fully frozen or, ideally, overnight.

5. To serve, allow the slice to defrost for at least 15 minutes before slicing with a hot, wet knife.

6. Keep stored in a sealed container in the freezer and simply defrost slices prior to consuming. Enjoy!

14 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

winner

AM Murphy has always been one to step out of her comfort zone.

The New Zealand-born cook spent many years in bodybuilding before venturing into the vegan world after a chance encounter with online videos.

“I used to eat a lot of chicken, fish and eggs because of my fitness background and stumbled across veganism quite by accident,” Sam said. “I was in a phase of change and it seemed a little extreme, so naturally, I wanted to try it. Luckily I did because here I am.”

The first-time author of So Beautifully Raw, her vegan cookbook inspired by her wildly popular Instagram account (it has 328,000 followers), has always unconsciously dabbled in the realm of recipes and photography.

“I’ve been cooking for years. When I used to compete I came up with protein recipes and made an e-book and sold it to my friends. I’ve done photography since I was little. I knew I had an eye for what I wanted things to look like and thought I would make it work to see what happens,” she said. “It was more that I showed up every day doing what I liked and just tried. Even if it sucked, I just posted it.”

It’s this perseverance to overcome obstacles that has helped propel Sam to fame on Instagram.

“I don’t think I would have had a book if I didn’t have social media. The whole journey has been very interlinked,” she said. “It’s a great way to project what I create in the kitchen.”

Her love of cooking stems from her idyllic childhood in which she helped her mother prepare meals, and drew inspiration from TV chefs.

“As a creative person, I loved watching cooking shows and found them so fascinating. Rachael Ray was a big influence and so was Jamie Oliver. I really wanted to go into the kitchen and cook like them,” she said.

Adding to her love for cooking is a passion for writing, so it’s no surprise she has combined them.

“Ever since I was little, I’ve always wanted to write a book. I never thought I’d write a cookbook, so that was a surprise. I got offered the book deal after my Instagram account took off and thought the universe was lining things up for me. I wanted to share that cooking knowledge as someone with not a lot of training. My main incentive was to show people that they not be afraid to try new things. It’s

to get them in the kitchen - regardless of whether they’re vegan or not - to see if they like it. I like to be a less-invasive vegan. I’m trying to break down those barriers.”

Which is exactly what she’s done, starting with dispelling misconceptions.

“Vegan essentially means consuming no animal products. So that means no meat, dairy, animal products or byproducts,” she said. “When I first heard about veganism, it seemed like an alien concept, and I think that’s the misconception - that it’s an unattainable lifestyle. What people don’t know is that it’s easy and can be inexpensive.

“I think a lot of people are put off by the ingredients. I didn’t even know about half the ingredients I work with. I remember thinking, ‘What the heck is coconut flour and where do you get it?’

But eventually I took charge and found out where I could source some and went from there. Having said that, the first time I cooked with coconut flour was a total disaster. It’s definitely a lot of trial and error and I think people are afraid to fail. My motto is, ‘If it sucks, try again’.”

When it comes to creating vegan recipes, Sam takes it to another level, abandoning tried-andtested methods for a free-flowing approach.

“I get into this creative zone where I’m intuitive with my food. I know the rough measurements but figuring out new flavours is all very organic for me. There’s also a lot more wriggle room with raw stuff because you’re not working with eggs. I try not to fight the process and it seems to work.

I view cooking vegan food as a challenge. I take something that’s easily done, like meat and cheese, and figure out how to do it differently,” she said.

The appeal of vegan food lies in how it makes her body feel and Sam hopes to share the beauty of healthy treats through the recipes in her book.

“To feel my best mentally and physically, I need my greens. I love making zucchini noodles with kale, crispy tofu and peanut sauce pretty much every night and often throw some shitake mushrooms in,” she said. “I love the kale pesto – I usually have it with salads and toast. The teriyaki ‘chicken’ with jackfruit is very interlinked with my childhood, where I lived off sushi as a kid. My other favourite is the beetroot burger because there’s so much flavour to play with.”

Main photo: KYLIE MIBUS, Instagram photos: @SOBEAUTIFULLYREAL

Another misconception she is trying to combat is that vegan food is bland or boring.

“It’s actually very flavoursome. I’m a big fan of using miso, for its deep, earthy, savoury flavours. Molasses is another one I love as it adds a real richness to sauces.

I’m also big on sweet potatoes because you can put them in anything - whether it’s brownies, sauces, or macaroni and cheese, they’re so versatile,” she said.

Although an avid fan of the vegan lifestyle, Sam admits it was initially difficult for her to fully delve into it and has some prudent advice for those wanting to pursue a similar path.

“I had to make an emotional connection to it and mine was my strong connection to animals. I don’t want to get too preachy but as long as you want to reduce your consumption of meat, whether it’s going vegetarian or pescatarian once a week, it’s a good start. Don’t set any expectations because you’ll make mistakes along the way – we’re all human,” she said.

It is this realism that has played a massive role in her popularity on social media and in the cooking world.

“I think my approach is quite relatable and people seem to respond to it better. I feel better when we can come down to the same level and enjoy food for what it is without the cruelty factor.”

Although she seems to overcome obstacles easily, Sam reveals it wasn’t always a walk in the park.

“There were frustrating moments. There’s a chunk of self-doubt with anything creative and putting stuff out into the world can be scary, especially if you’re a sensitive person like I am. I just had to trust in the process, and keep showing up and doing the work, and overcome those fears and doubts,” she said.

There’s no stopping her now.

“I already want to do another book, and have new ideas and recipes. I’m taking some time off to realign myself and figure out what I want to do. I’m going to go travelling soon so it will be nice to be out of the kitchen and reconnect with things other than social media and cooking. I want to learn about different cuisines and expand my knowledge of food, and work with different flavours.”

- MANVEEN MAAN

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 15

ab le Sustain Eating

Bringing

back the

basics

16 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

E

MMA Dean is a firm advocate of keeping things simple – especially when it comes to cooking.

“There’s nothing quite as yummy as a home-grown tomato,” she says enthusiastically. “I’ve got rocket growing in my garden at the moment, alongside beans, cucumbers, lemongrass, chives, capsicum and eggplant. I love it!”

This enthusiasm for home-grown goodness is evident in all parts of her life – from her childhood in central Victoria, to her stint on MasterChef where she emerged as winner, to her work as co-host of My Market Kitchen (alongside MasterChef runner-up Lynton Tapp) and sustainability advocate.

Emma spent much of her childhood learning the ropes in the family kitchen.

“My granny and mum were great cooks. In the country, if you wanted to eat something you would probably have to make it yourself,” she explains. “Mum and Dad still grow their own food. They have a massive orchard with beans, tomatoes, pumpkins, herbs and lettuce.

Mum used to make bread and preserve all the apricots and peaches. There was always an activity to do in the kitchen.”

It’s the simplicity of the “back to basics” approach that resonates.

“It’s really calming growing your own food and you really appreciate the seasons and become quite mindful of your dish. If you grow your own beans, you can cook them with some herbs and a little bit of butter. It doesn’t need to be fancy or tricked up - it’s the simplicity of the food that makes it so beautiful.”

It’s this minimalism that drives her sustainability and zero-waste workshops with councils around Victoria.

“Sustainability is really important, along with the organic angle. It is actually a really big issue, but I think people are taking it seriously now.

“I was telling my friend Tammy, who is a farmer, that her produce is selling out and she needs to expand. She said, ‘We don’t need to get bigger, we need more of us’. We need to have more little farmers.

Another friend has a pig farm that runs on a community-based agricultural model, where people subscribe and get a delivery of meat every month, which is great. You can also do it with vegetables.

“Sure, she’s not going to be driving around in a Maserati, but that’s the thing with food. We need to bring it back a little bit, and make it more humble and honest, and also be expected to pay for quality.

It’s tricky if you have many children, but it

is possible - shop at markets and cut out the middle man. That really helps.”

T

here are numerous health and environmental benefits with sustainable and organic eating.

“I don’t want to be preachy, but we need to eat more vegetables for a start, along with eating seasonally,” she says.

“It’s interesting doing workshops and understanding more about people’s knowledge about fruits and vegetables.

I really want everyone to look at their convenience and benefits.

“People are interested in it for health and it trickles down into the environment.

I think the less chemicals your body has to process, the better. Organic food does just that and we’re able to absorb nutrients better.”

The environmental benefits are numerous, with crop rotation affecting soil health by adding nutrients and minerals to organic produce.

“When potatoes are grown commercially, the paddocks are redundant after a few years, and nothing else grows for 10 years because the soils are so depleted,” she explains. “If you do organic gardening properly, you do crop rotation - where you grow tomatoes one year, and then maybe carrots after that, along with another type of plant after.

“Once tomatoes are harvested, the carrots can grow well as they have a deep tapping root and get nutrients down from deeper. Then you could plant some peas or legumes to get the nitrogen out of the atmosphere. It’s a process called nitrogen tapping where it’s absorbed into the roots, and back into the soil. If you pull out a pea plant, you can see white nitrogen bubbles on its roots. You don’t need to overfertilise or use lots of compost.”

With this community focus in mind, it’s no surprise that Emma’s biggest inspirations come from similar realms.

“My mum is still pretty good - we always have good chats about gardening,” she quips. “The work Stephanie Alexander does educating students about growing vegetables is incredible. My friend Matt Germanchis makes really good seasonal food at Captain Moonlite (in Anglesea). Alla Wolf-Tasker from Daylesford is magnificent. She’s such an inspiring woman. She had a real vision with hospitality and never settled for anything but the best.”

Despite her success, Emma reveals her home-grown roots have been the source of difficulty in the past.

COVER “Having the confidence to go out there and be comfortable in what you know was a little tricky. I think chefs often have a specialist slant, whereas a home-grown cook is a jack of all trades.

I have good general knowledge, so I’m trying to narrow that down and enjoying the journey. You’ve only got one shot, so you may as well put yourself out of your comfort zone and try other things.”

And what advice does she have for those wanting to follow in her footsteps?

“Start off small and build up your repertoire, with what you’d like to grow that’s easy.”

- MANVEEN MAAN

FAVOURITE INGREDIENTS …

“Fresh herbs are great, especially for sprucing up a salad. I love extra-virgin olive oil, which is incredible for flavour and health, and is full of monosaturated fats, which are good. I also love butter and salt. And I always go back to a good heirloom variety tomato.”

FAVOURITE RECIPES FROM HER BOOK, A HOMEGROWN TABLE …

“My grandma’s yoyos. She used to make them for us all the time. The kasundi, an Indian-inspired tomato relish, is the best. The honey, almond and thyme cake is another favourite. The beef cheeks are good and the smoked salmon technique is great. The potato salad is awesome because it’s packed full of dill.”

ON FORAGING IN MELBOURNE …

“The easiest is fennel, as it grows along train lines. You can add that into a salad or stuff a fish with it.

Down near Merri Creek is a whole grove of wild fig trees and it’s all there for the taking. In springtime, there are beautiful little garlic chives that spring up everywhere. I like foraging because it helps you observe the environment you’re in. The whole experience is fun and quite humbling.”

ON HER PERFECT MEAL …

“Something seasonal and simple … with friends and wine. I’d love oysters and champagne to start, followed by a nice salad with octopus. Then a beautiful fish and a chocolate dessert - chocolate soufflé or something classic and yum.”

Roast Chestnut and Puy Lentil Soup

INGREDIENTS

200g chestnuts (shell on) 1 large red onion, finely diced 4 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped 1 carrot, finely sliced 1 stick celery, finely sliced ½ leek, finely sliced 3 sage leaves 1 sprig thyme 1 sprig rosemary 80g free-range bacon 6 cherry tomatoes, chopped 500g puy lentils 2 litres water of chicken stock black pepper handful parsley leaves, chopped to serve salt to taste

METHOD Preheat the oven to 200C Score each chestnut with a small knife and then place them on a baking tray and roast for about 15 minutes, until the husks are coming away from the chestnuts.

Heat a large, heavy-based saucepan and lightly sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, leek, sage, thyme, rosemary and bacon.

Peel the chestnuts and finely chop two-thirds of them and slice the remaining third to use for topping and set aside. Add the chopped chestnuts to the pan of vegetables and saute.

Add the chopped tomatoes, put lentils and water or stock to the sautéed vegetables, and bring to the boil. Simmer and cook for about an hour until the lentils are soft. If you like the soup thicker, take out a third and blend until smooth and return to the chunky soup.

Season to taste, and garnish with sliced chestnuts and parsley.

Serve with crusty home-made bread and butter!

ON HER WISHLIST …

“I would love to have a seaside wine bar, serving tapas and organic wines.”

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 17

PRACTICAL MAGIC

Clork cork clock top3.com.au RRP: $126

Emporium Alfie jar – 2 asst emporiumhome.com.au RRP: $29.95

What a

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Keepcup 8oz brew cork le Filter upcyclestudio.com.au RRP: $30

Botan watering can black top3.com.au RRP: $96

Cork globe top3.com.au RRP: $280

Emporium centre cork hanging pot emporiumhome.com.au RRP: $16.95

18 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Amalfi Otto pendant amalfihomewares.com.au RRP: $99.95

Davis & Waddell Liberty cork coaster set/4 davisandwaddell.com.au RRP: $12.99 Placemat, cork w/grey print idecorateshop.com RRP: $44

Amalfi Shay candle holder amalfihomewares.com.au RRP: $49.95

Bottle light top3.com.au RRP: $26.95

Alma Gemea breakfast ceramic & cork collection casettaliving.com RRP: $96.90

Alma Gemea cake stand casettaliving.com RRP: $50

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

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 19

CUSTOM LIGHTING E

CUSTOM LIGHTING E

CUSTOM LIGHTING E

D I S P L AY H O M E

Dennis Family Homes – Balmoral 403 DOUBLE STOREY

WE LOVE ü Guest suite downstairs for blended living ü Main suite’s walk-through robe and luxe bathroom ü Al fresco areas that wrap around the home for outdoor entertaining

URBAN LIFE SAYS: “The

Balmoral 403 is the ideal home for the blended family.”

T

HIS comfortable double-storey delight is the family home of the future.

To the right of the entry is the guest bedroom suite, which is resplendent with high windows for light, a spacious walk-in wardrobe and plush carpeting.

The guest bathroom has a shower with quality grate, floating single-basin vanity and highlight windows for ample light to shine through while maintaining privacy.

As you move through the house, a games room with double doors for noise control is on the left.

To the right of the timber staircase with glass balustrade is the laundry, which accesses the courtyard.

Beyond is the informal living domain that opens to the U-shaped al fresco area.

Framed by picture windows, the feature-packed kitchen is designed to please with the fridge, microwave, dishwasher and double sink all within easy reach of each other. Highlighted by

the L-shaped island bench, the kitchen includes a huge butler’s pantry with sliding door, wine rack, large oven with five-burner gas cooktop and glass-andstainless steel rangehood.

The kitchen flows seamlessly into the study, family and meals area.

Upstairs is the retreat, which opens to the balcony.

It sits alongside the double-door entry to the lush main suite, complete with a walk-through robe and an en suite with large spa bath, rain shower, double-basin vanity and a cleverly placed towel rack.

Each of the other three light-filled bedrooms have a walk-in robe. They share the large bathroom with a shower, bath, vanity and toilet.

Available in five sizes ranging from 36.95 squares to 50.27 squares, the Balmoral reviewed is suitable for a 14m x 28m block.

– MM

4 OR 5 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS, 3 OR 4 LIVING AREAS, DOUBLE GARAGE // PRICE: FROM $331,400 // DENNISFAMILY.COM.AU 22 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

INDUSTRY NEWS Southeast base for HCMT train depot

PAKENHAM East will be the new home for a state-of-the-art depot for the new fleet of Victorian-built high-capacity metro trains.

Work is under way to build the 118ha facility, which will include maintenance facilities, a train simulator and stabling for up to 30 trains.

The 65 HCMTs will be built in Newport, where more than 2000 huge concrete segments are being built for the elevated line that will remove nine dangerous level crossings between Caulfield and Dandenong.

The facility should be completed by the end of 2018.

For more details, visit economicdevelopment.vic.gov.au.

Creating a home online now as simple as ABC AUSTRALIAN Building Company has launched a digital Home Creator tool that can streamline the home buying and building process.

Designed to allow new-home buyers to play, personalise and even order their home online, the Home Creator offers a transparent process that allows buyers to pre-price and pre-package their dream home on their PC, tablet or smart phone, even down to the smallest detail, such as colour schemes and inclusions.

The creator outlines all information about dozens of home options, leading potential buyers through the process of choosing their home design and selecting styling options (including the house facade and external and internal colour schemes) while providing them with the chance to browse and select upgrade packs, before receiving a pricing summary and detailed price breakdown to confirm the order.

There are plans to allow buyers to select additional upgrade options,

24 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

attach a land package and even pay a holding deposit through the website.

Business manager Daniel Senia said Home Creator would bring the antiquated process of shopping for a home into the digital age.

“The home-buying process is just like any other retail process, however until now it has struggled to enter the digital age,” Senia said.

“Potential buyers previously had to spend countless weekends visiting different display homes to view all the different configurations, upgrades, materials and home types.

“Choosing a home can be a confusing and often stressful process, particularly for first-home buyers.

“We have developed the Home Creator to allow all home buyers to cut through the clutter and have a clear understanding of how much their dream home will cost and what their chosen package will include.”

For more information about the Home Creator tool, visit abchomes.com.au.

Migrants flock to Victoria VICTORIA has again led the nation by attracting more than 85,000 new migrants in the year to September 2016.

Australian Bureau of Statistics’ latest migration figures showed 85,798 new migrants moved to Victoria. This consisted of 68,613 overseas migrants and a record 17,185 interstate migrants.

It has attracted the most interstate migrants for four years, which reversed the trend of the early-2000s when Victoria experienced annual net losses of migrants to other states.

Overseas migrants continue to be attracted by Melbourne’s reputation as the world’s most liveable city, and its excellent education facilities and job opportunities.

Victoria’s robust health, education and services industry employment sectors, as well as the relative affordability of its housing and commercial property markets when compared to New South Wales, are believed to be attracting interstate migrants to Victoria.

During the next five years, whitecollar employment in Melbourne is expected to grow by 2.1 per cent per annum – or 182,000 people.

Innovation clusters to bring jobs close to home SUBURBAN job and innovation hubs are being developed to ensure more people can work close to their homes.

Minister for Planning Richard Wynne last month released the framework plans for the Sunshine, Monash and La Trobe National Employment and Innovation Clusters.

They were identified in Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 as important medical, research and education precincts with a large concentration of jobs.

The biggest is the Monash Cluster in Melbourne’s south-east, which is a base for 75,000 workers.

The framework plans are highlevel documents that outline key infrastructure investment and changes to planning rules needed to make sure Melbourne has a number of thriving job and innovation hubs.

“The Victorian Government is committed to growing jobs in our suburbs, so that people spend less time in their cars and more time with loved ones,” Wynne said. “When businesses form distinct hubs of industry, workers leverage off one another’s ideas, with healthy competition spurring innovation.”

South Morang tops on fastest-growing list SOUTH Morang leads the way as the nation’s fastest-growing suburb, with Melbourne hosting four of the top five nationally in the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics figures.

The Age reported that South Morang and Cranbourne East each increased by 5000 people last year, with Craigieburn and Point Cook also rounding out the five.

The ABS statistics showed the population of Melbourne climbed 107,770 to 4.64 million in 2016, a 2.4 per cent increase.

They also showed a record 1.9 per cent of Australia's population was born in India by 2016, more than double the 0.8 per cent from a decade earlier.

And the proportion born in China jumped from 1.2 per cent to 2.2 per cent.

A record 28 per cent of Australians were born overseas, up from 24 per cent 10 years earlier.

The geographical centre of Melbourne's population remains in Glen Iris. The population centre of Melbourne has moved 1km west and 0.5km north.

Victoria's population is Bakers Rd, Coburg North. It has moved 2.5km south in the past 10 years from Sutherland St, Hadfield.

TOP SUBURBS BY GROWTH Suburb

Population

Change

1 South Morang

64,354

4971

2 Cranbourne East

23,901

4956

3 CraigieburnMickleham

52,848

4491

5 Point Cook

50,774

3512

8 Epping

42,236

3226

INDUSTRY NEWS Townhouses on agenda after Stockland pays $62m for 11.5ha Braybrook site STOCKLAND has acquired a vacant 11.5ha parcel of land for a townhouse development site at Braybrook, about 10km west of the Melbourne CBD, for $62 million.

Nationally, Stockland sells about 50 per cent of its residential lots and completed homes to first-home buyers.

Townhouses are an important part of its strategy to improve housing affordability.

Stockland has made a commitment to the City of Maribyrnong, which will ensure the development meets the council’s five per cent Affordable Housing Target.

Stockland managing director Mark Steinert said the project would generate additional sales momentum in Melbourne.

“We recognise that new townhouses will play an increasingly important role in the gentrification and densification of Australia’s major cities, as we provide

more affordable and convenient homes in key locations,” Steinert said.

The property has an approved development plan and permit for the construction of up to 422 townhouses.

Andrew Whitson, CEO Residential Communities at Stockland, said: “Our acquisition of this exceptional site is good news for first home buyers, upgraders, downsizers and investors who are keen to buy a modern townhouse in this highly sought after and thriving middle-ring suburb of Melbourne,” Residential Communities CEO Andrew Whitson said.

Future residents will benefit from convenient access to a major shopping centre, Sunshine and Tottenham train stations and a selection of schools.

Stockland has started construction on more than 600 townhouses in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth during the past 12 months.

Food wall brings fresh perspective A RESIDENT-only vertical food garden that is expected to yield 120kg of vegetables and herbs is just one highlight of this townhouse development in the heart of Ascot Vale.

Also featuring a suite of energysaving inclusions, the 16 tri-level dwellings at St Leonards Road, Ascot Vale is a collaboration of developer Rocdon, award-winning Neil Architecture and Biofilta.

The latter designed and developed a modular system to provide a waterefficient food garden that is selfwatering, requires little maintenance and can be used to triple the growing space of any area.

The Foodwall is a modular, vertical wicking garden system that will harness roof water to grow organic food all year round. It consists of 30 growing tubs stacked vertically to produce approximately 120kg of fresh food per annum to the residents. The produce will be a mix of seasonal vegetables and herbs.

Biofilta designed and produces the Foodwall system in Melbourne and will install and maintain the system for the body corporate.

Other energy-saving elements include double glazing to windows and doors, LED light fittings, heat-pump hot water services, and 15,000 litres of rainwater tanks for gardens and toilet flushing.

The townhouses start from $695,000, with completion of the project set for the first half of 2018.

More details at stleonardsrd.com.au

Salute to military on Walk of Honour THE efforts of past and present military personnel are being commemorated with the first stage of a 500m Walk of Honour within the Woodlea master-planned community.

Mirroring the famous Avenue of Honour at Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat, the walk will have various educational plaques and a smartphone app to commemorate every significant military conflict in which Australian troops have been involved. These include the Boer, World War I, World War II, Korean, Vietnam, peacekeeping missions, Gulf and Afghanistan wars.

The Melton Family History Group, Melton Historical Association, Caroline Springs RSL, Melton RSL, Partners of Veterans Association and schools within the City of Melton have been involved in the creation of the walk, which sits on a site used as a radio communications facility for the US military in 1943 and later as an Australian Army communication and surveillance facility.

Woodlea’s project director Matthew Dean said the walk was designed to unlock the treasure trove of local knowledge.

“In collaboration with the City of Melton, we are aiming to connect with new generations of local residents to tell the stories of Australian heroes

throughout history, and we are proud to be working with local schools to incorporate areas of the walk into school curriculums,” Dean said.

The first stage, which comprises the Boer and World War I zones, was opened by 94-year old World War II veteran Allan Godfrey, returned serviceman John Naidu and companion dog Yogi from the Dogs for Young Diggers program. It assists ex-servicemen who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.

The Walk of Honour should be completed by Remembrance Day (November 11) 2018.

Premium estate looms at Wandana

Savage lands job as precinct principal

REGISTRATIONS are being taken now for the Geelong region’s premium community, Wandana.

Brought to you by Villawood Properties, Wandana has commanding views from Corio Bay to Torquay, and excellent accessibility to amenities and Geelong, Melbourne and the Surf Coast.

When complete, Wandana will comprise 195 lots ranging in size from 450sq m to 1267sq m.

Construction is expected to begin in spring. A range of improvements to the current landscape will include the upgrade of Drewan Park.

For more information, email land@oliverhume.com.au or call 9695 3000.

EVAN Savage has been named as the inaugural principal to lead the Armstrong Creek Education Precinct, south of Geelong.

Opening in 2018, the precinct will comprise a Prep to Year 6 primary school and a Prep to Year 12 special education school on the one site.

Oberon High School for Year 7-12 is also being relocated to the site.

Savage, who was principal of Melton Specialist School and made major contributions to the review of the Program for Students with Disabilities, is recruiting staff and setting the future direction of the school.

Enrolments will open this year, before the school opening in January.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 25

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

DENNIS FAMILY CORPORATION

Westmeadows (N)

Curlewis (G)

Valley Park, Cnr Valley Park Blvd & Dimboola Rd.

(Open seven days)

www.frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Valley-Park/ Contact-Us

Cnr Appleby St and Jetty Rd, Curlewis Parks Estate curlewisparks.com.au

Carrum Downs (S)

Armstrong Creek (G) Ashbury sales office: 55 Myers St

Silverbark, Cnr Wedge & McCormicks Rd silverbark.com.au

Open 11am-5pm

HALLMARC

Burnside (W) Modeina sales office: 6 Lexington Dr, Burnside

Lake Nagambie (R)

Cnr English St & Donnybrook Rd, Kinbrook Estate Donnybrook

Enter via Vickers Rd, Elloura Estate

yourkinbrook.com.au

Point Cook (W)

Mickleham (N)

Waterhaven Blvd (off Dunnings Rd) Waterhaven Estate

Donnybrook Rd, Annadale Estate Mickleham annadale.com.au

ID LAND

Point Lonsdale (G)

manorlakes.com.au

BROWN PROPERTY GROUP

Open 10am-5pm

Armstrong Creek (G)

Thepointpointlonsdale.com.au

Open daily, 11am-5pm

Truganina (W) Westbrook Sales Office: Leakes Rd (near cnr Morris Rd) westbrookestate.com.au

Watermark Estate, 560 Barwon Heads Rd

Clyde North (S) Clydevale, 660 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd (Cnr Hardys Rd) clydevaleliving.com.au The Radius, 291 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd theradius.com.au

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

CUSTODIAN LAND Melton South (W) 1256-1258 Mount Cottrell Rd, The Millstone

ashburyestate.com.au

www.modeina.com.au By appointment Manor Lakes (W) Manor Lakes sales office: 2 Eppalock Dr

Open 10am-5pm

FRASERS PROPERTY Burwood East (S) Prospect Park Burwood

watermarkgeelong.com.au Truganina (W) Elements Estate, 778 Dohertys Rd Elements.com.au Wollert (N) Amber Estate, Cnr Craigieburn Rd East & Vearings Rd Amberwollert.com.au

prospectpark.com.au

INTRAPAC PROPERTY

Casiana Grove, Cnr Everlasting Blvd & Cranbourne-Frankston Rd

Keysborough (S)

Sunbury (N) 100 Phillip Dr, Brookhaven Estate

Open daily, 11am-6pm

brookhaven.com.au

Greenvale (N)

DACLAND

Greenvale Gardens, 1075 Mickleham Rd frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Greenvale-Gardens

Open daily, 11am-5pm

Open Sat-Wed, noon-4pm

Cranbourne West (S)

Deanside (W) Neale Rd, Deanside Community (Rockbank) Donnybrook (N)

Lakes Entrance Dr, The Point Lonsdale South Morang (N) Bushmans Way, Plenty Gorge View

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

Cranbourne West (S)

Clyde North (S) Berwick Waters, 5 Riverstone Blvd frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Berwick-Waters

themillstone.com.au

Open Sat-Thu, noon-3pm

Cnr Perry Rd & Westwood Blvd, Somerfield Estate somerfield.com.au Torquay (G) Cnr Surf Coast Hwy & Merrigig Dr, Quay2 Estate quay2.com.au Truganina (S)

Hartleigh, 100 Pattersons Rd hartleighclyde.com.au Curlewis (G) Bayview, Centennial Blvd bvbellarine.com.au Donnybrook (N) Kallo, Cnr Donnybrook Rd & Langley Park Dr kallo.com.au

Parkville (N)

Woods Rd, Ellarook ellarook.com.au

NATIONAL PROPERTY BUYERS

Lochaven, 665 Hall Rd lochaven.com.au

Parkside, 81 Galada Ave

Werribee (W)

Mernda (N) 25 Regent St, Regent Views Estate

Lara (G)

Open daily, noon-3pm

Alfred Rd, Alwood Estate alwood.com.au

Manzeene Village, 5 Manzeene Ave manzeenevillage.com.au

Point Cook (W) Life, Point Cook, Cnr Point Cook Rd & Saltwater Prom

MOREMAC PROPERTY GROUP

NEWLAND DEVELOPERS

frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Point-Cook

Berwick (S)

6 Anglet Way, Warralily Coast Estate

Open Sat-Wed, 11am-5pm

322-340 Centre Rd, Alira Estate Aliraberwick.com.au

Warralily Promenade, 844 Barwon Heads Rd, Armstrong Creek

Clyde North (S)

warralily.com.au

Grices Rd, Clyde North Kilora Park at The Boulevard

Beveridge (N)

Theboulevardestate.com.au

mandalayliving.com.au

Tarneit (W) Rothwell, Dohertys Rd rothwellvillages.com.au

frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/ParksideParkville

Sunbury (N)

regentviews.com.au

Armstrong Creek (G)

Werribee (W) King’sleigh, 46 Alfred Rd kingsleigh.com.au

Sunbury Fields, 275 Racecourse Rd frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Sunbury

Wyndham Vale (W)

Wallan (N)

Wynbrook Wyndham Vale, Cnr Ballan & Hobbs Rd

Wallara Waters, 54 Wallara Waters Blvd frasersproperty.com.au/VIC/Wallara-Waters

Cranbourne North (S)

Clyde (S)

Bendigo Court Estate

365 Clyde-Five Ways Rd, Belmond On Clyde

wynbrook.com.au

Open Sat-Thu, 11am-5pm

Soon to be released

belmondonclyde.com.au

26 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Open Sat-Thu, 11am-5pm

450 Mandalay Circuit, Mandalay Estate

PASK GROUP Clyde North (S) 211 Grices Rd, Circa 1886 Estate

Tarneit (W) 534 Hogans Rd, The Grove Estate Truganina (W)

circaberwick.com.au

11 Mainview Blvd, Allura Estate Truganina

PEET

VILLAWOOD PROPERTIES

Craigieburn (N)

(Open 11am-6pm)

2/8 Valiant Cres, Aston Craigieburn Estate Cranbourne (S)

Barwon Heads (G)

Craig Rd, Acacia Botanic Ridge Estate

18th Fairway Villas, Plantation Dr, 13th Beach Golf Links

53-65 Craig Rd, Summerhill Estate

18thfairway.villawoodproperties.com.au

Greenvale (N)

Clyde North (S)

Mickleham Rd (cnr Destination Dr & Horizon Blvd), Aspect Greenvale Estate

Delaray, Delaray Waters, 460 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd

Livingston (S)

delaray.villawoodproperties.com.au

Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East

Leopold (G)

Tarneit (W)

Estuary, Melaluka Rd

830 Leakes Rd, Haven Estate

estuary.villawoodproperties.com.au

Cnr Leakes Rd & Tarneit Rd, Little Green Estate

Open by appointment only

Tarneit Rd, Newhaven Estate Werribee (W) 383 Black Forest Rd, Cornerstone Werribee Estate

RESI VENTURES

Lyndhurst (S) Aquarevo, 28 Boland Dr aquarevo.villawoodproperties.com.au Marriott Waters, Cnr Thompsons Rd & Rymada St marriottwaters.villawoodproperties.com.au

Gisborne (W)

Mickleham (N)

43 Brooking Rd (cnr Brady Rd), Golden Views Estate

Waratah, 425 Donnybrook Rd

goldenviews.com.au Greenvale (N) 1035 Mickleham Rd, Greenvale Orchards Estate Plumpton (W) Taylors Rd, Monument Estate Sales office coming soon South Morang (N) 510 Findon Rd, Eucalia Estate

Waratah.villawoodproperties.com.au Mount Duneed (G) Armstrong, 7-21 Armstrong Blvd armstrong.villawoodproperties.com.au Plumpton (W) Aspire, Sales office temporarily closed (Reopening mid 2017) Refer to aspire.villawoodproperties.com.au Point Cook (W) Alamanda, 2 Paradise Pde

STOCKLAND

villawoodproperties.com.au

Clyde (S)

Sunbury (N)

125 Tuckers Rd, Edgebrook Estate Craigieburn Highlands (N)

Sherwood, Racecourse Rd villawoodproperties.com.au

1 North Shore Dr, Highlands Estate

Redstone Hill, Redstone Hill Rd villawoodproperties.com.au

Kalkallo (N)

Truganina (W)

Cnr Dwyer St & Design Way, Cloverton Estate

Albright, 755 Dohertys Rd

Mernda (N)

albright.villawoodproperties.com.au

Cnr Bridge Inn Rd & Galloway Dr, Mernda Villages Estate

Wollert (N)

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

KALLO (N)

Rathdowne, Craigieburn Rd East villawoodproperties.com.au

IF LOCATION and a sense of community are the top priorities for potential residents, Kallo Estate near Donnybrook is already ticking plenty of boxes.

Expected to be home for 2000 residents when complete, the boutique estate of 746 allotments over 18 stages enjoys access to an enviable range of amenities.

Developed by Burbank’s land division National Pacific Properties, Kallo is already more than 60 per cent sold (more than 450 lots) since construction began at the beginning of 2015.

“Kallo is marketed as a boutique estate, a place where families can come and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life,” developments general manager Neil Anderson said.

“With access to hectares of heritage-listed parklands, bicycle and walking tracks, and ease of access to an existing V-Line train service into the city, residents are luckier than most in new estates. They’re only minutes from the Hume Freeway and 20 minutes from Melbourne International Airport. And with hospitals, shopping centres and an array of schools nearby, Kallo is an ideal choice for families who want to be close to everything.”

Future amenities planned for the area include a second train station, new hospital, several quality schools (public and private), aged care and one of the largest shopping centres to be built in Melbourne’s north.

Anderson said construction of Stages 1 to 5 was complete. Stages 6 and 7 are under construction, with further stages to follow shortly.

“Kallo has welcomed many new residents into their homes over the past 12 months, creating the sense of community that Kallo is becoming known for,” Anderson said. “At last count, 67 homes have been completed in Stages 1 and 2 and approximately 200 people have now moved in.

“Kallo is very invested in the residents and how they fit into our new community.

We offer access to our staff at the land office for any issues or requests both before and after they have built a home and moved in.”

Anderson said the high level of owner-occupiers at Kallo also enhanced the presentation and pride in the area.

“With very few investment properties on the project, this is certainly a positive for Kallo residents and future purchasers who will get to know their neighbours for the long term and without the transient element that exists in so many other projects,” Anderson said.

The state-of-the-art land office also doubles as an inviting space that residents can use for tea and coffee catch-ups with friends, community events and builder functions.

Website: kallo.com.au Block sizes: 287sq m-644sq m Price: $199,000-$340,000 Address: Design Way (off Dwyer St), Kalkallo Open: 11am-5pm, seven days

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 27

THE GROVE (W)

WITH wide walkways and ample light, the Calgary 280 is designed for spacious living.

The 27.90 square residence by Bentley Homes has four bedrooms, two bathrooms, three living areas and double garage. The main suite has a walk-in wardrobe, and en suite with double vanity, shower with wall niche, and separate toilet. The stylish L-shaped kitchen has a five-burner gas cooktop, large oven, microwave, double sinks in the corner prep area, and glass starphire splashback. The sink-free island bench/ breakfast bar doubles as an entertaining space, leading into the family room and out to the al fresco. The adjacent dining area leads into the kids’ retreat and sleeping quarters consisting of three bedrooms, and a spacious bathroom with tub, mirrored vanity, shower with wall niche, and separate powder room.

Price: From $221,500 3-5 Isdell St, Tarneit

DISPLAY HOMES

DIRECTORY ARDEN HOMES

BURBANK HOMES

(Open seven days, 11am-5pm)

(Open seven days, 11am-5pm)

Botanic Ridge (S) 6-8 Gumleaf Pl, Acacia Estate

Armstrong Creek (G) Maroubra St, Warralily DV3 Estate

Clyde North (S) Cnr Tallrush St & Littleshore Cres, Berwick Waters Estate Keysborough (S) Cnr Westwood Blvd & Alderberry Rd, Somerfield Estate Point Cook (W) Cnr Gramercy Blvd & Flagstaff Cres, The Address Estate Roxburgh Park (N) Cnr Dawnview Cres & Topiary Way, True North Estate Wollert (N) Cnr Bloom Cres & Dundee Rd, Lyndarum Estate

Botanic Ridge (S) Gumleaf Pl, Acacia Estate Burnside (W) 1 Lexington Dr, Modeina Estate Clyde North (S) Sedge St, Berwick Waters Estate 6 Murphy St, Clydevale Estate Craigieburn (N) 18 Dashing Rd, Aston Estate 3 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate Cranbourne East (S) 23 Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate Cranbourne North (S) 5 Lucinda Lane, Tulliallan Estate Cranbourne West (S) 3 Erindale St, Clarinda Park Estate

BENTLEY HOMES

Doreen (N) 1 Mensa Circuit, Plenty River Estate

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

Fyansford (G) 4 Casey Blvd, Gen Fyansford Estate

Craigieburn (N) 11-13 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate Mernda (N) 22-26 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Tarneit (W) 3-5 Isdell St, The Grove Estate

28 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Greenvale (N) 20 Destination Dr, Aspect Estate

Melton (W) 1 Willandra Blvd, Willandra Estate Melton South (W) 10 Ladbroke St, Atherstone Estate

Clyde North (S) Littleshore Cres, Berwick Waters Estate Moxham Dr, Highgrove Estate

Mernda (N) 18 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages

Craigieburn (N) Dashing Rd, Aston Estate Highlander Dr, Highlands Estate

Mickleham (N) 48 Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate

Cranbourne East (S) Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate

Officer (S) 20 Hardwick Pl, Timbertop Estate

Diggers Rest (N) Sully Court, Bloomdale Estate

Point Cook (W) 24 Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate 12 Gramercy Blvd, The Address Estate

Greenvale (N) Flourish Circuit, Greenvale Gardens Estate

Rockbank (W) 5 Rush St, Woodlea Estate Roxburgh Park (N) Dawnview Cres, True North Estate

Manor Lakes (W) Dalrymple Blvd, Manor Lakes Estate Mernda (N) Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Estate

Sunbury (N) 10 Rosenthal Blvd, Rosenthal Estate

Mickleham (N) Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate

Tarneit (W) 56 Heartlands Blvd, Heartlands Estate Isdell St, The Grove Estate

Mount Duneed (G) Native Ave, Armstrong Estate

Truganina (W) Bolte Dr, Elements Estate Wantirna South (S) 2B Appledale Way, Harcrest Estate Werribee (W) 3 Charter Rd, Riverwalk Estate 5 Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate Williams Landing (W) 7 Harvey St, Williams Landing Estate Wollert (N) 24 Bloom Cres, Lyndarum Estate Wyndham Vale (W) 11 Memory Cres, Jubilee Estate

DENNIS FAMILY HOMES (Open 11am-5pm daily. Ph: 1800 336 647)

Keysborough (S) 3 Olivetree Dr, Somerfield Estate

Armstrong Creek (G) Maroubra St, Warralily Coast Estate

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

Burnside (W) Lexington Dr, Modeina Estate Open Thu & Fri only

Ocean Grove (G) Sacramento St, Oakdene Estate Officer (S) Penshurst Cres, Timbertop Estate Point Cook (W) Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate Rockbank (W) Panning Circuit, Woodlea Estate Tarneit (W) Bandicoot Loop, Habitat Estate Wollert (N) Bloom Cres, Lyndarum North Estate Wyndham Vale (W) Congregation Circuit, Jubilee Estate

EIGHT HOMES (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) 19-21 Elouera St, Warralily Coast Estate Craigieburn (N) 7-9 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate

Cranbourne East (S) 13 Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate

LONG ISLAND HOMES

Cranbourne North (S) 268-270 Alisma Blvd, Tulliallan Estate

Diggers Rest (N) Sully Ct, Bloomdale Estate

(Open daily 11am-5pm)

Cranbourne West (S) 14-16 Erindale St, Clarinda Park Estate

Mickleham (N) Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate

Melton South (W) 14-16 Ladbroke St, Atherstone Estate

Mount Duneed (G) Unity Dr, Armstrong Estate

Mernda (N) 19-23 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages

Point Cook (W) Gramercy Blvd, The Address Estate

Clyde North (S) Sedge St, Berwick Waters Estate Callow Ave, Highgrove Estate Craigieburn (N) Valiant Cres, Aston Estate Greenvale (N) Destination Drive (off Mickleham Rd), Aspect Estate Keysborough (S) Westwood Blvd, Somerfield Estate

Cranbourne East (S) Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate Cranbourne West (S) 12 Fintona Cres, Clarinda Park Estate Diggers Rest (W) 13 Sully Ct, Bloomdale Estate Drysdale (G) 7 Centennial Blvd, Curlewis Park Estate Fyansford (G) 5 Casey Blvd, Gen Fyansford Estate

Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate

Mernda (N) Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages

Rockbank (W) Cross Lane, Woodlea Estate

Officer (S) Upton Dr, Timbertop Estate

Tarneit (W) Bandicoot Loop, Habitat Estate

Truganina (W) 31 Bolte Dr, Elements Estate

Point Cook (W) Gramercy Blvd, The Address Estate Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate

PACE DEVELOPMENTS Pace of Collingwood 75 Wellington St. Display suite at 51 Langridge St, Collingwood. Open Wed-Fri 4pm-7pm, weekends 10am-1pm.

Paceofcollingwood.com.au

Lara (G) 4 Caddys Rd, Lara Central Estate

Wyndham Vale (W) 4-6 Brookside Dr, Jubilee Estate

Rockbank (W) Woodlea Blvd, Woodlea Estate Romsey (Regional) Melbourne-Lancefield Rd, Lomandra Estate

Melton West (W) 3 Willandra Blvd, Willandra Estate

Sunbury (N) Rosenthal Blvd, Rosenthal Estate

Mernda (N) 21 Riberry Cres, Berry Lane Estate

Point Cook (W) 20-22 Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate Rockbank (W) 14-16 Panning Circuit, Woodlea Estate Tarneit (W) 36-38 Bandicoop Loop, Habitat Estate

HALLMARC (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Balwyn (S) Austin Apartments, Whitehorse Rd

GREENVALE GARDENS (N)

(Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) 15-17 Maroubra St, Warralily Coast Estate Craigieburn (N) 6-8 Star Way, Aston Estate Cranbourne East (S) 39-41 Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate Cranbourne North (S) 805d Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Tulliallan Estate Fyansford (G) 15 Casey Blvd, Gen Fyansford Estate Lara (G) 121-123 Flinders Ave, Lara Central Estate Mernda (N) 24-26 Merno Dr, Mernda Villages Estate Mount Duneed (G) 465 Surf Coast Hwy, Armstrong Estate 18-20 Coastside Dr, Warralily Coast Estate Point Cook (W) 333 Point Cook Rd, The Address Estate Rockbank (W) 18-20 Woodlea Blvd, Woodlea Estate Romsey (N) Greenfields Blvd, Lomandra Estate

Keysborough (S) Westwood Blvd, Somerfield Estate

Lot 6218 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Mickleham (N) 3-5 Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate

Officer (S) 12 Hardwick Pl, Timbertop Estate

Melbourne (S) Arthur Apartments, 14 Queens Rd

JG KING

Grovedale (G) 295-297 Torquay Rd, Grovedale Estate

Mount Duneed (G) Native Ave, Armstrong Estate

Highett (S) Vista, Kingston Park Apartments

Point Cook (W) Promenade Apartments, Waterhaven Avington, 50 Saltwater Promenade avingtonliving.com.au

Greenvale (N) 44 Flourish Circuit, Greenvale Gardens Estate

Point Cook (W) 9-11 Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate

ENTERTAIN in style in this single-level

gem from Dennis Family Homes that redefines comfort.

Perfect for a young family, the 28.74-square dwelling makes a big impression with its separate living areas and twin al fresco areas.

The entry hall leads past the garage access and laundry, and into the informal living area with pitched roof.

The kitchen will impress, with its walk-in pantry, garden splashback

window, space for a double fridge and Technika Bellissimo stainless-steel appliances. The island bench doubles as a breakfast bar.

The central meals area opens on one side to the side al fresco and on the other to the accommodation wing.

Beyond it is the oversized family room and the rear al fresco.

Price: From $225,900 Flourish Circuit, Greenvale

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 60 Bandicoot Loop, Habitat Estate Taylors Hill (W) Belmont Ct, Taylors Hill Estate Werribee (W) 18 Bloom St, Riverwalk Estate Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate

Pace of Doncaster East 3-11 Mitchell St. Display suite at 3 Mitchell St, Doncaster East. Open Wed-Sun, 11am-3pm.

Paceofdoncastereast.com.au

Tarneit (W) Bandicoot Loop, Habitat Estate

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

Truganina (W) Brunswick Dr, Elements Estate

Pace of Northcote 5 Beavers Rd, Northcote.

Open Wed-Fri noon-4pm, weekends 1-4pm.

Paceofnorthcote.com.au

Wantirna South (S) Appledale Way, Harcrest Estate

Wollert (N) 51 Evolve Espl, Summerhill Estate Bloom Cres, Lyndarum Estate

PORTER DAVIS

Wollert (N) Bloom Cres, Lyndarum Estate

(Open daily 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) Armstrong Blvd, Armstrong Estate Ballarat (Regional) Eleanor Drive, Lucas Estate

Werribee (W) Charter Rd, Riverwalk Estate

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

Tarneit (W) 7 Isdell St, The Grove Estate

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

Clyde North (S) 240 Sedge St, Berwick Waters Estate Callow Ave, Highgrove Estate 12-14 Welsh Cres, Clydevale Estate

Werribee (W) 150 Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate

Brighton East (S) 333 South Rd

Craigieburn (N) 79 Whitfield Cres, Highlands Estate

Wyndham Vale (W) 33 Memory Cres, Jubilee Estate

URBANEDGE (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) 9-11 Decourcy Way, Warralily Coast Estate Cranbourne North (S) 264 Alisma Blvd, Tulliallan Estate Greenvale (N) 21-23 Destination Dr, Aspect Greenvale Estate Keysborough (S) 5 Olivetree Blvd, Somerfield Estate Point Cook (W) Liverpool St, Upper Point Cook Estate

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 29

available until 30/6/17