New Homes and Land Spring Summer 2018

SPRING/SUMMER 2018/2019

B U I L D E R S • E S TAT E S • L I F E S T Y L E

FREE YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST LOCAL BUILDERS AND ESTATES

AMBERLY MANOR

BY KINGBUILT

DISCOVER THE BEST OF BERWICK Another quality

product

com.au

LATEST INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS

Be a part of this beautifully established community and make your dream a reality!

8beYa i_p[i hWd]_d] \hec (.) ¸ +.+c( <hedjW][i WlW_bWXb[ \hec '&$+& ¸ '*$('c

J_cX[h YWff[Z \[dY_d] h[Wh WdZ Yehd[h BWdZiYWf_d] h[XWj[

12398426-EPJ42-18

Fei_j_ed[Z Ybei[ je m[jbWdZi

m^[d Yecfb[j[Z m_j^_d ) cedj^i e\ Xk_bZ

2

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

START YOUR NEXT CHAPTER AT OFFICER’S NEWEST LOCATION OFFICER SOUTH

REGISTER FOR UPCOMING RELEASES

KADUNAPARK.COM.AU 1300 KADUNA (523 862)

A destination to call home A new style of living in Wonthaggi – a high quality residential estate, designed for the needs of today but with an eye on the past.

Located on nearly eight hectares of parks and open space. A variety of block sizes ensure you can find the right fit for you.

1300 WONTHAGGI (966 842) | parklandswonthaggi.com.au 12398427-JV42-18

SOUTH EAST homes&land

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

3

contents

Kingbuilt

Suburb in Focus

Oz Style

PAGE 5-7

PAGES 20-29

PAGE 42

Parklea PAGE 8

Dahlsens PAGES 46-47

Rawdon Hill My Home

PAGES 9-11

PAGES 30-31

ModularWalls PAGE 48

Ramlegh Springs PAGE 16

Berwick Waters PAGES 18-19

Trades & Services PAGE 51

Retirement Living PAGES 32-37

Harvey Norman PAGES 52-56

Bumper spring/summer edition starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666

REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au

4

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

12401416-RC42-18

EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au

WELCOME to a bumper edition of Homes and Land South East.

Myself and the rest of the team are proud to present 56 glorious pages showcasing the best builders, estates, retirement villages, interior design ideas and trades and services available in the booming South East.

Readers and advertisers have once again embraced the Homes and Land South East concept, the region's only printed and online product for buyers of new homes and land.

More than 100,000 copies are distributed at pick-up points all around Casey, Cardinia and Greater Dandenong. Families looking to buy and build in the region are able to find copies at display homes and land estate sales offices.

In this fourth edition we put Berwick in the

spotlight. The historic village is a much soughtafter postcode thanks to its quaint high street, fantastic restaurants and cafes, great schools, world-class health care and transport links.

Another new feature of this edition is a trades and services guide on page 51.

This edition also features great design and decorating ideas on everything from window furnishings and laying outdoor feature tiles to 2019 colour trends and the popularity of indoor plants.

Enjoy our interviews with first home builders Bec McTighe and Jason Peck and step inside the home of Meredith and Rob Ward who have recreated a slice of Paris in Cranbourne North.

Happy reading.

- Narelle Coulter, editor â&#x2014;?

SOUTH EAST homes&land

E L E VAT E

YO U R

DREAMS WITH

K I N G B U I LT

The beautiful rolling hills of Gippsland are a wonderful canvas for your custom home.

We create split level designs or build on stumps to generate textures and layers unique to the fall of your land.

Visit our Amberly Manor display home: 1 Amberly Drive, Drouin, Open 12-4pm, Friday - Tuesday Visit our brand new Phoenix & Louis display homes: 184 - 186 Crossâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rd, Traralgon, Open 12-4pm, Friday - Tuesday

12400424-CB42-18

Talk to us about how to realise the natural potential of your land, utilise the space and minimise site costs.

1300 546 428 | kingbuilthomes.com.au SOUTH EAST homes&land

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

5

on display | Amberly Manor by Kingbuilt

Realise your natural potential Over the past decade, Gippsland builder Kingbuilt has earned itself a solid reputation as the custom builder of choice from the outer South-East of Melbourne through to Bairnsdale.

USING the rolling hills of the region as its canvas, Kingbuilt specialises in designing homes which best realise the natural potential of any given piece of land.

Less than half an hour from Pakenham, Kingbuilt’s wide frontage display home, Amberly Manor, is set on an acre of land in Drouin. Designed to demonstrate the scope of what can be created with Kingbuilt, this home has fast gained popularity, particularly for those moving from a smaller block of land in the South-East into Gippsland.

Harry Sheehan, Kingbuilt’s senior designer who worked closely with owner Phil King on the design of this house, takes Homes and Land Magazine through some of the key elements which have made it so popular.

“One of the most important features of this home is light,” Harry explained.

“It’s particularly lovely in spring. We incorporated a high raked ceiling to the living area with highlight windows to maximise natural light and give the living area a really large, open feel to it. We hear a lot of feedback about how light and airy the 6

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

living space and kitchen is.

“We also included oversized sliding doors from the living area out to the alfresco. Sliding doors were important as we wanted to avoid the vertical framed bars of bifold doors, maximise the light coming in and the views to the rear of the home, as well as to give the house more of an architectural feel. In spring, you can slide them all the way open and bring the outdoors right into the home.“ Allowing more light to flow into the home is the large shopfront entry door and the remote controlled Velux skylights in the kitchen and walk-in-robe. The skylights are remote controlled and ideal for bringing in more light and providing natural ventilation.

As well as light, the house features several natural materials.

“One of the most striking characteristics of this home is the inclusion of reclaimed timber posts,” Harry said.

“They’re made of red ironbark from an old bridge in northern NSW and have all the original features such as bolt holes and hand carved fish scales.“

There’s also blackout timber in the bathroom vanities, natural stone vanity basins, limestone feature walls, spotted gum cladding, and wormy chestnut timber floors. Each of these gives a warm, earthy look and feel, which works with all the light and openness of the home, especially at this time of year.

Factor in four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a media room, study, activities room, ample storage, oversized walk-in-robe to the master bedroom, generous entry, double garage and Geothermal heating and cooling, and this home ticks all the boxes for tree changers, families, retirees with expanding families and lovers of rural life.

“No two Kingbuilt homes are the same,” Harry said.

“We work with each client to meet their individual requirements and budget. Some clients have created their own version of Amberly Manor and some have simply incorporated elements into their own completely different design. There’s nothing that can’t be done.” ● SOUTH EAST homes&land

on display | Amberly Manor by Kingbuilt

home essentials Builder: Kingbuilt Design: Amberly Manor Location: 1 Amberly Drive, Drouin Open: Between 12 noon and 4pm, Friday to Tuesday Contact: 1300 546 428 or visit www.kingbuilt.com.au Details: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, double garage

SOUTH EAST homes&land

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

7

developer | Parklea

Sustainable housing is here Living in a contemporary family home in the suburbs with no energy bills is now closer to reality thanks to Parklea and SJD Homes.

IN 2017, Parklea and SJD Homes joined forces to construct Melbourne’s first Zero Energy Home (ZEH) - a home that meets its own energy requirements - as part of a groundbreaking research project funded by the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Low Carbon Living.

After much anticipation, the home, which was designed by ZEH and built by SJD Homes, is now open to the public.

The aim of the CRC’s ‘Mainstreaming Zero Energy Homes’ project is to better understand the costs and consumer interest in Zero Energy Homes by following three developers and builders who constructed and designed sustainable homes in Victoria, Queensland and the ACT. Jarod Mills, Sales and Marketing Manager at Parklea, is passionate about environmental initiatives and the vision is to ensure all volume homes can be built for people to enjoy a sustainable, healthy future.

“The market really wants to know about viable sustainability. We’re thrilled to be part of a project where we can learn more and offer people what they want. A Zero Energy Home applies simple changes to mainstream volume builders,” Mr Mills said.

The SJD Zero Energy Home at Timbertop was planned to meet the needs of an average family household. Through innovative design, clever use of materials, quality construction and the incorporation of energy generating features, the home meets all of its energy needs all year round.

Energy efficiency measures include orienting the house so that it takes advantage of the natural elements to maximise solar power generation and minimise heat loss, installing high-grade window glazing, extensive use of insulation, selection of high-efficiency cooking, heating and cooling appliances and installation of a heat pump for the hot water service.

The solar power system comprises a 5KW battery and 17 solar panels to keep running costs down.

“By doing all these adjustments, we’ve met zero net carbon, so this house will produce as much energy as it consumes, making it carbon neutral,” Sales Manager of SJD Homes Rod Fitzsimmons said.

The project has shown that Zero Energy Homes don’t have to cost much more than a standard build.

“A standard Zero Energy Home might cost around $10,000 on top of the build to cover the price of the sustainable extras; but in the long run, the savings are enormous as energy bills

are heavily reduced,” Mr Fitzsimmons said.

“According to a recent report by the CRC for Low Carbon Living, if all new homes were built as Zero Energy Homes, total emissions could be reduced by around 700,000 tonnes per year.”

Supported by the South East Councils Climate Change Alliance (SECCCA) and CSIRO, the project is a first for Melbourne and a positive sign for the future of sustainable residential construction in Australia.

The Zero Energy Home display is now open for viewing from 12pm to 5pm daily at Timbertop Estate in Officer (Newark Place). ●

Feeding local families in need IN its third year of operation the Parklea Winter Food Drive is proud to report that the generosity of the local community has helped break last year’s record of 330 kilograms of donations, with 2018 collecting over 500kg of non-perishable food.

This year the Parklea Winter Food Drive extended its reach by adding new collection points in more locations throughout Cardinia Shire, where local residents were able to support their neighbourhood throughout winter.

"The huge increase in donations is thanks in part to the local businesses who put their hands up and volunteered to be a collection point for the food drive,” said Parklea sales and marketing manager Jarod Mills.

“We are extremely grateful that they 8

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

Parklea sales and marketing manager Jarod Mills with some of the food collected. supported this program, an initiative that Parklea is so proud to deliver."

Food donations will be distributed via The

4Cs, a Pakenham-based charity that supports local families and individuals with food, shelter, counselling, training and financial relief.

Parklea thanked Club Officer, Montessori Beginnings Child Care at Timbertop Estate, Cardinia Life (Aligned Leisure), Arena Cafe at Arena Shopping Centre, and Timbertop Sales Suite, for supporting the initiative and opening up their businesses to be a collection point.

The Winter Food Drive is one of Parklea's many initiatives to help improve the quality of life of those living in and around the community.

In 2018 the Christmas Gift Drive is on again and will collect gifts to be provided to disadvantaged children in the Cardinia Shire.

To learn more about the Winter Food Drive and other Parklea community initiatives visit parklea.com/winterfooddrive. ● SOUTH EAST homes&land

KIAMA 263

BELMONT 279

20 Seachange Parade, Lyndhurst Marriott Waters Estate Melways 129 C8 Open: 12pm - 5pm Sat to Wed or by appointment

7 Bronte Boulevard Melways 215 B7 Open: 12pm till 5pm Sat to Wed or by appointment

Call 9702 4477 Visit rawdonhill.com.au Email sales@rawdonhill.com.au SOUTH EASTnew homes&land

SUMMER 2018-19

9

12384397-RA16-18

You get so much more more more....

on display | Derwent 298 by Rawdon Hill

Focus on family living Rawdon Hill’s Derwent 298 is a contemporary home with a central living area that focuses on alfresco living and a rear yard.

WALK up to the porch and into this stunning home for the very best in family living.

Be greeted by a study or fourth bedroom/ guest bedroom before passing the generous master suite which features a large walk-in robe and ensuite with freestanding bath.

Follow the hall a few steps and find yourself in a generous open family room with raked ceiling that connects to a lovely kitchen and dining area.

The kitchen is made with all of the latest appliances and stone countertops which run seamlessly through to the butler pantry. The pantry features its own window which can act as a servery to the alfresco area plus more.

A focus on family living is on display in this home, with two further bedrooms in a 10

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

separate wing, a full bathroom and a large rumpus which opens onto the alfresco area.

The alfresco setting connects to the living area, kitchen and rumpus areas.

The platinum finish in this home includes porcelain tiling, heating, cooling, stone throughout, freestanding bath, LED downlights, premium appliances plus much more.

Rawdon Hill specialises in designing and creating modern and stylish display homes to suit a variety of needs. With Rawdon Hill, it’s easy to adjust plans to suit your family. If you love the Derwent display home design, the Rawdon Hill team can custom your new home build to suit your land and your lifestyle. ●

home essentials Builder: Rawdon Hill Design: Derwent 298 Price: From $274,950 - Platinum finish.

Location: Arcadia Estate, Bronte Boulevard, Officer.

Open: 12pm till 5pm Saturday through to Wednesday.

Contact: Sue 0400828894 or 9702 4477.

Alternatively, visit www.rawdonhill.com.au Details: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, double garage.

SOUTH EAST homes&land

on display | Derwent 298 by Rawdon Hill

Derwent 298

SOUTH EAST homes&land

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

11

living in the south-east | Casey Cardinia

Officer is just one of the many booming suburbs in the Casey Cardinia region.

It's all here in the South-East As one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, the Casey Cardinia region represents a new frontier for business growth and exciting opportunities.

ON average, over 60,000 people have moved to the Casey Cardinia region each year since 2003. Between 2006 and 2011 alone, the region added approximately 50,000 people, ranking it the second fastest growth area (among Local Governments areas) in Australia.

This continual growth has cultivated a healthy, vibrant economy enjoyed by thousands of resident businesses. Broad growth across a range of sectors on the back of strong population growth typifies the Casey Cardinia region’s economic track record over the last five years.

But it’s the region’s competitive advantages - location, workforce, business and lifestyle that will ensure it enjoys a sustained, steady development into the future.

WORKFORCE Resident businesses of the Casey Cardinia region are spoilt for choice when it comes to staffing their business. Currently, the region is the third fastest growing local government area in Australia and its population of more than 370,000 residents is expected to almost double by 2036, ensuring that growth will remain steady.

The region’s lower cost of living also offers 12

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

businesses the opportunity to secure a more cost effective workforce.

LOCATION Proximity and ease of access are an essential component for any business to succeed in the global competitive marketplace; luckily, the Casey Cardinia region is noted for its accessibility to key locations, both in urban Melbourne and regional Victoria.

It is perfectly located, being only 45 minutes’ drive to Melbourne’s CBD, Port of Melbourne and Melbourne Airport due to the region’s easy access to Victoria’s major highways, as well as railway systems, which connect it to numerous areas of interest across the State.

Occurring now and into the future, the growing region will be the focal point of significant investment into road and rail infrastructure. Draft plans to construct Melbourne’s second container Port on the region’s doorstep at the Port of Hastings, as well an airport in the region, will ensure the region’s prosperity into the future.

BUSINESS The Casey Cardinia region’s economic track record over the last 10 or so years has been

strong. In 2016, the region’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) totalled $10.5 billion, which represents 2.8% of Victoria’s Gross State Product (GSP).

The region’s strongest industrial sectors are those suited to supporting strong populations and continuing growth, such as construction, retail trade, education/ training and health care/ social assistance operators in the area.

LIFESTYLE It’s not just economic opportunities that attract people and businesses to the region; the Casey Cardinia region provides a great balance between city and country living, with great convenience to the city, yet the peace and tranquillity of the country. Such unique proximity makes the region very popular for new residents seeking the best of both worlds.

A range of urban estate developments through to rural-residential options are available for residents who prefer the open space and cleanliness of urban fringe areas.

House prices are amongst the most affordable in the greater Melbourne area and an attractive proposition particularly to young families. ● - Content supplied by the Casey Cardinia Region SOUTH EAST homes&land

MORNINGTON PENINSULA

OFFICER TRAIN S TAT I O N

ARENA SHOPPING CENTRE

MELBOURNE CBD

55km

60km

4 .1km

Woolwor ths BWS Speciality shops & cafes

B E ACO N H I LL S COLLEGE 4 . 3km

MAJOR HOMEMAKER SHOPPING PRECINCT

CARDINIA SHIRE COUNCIL

PRINCES HWY

3 . 3km

S T. F R A N C I S X AV I E R COLLEGE

G R A N DV U E

3 .4km

ST CLARE’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

H E R I TA G E COLLEGE 2 .1km

Bunnings Office Works The Good Guys

WETLAND RESERVE

ST

ARK A VE

RD

A

B R E AT H TA K E R

JE

LL

A

TELEM

M

FUTURE RESIDENTIAL

EDGEVIEW DR

PROPOSED K E N N E T H WAY CON N EC TO R R OA D TO G R A N DV U E LOCAL SCHOOL S & SHOPS

KENNET

H W AY ORRO

G

D

R

R

D

N

C U R R E N T LY APPLE ORCHARD

S

O

M

E

R

S

E

T

O

O RR

PARKLAND RESERVE

NG D R

SUT

TON

WA

Y

NOW SELLING Coming SoonLimited –STAGE Stage 1C 2 Brand New DON’T MISS Enquire NowOUT Land Release P P EE C K CK RD RD

12401131-CB42-18

RO O M TO SOAR 2 LA RELEASE LNI G NE G 3SIMMINENT L ARGN E OSTAGE LW O TS E R 5T0A G– E1 01 3C2 S Q M

E NE QN UQ I RUI IERSI :E C RH I SR IWS HW I THEI T0E4 0084 0 48 0 84 0 44 S :H C 8 64 4 6 LF E FSI C OEF FOI P CE E NO11 P EANM 1 1- A3M 4M P MS A SA S A L ESSAO . 3 -0 P T T& &S SUU NN . .

TR H ETRI MTE IM OTI M NT OTO HE S EBSY BAYP A PP OP IN EM NE T N T.

155 PECK RD, OFFICER ( B E S T A C C E S S V I A S TA R L I N G R D & B R O W N R D ) S K Y M O N T. CO M . AU DE VELOPED BY

Every precaution has been taken to establish the accuracy of the material herein. Prospective purchasers should not confine themselves to the contents but make their own enquiries to satisfy themselves on all aspects. Photographs depict lifestyle only.

SELLING AGENT

253_025_1804_vivegroup.com.au

Now you and your family can build the new home you’ve been dreaming about.

Choose to enjoy a low maintenance lifestyle or create your forever family home with a spacious backyard.

With two landscaped reserves, there’s truly something for everyone at Skymont, Officer.

FINAL STAGES Now Selling

THE HOME STRAIGHT

ARTIST IMPRESSION

YOUR LAST CHANCE — DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY

Final Land Stages Are Selling Fast!

Community features include: • Neighbourhood Shopping Centre* • YMCA Early Learning centre open early 2019

Don’t miss out on this final opportunity to become part of a high-quality neighbourhood, featuring an inspiring central wetland, beautifully landscaped parks and leafy green streetscapes.

And to complete the picture, front gardens landscaped by Flemings Nurseries are included with every lot.

• Kingswim Swim school open early 2019 • Active Sporting Precinct • Primary School*, and • Council Community Centre with maternal health services and a Kinder for local kids * Proposed

Come see why Ramlegh Springs is Clyde North’s best address.

OPEN DAILY 11AM - 5PM

•

PROUDLY DEVELOPED BY

PATTERSONS RD, CLYDE NORTH

Call (03) 9684 8144 ramleghsprings.com.au Terms and Conditions Apply. Prospective purchasers should carry out their own investigations & are referred to the lots’ contract of sale. Artists Impressions, illustrations, and images are depictions for presentation purposes and are indicative only and believed to be correct at the time of printing, however final location, dimensions, and specifications are subject to regulatory approval and seasonal variations and no warranty or representation is given or to be construed.

12400425-CB42-18

TURN

TOWNH KEY OMES

FROM 375 PW

CLYDE CREEK

NOW SELLING AT RAMLEGH SPRINGS

SPECIAL FEATURES • 100% FIXED SITE COSTS

• Stylish blinds and flyscreens

• Stunning facades

• Exposed aggregate concrete

• Completely turnkey • Quality floor coverings

throughout • Westinghouse stainless

steel appliances

CLYDE CREEK

Don’t miss this brilliant opportunity to secure a brand new, ready to move in home.

OCTAVE TOWN HOMES

NEW MACDONALD’S FARM PARK

SWIM SCHOOL & EARLY LEARNING CENTRES

PROPOSED RAMLEGH VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE

TUCKERS RD

Secure an affordable new home, centrally located in the Ramlegh Springs community. Combining modern architectural elements with innovative building materials, the Octave townhomes offer a new standard in contemporary and affordable Australian design, ideally positioned to take advantage of the very best that Ramlegh Springs has to offer.

driveway • Full fencing and landscaping • Sectional garage door with

2 remotes • 25 year structural guarantee • 6 star energy rating

* $375 Per Week Terms & Conditions: Interest Only Loan Repayments of $370.69 per week are based upon a 20% deposit on the variable interest rate of 4.54% on the Resolve Home Loans Secured Balanced Bonus Saver Home Loan Complete Option. The interest rate is effective 26 July 2018 and is subject to change. Fees & charges may apply including any applicable Lenders Mortgage Insurance. The Comparison rate is 3.99% and is based on Interest Only repayments for the first 5 years on a loan amount of $391,920.00 over a loan term of 30 years. Warning: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. All finance services provided by Resolve Finance, Australian Credit Licence No. 385487.

12401126-CB42-18

land | Ramlegh Springs

Come home to Ramlegh Springs Ramlegh Springs is a high-quality residential community located in the gently undulating landscape of Clyde North.

CAREFULLY planned to ensure a livable, walkable and vibrant local neighbourhood, Ramlegh Springs has been designed to provide the very best a new community can offer.

A feature of Ramlegh Springs is the open space of its central wetlands. Making a bold and beautiful entry statement; the Ramlegh Springs wetlands will provide residents with a tranquil setting where meandering boardwalks and nature trails link to water bodies of around nine hectares of open space.

Beyond the wetlands, Ramlegh Springs also features a proposed future town centre, which will provide everyday convenience to residents, as well as a proposed primary school (with State Government funding recently announced), a community centre and a kinder.

There are also two signature parks and sports grounds. Also available will be a YMCA Early Learning Centre and a Kingswim Learn to Swim School, which are both now under construction and due to open early 2019.

If you are looking for land, Ramlegh Springs has plenty to offer, from low maintenance home sites in quiet tree-lined streets to larger home sites suitable for growing families.

There’s even a limited release of premium sites which enjoy valuable views of parklands and the central waterways.

Ramlegh Springs also offers townhouses and a selection of pre-priced house and land packages. These are specially prepared by a select group of Melbourne’s leading builders, 16

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

which helps to make the purchase, design and construction process at Ramlegh Springs even easier.

However, if you are thinking of buying at Ramlegh Springs, then you will need to act quickly as final land stages within this sought after community are now going on sale.

For all land, townhouse and new home opportunities, visit ramleghspings.com.au or phone 03 9684 8144.

The Ramlegh Springs sales office is open seven days and is located within Ramlegh Springs on Pattersons Road in Clyde North. ● SOUTH EAST homes&land

interiors | | Zen Zone

Bringing Zen into the home Yoga instructor Aaron Petty explains how to create the perfect Zen Zone in any home.

AS the demands and stresses of everyday life increase, people are taking more time for themselves and looking for new places in their homes to escape and reflect.

Whether it’s a meditation area, a reading nook or a technology-free room, Aaron Petty of Berwick’s Level Up Yoga believes that every home has the ability to have a Zen Zone.

And the first step? Sign out of social media and get back to nature.

“If there’s one thing that we can learn from nature its patience,” Aaron said.

“It’s so easy to fall into that entitlement mindset. We live in this age of instant messaging, of instant meals, instant gratification such as likes on Facebook and photos, instant information with the internet ... so with everything at our fingertips, there’s an increasing amount of unhappy people.

“And the reason for that I think is that we’ve lost our work ethic and we’ve lost our patience.

We’ve forgotten how to wait for the things that we want. We’ve lost touch with the fact that we need to work towards things one step at a time.”

“Bringing (plants) inside the house is bringing in what we’ve shut out of our lives that natural rhythm of nature.

“So just watching a plant grow, leaf by leaf, towards the light, even if it’s never going to get there, it’s kind of like a metaphor for how we should be - learning to slow down.”

A Zen Zone should also be uncluttered - “a cluttered environment is a cluttered mind” Aaron says - be full of natural light and earthy tones, and have aromas (candles, incense) and objects (books, journals) that elicit feelings of peacefulness.

“Creating a Zen Zone is really about creating sensational awareness that relates to feelings of relaxation,” Aaron said.

“We’ve got taste, touch, sight and smell ... so you create an environment that relates to relaxation in your mind - which can be different for everybody. So it’s really just figuring out what works best for you, what’s going to help you relax the best and just going from there.”

Not uncommon within Zen Zones is an abundance of cushions and low profile furniture. But as Aaron explained, these features go above and beyond their aesthetic qualities.

“It’s all about grounding yourself,” Aaron explained.

“If your energy is really flighty, you’re constantly in your head thinking, you have that fight or flight response all the time and you’re super stressed...you need to be more grounded.

“And sitting on the ground is also a part of that. If you can sit cross-legged on the floor instead of in a chair, number one it’s much better for your body, but it also just comes back to grounding yourself to the earth.”

And when it comes to the practicality of Zen Zones, Aaron also has a few tips for first-time users.

“A Zen Zone is just about creating a space in your home where you can make (relaxation) almost ritualistic - creating that daily practice,” Aaron said.

“So if you can set up a tiny little sacred SOUTH EAST homes&land

Dulux Colour Forecast 2019 Repair Palette.

Styled by Bree Leech.

Photographer: Lisa Cohen

shrine in your home where you’ve got your meditation pillow and think to yourself; this is where I sit, I’ve got my candle, I’ve got my plant, my book ... It just has to be somewhere

you can sit where there’s no technology around you; where you can just go and shelter yourself from the world and just switch off from everything.” ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

17

P R O P E R T Y P R O P E R T Y

A U S T R A L I A A U S T R A L I A

a community you can call home Everything your family needs

Berwick Waters is home to a bustling community of happy

•

Over 50 hectares of planned wetlands and open space.

homeowners. Packed full of personality, it’s a unique

•

Planned town centre with supermarkets, cafes and restaurants.

neighbourhood that has everything your family needs.

•

Near the Monash Freeway and train stations.

With a modern design, you’re never more than five minutes from

•

Fibre optic broadband.

beautiful parks, great schools, or the planned town centre.

•

Two hospitals nearby.

12399864-EPJ42-18

Your new neighbourhood

Visit the sales office to learn more about joining our growing community. berwickwaters.com.au | 13 38 38 | 2 Viewbank Rd, Clyde North

estates | Berwick Waters

The community with it all Nature lovers desiring a healthy lifestyle and a strong sense community are finding Berwick Waters to be the perfect address.

WITH its plentiful reserves, weaving wetlands and resident birdlife, the Clyde North development boasts a plethora of ways to get fit and unwind in the great outdoors.

There’s more than 50-hectares of parks and open spaces for residents and plans for nine kilometres of shared bike paths and walking trails. Fitness stations are dotted along the paths, allowing residents to do their daily workout and forge connections in natural surrounds.

Free fitness camps run by Live Life Get Active are held on weekday mornings at the estate’s Waterfront Park and include a mix of cross-training, boxing and yoga.

And one of the development’s crowning glories has recently been unveiled.

A Grand Prix-themed Park for kids is proving a hit with families and features a race track for bikes, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades, plus a flying fox, mini trampoline, swings and interactive play tower.

The 1.2-hectare park draws inspiration from the world’s greatest raceways and is designed for young racers to face new challenges and hone their skills on a safe, colourful race track.

Berwick Waters is a joint development between Frasers Property Australia and Mondous Property Australia, and will eventually have 2,500 homes. Launched in 2011, more than 1000 homes have been built to date at the 308-hectare site.

A retail town centre with cafes, supermarkets and speciality shops is planned for the community and Fountain Gate and Eden Rise shopping centres are just minutes SOUTH EAST homes&land

away for residents.

When Amar Mashruwala bought his first home at Berwick Waters, he was seduced by the 50-hectares of open space and walking paths.

Purchasing a home at Berwick Waters also meant Amar would have the space and opportunity to set up his dream - a home studio. Amar is an IT and media production expert who has started his own business from his Berwick Waters home as a media content specialist.

“We are up on Heritage Hill and we get really nice views; there is a lot of space around us to walk. It’s very comfortable here,” he said.

The Berwick Waters sales office is at 2 Viewbank Rd in Clyde North and is open daily from 11am to 5pm. Call 13 38 38 or visit berwickwaters.com.au for more information. ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

19

suburb in focus | Berwick

Berwick is the place to be With its leafy village feel, great schools, outstanding health care, bountiful cafes and restaurants and improving transport links it is no wonder Berwick is a sought after postcode.

BERWICK is situated within the City of Casey, one of the fastest growing municipalities in Australia.

Despite an explosion in population since the late 1990s, Berwick has retained its air of oldworld charm thanks to its many heritage homes, its grand avenue of honour at the eastern approach to the village and the historic High Street with Tudor shops, original post office, mechanics institute, inn and court house.

The first European settler in the Berwick area is generally regarded to be Terence Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor who took up the Cardinia Creek lease in 1838. Some sources however credit Captain Robert Gardiner as being the first European settler. Captain Gardiner called his run Berwick after his home town of Berwick upon Tweed in England and thus the surrounding district was also known as Berwick. Many settlers soon followed and the township of Berwick was surveyed by Robert Hoddle at around 1852. By the 1890s the town 20

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

was well established with a population of over six hundred.

Today Berwick is home to more than 47,000 people.

Real Estate professionals say Berwick is hot property with a median sales price of $710,000 compared to the metro average of $840,000.

Investors are also drawn to the area, with median rent hovering at $420 per week and an investment yield of 3.1 per cent, well above the

metro average of 2.8 per cent.

According to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, 87.9 per cent of dwellings in Berwick are houses, 10.9 per cent are semi-detached and 1.2 per cent are flats or units.

To service the growing population, millions are being poured into new education and health care facilities.

In January St John of God opened a new $120 million hospital in Kangan Drive. The state-of-the-art hospital offers a new maternity unit, eight operating theatres, two endoscopy theatres, a dedicated cardiac unit and the first intensive care unit for the region.

Kangan Drive is an education and health hub, home to Casey Hospital, Beaconhills College, Chisholm Institute and the new Casey Tech School. A partnership between the State Government, Chisholm Institute, industry and schools, the shared learning facility will offer high-tech, leading edge courses to students from 21 secondary schools in the Casey region.

SOUTH EAST homes&land

suburb in focus | Berwick

Casey Tech joins a rich list of education options in Berwick, led by Federation University on Clyde Road.

There are a wealth of private schools in the area including St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School, Haileybury, Hillcrest Christian College and Beaconhills College.

Berwick is also well serviced by government schools such as Berwick Secondary College, Berwick Fields Primary School, Berwick Primary School, St Catherine’s Catholic Primary School, Timbarra P-9, Berwick Lodge Primary School and Berwick Chase Primary.

Shopping and dining Berwick’s historic village is home to a stylish boutiques, homewares stores, bakeries, cafes and restaurants.

The fashion boutiques that are dotted in and around High Street offer contemporary clothing and accessories from a myriad of designers and labels suitable for the whole family. Discover little known brands or pieces from favourite labels. Accessorize with bags, scarves, hats and jewellery in the latest season’s colours and styles.

Berwick is well known as a foodie hub thanks to its many cafes, restaurants and bars, offering food from across the globe. In nearby Upper Beaconsfield is Jason’s Restaurant at Bradford Estate Winery. Jason’s offers superb modern international food and is fast becoming a sought-after function venue.

SOUTH EAST homes&land

Parks and gardens

Transport

One of Berwick’s primary attractions is Wilson Botanic Park. The 39 hectare site was originally established as a basalt quarry in 1859 and it operated until 1979. Since then, ongoing redevelopment has seen it evolve into an oasis of flora and birdlife with lakes, picnic areas and scenic walking trails with lookouts.

Pioneers Park in Peel Street was officially opened in October 2005 on the site of the Old Berwick Primary school, while Akoonah Park is situated on the eastern edge of Berwick. The 11 hectare park is home to a popular weekly market and the annual Berwick Agricultural Show.

Berwick has its own train station located on the Pakenham line. It is also well-serviced by buses and offers easy access to the Monash Freeway. The State Government recently completed stage one of the Monash Freeway upgrade which included widening the road from two to three lanes each way between the South Gippsland Highway and Clyde Road.

As part of stage two works, new lanes will be added between Clyde Road and Cardinia Road. An extra lane will also be added in each direction to O’Shea Road between Clyde Road and Soldiers Road and the Beaconsfield interchange will be upgraded. All work is expected to be completed this year. ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

21

Enjoy a vibrant and social retirement Set in the heart of ‘old Berwick’, Aveo Edrington Park is a retirement community built on a foundation of independence, great friendships and wonderful care. Live a low maintenance lifestyle, allowing you to enjoy the things that matter most to you. And, with a host of on-site activities and amenities to take part in, you will never be short of things to do. Make new friends and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Aveo Edrington Park.

• Historic community centre, heritage listed gardens and outdoor BBQ area • Dining room, gym, library & workshop • Exercise classes, arts & crafts, garden, book and history clubs • Happy hours, morning teas, lunch & dinner events and village bus outings To find out more or to book an appointment call 13 28 36, 7 days a week or visit aveo.com.au

Aveo Edrington Park

AVV1157

13 28 36 aveo.com.au

6 Melville Park Drive, Berwick 12399461-CB42-18

22

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

suburb in focus | Berwick

Live with friends who care Aveo Edrington Park is a retirement community built on a foundation of independence, great friendships and wonderful care.

SET amongst five acres of impressive, heritage listed gardens and picturesque landscape, Aveo Edrington Park has everything you need for your retirement.

Edrington Park mansion, formerly home to Lord and Lady Casey, serves as the community centre and is a social hub for the array of activities in this warm community.

Set in the heart of old Berwick, all your day-to-day needs are serviced nearby with the Beaconsfield Shopping Centre, chemist and public transport all close by. And for recreation, the cinemas, cafes, Berwick Bowling Club and Wilson Botanic Gardens are all within easy reach.

Enjoy a vibrant and social lifestyle at Aveo Edrington Park with a host of events and activities on offer.

Start your day with an exercise class, catch up with friends over morning tea, or get creative in the arts and crafts room. Venture out on the community bus for a day trip or join in with book club for the afternoon. End the day with a drink at happy hour, a group social dinner or challenge a friend to a game of snooker.

And should you require a little extra care and support, Aveo Freedom Aged Care Berwick is located onsite. A genuine alternative to nursing homes, Freedom Aged Care offers the privacy of home ownership with 27/7 care and support services to suit low care needs up to dementia and palliative care.

SOUTH EAST homes&land

Aveo Edrington Park resident Angela and her husband moved to the community over three years ago and say it’s the best decision they ever made.

“We came and saw the gardens and the house and fell in love with it,” Angela said.

“We’ve been here three years now and it’s

just been fabulous. We feel safe and secure.

We’ve got a lifestyle now and the social interaction is absolutely fabulous. We’ve made a lot of friends; it’s really fun to be quite honest.

I don’t think we’ve ever been so social in all our lives. We’re very lucky here, I feel it’s the best decision we ever made.” ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

23

suburb in focus | Berwick

Proud tradition of success St Margaret’s School was established in the heart of Berwick in 1926.

ST Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School provides a co-educational Junior School from Pre-Prep to Year 6 and single gender senior campuses from Year 7 to 12.

The school has long succeeded in leading young women into futures of success and prosperity, and in 2009, with the establishment of Berwick Grammar School; it also began a journey of educating and guiding young men towards similar success.

The coeducational Junior School is a vibrant, exciting and educationally supportive learning environment. Children are fuelled by a strong sense of inquiry through their work within the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) and through their own curiosity.

The school’s Senior Girls Campus in Berwick endeavours to create a supportive environment where students can grow in confidence and self-esteem.

With caring staff and motivated students, the central philosophy of the school is that everyone strives to achieve their personal best.

The school is well-known for two central achievements: academic success and the nurturing of community. This powerful combination promotes a sense of connectedness and belonging, allowing students to feel secure in setting challenging goals for themselves.

The Senior Boys Campus at Officer has

been designed to specifically meet the learning and developmental needs of boys and to maximise opportunities for them in terms of learning experiences, state-of-the-art facilities and extra-curricular programs.

Through the school’s Growing Good Men program, the vision is to develop young men of integrity who have a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to making the world a better place.

The school endeavours to empower children to make decisions that are anchored on firm and positive values.

These values enable students to live

effectively as well-informed citizens and approach school and life in a positive way whenever possible.

The school community is guided by its core values - Courage to do the right thing, Curiosity to know and learn, Character to be one’s true self and Respect to live wisely and compassionately with others and the planet.

To arrange a personalised tour, contact the Admissions Department at enrol@stmargarets. vic.edu.au or (03) 9703 8111. ●

ENROL NOW for 2019 and 2020 Berwick Campus - Gloucester Ave Coeducational ELC to Year 6 Girls Year 7 to 12 Officer Campus - Tivendale Rd Boys Year 7 to 12 12399519-SN42-18

24

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

suburb in focus | Berwick

Committed to serving Berwick Established in 1910, Berwick’s only private hospital has a rich heritage in the burgeoning communities of Melbourne’s south east.

Your home away from home SOUTH EAST homes&land

St John of God Berwick Hospital takes a holistic approach to caring for its patients with mental health and wellbeing considered a top priority throughout a patient’s recovery process.

The hospital has a pastoral care team that can provide a range of services from providing art therapy to meeting a patient’s emotional and spiritual needs.

Although St John of God Berwick Hospital

is a Catholic healthcare provider, it cares for anyone regardless of cultural, spiritual or religious affiliations. With an onsite chapel and designated multi-faith space, the hospital is a welcoming place full of peace and hospitality.

St John of God Berwick Hospital is committed to serving the needs of its local community and is constantly evaluating its services in an effort to plan for continued growth and expansion into the future. ●

As much as you’ll love your new home, there may be times when your health requires a stay in hospital. St John of God Berwick Hospital will be your home away from home. Offering world class health care with a compassionate touch, right on your doorstep.

Maternity Medical

Consulting Suites

Day Oncology

Cardiac Care

Day Procedures

75 Kangan Drive, Berwick

Rehabilitation

Intensive Care

Surgery

sjog.org.au/berwick SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

12399466-RA42-18

SPECIALISING in obstetrics, oncology, elective surgery, endoscopy, palliative care, cardiac care, rehabilitation and day surgery, St John of God Berwick Hospital has eight operating theatres, a cardio vascular catheter laboratory, a day oncology and infusion centre, an intensive care unit and a special care nursery; which means residents no longer have to travel far to get the quality and complex care they need.

Having undergone a major redevelopment over the past few years, the hospital moved from its former Gibb Street site to its new Kangan Drive location in January this year.

In an effort to meet the needs of the growing local communities, St John of God Berwick Hospital upgraded its facilities and expanded its services to more than double its previous capacity. What was once an 82-bed, single-story campus is now a multilevel facility that can accommodate over 200 patients.

The state-of-the-art hospital was specifically designed to capture the spectacular views of Berwick’s surrounding landscapes, including the beautiful foothills of the Dandenong Ranges. The purpose-built facility provides privacy along with natural light and views that are intended to enhance rest and recovery.

25

suburb in focus | Berwick

Home of family-centred care St John of God Berwick Hospital is proud to boast the most modern maternity care facility in the region.

WITH 22-beds, six birth suites and spacious rooms that come equipped with an ensuite, mini-fridge and spectacular views, St John of God Berwick Hospital’s maternity unit prides itself on providing family-centred care in a warm and friendly setting.

When a family chooses to have their baby at St John of God Berwick Hospital they will have access to many services that are beyond the scope of traditional hospital stays.

An onsite Special Care Nursery means parents can rest assured that their baby will be well cared for should a situation arise where he or she may require closer observation and specialist treatment.

Along with 24-hour expert medical treatment, families have access to lactation consultants, breastfeeding clinics, childbirth and grandparent education workshops, first aid and sleep settling classes, antenatal and postnatal physiotherapy classes, a 24-hour helpline before and after birth, as well as access to allied health professionals such as dieticians and counselling services.

The health and wellbeing of new mums remains a high priority for St John of God Berwick Hospital and the specialist care and attention doesn’t cease with the arrival of their baby.

Midwives are available to care for babies, while mums are invited to indulge in a relaxing

salt bath to aid recovery and help soothe the body and mind. Daily high teas are served with soft and hard cheeses, herbal teas and an array of speciality cakes and fruit.

Families can also enlist the support of the hospital’s pastoral care team who can provide music therapy services or even just a listening ear for support.

The hospital even has an onsite photographer who can be booked to capture the first few days after birth.

Partners are also well-cared for with nutritious meals throughout labour, and inbuilt bedding or double beds for those wishing to stay overnight. To keep visitors entertained, the hospital offers free wi-fi as well as in-house

movies and a variety of free-to-air and Foxtel channels available. For the littlest guests, a playground is also onsite adjacent to the hospital’s caf&uml;&brvbar;.

St John of God Berwick Hospital has its patient’s needs at the forefront of the services it provides and sometimes it’s the smallest things that make the biggest difference.

Just having access to fresh air can be the highlight of a hospital stay, so, fortunately, guests can access the maternity balcony and relative’s lounge when a change of scenery or more space to relax or visit with family is required.

To arrange a tour of these modern facilities, call 8784 5300 to reserve a place. ●

New! Mum’s Rest, Recover & Recharge Bath experience New! Paediatric First Aid classes New! Sleep and settling classes New! Celebration photo signs

Tours: Tuesdays 8pm and every second Saturday 1.30pm

We welcome the new kids on the block

If you’re new in town and looking to welcome one of the newest kids on the block, make sure you check out the best maternity unit in Melbourne’s south east.

75 Kangan Drive, Berwick

sjog.org.au/berwickmaternity 12399464-JV42-18

26

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

suburb in focus | Berwick

Impress your guests at Jason's Enjoy the warmth and elegance of Bradford Estate Winery’s heritage homestead this season.

THE picturesque Beaconsfield Upper winery offers superb ‘modern intentional cuisine with a difference’ as well as scenic views of the Port Phillip Bay and the exquisite area known as the ‘gateway to the Dandenongs.’

Perched on three acres of beautiful gardens and boutique winery, Jason’s Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Saturday and breakfast and lunch on Sunday. Jason’s Restaurant is also available for functions and weddings, with hosts invited to impress their guests with either a sky deck or fountain garden ceremony. Following exclusive and full access to gardens for photographs, couples can celebrate their reception within the warmth and elegance that only Jason’s Restaurant heritage homestead can offer. Beverages include a full bar to suit all tastes, along with an extensive and popular wine and beer list to complete guests’ culinary experience. Functions such as birthdays, anniversaries, milestone occasions, business presentations, corporate lunch/dinner and group/ club celebrations are also welcome to be held at Jason’s Restaurant. Themed nights, seasonal extras, “by popular request“ and special events are always taking place at the winery, and guests are invited to stay up to date by checking out the ‘what’s on’ page on their website. ●

Set within three acres of beautiful gardens with views of port Philip Bay, Jason’s Restaurant offers Modern International cuisine with a difference.

Enjoy alfresco á la carte dining, cellar door tastings.

Bradford Estate Winery’s heritage home is available for weddings and other functions.

For bookings and enquiries call 03 5944 4710 Bradford Estate Winery | 2 McBride Beaconsfield Road, Beaconsfield Upper 3808 | 03 5944 4710 | www.jasonsrestaurant.com.au 12399265-SN42-18

SOUTH EAST homes&land

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

27

P R O P E R T Y P R O P E R T Y

A U S T R A L I A A U S T R A L I A

village of dreams With over 50 houses by more than 20 of Australia’s leading builders, Berwick Waters is the perfect place to find your new dream home. It’s one of the largest display villages in Melbourne, with everything you need all in one spot. Discover a huge range of designs, floorplans, styling inspiration and more at the village of dreams.

berwickwaters.com.au | 13 38 38 2 Viewbank Rd, Clyde North

12399865-EPJ42-18

Visit now and pick up your free display village guide.

suburb in focus | Berwick

One-stop shop display village If you are looking to build a new home, you want to see what you are buying. There is no better place to do so than at the new-home display village at Berwick Waters.

BERWICK Waters is a joint development between Frasers Property Australia and Mondous Property Australia and it boasts one of Victoria’s largest display villages.

With more than 50 homes from 22 builders it’s easy to see why thousands of people visit the expansive display village each year.

Sarah Bloom, Frasers Property Australia’s General Manager Residential Victoria, said the Berwick Waters display village offers buyers the perfect way to see a range of options on the spot.

“It really is a one-stop shop for the latest innovations in house design. With 22 builders represented buyers have a great chance to find something that’s perfect for their lifestyle and family,” Ms Bloom said.

“If you are looking to build as a couple, a family, as empty-nesters, to upsize or downsize,

SOUTH EAST homes&land

the Berwick Waters display village can give you all the ideas you need to build your next home.”

Henley has one of the largest displays at Berwick Waters with 10 homes for buyers to view.

Henley CEO John Harvey says Berwick Waters provides Henley with an excellent showcase of its homes because of the diverse range of buyers the village attracts and the enormous growth in the region.

“Located in one of Melbourne’s major growth corridors, with excellent access to the Monash Freeway and Clyde Road, outstanding amenities and a natural landscape, Berwick Waters was the perfect location for our new World of Homes display centre,” he said.

Builders with homes at the village are: Arden Homes, Bevnol Homes, Burbank, Carlisle Homes, Cheviot Homes, Dennis

Family, Fairhaven Homes, GJ Gardner Homes, Henley, Homes 123, Hotondo Homes, Inspired Homes, Leneeva Homes, Mega Homes, Metricon, Porter Davis, Premier Builders Group, Rawdon Hill, Romeo Homes, Roseleigh Homes, Simonds Homes and Snowdon Homes.

Ms Bloom says having so many builders on view is a major drawcard.

“We have so many sought-after builders at Berwick Waters that buyers want to see, it makes it easier for people to make the right choices about what they want,” she explained.

The Berwick Waters sales office is at 2 Viewbank Road in Clyde North, and is open daily from 11am to 5pm.

Call 13 38 38 or visit berwickwaters.com.au for more information. ●

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

29

my home | Bec McTighe and Jason Peck

Forever starts at home Having just undertaken the exciting process of building her first home, Bec McTighe sat down with Rebecca Skilton to recall what she learnt, what she loved and what she would do differently if she were to build her 'forever home' again.

BEC McTighe, 26, and her partner Jason Peck, 27, are among Garfield’s newest - and most excited - residents.

Nestled in one of the town’s most recent developments, they purchased their 700 square metre block in June 2017, before settling in early August of the same year.

At the time of purchase, their street was little more than a paddock with a road running through it. Today, more than ten houses proudly line the street, including Bec and Jason’s 28 square SJD home.

But before it became their ‘forever home’, there was one major hurdle the couple had to overcome: the slopping block.

“We settled in August (2017), signed with SJD in September but didn’t start building until March,” Bec explained.

“The retaining wall took a while to sort out.

We wanted it so we could utilise the majority of our block rather than having a slope in the backyard that would virtually end at the edge of the house - which is what most of the neighbours have. It was pretty expensive, but in the long run, we want to put a shed in the backyard and be able to use that space.”

At 2.8 metres high, Bec and Jason’s concrete retaining wall lengthened their backyard by at least an extra three metres and saved them the hassle - and mess - of attempting to cut their block at a later date. The couple also built their home as close to one side as possible, allowing their driveway to extend right through to the backyard.

30

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

Jason and Bec. SOUTH EAST homes&land

my home | Bec McTighe and Jason Peck

So, once the block was cut and the house marked out, Bec and Jason had created the optimum amount of space to build their ‘Stanford Mk 2’ SJD home.

With four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a two car garage, the couple were not only attracted to the home’s practical layout but its abundant storage features and inclusions.

Also encouraging was the positive Facebook reviews SJD Homes received.

“When we signed our contract with SJD, we got a few things included, which were our nine-foot ceilings, double-glazed windows and 40mm stone benchtops - instead of the standard 20mm. We also got 30 downlights, which was really good because that’s one thing that adds up quick,” Bec said.

“The main change we made was removing the bar-nook. We did like the bar idea, but practicality wise, it’s cool now, but say in ten years’ times when you’ve got kids, you want as much space as you can get.”

While layout changes were minimal, Bec and Jason did purchase a few upgrades, SOUTH EAST homes&land

including a larger bath and eye-catching matte-black finishes in the bathrooms. And although the home carries a classic charm, two of its notable features include its open-planned master bedroom and ensuite and impressive home theatre.

“A theatre is a lot of money but I think it pays off because by the time you’ve got a house, everyone’s pretty much around the same age,” Bec said.

“Everyone is getting a house, getting married or having kids, and no one has a money tree, so it’s easier to have your friends come over, get some pizza and watch a movie rather than going to the movies.”

In terms of decorating, Bec gathered ideas from display homes, Instagram and Pinterest, but does admit she tried to remain as “neutral” as possible, knowing that she could “always accessorise with colour later.”

But if she had her build-time again, she does admit there is one thing she would change.

“I’d definitely add more power points,” Bec said.

“You always have that thought; ‘oh, we’ve got friends in the trade, they can come back and do it later’, but in reality, everyone has their own lives and to be able to add in things later is actually quite difficult, so it’s almost easier to pay that little bit extra for the house company to do it and as soon as you move in it’s done and you’re ready to go.”

And Bec’s advice for those looking at building their first home? Take your time and take inspiration from homes - and people around you.

“It’s hard because you’re obviously not living in the house when you’re building it but you need to think about where you’re going to put everything and what you’re going to be doing in certain rooms,” Bec admitted.

“And I guess it helps to get ideas off where you’re currently living - what you like and what you don’t like. Quite a few of our friends have recently moved into houses so we picked their brains and asked if there was anything that they would change or if there was anything that they were really glad that they had added.” ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

31

for you

A new 50+ community is coming soon.

We’re proud to announce our plans to build a new Lifestyle Community in Officer South, our 16th community in Victoria.

Here, you’ll enjoy living amongst like-minded people in affordable homes with access to 5-star facilities.

Think working out in the privacy of an onsite gym, taking an early morning swim in the indoor heated pool or a game of barefoot bowls. There’s also a cinema room, billiards, library and a workshop – all on your doorstep.

Live the life you were made for at Lifestyle Kaduna Park.

Find out more.

1300 50 55 60

lifestylekadunapark.com.au

12399442-SN42-18

retirement living | Lifestyle Kaduna Park

Spring into a new lifestyle With the days getting longer and the sun getting warmer, there has never been a better time to become a homeowner at Lifestyle Kaduna Park.

OFFERING homeowners a laid back and relaxed lifestyle, Lifestyle Kaduna Park is situated near the thriving and bustling city of Officer, with easy access to cafes, markets and public transport. It's also just a stone's throw away from Heritage Springs and Arena shopping centres.

Open to over 50s who are either working, semi-retired or fully retired; this brand-new community is made for living life to the fullest and comes complete with the best that Lifestyle Communities has to offer.

Inside you will find resort-style facilities; think indoor heated swimming pool, billiards room, croquet court, a bowling green and a fully-equipped fitness centre.

And for the homeowners looking to relax, Lifestyle Kaduna Park will boast a state-of-theart cinema and multi-million-dollar clubhouse designed for relaxing with friends and guests.

Each low-maintenance, high-quality home comes with a fully landscaped front garden and will feature contemporary fixtures and modern conveniences as standard, including stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances, and heated towel rails.

Construction will commence early next year with houses now selling, so book an appointment now.

For more information visit lifestylekadunapark.com.au or call 1300 50 55 60 and speak to one of the friendly consultants who will be on hand to answer any questions. â&#x2014;?

SOUTH EAST homes&land

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

33

retirement living | Valley Village Mews

A place to call home A spacious, well situated village close to transport, shopping, entertainment and medical services, Valley Village Mews is the ideal choice in modern living.

VALLEY Village Mews enjoys views towards the Dandenong Ranges amongst a calm and relaxed semi-rural ambience.

With a choice of home designs, sizes and price ranges to suit all lifestyles, Valley Village Mews boasts a thriving and close knit community with a happy atmosphere.

First impressions of Valley Village Mews are of a well-planned community set in an attractive garden surrounding. However, take a second look and you'll find that Valley Village Mews offers much more than just a great place to live. It also offers a sense of belonging, a calm friendly atmosphere and total peace of mind.

Independence is key to life at Valley Village Mews, allowing residents the freedom to pursue personal interests outside and within village life.

Special events, tours, fashion parades, movies, luncheons, picnics, barbecues, carpet bowls, billiards, bingo, line dancing, gentle exercises and walking groups are just a few of the activities on offer. You can even take advantage of the courtesy bus for a spot of shopping.

Health and security are a priority at Valley Village Mews, with a 24 hour emergency call service, a Silver Chain alarm and portable 24 hour emergency personal pager within all homes. The village also offers experienced staff, a medical complex adjacent to the village, as well as nearby major hospitals and health centres, council nursing/help services and security patrols after hours.

Valley Village Mews is independent living at its best providing total peace of mind. â&#x2014;?

112 STUD ROAD DANDENONG

s 5NITS AVAILABLE FOR SALE NOW FROM

s 0URCHASE YOUR UNIT BY 3TRATA 4ITLE OPEN DAY s *OIN IN WITH 3OCIAL !CTIVITIES FRIDAY 9TH NOVEMBER s +EEP lT WITH EXERCISE PROGRAMS 10AM TO s %MERGENCY #ALL PENDANT 2PM s #OMMUNITY "US FOR SHOPPING s ! VILLAGE BUILT AROUND BEAUTIFUL PARKLAND s 3UPERB 0ARKLANDS TO TAKE YOUR PET AND MEET RESIDENTS

Phone: 9793 3354 villagemews@iinet.net.au

12399757-JV42-18

VALLEY VILLAGE MEWS RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Fax: 9793 7154

www.valleyvillagemews.com.au

Call in to meet our friendly staff to show you why you should make Valley Village Mews your home.

34

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

Retirement Calling!

Family owned and operated, Blue Hills Rise is a vibrant 55 plus Lifestyle Resort founded on the belief that peace of mind & comfort should be at the centre of the retirement you've worked toward.

Blue Hills Rise puts all this and much more within your reach. Located at the gateway to Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

0 0 0 1 $

ou gets y t i s o p De ED! START

best tourist desintations including Phillip Island, The Mornington Peninsula and the rolling hills of South Gippsland.A mix of elegance and tranquility, made carefree by low maintenance gardens and quality homes your lifestyle is enriched by wonderful neighbours and great new friends.

All Independent Units include: Lock up garage with remote access Private landscaped rear gardens Quality furnishing and ďŹ ttings Monitored Smoke, Intrusion and Emergency Alarms

GREAT FLOOR PLANS TO CHOOSE FROM 2 Bedroom, 1 bathroom homes from $489,000 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom homes from $566,000 3 Bedroom, 2 bathroom homes from $640,000 Buy off the plan and get full choice of internal colours

PORT PHILLIP BAY

LUXURY APARTMENT LIVING ALSO AVAILABLE A short stroll to the Cafe, Restaurant , Gym or Pool or maybe a quick visit to one of the services: Hairdresser, Massage Therapy, Visiting Special Services

2 Bedroom, 1 bathroom apartments from $320,000 Correct at time of printing

www.bluehillsrise.com.au

03 5991 5000

12399123-SN42-18

240 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East, Victoria

Your new Lifestyle awaits ... start calling today

SOUTH EAST homes&land

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

35

retirement living | Casey Grange Village

Casey Grange Village residents dressed up for a day at the races to welcome the Melbourne Cup.

The Cranbourne West Primary School Human Powered Vehicle teams.

Grade four Cranbourne West Primary School ukulele player Ngakita with the Melbourne Cup.

Book clubs are a popular social gathering at Casey Grange Village.

36

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

retirement living | Casey Grange Village

From left: RCA director Neil Wilson, Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon, Cranbourne trainer Geoff McLean and former jockey Trevor Dyer with Amie, the daughter of 2010 Melbourne Cup Winner Americain.

Lending a helping hand The residents of Casey Grange Village are helping making a difference to the wider Cranbourne West community thanks to their generous donation of time and money for local causes.

IN September Casey Grange, the latest in Retirement Communities Australia’s growing network of villages in the South-East, hosted the 2018 Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour.

The $200,000 gold cup was escorted into the village clubhouse by 1959 Caulfield Cup winning jockey Trevor Dyer. Residents had the chance to pose for a keepsake photo with Australia’s most famous trophy and listen to a panel of racing experts talk about their industry and upcoming Spring Racing Carnival.

Cup Ambassador Keith Hillier, who has enjoyed a long career as a racing writer and broadcaster, said the tour was a rare opportunity for people to view the Melbourne Cup up close.

“It is the most famous trophy in Australia. It is a cultural icon, “Mr Hillier said.

Residents and guests also enjoyed an equine themed performance by the Cranbourne West Primary School Ukulele Band and choir.

During the event residents raised $1000 which will help the school buy a trailer to transport its human powered vehicles (HPV).

The school’s HPV program involves grade five and six students competing against other schools in organised time challenges.

The main event is the Energy Break Through Challenge held in Maryborough each November.

Over three days the students cover 300 km in their HPVs. Program co-ordinator Brad Campbell said students were selected in term one and train and attend meetings throughout the year. They have SOUTH EAST homes&land

already competed in an event at Bendigo and will head to Maryborough in November.

Mr Campbell said the school desperately needed a trailer to transport its HPVs. At the moment one vehicle is towed in the back of Mr Campbell’s private trailer and the other in the back of a ute.

“We find they get damaged in the movement,“ Mr Campbell explained.

“The donation from RCA is going to put us well on the path to getting the trailer we need.

Our target is $3000, so their donation has been a really boost.“ Wyndham Grange Village Manager Gary Stanley visited the school at the end of term three and presented a cheque to the HPV teams during morning assembly.

Mr Campbell said the school’s growing ties with Casey Grange Village were invaluable.

“It is all about getting our kids to realise that community is a lot wider than what they see in day to day life,“ Mr Campbell explained.

“Interaction between experienced members of the community and young students is important for instilling a sense of respect and care.“ Mr Campbell said students in the band and choir enjoyed performing before an older audience.

“People in villages are very receptive and pay attention. They are more in the moment than a lot of adults.

“It is great for our kids to see that other people value what they are doing and that they are

behind their efforts.“ Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon, who represents Cranbourne West, saw Casey Grange for the first time when she attended the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour.

“I was very impressed with the village, how it provides beautiful homes for its residents and how ready it was to make welcome the Melbourne Cup,“ Cr Stapledon said.

“To be entertained by the Cranbourne West Primary School students who sang four fabulous songs about horses and entertained all of us completed the day.

“What a wonderful thing it was to bring a national tour to Cranbourne West, to bring together the new residents of Casey Grange Village and to invite the community and the local students in to enjoy the event. It was a fantastic day that will be remembered by all of us.”

RCA managing director Andrew Phillip said it was important that retirement villages were integrated with the wider community.

“Residents who live in our villages have all kinds of life experience and are ideally placed to make a positive impact on the wider community,” Mr Phillip said.

“Today villages are vibrant communities offering not only affordable housing options for older people, but also great facilities like bowling greens, pools and club houses. Villages also offer options for social engagement with the flexibility for people to travel.” ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

37

Casey Grange Village Clubhouse Now Open

Retirement villas from:

$430K

Contemporary communal facilities including: • • • • • •

Pamper centre Dining room, bar and lounge Medical consulting rooms Gymnasium Competition bowling green Indoor swimming pool and spa

Villas include: 2 bedrooms plus study 2 bathrooms Brick and render construction Double garage Paved north facing alfresco

12399619-RA42-18

• • • • •

Call 1800 998 900 Information Request

75 Evans Rd Cranbourne West caseygrange.com.au

I wish to receive (Please tick): A phone call from Casey Grange Village.

Casey Grange Village Brochure.

Mr, Mrs, Ms (Please tick) First Name ......................................... Surname..................................................................

Address .................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................... Postcode .......................

Telephone ........................................... Email ........................................................................

STAR. NH&L MAGAZINE. SEPT 2018

REPLY TO: RCA VILLAGES. UNIT 1/39-43 DUERDIN ST, NOTTING HILL. VIC 3168

experts | RBCG and REIV

Spring into natives Spring is the perfect time to get planting, and if you do, your plants have enough time to grow healthy roots, giving them a good chance of surviving the hot and dry summer, says John Arnott, Manager of Horticulture at Cranbourne Gardens, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.

JOHN ARNOTT [CRANBOURNE GARDENS MANAGER OF HORTICULTURE]

NATIVE gardens flourish in spring, with many plants blooming in full, spectacular flower. This time of year triggers a wonderful rediscovery of gardens and gardening in the community, and now is a great time to visit Cranbourne Gardens for inspiration.

We have an abundance of alluring flowers across the site, including some of my favourites: - The Eucalyptus preissiana ‘Bell-fruited Mallee’ on Howson Hill - The Acacia leprosa ‘Scarlet Blaze’ Cinnamon Wattle and Boronia ‘Jack Maguires Red’ in the Future Garden - The Hakea Bucculenta ‘Red Pokers’ in the Forest Garden In terms of your own home spring garden, the warmer weather and longer days promotes active plant growth, so it’s a good time to start fertilising and feeding. I would suggest that you choose a fertiliser specifically for natives, as there are a number of Australian plants that are sensitive to high levels of phosphorus.

Pruning in spring promotes vigorous and bushy plants. As a good rule of (green!) thumb, you should undertake pruning after your plants have finished flowering. At this time of year, take your secateurs to a range of winter flowering plants, like those spent Banksia blooms. Later in spring and early summer, look to prune the range of native plants that are in

John Arnott with Hakea Bucculenta. full flower now.

While we have experienced below average rainfall throughout this area of Victoria over winter, soil moisture levels are likely to still be reasonable in many gardens. Mulching at this time of year really helps to hold these moisture levels into early summer. If you are planning to mulch with organic materials such as woodchips or pine bark, be careful not to apply the mulch too thickly; 50 - 75mm is ideal.

Anything more than this may stop rainfall from soaking through to the soil. If you prefer to use rocks or pebbles for mulch, you can apply that a little thicker.

Spring is a magnificent time to get out in the garden and plant, prune, weed and feed. What’s more - it’s a time to enjoy the rejuvenation, bounty and beauty of our gardens, as the cycle of growth and renewal kicks in for another year. ●

Buyer demand heats up for spring Spring is traditionally the busiest season in real estate and we can expect to see an upsurge in private and auction sales in the South-East over coming weeks and months.

GIL KING [REIV CEO]

FOR sale signs will dot the region and the calls of auctioneers will echo throughout the neighbourhood as properties exchange hands at an increasing rate. Although auctions are becoming more popular outside Melbourne’s inner ring, private sale is still the go-to method for most vendors in the South-East.

According to REIV data, last spring 2793 homes sold via private sale in Casey, Cardinia and Greater Dandenong compared with just 322 sold under the hammer.

Our Days on Market data for August 2018 shows that homes are snapped up fastest in Skye, Narre Warren South, Cranbourne East and Cranbourne West. Properties lasted just SOUTH EAST homes&land

20 days on market in these suburbs which indicates strong buyer demand.

Auction success so far in 2018 has been strongest in Hallam, Springvale South and Noble Park North.

If you are contemplating putting your property on the market this season, you need a plan to get the best possible result. The first step is to find the right agent: do your research,

ask around, pop in to your local agencies to get a sense of their approach and feel free to ask questions. The REIV recommends prospective vendors get appraisals from at least three agents from competing agencies and consider how they stack up.

A skilled and experienced agent will be able to negotiate a sale with one or more interested buyers and will have access to a database of potential buyers who may have missed out on a similar property in your neighbourhood.

REIV members are well educated, trained and informed, with access to the most comprehensive market information including quarterly median house prices, auction results and legislative updates. It is a condition of membership for all REIV members to have professional indemnity insurance.

You can search for an REIV member at www.reiv.com.au ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

39

Real life, real stories.

Real estate agents.

For practical real estate advice from a team of experienced professionals, call OBrien Pakenham.

Pakenham Level 1, Suite 2, 48 John Street 5940 4044 obrienrealestate.com.au 12399446-SN42-18

spring selling | OBrien Real Estate Pakenham

Seven tips for spring selling Traditionally, spring is the best time to sell houses. Obrien Real Estate Pakenham has seven simple tips to ensure your home is sold for the best price in the shortest time.

1. Get the price right A qualified agent will determine the price of your home based on various factors like market conditions, state of the home, and value of other properties in the area. Ultimately, the more accurate and reasonable the price you can place on your home, the more likely your home will sell in a reasonable time frame.

2. Improve the property’s street appeal The exterior of your property is very important.

To attract potential buyers, your home must look good, especially from the outside. Many people will see your home first by driving by or on the internet, so if it’s an eyesore from afar, they won’t bother taking a closer look - much less come inside!

3. Presentation is key When presenting your home for sale it is important to make it feel comfortable and inviting.

This can be achieved by making sure your home smells nice (use room spray or candles), displaying fresh flowers, turning lights on and opening window shades to allow natural light.

Clean and tidy rooms with fresh neat linen and towels will also make a world of difference.

If the budget allows, staging your home professionally can not only help sell your home faster but it can also see you achieve a huge return on the investment by highlighting the best features of your home.

4. Professional photography Most people are quick to make impressions based on what they see, so you need to make sure that the photos and videos show your property in its best light.

Showcasing what’s special about your home increases your chances of appealing to your SOUTH EAST homes&land

buyers on a deeper level - and pulling on their heartstrings!

5. Comprehensive advertising These days everyone is using the internet to research property. If you want to sell your house, then you need to advertise online. If you aren’t online you are missing out on a huge pool of serious buyers.

The internet is a quick and affordable way to get your property out there. While there are a couple of sites drive the majority of traffic, social media marketing is also a highly valuable source of marketing, as it directly targeting potential buyers who have viewed similar properties 6. Put a sign on your house Studies have shown that after the internet, a sign out the front of your property is one of the best ways to drive buyers.

This is a traditional way of advertising but it definitely works! Everyone who will pass by your home will know the property is available.

7. Have open for inspections.

Having open for inspections lets your potential buyers see that other people are interested in your property. With competition from multiple buyers, you create a sense of urgency and a fear of loss from potential buyers. This works well for both private sale and auction as high interest creates high prices.

For more assistance with selling your home, the team at OBrien Real Estate Pakenham is ready to assist you with more ideas to help sell your home quickly. For more information, phone 5940 4044 or visit www.obrienrealestate. com.au/pakenham. ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

41

interiors | Oz Style Window Furnishings

Window furnishings ride a wave Window furnishing expert Ozzie Ozaydin has a saying: “If your window could talk, what would it want to be dressed in to look its best?“ BELINDA Menzies’ Clyde North house was still under construction when she first consulted window furnishing expert Ozzie Ozaydin from Oz Style Window Furnishings.

Ozzie and Belinda hit it off immediately and collaborated on the design and installation of window furnishings throughout the fourbedroom home.

“I enjoy the journey with my customers.

I don’t see them as customers, I view my customers as so much more,“ said Ozzie, smiling as he revisited Belinda for a photo shoot for South East Homes and Land.

Sheer linen-based wave curtains in a driftwood colour adorn the full-length windows in the living areas, paired with quality blockout roller blinds.

Ozzie said wave or S-shaped sheer curtains give a depth and fullness that can be varied according to individual taste and combine well with block out roller blinds.

“They are an opulent, lavish curtain. The beauty is in their simplicity, their shape and consistency of the wave“ he explained.

“At night a quality roller blind of a similar colour behind makes the sheers also come to life. They create a warm feel in a home day and night.“ The master bedroom is also furnished with a wave curtain but in a heavier black-out fabric.

Feature windows in the kitchen, main bathroom and ensuite are furnished with white plantation shutters.

Ozzie said while the appearance of curtains was important, so was the tracking systems on which they run.

“Design is important but quality tracking systems are vital to how smooth a curtain will glide.

“The design of the tracks are modern but not over stated, you can’t see the bracketing or lugs, and they glide like a dream.“ After rising to the position of National Operations Manger with Victory Blinds, Ozzie went out on his own and started Oz Style a year ago.

“The first thing I ask customers is what is the most important thing to them; block-out, black-out, filtering light, controlling light or

insulation,“ he said. “It is also important to consider the type of windows being furnished, not all windows are the same and as a result some window designs are better than others in pairing up with products.

Ozzie said the type of home, the furniture and the decor also need to be considered so everything blends seemlessly.

“I love to get a sense of the personality and flair of the people who live there”.

Ozzie said based on his experience dissatisfied customers come from expectations not being met, which is generally due to vague or poor consultation.

“Customers must be not only be advised of the product’s features and benefits but also the product’s limitations and shortfalls including technical advice on best methods to install the product selected,“ he explained.

Ozzie advises customers to think about window furnishings early in the building process, do some research and “think about the look you are after that best suits your budget“.

“I say take your time to make decisions, not everything has to be done at once. Furnishing your home with window furnishings is

something you won’t do many times in your life and once the product is installed it is something you will live with for many years so enjoy the process.

“Select quality products as they will serve you well for longer and create an atmosphere that you will look forward to coming home to for a substantial portion of your life.“ ●

QUALITY AT AFFORDABLE PRICE “No Job is too small, No job is too difficult!”

",).$3 s #524!).3 s 0,!.4!4)/. 3(544%23 !,, %84%2.!, !7.).'3 !.$ #/6%2).'3 FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

12398353-EPJ42-18

For all your window furnishings needs phone today for free measure and quote and feel the Oz Style Difference

42

0422 109 976

www.ozstylewindowfurnishings.com.au SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

interiors | French Romantic Meredith and Rob Ward with dog Annie.

Viva la France Meredith and Rob Ward’s Cranbourne North home is a salute to the French Tricolour.

NARELLE COULTER THE Wards describe their decorating style as French Romantic.

White and cream are the dominate hues with accents of navy and splashes of red.

The couple has visited France twice and admit to feeling an affinity with the style and flair of the French.

The couple built their four bedroom brick home 11 years ago.

Meredith is a keen gardener and the house is surrounded by trees, garden beds, pot plants and hanging baskets. She estimates that she has around 180 outdoor plants in pots and baskets.

“The reason we built this house was because it has so much light from all the windows and that you can see the garden from every room,“ she said.

Meredith buys much of her furniture new, but also scours Ebay for second hand pieces she and Rob can restore.

“The French Romantic style involves using a lot of neutrals,“ explained Meredith.

“For example don’t use aqua or greens. Use neutrals with accent colours like blue and a little red. It needs to be balanced though, not too much colour.

“And greenery always. I have plants and terrariums in every room.“ Other key decorating pieces include candles, bird cages, lamps, cushions, throw rugs, framed photographs, topiary, statues, faux flowers and mirrors.

“It is really about finding pieces that you fall in love with,“ Meredith said.

There is also evidence of the couple’s travels dotted throughout the house, such as the framed photograph above the fireplace of a door knocker taken by Rob in St-Paul-deSOUTH EAST homes&land

Vence a village in southern France.

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec prints adorn a wall and a miniature red double decker bus tucked away on a shelf reminds Rob of his English childhood.

Another special piece is an antique christening gown Meredith bought in Wales.

The century old gown hangs from a cabinet in the couple’s formal lounge.

Rob and Meredith have flirted with the idea of selling their home and downsizing.

However, Meredith can’t imagine parting with any of her furniture or collectables.

For the time being she will continue collecting pieces that speak to her knowing she has Rob’s full support.

“He doesn’t care (what I buy) so much as long as I’m happy,“ she smiled.. ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

43

interiors | Indoor Plants

Plant a healthy home Indoor plants are a hot new trend that not only work as decorative features but can also bring health and wellbeing benefits to a home.

INDOOR plants work in large and small spaces from kitchens and living areas to bedrooms and studies, helping bring nature from the outside in.

Clyde North home owner Belinda Menzies loves the feeling of calm and tranquillity provided by her collection of indoor plants.

Belinda and her partner Tim moved into their new four bedroom home in St Germain in May. With an eye for interior design, Belinda has strategically placed plants throughout her home, complementing her modern decorating theme.

The colour and texture provided by her collection of indoor plants complements her grey decorating palette.

“I have plants everywhere,“ Belinda said.

“I feel plants oxygenate the house and the brain. They bring a living, breathing element to your home, which is great especially if you want it to be a creative space.“ Among Belinda’s favourite indoor plants are Fiddle Leaf Fig, Mother-in-Law Tongue, Monstera and Ivy. She says they are easy to look after, only requiring water every couple of weeks.

Belinda recommends looking for interesting pots that complement your home at Kmart, Target or Bunnings.

Indoor plants can be used throughout the home, including in the bedroom.

Snooze’s decorating experts recommend people think about their personal style, whether it’s contemporary or graphical, colourful and tropical or relaxed with a coastal vibe then find a plant or two to add an extra touch of style.

They say that the most popular indoor plants are Snake Plants, which include MotherIn-Law Tongue, African Spear, Devil’s Tongue and Snake Plant. Like most succulents they are hardy and require little water or care.

Another great bedroom plant is the Prayer Plant which also goes by the name Peacock Plant, Rattlesnake Plant and Zebra Plant.

This plant features ornately patterned leaves. To help you relax, the team at Snooze recommends laying on your bed and watching this plant. You just might notice how the leaves slightly change their position during the day in response to changes in the temperature. ●

A large Mother-In-Law tongue in Belinda's formal living room.

Succulents make great indoor plants.

BUILDING MATERIALS FOR YOUR HOUSE & GARDEN

CHECK US OUT ONLINE VANSTEENSELTIMBERS.COM.AU

Decking Hardwood Flooring Sleepers Posts Colorbond & Polycarb Roofing Woodmachining 12396147-MB42-18

44

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

9$167((16(/

7,0%(56 421 PRINCES HWY OFFICER (NEAR THE TIVENDALE RD) P: 5943 2371 sales@vansteenseltimbers.com.au

DELIVERY AVAILABLE SOUTH EAST homes&land

man caves | The Pig and Hounds

Man cave of memories Geoff Shannon has spent over eight years transforming what was once a simple carport into a jawdropping man cave. But as the saying goes, it’s what’s on the inside that really makes this cave of memories shine.

REBECCA SKILTON IT’S the man cave that was never meant to be.

But take engineer Geoff Shannon, an old carport and fast forward eight years, and you’ll have a man cave so impressive it’s earnt its own name: The Pig and Hounds.

“It was originally just an old shed with a dirt floor in it,” Geoff said.

“It started because all my tools and machinery is in the shed up the front and every time I had to do something to the house, I had to walk all the way up to the shed to grab my tools. So I said to (my wife) Jill, I’m going to turn this into a workshop - and I did” Geoff created a potbelly stove out of old truck brake drums, which quickly became the favourite heater in the house.

Not long after came the solid timber bar.

“I built the bar which was just a centre out of a tree - a complete centre slab which we cut and made the two halves.

“We had boxes of stuff that we’d collected so I thought, let’s start decorating the place and before I knew it, all the machinery I’d moved in here was back at the front shed.

“But it works well because the old house is over 150 years old now, and there are no big rooms in it, so if we’ve got something happening, there’s no room to have people SOUTH EAST homes&land

around to have a drink, so I thought stuff it, we’ll make this more of an entertainment area.”

While the floor of The Pig and Hounds is now concreted, Geoff has used an abundance of recycled materials to fit the interior including salvaged timber from the property’s old stables and milking sheds. Even the roof takes on the room’s rustic aesthetic, with Geoff concealing the new-looking tin ceiling with hessian cloth.

However, it’s what hangs from the walls and sits on the shelves that will cause jaws to drop.

Old tools, cricket bats, a hitching post, instruments, lanterns, an English pump, records, whiskey bottles and even a disco ball are just a selection of trinkets that Jill and Geoff have either collected or have had handed down to them; some old and rare enough that visitors can’t help but feel like they’ve entered a museum.

“We go to market and like anything old and unusual,” Geoff said.

“There are some things I’ve collected and some things that friends have given me. It’s all bits and pieces - everybody has a bit of a go at me for having the disco ball in here but it was my daughter’s from her room and it was getting thrown out and I said,’ I’m not going to let that get thrown out! It doesn’t really match, but it’s a part of my family’.” ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

45

QUALITY HOMES START WITH QUALITY BUILDING MATERIALS And you can count on quality with Dahlsens.

Dahlsens Pakenham is proud to supply the best builders in Pakenham and throughout the south-east of Melbourne.

BIGGER AND BET TER

TRADE S COMIN ITE SOON!G GRIFFITH

ALBURY WODONGA

ECHUCA

Trusted

Whole of House Solutions Building materials and truss and frame manufacturing from local branches across Victoria and southern New South Wales

PAKENHAM

DAHLSENS PAKENHAM 3/6 SOUTHEAST BLVD (NEW SITE COMING SOON â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CNR COMMERCIAL DR/GREENHILLS RD) PH: 5943 7400 OPEN MON-FRI: 7:00AM - 5:30PM PAKENHAMTRADE@DAHLSENS.COM.AU 12400268-JV42-18

46

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

trade | Dahlsens The Dahlsens Pakenham team. (L-R) Troy, Amanda, Michael, Simon, Dale, Chrissy, Bruce and Grant.

Supporting new home building Three years since opening its trade store in Pakenham, building materials supplier and truss and frame manufacturer Dahlsens is upgrading to a larger, purpose-built premises to support their local customer base.

IT’S an exciting move for the experienced Dahlsens team and their loyal customers, many of whom have appreciated having a 100% trade focused supplier on their doorstep as they meet the growing housing demand in this thriving region.

Dahlsens’ new 10,000 square metre premises is being built on the corner of Commercial Drive and Greenhills Road - and is located just 300 metres down the road from their current site on SouthEast Boulevard.

While the convenient location is almost the same, there are many improvements set to make partnering with Dahlsens a smart choice for builders and trades.

“Having the site purpose-built means that we will have everything laid out to make it easier to serve our builders better,” Dahlsens Pakenham Branch Manager Bruce Andrews said.

“The increased site size means we’ll be holding a much larger stock range. There will be an easier drive through access for easy loading. And all stock will still be held under cover - which is a real plus whether it’s the depths of winter or the height of summer.

Combine this with the same service our customers’ trust in our trade team today and we’re looking even better.”

The stock range on offer at Dahlsens includes everything for a residential home, from foundation to fit out.

Whether it’s timber, doors, door furniture, hardware, decking, cladding, roofing, appliances, plumbing or windows, Dahlsens sources the highest quality materials from reputable suppliers to ensure local builders have everything they need to get on with the job of producing the highest quality homes.

They even manufacture truss and frame at several sites across Victoria to get building projects off to a quick and precise start.

Dahlsens Pakenham Account Manager Simon Purtill understands how important stock and supply is to his customers.

“I speak to builders every day about what SOUTH EAST homes&land

they need and when they need it and I’m confident that we at Dahlsens can meet those demands,” Simon said.

“We have the strength and experience of a 23 store network across Victoria and southern New South Wales. We understand the building industry. With our knowledge and our commitment to going over and above, we can help builders deliver a top-quality final

product, a beautiful, durable home.”

As a company with a proud tradition nurtured over five generations of one family and 141 years, the J C Dahlsens group sees itself as more than a superior provider of truss and frame and building materials. It sees itself as a key part of the communities in which it operates - and vital to that is supporting the livelihood of local builders and tradespeople. ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

47

fencing | ModularWalls

Modern fencing solutions ModularWalls Executive Director Jason Harvey provides modern homeowners with the perfect fencing solution to help create a private oasis in every backyard.

IT can’t be denied and it can’t be ignored: lot sizes are shrinking.

Executive Director of ModularWalls Jason Harvey says that developers have predicted that this trend is only going to grow.

“If homeowners are looking to maintain their autonomy, there could be another option.

One backyard fence is evolving alongside modern backyards and ready to fight for your privacy,” Mr Harvey said.

“ModularWalls has specifically designed acoustic fencing solutions for the modern backyard; that is, smaller lot sizes, louder lifestyles, increased traffic noise pollution and the client’s desire for a peaceful outdoor oasis.”

ModularWalls’ ‘SlimWall’ acoustic fencing offers the premium aesthetics of a rendered masonry wall, along with a fourfold reduction in audible neighbourhood noise, yet measures only 50 millimetres thick and doesn’t require strip footings.

Mr Harvey explained that SlimWall is the perfect noise reduction option for those working with smaller lots, and therefore can’t afford the space of wide masonry footings (or the increasing cost of traditional masonry).

“It’s not 1950 anymore, times have changed - and so has fencing,” Mr Harvey said.

“Why shouldn’t you expect more from your fencing? Why shouldn’t you create a space that you can enjoy and share with your whole family?

"Keep the peace and preserve your privacy with SlimWall." ●

12400630-SN42-18

48

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land

interiors | Dulux

Dulux Colour Forecast 2019. Styled by Bree Leech. Photographer: Lisa Cohen.

Filter out the noise in 2019 With 2019 just around the corner, Dulux Australia has released their upcoming colour trends to best reflect the modern home and lifestyle.

EVERY day we’re bombarded with new ways to shop, eat, work and be our best selves.

But with so much background noise, it’s easy to lose touch with what’s important.

In response, design trends for 2019 will be influenced by a desire for stillness, simplicity and honesty, according to Dulux Colour Expert Andrea Lucena-Orr. Expect to see organic shapes, frayed edges, contrasting textures and repurposed vintage pieces set against a backdrop of earthy neutrals, saturated greens and citrus brights - a palette perfect for nurturing and empowering and as diverse as the stories we have to tell.

“Our confidence with colour is growing, and with this the drive to create spaces that reflect our history, hopes and dreams,” Ms Lucena-Orr said.

“Mindful consumption is a key theme for 2019 and we can expect to see a paring back of the unnecessary and a greater emphasis on repurposing and reimagining objects surrounding us. The result is a new kind of bespoke where the traditions of the past are celebrated in dynamic and modern ways.”

The first trend will reflect our desire to reconnect with nature and form a deeper understanding of our place in the world. A collection of earthy neutrals, rich greens and spicy notes of cinnamon and sienna will be a cocooning palette that’s very much grounded in nature - it hints at personal growth and fresh beginnings.

This palette will entail muted, tonal combinations that will produce a slightly off-beat, vintage feel, which, according to Ms Lucena-Orr sets a warm, produces a nurturing mood in a space and creates the SOUTH EAST homes&land

perfect backdrop for timber, leather and unusual collectables.

The second trend involves the need for stillness and quiet. With a never-ending stream of information causing us to reach for our smartphones or open our laptops, Ms Lucena-Orr believes that the desire to ‘log off’ has never been stronger.

“Gentle shades of mauve-grey, powdery pinks and touches of gold will create serene, calming interiors that allow us to take a breath and tune back into our own rhythm,” Ms Lucena-Orr said.

Ms Lucena-Orr also explained that soft, light tones and subtle layering of texture can be used to ignite the senses and revive a tired spirit.

The third trend for 2019 will surround how we use spaces to tell a story - stories that speak not just of our past, but also the history of those who came before us.

This trend will entail a palette of intense, saturated hues such as deep purple, russet and aqua, offset by brown-based pinks.

These create an elegance and theatre of a bygone era moving into a contemporary age. “(This) palette is timeless yet thoroughly modern. Think rich colour, classic furniture and sumptuous textiles used in unexpected ways. For example, these colours may be set against a streamlined backdrop or styled with an industrial edge,” Ms Lucena-Orr said.

“Purple has emerged as a base colour and is softened by paler shades of lilac and mauve - it’s a palette to push your creative boundaries.”

The final trend will feature clashing

patterns, quirky combinations and noholds-barred - bringing with them a sense of optimism and cheer.

“Featuring striking blues, purples and shades of citrus, this palette encourages you to incorporate a playful side into your d¨ cor,” Ms Lucena-Orr said.

“These colours command you to be brave and experiment with unique looks in the home. They translate particularly well in the bedroom - a nurturing space that’s all about you. Paint the door, a piece of furniture or a feature nook in a bright and invigorating shade and watch the room come to life.”

When it comes to reinvigorating your interiors, there is no easier or more effective tool than colour.

“Whether you choose to go all-out and paint an entire room or simply add some accents, you’ll be amazed at the transformative effect of colour,” Ms LucenaOrr said.

“Incorporating one or more colours from any of these four palettes will bring your home right up-to-date.”

And for the perfect finishing touch, just add texture.

“Textured paint creates a natural, tactile feel and looks incredible on feature walls, nooks and smaller pieces of furniture or accessories.

Once applied, it adds another dimension to colour as the undulation of the texture creates an appealing shadow effect.”

And just like that, you’ve taken your home to a whole new level.

- Content supplied by Dulux Australia.

Photographs: Dulux Colour Forecast 2018: Styled by Bree Leech. Photographer: Lisa Cohen. ● SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

49

experts | National Tiles and Sustainability Victoria

Take on a holiday tiling project As the weather begins to warm up why not consider turning down time into a project?

FOR many of us spring signifies the outdoors barbecues and probably a cheeky beer or wine or two. But it’s also the perfect time to upgrade or build the ultimate outdoor area.

Forget the time and effort involved with decking and consider using porcelain based timber tiles. They have the same natural feel as wood but without the maintenance. They are also perfect for integrating the indoors with the outdoors using one seamless look.

If it’s a classic style you’re going for invest in stone tiles. They’re durable and timeless meaning you won’t need to upgrade them every few years and they come in many different colours and textures so they’re able to

blend into any surrounding.

For an outdoor area that gets use all year, consider using 20mm porcelain pavers.

They’re easy to install, simple to clean and can be applied to various surfaces.

To create the perfect inner city courtyard or roof deck, consider using cement based tiles.

These will bring an industrial edge to any space.

No matter what your outdoor space looks like, use the summer holidays to transform it into one that is sure to be the envy of your friends and family.

- story courtesy National Tiles ●

Pictures: Courtesy National Tiles.

Zeroing in on carbon emissions The Victorian Government will partner with land developers and volume home builders in a pilot program to boost the supply of zero net carbon homes in Melbourne’s growth areas.

THE $2.18 million Zero Net Carbon Homes pilot aims to recruit up to three partnerships between land developers and volume home builders to facilitate the design, marketing and construction of zero net carbon homes that will be sold and marketed in growth areas.

Eligible volume home builders must be able to demonstrate that they achieve more than 200 site starts a year and that they can offer the products to home buyers in one or more of Melbourne’s growth areas in the north, west and south east or in the Geelong and Mitchell regional areas.

Sustainability Victoria CEO Stan Krpan said the pilot program aims to make zero net carbon homes available to more Victorians and create greater awareness amongst home buyers that these homes will be cheaper to run, more environmentally friendly and more 50

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

comfortable.

Sustainability Victoria will work with the volume home builders to deliver cost competitive and appealing zero net carbon homes that are available direct to the market Mr Krpan said.

Research conducted by Sustainability Victoria has identified that zero net carbon homes will contribute to lowering emissions across the residential sector towards meeting the Victorian Government’s 2050 zero net emissions target.

The modelling shows that a new zero net carbon home could reduce greenhouse gas emissions from energy use in the home by around six tonnes a year, with the emissions from electricity and gas use offset by the electricity generated by a rooftop PV system, and almost halve energy bills compared with a standard home.

“By participating in the Zero Net Carbon Homes Pilot, builders can offer their customers homes that are affordable to heat and cool and provide year-round comfort,“ Mr Krpan said.

“Offering more zero net carbon homes will diversify our building stock, stimulate the economy and reduce bills for homeowners.“ Home builders can find more information or register to attend an information session at www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ zeronetcarbonhomes ● SOUTH EAST homes&land

12399667-SN42-18

12399797-RA42-18

Drouin and Beaconsfield

OPEN 7 DAYS

InspirationsPaints.com.au 9796 6521

Shop 8 36-44 Lauderdale Road Narre Warren

♦ Rebedding & Pointing ♦ Pressure Cleaning ♦ Flexible Pointing ♦ Respraying ♦ Qualified Roof Tiler ♦ Gutter and Facia Replacement ♦ Pensioner Discount ♦ No job too small

12400301-JV42-18

EcoKleenSolar Residential from $80

s $IRTY SOLAR PANELS ARE COSTING YOU MONEY s 0ROTECT YOUR WARRANTY s (AVE THE PROFESSIONALS CLEAN THEM FOR YOU

THERMO IMAGING Can see, what you can’t!

CONTACT CRAIG 0418 969 596 For free no obligation quotes.

9700 1899 - 0439 931 138 www.newridgeroofrestoration.com.au

12400285-SN42-18

12391056-CG31-18

12400327-CB42-18

PAKENHAM DESIGN CENTRE

1-3 Vesper Drive Narre Warren 8786 5797 paintright_berwick@bigpond.com

12401105-ACM42-18

PAINTRIGHT BERWICK

12401215-CG42-18

Your wallpaper and design specialist

03 5941 6402 10 Station St, Pakenham pakenham@kitchensubuild.com.au

Inspiration starts here See us for quality indoor and outdoor furniture

Call 9705 6366 for a free measure & quote Blinds & Curtains

30-32 Victor Cres. Narre Warren

www.impactblindsandcurtains.com.au SOUTH EAST homes&land

Ph: 8794-9111 www.cozyfurniture.com.au 12399699-JV42-18

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

201809111834_1-RC39-18

For all your window furnishings

Shop 16a, Casey Lifestyle Centre 430- 440 Princes Highway, Narre Warren

51

interiors | Harvey Norman

Enjoy the great outdoors Stylish outdoor entertaining is a breeze thanks to Harvey Norman Fountain Gate.

OUTDOOR entertaining is one of the great joys of summer in Australia: the smell of meat grilling on the barbecue, fresh salads, platters laden with seasonal fruit and icy cold drinks shared with family and friends.

Everyone can entertain outdoors in style thanks to Harvey Norman Fountain Gate.

Furniture department proprietor Jules Tennant has a huge range of outdoor furniture, barbecues and accessories all under the one roof.

Mr Tennant said the 2018/19 range was exciting and innovative with a resurgence in the use of aluminium and teak in particular.

“Aluminium is easy to maintain, and at a great price point this season. The range is vast and comes in various colours such as gunmetal and white,“ Mr Tennant explained.

“Aluminium and teak together with resin chairs have to be the stand-outs this season.“ He encouraged buyers to look at settings like The Alias, a modern design with floret chairs, making it a must have for contemporary outdoor entertaining.

Mr Tennant said lounge/dining combinations were becoming more and more popular, with buyers favouring packages that include a three seater couch, dining table, 52

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

chairs and ottomans “a twist on the plain old dining table and six chairs that we have seen year after year“.

At Harvey Norman Fountain Gate customers have the flexibility to order precisely what they want in the colours and combinations they want.

Like the table but not the chairs?

“That’s okay because with our wide range of dining chairs we can mix and match to find your perfect outdoor setting,“ Mr Tennant said.

“We are the outdoor specialists because of our vast range and the ability to customise our range to suit any budget or needs.“ Be the entertainer this season with Harvey Norman Fountain Gate Furniture. ● SOUTH EAST homes&land

12399597-CB42-18

interiors | Harvey Norman

Fisher & Paykel Induction Cooktop.

Your home is your castle Harvey Norman's Electrical team can help make every home a castle this season with a number of leading Fisher & Paykel kitchen appliances.

YOUR dream home doesn't always have to be a far-off fantasy.

In fact, with the addition of a few quality appliances and help from the experts, it may be closer than you think, says Harvey Norman Fountain Gate electrical department proprietor Grant Hammond.

"Your home is your castle and putting quality appliances and furniture in it not only gives you the ability to make it comfortable for living but if you do decide to sell or invest, it adds value to your home as well," Mr Hammond said. "(This season) is really all about putting time into your home. There's obviously a bit of mortgage and interest rate pressures and people don't necessarily want to buy or sell at the moment. So, with our help, you can turn your home into your dream home without having to move."

Three of Mr Hammond's top recommendations for living in luxury this season belong to the Fisher & Paykel brand, and include the Induction Cooktop, CoolDrawer and Integrated French Door refrigerator.

Fisher & Paykel Induction Cooktop This Fisher & Paykel Touch & Slide 90cm five zone induction cooktop with a dual zone and SmartZone gives you a spacious cooking area, perfect when cooking for a crowd.

Features include a large cooking area with five cooking zones; four of which can be bridged to form two SmartZones. The powerful, class-leading 5.5kw dual zone automatically 54

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

The Fisher & Paykel CoolDrawer.

The Fisher & Paykel Integrated French Door Refrigerator.

detects the size of cookware, with separate Touch&Slide controls for easy control of each zone.

The Fisher & Paykel CoolDrawer The Fisher & Paykel CoolDrawer Multitemperature drawer has been designed to change from refrigerator to freezer at the touch of a button.

It is built on the concept of distributed refrigeration, combining ActiveSmart Foodcare with a drawer-based design that can be placed anywhere in the kitchen, home or entertainment area.

The CoolDrawer Multi-temperature drawer provides five temperature settings to deliver total flexibility - freezer, chill, fridge, pantry and wine modes, merging intelligence with convenience.

You can integrate the CoolDrawer Multitemperature drawer discreetly into your

cabinetry or purchase a stainless steel drawer panel to match your CoolDrawer Multi-temperature drawer with other kitchen appliances. Optional stainless steel prefinished door panel sold separately.

The Fisher & Paykel Integrated French Door Refrigerator The Fisher & Paykel Integrated French Door Refrigerator is designed to fit flush with kitchen cabinetry for a seamless look in your kitchen. Superior features such as ActiveSmart technology helps keep food fresher for longer.

The product comes with a bottom freezer drawer for easy access to frozen goods.

You can customise with your own kitchen cabinetry or use Fisher & Paykel's optional stainless steel door panel accessory.

Make your home your castle this season with Harvey Norman Electrical Fountain Gate. â&#x2014;?

SOUTH EAST homes&land

12399737-CB42-18

12399808-CB42-18

56

SPRING/SUMMER 2018-19

SOUTH EAST homes&land