Living Gems has been awarded a third Master Builders’ award in a month. The Country Clubs at the Caboolture, Toowoomba and Pacific Paradise resorts have wowed industry judges with their impressive features.
Last week, our Country Club at Pacific Paradise was named the best Tourism and Leisure Facility up to $10 million in Queensland!
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LAST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH!
Meet our residents, enjoy a few drinks and cheese platter on us from 4:00 to 7:00pm
General Manager Vlad Pullich said these three awards mean a great deal to his family and staff; whom have all worked tirelessly to see each project through to the highest standard of completion. Winning the treble is a Living Gems first in their 30 year history of building lifestyle resorts.
“We are thrilled that our three brand new, purpose built country clubs have been recognised as the best in their regions against industry peers.”
“The individual designs are inspired by the immense competition in the lifestyle resort sector. It has driven us to develop and construct the next evolution in recreational facilities for the over 50s market.”
“We look forward to our home owners making use of these wonderful facilities,” said Mr Pullich.
The Living Gems country clubs are sensational, being home to over 20 different recreational facilities. Popular aspects of each design include the indoor heated magnesium swimming pool at Toowoomba, the three-lane ten pin bowling alley at Caboolture and the second story balcony at Pacific Paradise; the perfect place to watch the sunset.
Toowoomba is nestled in the stunning landscapes that create the Darling Downs region. Here are four fantastic day trips that you can enjoy from Toowoomba.
1. Queen Mary Falls
Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning rainforest to the top, and then base, of spectacular Queen Mary Falls. At the main lookout you can see the 40 metre tall waterfall spill over the edge and plunge to the bottom. The walk is 2 kilometres, so allow 40 minutes to complete the track. When you’re finished head back to the main carpark, set up a picnic and soak up the surrounding ambience.
How to get there from Toowoomba: Drive 1 hour south on the New England Highway to Warwick; drive 40 minutes on Warwick-Killarney Road.
2. Glengallan Homestead
First built in 1867, Glengallan Homestead has undergone extensive renovations to bring this historic building back to its former glory. Take a step back in time and relive the Glengallan story from squattocracy to farmer settlement. Drive down when the markets are on, take a tour and then head over to Rudd’s Pub for some grub on the way back home.
How to get there from Toowoomba: Drive 45 minutes south on the New England Highway
3. Murphys Creek
Located at the foot of the Great Dividing Range, Murphys Creek is a beautiful bush destination. Local birdlife is abundant and not afraid to g’day. Why not make a holiday out of it and stay at the nearby camping ground; a peaceful and invigorating experience. Pop down for the monthly market and enjoy local produce, home-made treats, collectables, arts and crafts and many other goodies.
How to get there from Toowoomba: Drive 10 minutes north on the New England Highway to the Blue Mountain Pub at Harlaxton; drive three minutes north on the New England; turn right onto Murphy’s Creek Road and drive for 12 minutes.
Photo: www.murphyscreekescape.com.au
4. Jondaryn Woolshed
Located approx. 45 kilometres from Toowoomba, Jondaryn Woolshed is the oldest operating woolshed in the world. Take a self-guided tour of the woolshed and working museum village. Bring the whole family; kids will love exploring the animal nursery, cheese factory and train rides. Jondaryn Woolshed often hosts exciting events for Australia Day and New Year’s Eve.
For more information about Living Gems Toowoomba click here. To request a FREE information pack click here!
Pristine beaches and tropical rainforests make up the long stretches of coastline just waiting to be explored. Here is our shortlist of the best places to get out and about to enjoy the Sunshine Coast.
Loved by locals and tourists alike, Noosa National Park is an unmissable destination. The magnificent coastal backdrop is framed by beautiful pandanus palms and banksia trees. There are a number of walking tracks varying in levels of difficulty:
Alexandria Bay Walk: follow the Coastal Path, starting at the Parkedge Road entrance, the walk is 4.2km so allow an hour to reach Alexandria Bay.
Hell’s Gates Lookout: This 2.7km trail starts at the main car park and is a peaceful walk that gets you out of the sun on a hot day. Follow the Tanglewood Track back through the forest.
Take the scenic route and enjoy the drive from the resort to Maleny Botanical Gardens. When you arrive pick up a map and take a leisurely stroll through the easy walking paths.
Pack up a picnic and enjoy lunch at the picnic tables — or don’t — and enjoy a pot Devonshire tea and scrumptious scones with jam and cream in one of the gazebos.
Hop onboard between 14 July – 31 October and join Australia’s original Whale Watch operators for an experience of a lifetime! Because Hervey Bay’s waters are protected by World Heritage Listed Fraser Island, it makes the perfect place to see the humpback whales play.
The magnificent Glass House Mountains are made up of the remnants of volcanic activities millions of years ago. As a result the ancient peaks offer incredible views of the Sunshine Coast. This makes it a popular place for bushwalking, rock climbing and abseiling. The mountains have a unique Dreamtime story which tells of their formation.
Sunshine Coast’s iconic Ginger Factory in Yandina offers a unique retail precinct, cafe, tours and fun rides. Visitors will also enjoy the live bee show, the Ginger Train or a stroll through the tropical gardens. Don’t forget to pick up a ginger plant for your garden!
For more information about Living Gems Pacific Paradise click here or to request a FREE information pack click contact us.
At this year’s World Triathlon Grand Final, you’ll find Living Gems caretaker Bill Thornbury, competing against nearly 1500 triathlete qualifiers.
Triathletes representing 46 countries will go head to head at Southport Broadwater Parklands on 16 September for the final race of the 2018 season.
Bill is a seasoned triathlete who has been competing in various triathlons and Ironman races for 30 years. The upcoming race follows an Olympic format with a 1500m swim, 40km bike ride and a 10k run. This is only a quarter of the Ironman challenges Bill has completed in the past.
“My personal best for the Olympic format is 2 hours 20 minutes and I have completed the Ironman in 10 hours 5 minutes.”
Triathlons have taken Bill all over the world; competing in countries like New Zealand, America, Germany, Switzerland and England.
“I finished in 8th place out of 90 athletes in the 2012 Ironman World Championships in Hawaii and again in 2015. The race is considered the toughest in the world and each year there are around 350,000 athletes hoping to qualify but only 1500 make it through.”
Bill follows a training structure set out by his online coach. He trains 12–22 hours per week depending on the type of race coming up. With just over a month until the World Triathlon Grand Final Bill is starting to get excited.
“I really enjoy the sense of accomplishment after finishing a race. I like to push my own limitations and give my all to each event I take part in,” says Bill.
For more information about Living Gems call 1800 785 594 or visit www.livinggems.com.au
Australian Publication: Australian Over 50s Guide has described Living Gems as an “Over 50s Resort with the right community feel”. You can read more about the story in the images below, or click here to view the story online.
Throughout the state our community will come together to celebrate Seniors Week. This event is held from 18-26 August to recognise the value of the contribution older people have made in the workforce and community throughout their lives.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) Queensland coordinates Seniors Week on behalf of the Queensland Government. The event aims to improve community attitudes towards older people and to enhance community connections and relationships.
Living Gems is joining the celebrations this year, offering free morning tea and information sessions at four locations.
General Manager Vlad Pullich said that Seniors Week is a great opportunity for over 50s, seniors and retirees to see the vast lifestyle opportunities that are available.
“Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in all that this resort has to offer whilst enjoying a delicious morning tea in the country club.”
As well as the morning tea, the public can join in a variety of activities at each resort.
Enjoy a game of indoor carpet bowls, learn how to play croquet and enjoy line dancing at Opal by Living Gems. Living Gems Toowoomba is hosting a great information session, Living Gems Caboolture will have display homes open and you can learn how to play Mahjong at Living Gems Pacific Paradise.
Fifteen years ago, British immigrants, Maureen Moore and her late husband, excitedly purchased a brand-new home at Sapphire by Living Gems. The decision was not hasty; they had carefully weighed up a number of options but in the end Living Gems felt the most like home.
“When we first started our hunt for a lifestyle resort our main focus was to get out of suburbia and get somewhere that was secure. The second thing was a place where we felt welcome, where you knew there was always someone looking out for you.”
Now Maureen and her Bichon Frise Poodle find the home is more than they need and are ready to move on. Maureen’s home had only been on the market for nine days when the first offer came rolling in.
“I occupy the largest spot in the whole resort here, so it didn’t take long to sell! When the home was brand new 15 years ago we bought it for $175,000 and it sold last week for $350,000 – a fantastic capital gain.”
Maureen has thoroughly enjoyed the past 15 years spent at Sapphire by Living Gems and is sad to say goodbye. The many friendships she has formed here will last a lifetime – no matter where she goes next.
“There are always events and activities going on at the resort which can be fun to join in on. When I take my little dog, Reggie for a walk it is lovely to see all the smiling faces and chat with all the other home owners in the resort,” says Maureen.
When you move into a Living Gems Lifestyle resort, ownership is yours outright. Living Gems home owners live confidently, knowing that if they decide to sell, they won’t be required to pay deferred management fees or part with any capital gain their home might have accrued during their residency.
For more information about Living Gems call 1800 785 594, email info@livinggems.com.au or click here to send a request for an information pack.
The Living Gems staff are very proud to support the home owners from Opal by Living Gems as they continue to give their support to Cancer Council QLD through the Relay for Life event.
In 2017 the team raised $7500. This year they are determined to achieve their new goal of $10,000 for the 2018 Relay for Life event. To show our support, Living Gems have again contributed $1000 towards the team’s fundraising efforts, bringing the team up to $9,500 – leaving them with only 5% more to go!
With a number of fundraising events still to come, Nola (team captain), is certain they will reach their 2018 goal.
The Australian government has made it even easier to retire in the Sunshine state with New Zealanders eligible for a cash injection of $15,000 in the form of a first home owners’ grant.
The Queensland First Home Owners’ Grant is a state government initiative to help first home owners to buy or build a brand new home. To be eligible for the grant, you must be 18 years of age, not have previously owned property in Australia that you lived in and you must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
The Queensland First Home Owners’ Grant
A permanent resident is classified as someone who holds a permanent visa or is a New Zealand citizen with a special category visa, which would apply to most New Zealander’s visiting or residing in Australia.
According to the 2016 Census, New Zealanders are the second largest source of immigration to Australia, behind the UK, with the majority of Kiwis living in Queensland.
The Sunshine State
With an ideal climate and enviable lifestyle, it’s not hard to see why. Queensland has always been a popular destination, especially for the over 50s market. From the Gold Coast to Far North Queensland and everywhere in between, retirees have been settling in Queensland for many years.
What better way to optimise your thirst for travel by utilising the Queensland Government’s generous first home owners’ grant to buy your own piece of paradise at a Living Gems Lifestyle Resort and enjoy this amazing lifestyle all year round.
Why Living Gems?
At Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts there are no entry fees, no deferred management fees and no stamp duty. Homeowners own their own homes and retain the sale price of their villa plus any capital gain when they sell.
On top of this, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts are located in property growth areas such as Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast so they don’t simply represent a place to park your hard earned nest egg.
In the right market, your nest egg can actually increase in value resulting in a capital gain, which you do not share with anyone. Investing in a Living Gems Resort is as much an investment in your physical wellbeing as it is in your financial wellbeing.
Homeowners lease the land from Living Gems under a site agreement, which is protected by the Manufactured Homes (Residential Parks) Act 2003. The site agreement doesn’t have an expiry date and the Resort Owner is not empowered to evict you from your home; thus ensuring your right to live in your home indefinitely.
Have your cake, and eat it too
For as little as $350,000, our stunning new homes are architecturally designed with plenty of space, providing residents with exclusive access to all resort facilities including award winning country clubs, swimming pools, bowling greens, cinemas and gyms.
There are no surprises with what will be built next door and no run-down properties that could affect the value of your home. All this, built in a beautiful community with a plethora of resort-style facilities and likeminded neighbours.
Family owned and operated, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts has successfully created, developed and managed affordable over 50s lifestyle resorts for more than thirty years.
With eight stunning properties to choose from across south east Queensland, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts provide homeowners with a quality of life and greater certainty than ever before. What a great investment!
For more information on your slice of the good life and to arrange a tour call 1800 785 594 or visit www.livinggems.com.au
Living Gems has been awarded a third Master Builders’ award in a month. The country clubs at the Caboolture, Toowoomba and Pacific Paradise resorts have wowed industry judges with their impressive features.
The third award for best Tourism and Leisure Facilities was presented last Saturday, 11 August at the Sunshine Coast MBA evening for the architecturally designed and state-of-the-art Living Gems Pacific Paradise country club.
General Manager Vlad Pullich said these three awards mean a great deal to his family and staff; whom have all worked tirelessly to see each project through to the highest standard of completion. Winning the treble is a Living Gems first in their 30 year history of building lifestyle resorts.
“We are thrilled that our three brand new, purpose built country clubs have been recognised as the best in their regions against industry peers.”
“The individual designs are inspired by the immense competition in the lifestyle resort sector. It has driven us to develop and construct the next evolution in recreational facilities for the over 50s market.”
“We look forward to our home owners making use of these wonderful facilities,” said Mr Pullich.
The Living Gems country clubs are sensational, being home to over 20 different recreational facilities. Popular aspects of each design include the indoor heated magnesium swimming pool at Toowoomba, the three-lane ten pin bowling alley at Caboolture and the second story balcony at Pacific Paradise; the perfect place to watch the sunset.
The public is welcome to view the award-winning country clubs and display homes by personal tour and appointments can be made by calling 1800 785 594, emailing info@livinggems.com.au or online at www.livinggems.com.au
You are all told how much extra time you will have on your hands in retirement to enjoy the things you love; however, imagine how much you could end up paying for things such as maintenance and recreational activities when you are no longer working.
Many retirement villages charge multiple service fees to residents that cover the cost of general maintenance, lifestyle activities and overall management costs of running the village. In addition, residents may be charged an entry fee and an exit fee (otherwise known as a deferred management fee). All this on top of a unit purchase which could be anywhere between $300,000 – $700,000 +.
At Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts, the fee structure is very transparent. One weekly fee (in addition to normal suburban-like utilities charges) on top of the house purchase, with an architecturally two bedroom home costing as little as $350,000.
There are no entry fees, no deferred management fees and no stamp duty. Homeowners own their own homes outright. On selling, the homeowner retains the sale price of their home plus any capital gain during their residency.
The only ongoing cost to residents is a weekly site fee. This fee provides exclusive access to over 20 resort-style recreational facilities including a swimming pool, sauna, lawn bowls, tennis court and a premium country club. It also covers your site fee, general garden maintenance and access to management.
According to the Australian Government Securities & Investment Money Smart website (moneysmart.gov.au), to retire modestly a couple needs approximately $39,000 per annum. Below is a list of costs that you may expect to pay if you want to maintain a certain lifestyle in retirement.
Activity
Cost (per annum)
Gym membership
$1,500 +
Tennis club membership
$150+
Lawn bowls
$450 +
Golf membership
$630+
Swimming membership
$425 +
Social – movies, ten pin bowling, etc
$1,500 +
Garden maintenance
$1,200 +
Pool maintenance
$1,500 +
If you were to pay for these things individually you could be up for a lot more money than you expect.
Not only do active residents have access to a plethora of activities when they move to a Living Gems Lifestyle Resort, they also have the convenience of having everything on their doorstep.
One special feature of Living Gems resorts is the world class country clubs. The country clubs are the social hub of each resort, providing a stylish and convivial space for residents to get together regularly for a drink or a bite to eat. Each country club houses a lounge, bar, ballroom and cinema.
At Living Gem’s newest resorts, residents will also enjoy access to a heated pool, spa, sauna, BBQ pavilion, gym, bowling green, tennis court, hair salon, games room, library, workshop and art and craft room. Living Gems Caboolture, Toowoomba and Pacific Paradise resorts also have golf simulators and Caboolture has a purpose built ten pin bowling alley for residents to enjoy.
Family-owned and operated, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts has successfully created, developed and managed affordable over 50’s lifestyle resorts for more than thirty years.
With eight stunning properties to choose from across south east Queensland, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts provide homeowners with a quality of life and greater certainty than ever before. What a great investment!
For more information on your slice of the good life and to arrange a tour call 1800 785 594 or visit www.livinggems.com.au
Own your home, and retain 100% of any capital gain
At any of our eight family owned over 50s lifestyle resorts across Queensland, you’ll be able to live life with the certainty of affordable retirement living. Our resort managers are always accessible and will fully explain the annual fees, which are regulated by State Government.
There’s so much to do at our on-site Country Clubs. Our newer resorts celebrate:
socialising at the bar, cinema and dancing,
staying fit at the swimming pool, sauna, gym, lawn bowls, tennis court and some resorts even have ten pin bowling and golf simulators!
Our communities are pet friendly, gated for added security and at some resorts there’s RV storage still available. For more information on your slice of the good life, call 1800 785 594 or visit www.livinggems.com.au. What a great investment!
While the over 50’s aren’t running after their children any more or as focused on work, they still lead busy, active lives and deserve life’s little luxuries as they near retirement. With more retirement living options than ever before, choosing the right one for you can be difficult.
There are many things to consider – location, security and lifestyle to name a few. But what about the financial considerations?
Buying into a retirement village can have a long-term financial impact if you don’t read the fine print.
Many retirement villages charge an exit fee, otherwise known as a deferred management fee (DMF). This fee is paid at the end of your time at the village, and deducted as a percentage of the overall sale of your property when you leave.
According to the Property Council of Australia, deferred management fees are commonly calculated as a percentage paid per year of residence, and are capped at a maximum rate. For example: 3% per year capped at 30% after 10 years. See below:
Entry price
$400,000
Length of stay
10 years
Percentage per year
3% (capped at 30% after 10 years)
Sale price
$550,000
DMF. Exit fee paid on sale
$165,000
Return to resident
$385,000
When first entering an agreement with a retirement village, residents and operators also agree whether the resident receives all, some or none of the capital gains on their unit when they leave. This can also affect the exit payment.
This can leave residents with a lot less money than they expected for the next stage of their life; and less inheritance for their families.
In a time where retirees are demanding more choice and transparency, it is essential that retirement living operators provide more financial security for residents than ever before.
At Living Gem Lifestyle Resorts there are no entry fees, no deferred management fees and no stamp duty. Homeowners own their own homes and retain the sale price of their villa plus any capital gain when they sell.
On top of this, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts are located in property growth areas such as Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast, Living Gems Resorts don’t simply represent a place to park your hard earned nest egg.
In the right market, your nest egg can actually increase in value resulting in a capital gain, which you do not share with anyone. Investing in a Living Gems Resort is as much an investment in your physical wellbeing as it is in your financial wellbeing.
Inside a typical home at Living Gems Toowoomba
Homeowners lease the land from Living Gems under a site agreement, which is protected by the Manufactured Homes (Residential Parks) Act 2003. The site agreement doesn’t have an expiry date and the Resort owner is not empowered to evict you from your home; thus ensuring your right to live in your home indefinitely.
Living Gems recommends that residents seek independent financial and legal advice before signing any contract to ensure there is a clear understanding of all the terms and conditions.
Our stunning homes are architecturally designed with plenty of space, providing residents with exclusive access to all resort facilities including award winning country clubs, swimming pools, bowling greens, cinema and gym.
There are no surprises with what will be built next door and no run-down properties that could affect the value of your home. All this, built in a beautiful community with excellent facilities with likeminded neighbours.
Family owned and operated, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts has successfully created, developed and managed affordable over 50’s lifestyle resorts for more than thirty years.
With 8 stunning properties to choose from across south east Queensland, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts provide homeowners with a quality of life and greater certainty than ever before. What a great investment!
For more information on your slice of the good life and to arrange a tour call 1800 785 594 or visit www.livinggems.com.au
Living Gems is celebrating again after another successful win at the recent Master Builders Award for the Downs and Western region on Friday, 20 July.
Living Gems Toowoomba is the second resort within the Living Gems portfolio to be awarded for the best Tourism and Leisure Facilities by industry judges. Living Gems Caboolture won the same award at the Brisbane Master Builders award evening only two weeks earlier.
The Living Gems difference is evident from the moment you drive through the designer entry gates. As you head down the main landscaped boulevard, the well-appointed features of the resort’s country club immediately draw your eye.
As you enter the country club, you are welcomed by the spectacular interior design of the ballroom, bar, dance floor and stage. Other facilities within the country club precinct include an indoor heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, golf simulator, hair salon, consultation room, conference room, games room, cinema, gym, arts and craft studio, workshop, commercial kitchen, library, music room, BBQ pavilion, undercover bowling green and tennis court.
General Manager Vlad Pullich said that the company is thrilled to receive the award a second time.
“This multimillion-dollar project was completed in April 2018 and offers a stylish and convivial space for residents to get together regularly for a drink or a bite to eat.”
“Living Gems has brought a high-quality of housing and lifestyle to Toowoomba. The company’s aim is to provide an improved quality of life with greater certainty for active over 50s seniors and retirees. This is why we offer such an extensive range of quality facilities in our new resorts.”
The public are invited to view the award wining country club and the resort’s facilities, located at 500 South Street, Toowoomba.
For more information
1800 785 594
livinggems.com.au
info@livinggem.com.au
Beryl Turner, Southport club captain, along with a group of eight members enjoyed a great day at the resort, having a go for the first time at the resort’s croquet court.
Living Gems has been sponsoring the club, located at 1 Queen Street, Southport for the last 12 months.
Mary Kerr and Diane Miller, home owners at Opal by Living Gems, are both club members at Southport. Mary said she didn’t start playing croquet until she moved into the resort but has always thought it was a game she would play in her retirement.
“Whilst Opal by Living Gems’ croquet field was under construction last year, home owners were invited to use the club’s facilities at Southport.”
“I’ve been playing croquet for two years, it is a fun sport. I am the president of the club and help organise two set games a week, on Sunday and Tuesday afternoon, as well as a number of other competitions throughout the year.”
“We have had a few tournaments including one with the neighbouring resort, Ruby by Living Gems. It was a great event, we will probably organise another soon.”
“A lot of the home owners here enjoy the game. We usually play a variation of croquet called “golf croquet” – it is the most popular and easiest of the four types of the game.”
Southport Croquet Club President, John Turner said the visit to Opal by Living Gems was a fun day.
“The group enjoyed a BBQ lunch, cakes of all kinds and more importantly got to play a game or two on the court within the resort.”
“I’d like to thank Opal by Living Gems for allowing us to make the visit and enjoy some time on their court and meet with the home owners.”
Opal by Living Gems is open seven days from 10am to 4pm. To book a personal resort and display home tour call Dennis on (07) 5547 2333 or pop in any day to 42 Quinzeh Creek Road, Logan Village.
When Sandy Sinclair moved into her new home at Living Gems Caboolture she never had anticipated the wonderful friendships she has formed, particularly with home owner Pam Taylor, with whom she had unknowingly shared a parallel history.
After running into each other a number of times at the resort, Pam and Sandy became fast friends. It didn’t take long before they discovered that they share 40 years of connections.
Sandy said they could trace their first connection to their schooling days and then to later in life when she and her late husband were living in Moranbah.
“It turned out that one of my good friends during my school years, going back over 50 years, has been Pams best friend for over 40 years during their time living in both Moranbah and Yeppoon,” says Sandy. “The second connection we worked out was via my brother; he was working with Pam’s late husband as an electrician in Moranbah mine for a number of years and Pam got to know my brother and his family really well.”
“Pam and I were in transitional villas at the same time whilst we waited for our homes to be built. It is amazing that we are now neighbours in the same resort with so many past connections.”
Originally from Mt Morgan, Sandy moved down to Brisbane at the age of 25, then she and her late partner decided to move to Bundaberg seven years ago. She eventually discovered Living Gems Caboolture and found that the lifestyle and community here was exactly what she was looking for.
“I really feel at home here and I am now living much closer to my daughter which is lovely.”
The Living Gems lifestyle suits Sandy perfectly. Her and Pam enjoy a number of the activities together at the resort including arts and craft, mah-jong and they always enjoy a game of ten-pin bowls with new friends. There are always monthly bus trips and other social outings to enjoy.
“We are having an absolutely wonderful time here at Living Gems. Today we are off to see a show in town with the rest of the ladies’ group and last night we took the resort bus down to the local RSL club for dinner.”
“I have also been making the most of the heated indoor pool since it was completed last month; it is a pleasant temperature even in the cooler weather.”
When she has a spare moment in her busy social calendar, Sandy is enjoying the comforts of her new home.
“I am very happy in my new home, I chose the Opal design for the wonderful combined living, dining and kitchen area – there is so much light and breeze. The sun filters nicely through my alfresco blinds and creates a lovely space to enjoy a morning cup of tea.”
Animals have served as companions for centuries. It’s only now we are learning the positive social, emotional and physical benefits that pet ownership brings into our lives.
In addition to the unconditional love and happiness you receive from owning Fluffy or Fido, research has shown that there are many physical and mental health benefits as well such as lower blood pressure and reduced stress through companionship and increased physical activity.
Financial and physical benefits
However, the benefits are not only physical, they can also be financial. A recent Australian study found that pet owners saved approximately $2 billion in public healthcare expenditure through fewer visits to the doctor and associated healthcare costs such as fewer specialist appointments and hospital visits.
Being such a large part of everyday life for many Australians, it’s only natural that when it comes to retirement living, people would want to take their pet with them. Imagine being forced to make a choice between a new home or your pet.
In addition to the health benefits of owning a pet, retirees often find that they have more time to spend with their adored dog or cat now that their children have left home and they are no longer working full time, as well as enjoying the simple pleasure of animal companionship during this stage of your life.
Owning a pet is often a catalyst for building new friendships through common interests. Retirees regularly get together to walk their dog (or cat!), meeting at the local park each day as part of their daily exercise regime.
Owning a pet in your retirement
While some retirement communities allow you to bring your pet with you when you move in, once Fluffy passes away there is a high possibility you won’t be allowed to replace her. It’s important to read the fine print when it comes to bringing your pet with you and that you understand the policies before signing a lease or contract. Some communities allow pets under certain conditions while others don’t allow them at all.
Many lifestyle resorts across Australia understand the importance that pet ownership has on health and wellbeing and welcomes residents and their pets with open arms.
At Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts, residents own their homes outright and have the freedom that comes with any home ownership including bringing pets into your life and home at any time, not just when you move in.
Family owned and operated, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts has successfully created, developed and managed affordable over 50s lifestyle resorts for more than thirty years.
With eight stunning locations to choose from across south east Queensland, Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts provide homeowners with a quality of life and greater certainty than ever before.
To visit one of our pet friendly resorts call us on 1800 785 594 or visit www.livinggems.com.au
Relay for Life team, Opal by Living Gems, have been powering on to meet their fundraising goal of $10,000 by 7 October 2018. The current total is now over $7,000 thanks to the efforts of the home owners at Opal by Living Gems as well as their family and friends.
The team have raised funds from various events as well as raffling items donated by local businesses in Logan Village.
Team captain, Nola Green said they are well on their way to meet their goal after the recent success of their Biggest Morning Tea event and Pie Drive.
“The Biggest Morning Tea was a really wonderful event, I think everyone had a great time and we raised just over $1,900 on the day.”
“Special guests at the recent Biggest Morning Tea included: Logan City Councillor Laurie Koranski and Cancer Council Queensland personnel – Megan Connors, Senior Co-ordinator, Regional Fundraising; Jane Haylock, Chair Jimboomba Branch; and Amanda Power, Senior Coordinator, Special Projects Relay for Life. All were impressed with the “terrific event” and with the current amount raised.”
“The pie drive finished last week, and it was a great way to raise funds. We sold 448 pies to the home owners here at Opal by Living Gems and we were very happy with the resulting $511.”
Nola said the Opal by Living Gems Relay team still have a number of events planned as they get closer to the event day.
“We will be hosting a breakfast for Father’s Day and we also have a sausage sizzle at Logan Village Woolworths on 5 August and 9 September.”
The team will complete a walking relay around a set course in Jimboomba for 18 hours, from Saturday 6 October to Sunday 7 October, 2018 from 3pm – 9am at Hills College.
Relay for Life is a fun and moving overnight event hosted by Cancer Council that aims to raise vital funds for Cancer Council’s research, prevention and support services.
You can donate to the Opal by Living Gems team via the Relay for Life website and selecting their team page. You will receive a receipt for your donation.
For more information about Relay for Life visit www.relayforlife.org.au or for more information about Living Gems resorts call 1800 785 594.
Living Gems home owner Yvonne has been thoroughly enjoying her new resort-style lifestyle at Sapphire by Living Gems. Yvonne is a retired music teacher and still enjoys playing the occasional song on her piano at home. Since moving into the resort in September 2017, she has been busy unpacking and getting to know the resort and her new neighbours.
When Yvonne realised she wouldn’t be able to manage in her previous home she knew now was the best time to move. She had plenty of time to find a new place as well as time to secure the best price for her home. Yvonne is happy to report she doesn’t see herself leaving.
Yvonne has found Sapphire by Living Gems offers a fantastic lifestyle, where you can do what you want, when you want to do it. Yvonne leads an active and social lifestyle in the resort, enjoying activities like line dancing, swimming and working out in the gym.
“I am very happy with the size of my home and garden – it is very easy to maintain which gives me more time to enjoy my hobbies,” Yvonne says. “When I’m at home I love to read out on the balcony and enjoy the birdlife that visit my garden.”
“My whole family thinks it is wonderful here, it is like being in a resort. In September I will have my grandkids staying with me for a week, so that will be great too.”
Sapphire by Living Gems is about 30 minutes from Mount Tambourine, a popular destination for home owners at the resort. For more information about Sapphire by Living Gems please contact 1800 785 594.
Queensland family owned and operated business, Living Gems, is celebrating after receiving an award at the Master Builders Housing and Construction Awards last Friday, July 12.
Mr Pullich said that he is very excited to have received this award as his team had worked very hard to see this project completed to the highest standard.
“We are absolutely honoured to have been recognised in such a tremendous fashion. This award represents the culmination of years of hard and dedicated work.”
Master Builders award for Tourism and Leisure Facilities up to $10 million.
Living Gems completed the $8 million project in May 2018. The country club is fitted with a lounge, bar, ballroom and a cinema.
Other facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, ten pin bowling alley, BBQ pavilion, gym, bowling green, tennis court, virtual golf, games room, hair salon, library, music room, workshop plus an art and craft studio.
Mr Pullich said Living Gems had brought a high-quality of housing and lifestyle to Caboolture.
“Living Gems suits the requirements of the locals and allows them to stay close to their social networks.”
“Our aim is to provide an improved quality of life with greater certainty for active over 50s, seniors and retirees. This is why we offer such an extensive range of quality facilities in our new resorts.”
The public are invited to view the country club and the resort’s facilities, located at 176 Torrens Road, Caboolture.
Jean and Alec Berrington, homeowners at Sapphire by Living Gems, share a glimpse inside their lives in this resort community designed for over 50s.
Once you step inside a Living Gems resort you enter a whole new world and escape the surrounding suburbia. The supportive community within is committed to a different lifestyle, with regular social activities. Security is uppermost; there is even a resident-run “street watch”.
The gated resort offers peace of mind for homeowners, especially for Jean and Alec who often enjoy travelling by car. Close neighbours help each other and ‘keep an eye’ on properties when residents are travelling or in hospital.
“We have lived here for 16 years and in that time, we have travelled extensively. Our most recent trips were down to Adelaide to visit some friends, then up to Cairns.”
After discovering a better life at Living Gems, Jean and Alec couldn’t wait to tell their friends and anyone else!
“We enjoy a quiet neighbourhood, stairs-free home, local shops and a lovely community. There is so much to love about our lifestyle at Living Gems.”
“When we first took a look around the resort all those years ago, we thought: we could live here! Each home is individual, which drew us to selecting a home in Sapphire by Living Gems above other resorts.”
“The public just doesn’t know what is available in the over 50s housing market – we love to use our home as a referral tool to sell our friends on the idea of living within this type of community.”
Although every Living Gems resort has a very busy social calendar, it should be noted that you have the freedom to do as little or as much as you like.
Jean and Alec enjoy a peaceful life in their beautiful, open plan home. They have a great position within the resort, it captures the summer breeze beautifully and is surrounded by lovely gardens.
Whether working or retired, active over 50s are sure to live everyday like they’re on holiday at Living Gems Pacific Paradise. You will enjoy the security of owning your own home in an idyllic location on the Sunshine Coast.
Living Gems Pacific Paradise entry gates
The Living Gems difference is evident from the moment you drive through the designer entry gates. As you head down the main landscaped boulevard, the well-appointed features of the resort’s two-storey country club draw your eye. You will enjoy the warm welcome from the club’s roaring fireplace as you enter.
As this resort is the most intimate of the Living Gems portfolio, with only 112 homes, it imparts friendship and community. There is a distinct difference in the atmosphere, home owners here have created a fun environment with no shortage of laughter.
The country club is a constant hub of activity, both day and night, fuelled by the passion of the resident-run social committee. Being within easy walking distance, homeowners are just one step away from an array of fantastic facilities.
Chair of the social committee, Jan Smith, said that each month a new calendar of events is shared with home owners.
“In May we fired up the commercial ovens in the country club, greased the egg rings, lined our baking trays and out came delicious bacon and egg rolls – a masterpiece that we decided should be repeated every month.”
“This month we are looking forward to our Christmas in July celebrations. We recently enjoyed a live performance from a 60s style rock band for our ‘Black Friday’ celebrations.”
“There is always something happening at the resort. Some of the activities and hobby groups include: craft, men’s and ladies’ lawn bowls, darts, tennis, mah-jong, mosaics, jewellery making, drinks on the terrace, movie night, aqua aerobics, golf and ‘Friday’s at 5’,” says Jan.
This resort is in the final stage of development, with only a small number of homes left as part of the boutique, resort-style community. For more information about Living Gems Pacific Paradise, call 1800 978 388 or email victoria@livinggems.com.au to book a personal tour today.
Originally from the United Kingdom, Keith Revell made the move over 40 years ago to Brisbane where he met his wife Gwen.
Not long after our two wonderful children were born we moved to New Guinea for three years, from there we chose to settle in Redcliffe until our children went on to university. After a stint in Melbourne and over 30 years in a stressful Corporate role we eventually moved to Heritage Park seeking a quieter, less stressful life and bought a newsagency.
The business thrived, and we quickly learnt that this was not going to be a quiet life! We sold the newsagency after six years and took a gap year, which has 10 years and counting, we are still contemplating when we will retire!
Having made the decision to downsize we continued our search for a quiet life and stumbled upon Opal by Living Gems whilst researching over 50s lifestyle resorts. We actually placed a deposit on a site at Ruby by Living Gems first, but we both agreed that Opal by Living Gems was where our hearts were most happy.
We have been living here for three years now and it suits us perfectly. Our house is located on the boundary of the resort which is lovely for our little Maltese who loves to rub noses with the horses through the fences of the bordering property.
Gwen and I love the lifestyle here, we regularly take our dog for an early morning walk through the lovely parkland that adjoins the resort. You get to see the mist over the lake if you’re awake early enough. There is so much wildlife around and you get to listen to the birds sing – it’s bliss, and not a car can be heard!
We like to pop down to the local Woolworths shopping centre which is only a five-minute walk. The centre has almost everything, it’s just missing a coffee shop!
Gwen and I love to join in the Thursday tennis night at the resort, Gwen plays, and I cheer her on from the sidelines with our dog. Later in the evening we all put together a BBQ and sit around the fire pit and soak up the ambiance.
A great bonus about living here is that you’ll find almost everything you need in one place! I run a monthly computer class, and am on the Residents’ committee, while Gwen will enjoy a game of mah-jong or indoor bowls. You can do things together or separately. There are so many activities going on – it is like being on a cruise, from Hawaiian Night to live concerts!
Now that we have found our slice of serenity we are beginning to get back into volunteering. I am involved with a number of not-for-profits in the legal industry and Gwen and I have just recently volunteered at the Commonwealth Games which was a wonderful experience.
For more information about Opal by Living Gems please call 1800 785 594 or email dennis@livinggems.com.au
Having spent most of their lives in England, Colin and Barbara Bennett decided in 1988 it was time for a change. Armed with a handful of ideas of places to live, they weighed up the pros and cons. They agreed Canada would be too cold, New Zealand would be too much like home but Australia – well, that sounded perfect to them.
Edens Landing and Rosemount Farm are where Colin and Barbara first called home in Australia for 14 years until they heard about Living Gems in Eagleby.
“At the time Sapphire by Living Gems, or Sapphire Gardens as it was known then, was in the early stages of construction,” says Colin, “the concept was very new in the market and the designs were state-of-the-art.”
“The homes are some of the best built homes we’ve inspected, and our home is now worth three times as much as when we bought it 16 years ago!”
Colin and Barbara have brought their dream home to life, with no expense spared. Cathedral ceilings and cleverly positioned half height walls create a unique space beautifully tailored to suit their active lifestyle.
“We are still very happy with our decision to move here, we love the size of the homes and the size of the village itself.”
Colin and Barbara are happy to report that they will never need to move again.
“This is our forever home, we have never lived anywhere else as long as we will live here.”
Colin and Barbara take regular holidays around Australia in their motorhome, they recently returned from a 14-month trip across the country. They agree, it is wonderful to know they can pick up and go whenever it tickles their fancy and know that their home is within a secure gated resort.
Having recently emigrated from New Zealand early this year, Living Gems homeowners John and Jenny Pierson have been enjoying the warmer weather. The Pierson’s tell us more about how they have been enjoying Australia and Living Gems so far.
I am originally from Picton, at the top of the South Island and John is from Invercargill at the bottom. After we married we moved around New Zealand with John’s work at Shell Oil (NZ) Ltd before retiring to Blenheim in 1994. We both became involved with the local car club and John also helped run the snooker section at the Clubs of Marlborough, while I worked as a researcher and cataloguer at the local museum.
We had contemplated the move over to Australia for some time, and when we were the last of our family in New Zealand we thought it was time to go!
We arrived early this year and house sat for my brother who owns a home in Cranley. We fell in love with the Toowoomba area and decided this is where we wanted to stay, so we bought a car and house and the rest is history!
We stumbled upon Living Gems Toowoomba accidentally – we were looking at a different estate across the road. We couldn’t locate the sales office and that is when we saw Living Gems Toowoomba across the road, with our interest piqued we set off. The sales team showed us some pamphlets as we toured around the resort and we were sold! Everything fell into place wonderfully, we were seeking a larger home, but the two-bedroom Camelia design is what we settled on as it was already built.
We are very happy with our new home, I use the alfresco area as my conservatory and John loves the study nook which is now his home office. We both agree that the combined lounge, dining and kitchen offer a spacious design and it is so easy to live in.
We were really struggling to find a home that had everything that we wanted, but we found it here straight away. There are fans and ducted air conditioning all throughout the home and the bedroom which was a bonus for us! We haven’t needed to use the heating yet because the house stays so nice and warm, but we have tried out the gas fireplace to see how it works.
I have been enjoying swimming in the heated indoor pool and John enjoys the games room for snooker and cards. All the facilities here are such a great bonus – one of the selling points for us.
We have attended a few community events within the resort, it has been lovely meeting all the other homeowners here at Living Gems Toowoomba – we are thoroughly enjoying ourselves here.
Our family are now green with envy and are thinking of buying here as well!
For more information about Living Gems Toowoomba call 1800 348 977 or email shirley@livinggems.com.au.
This is a great way to add an extra ‘kick’ to your day – learn about five energy boosting foods that are guaranteed to give you more get up and go.
Bananas
Bananas are a nutritious and delicious fruit that hold endless benefits. As well as being a tasty snack, they are packed full of vitamins, minerals and fibre! In one fruit you will find potassium, magnesium, folate, vitamin b and c and antioxidants. To get the most out of a banana make sure to choose a lovely, yellow ripe fruit; the green, unripe fruit doesn’t have nearly as many benefits.
Honey
Isn’t it funny, how a bear likes honey. Honey is said to have many health benefits both internally and externally. Honey contains antioxidants and is considered an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. These properties are said to help give us an energy boost, assist with cough and throat irritation, strengthen the immune system, act as a probiotic and it can be moisturising and nourishing for the skin.
Apples
An apple a day is said to keep the doctor away, but how else do apples benefit us? Apples provide your body with energy, fibre, hydration, vitamins, iron and potassium. This fabulous combination, like the banana, makes it a great fruit to have when you’re feeling low on energy. We should eat two serves of fruit each day, so why not include an apple?
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are packed full of nutritional benefits making them our fourth favourite way to get your energy boost. They are high in protein, fibre, omega-3, antioxidants and nutrients. Make sure to soak chia seeds prior to eating them as they expand multiple times their size in water. Sprinkle these seeds on your morning yoghurt or smoothie, bake them in a muffin or mix with coconut milk to make a delicious pudding.
Green Tea
If you’re looking for an energy boost for your morning with less caffeine than coffee, then green tea is the answer. Green tea has around half the caffeine of coffee but still acts as a stimulant which could increase energy levels, concentration and mood. Green tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine which is said to increase brain activity. The combination of lower caffeine and L-theanine make it an effective energy boosting option.
If you’re considering right-sizing your lifestyle as part of your retirement plan, then the question of how to finance this next stage of life can be daunting for some.
It is an often-stated view that Baby Boomers are typically cash poor and asset rich, making right-sizing an attractive way to free up the equity in your home.
Living Gems General Manager Vlad Pullich, said that Opal by Living Gems is designed for active over 50s and offers a popular formula to home ownership which is beneficial financially and offers peace of mind to homeowners.
“Premium and affordable homes are available as part of a master planned community,” says Mr Pullich, “Homeowners can relax and enjoy the freedom of onsite management as well as the security of living within a gated resort.”
“Homes at Living Gems Toowoomba start at $350,000 and homes Opal by Living Gems start as low as $282,000. Buyers have the option of two or three-bedroom homes with two bathrooms and impressive interiors and stylish standard inclusions.”
“If the average family home sells for $450,000, buyers can use part of this equity to buy into a lifestyle resort and allow the remainder to work as an investment.”
Living Gems sales manager Victoria Dent said that each resort is located close to local amenities and picturesque day trip locations.
“Marcoola beach is only five minutes from Living Gems Pacific Paradise, one of Queensland’s best beaches. Homeowners also drive 30 minutes to reach Noosa and enjoy scenic walks through the National Park.”
“Living Gems Toowoomba is positioned in the beautiful Darling Downs region, home to the Toowoomba Flower Festival and an array of wonderful parks and gardens.”
“The Glass House Mountains are a short 20-minute drive from Living Gems Caboolture, a truly breathtaking destination. Homeowners also have easy access to Brisbane City which is 55 minutes from the resort.”
“Homeowners at Opal by Living Gems enjoy the resort walking trails that follow Quinzeh Creek and loop around the resort lake. Mount Tamborine is also within 30 minutes of the resort.”
“The premium, high-set country clubs are the centrepiece of each resort and has been designed on a grand scale. The country clubs are the central hub of activity, catering to a myriad of recreational activities.”
“The facilities include the following: a bar, lounge area, ballroom with dance floor, theatre stage, change rooms, commercial kitchen, meeting room, arts and crafts room, workshop, cinema, music room, hair salon, library, games room consultation room, BBQ pavilion, lawn bowls, heated swimming pool, spa, sauna and a tennis court.”
“Homes at the resort are stamp duty exempt, also, there are no deferred management fees to worry about when purchasing a home with Living Gems.”
To book a personal tour of the resort and display homes call 1800 785 594 or email info@livinggems.com.au
It’s time to treat yourself with a relaxing spa day. These four scrubs and masks are a great way to rejuvenate yourself. So, grab some cucumber slices, wrap up your hair, kick up your feet, pop on some tunes and relax.
Avocado and Honey
Avocado is fantastic for your skin, it is full of antioxidants, vitamins C and E and moisturising fatty acids. Pop on this mask to rehydrate your skin; the ingredients will leave you with soft skin and a natural glow. Paste this mask on and leave for 15 – 30 mins, rinse with warm water and a soft face cloth.
Ingredients:
1/2 an avocado
2 tbsp honey
1/2 coconut oil
Method: Step 1: Mush the avocado into a paste. Step 2: Add the honey and coconut oil and stir to combine.
Soothing Oatmeal Mask
The combination of oats and honey is not only good for your insides, but also for your skin! Oats have soothing, cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising properties. This combined with the antioxidants in honey make this mask a must-try for beautiful skin. Pop this mask on for 15 – 30 mins, rinse with warm water in a circular motion to gently exfoliate the skin.
Ingredients:
1/2 C oats
3/4 C hot water
1 tbsp honey
Method: Step 1: Soak oats in water to create oatmeal. Step 2: add honey and stir to combine.
Coffee Scrub
Finely ground coffee beans are a great way to exfoliate your face and body. A great way to reuse old coffee grounds instead of putting them straight in the bin. The honey or oil help to moisturise and smooth skin. Pop a teaspoon full in your hands and gently rub onto your face or body in small circular motions. Rinse with a soft cloth and warm water.
Ingredients:
1/4 C coffee grounds
3 tbsp honey or olive oil
Method: Step 1: mix coffee grounds and honey/ oil in a small bowl
Sea Salt Scrub
A simple face and body scrub that will gently exfoliate the skin while adding moisture, leaving your skin soft and happy. Pop a teaspoon full in your hands and gently rub onto your face or body in small circular motions. Rinse with a soft cloth or warm water.
In the new of today, we hear regularly how being physically active and maintaining muscle strength is an essential part of living a happy and healthy lifestyle. Staying active can enhance balance, improve muscle tone and help us live longer and happier lives. Many studies suggest that just 30 minutes a day of exercise can help to keep our bodies fit and healthy.
Living Gems lifestyle resorts are designed with active over 50s in mind. The vast range of premium resort facilities available to residents can assist them in reaching these precious 30 minutes of activity a day. Homeowners stay active and healthy by using facilities such as the heated swimming pool, gym, tennis, and lawn bowls, just to name a few.
Outdoor classes are regularly organised by residents to make use of these fantastic facilities and resort grounds. Walking groups tour around the resort, aqua aerobics classes take place regularly as well as tennis tournaments. Homeowners of neighbouring Living Gems resorts even go head-to-head in lawn bowls competitions, using the state-of-the-art bowling green located in every resort.
Living Gems lifestyle resorts pride themselves on accommodating those from all walks of life, but the one thing all our residents have in common is a phenomenal sense of community and a wonderful welcoming attitude. Our resorts are open to all like-minded individuals who wish to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle – without breaking the bank.
Our pet-friendly and gated communities offer homes with two or three bedrooms, all with premium inclusions as standard. There is so much on offer; residents are truly spoilt for choice!
Homeowners can relax in the library, join friends in the music room, take up art and crafts or enjoy happy hour in the country club all while taking in great conversation and good company. There are so many possibilities at Living Gems resorts – all they need is you!
For more information or to receive an information pack, call 1800 785 594 or email info@livinggems.com.au.
Bring the outdoors in with these six great tips on keeping indoor plants.
Why have indoor plants?
Plants purify our air and help us to breathe easier. Surrounding yourself with indoor plants is great way to maximise the health benefits plants offer us.
What Plant’s should you choose?
There are a large variety of plants that flourish indoors, as long as they receive the light and water they require.
Our favourite indoor plants include:
The Bamboo Palm is a great indoor option – this variety is low maintenance and make a lovely feature in the home.
The Rubber plant is a timeless favourite, it is tough and hardy option that do not require continuous direct sunlight.
Succulents are also a fabulous indoor plant, they do not need large amounts of sunlight or watering.
The Peace Lily is easy to care for; it is hardy, forgiving and will let you know when it needs watering; when the leaves are drooping.
Watering
Watering your indoor plants is a very important part of ensuring their survival. Be mindful to avoid both over watering and under watering. A good rule of thumb: place your thumb in the pot up to the first knuckle, near the edge of the pot. If the soil is dry, it is time for some water.
Drainage
Ensure that your pot has drainage holes in the bottom and place the pot on a saucer. Adding pebbles or bark to the bottom of your pot (about 2cm) will prevent the plant from sitting in the water in the saucer. Drainage is important to prevent the roots from rotting.
Fertiliser and soil composition
To ensure that your plant drains effectively, as well as pebbles or bark, you should use a good potting mix from your local store. You will also need to fertilise your indoor plant to help create a lush, attractive display. Fertilise according to requirements of your plant type.
Sunlight
Keep your plant in a suitable location of your home based on their sunlight requirements. Don’t leave a plant in direct sunlight that requires shady areas and vice versa.
If you’re considering right-sizing your lifestyle as part of your retirement plan, then the question of how to finance this next stage of life can be daunting for some.
It is an often-stated view that Baby Boomers are typically cash poor and asset rich, making right-sizing an attractive way to free up the equity in your home.
Living Gems General Manager Vlad Pullich, said that Opal by Living Gems is designed for active over 50s and offers a popular formula to home ownership which is beneficial financially and offers peace of mind to homeowners.
“Premium and affordable homes are available as part of a master planned community,” says Mr Pullich, “Homeowners can relax and enjoy the freedom of onsite management as well as the security of living within a gated resort.”
“Homes at Opal by Living Gems start as low as $282,000 and offer impressive interiors and stylish standard inclusions. Buyers have the option of two or three-bedroom homes with two bathrooms and a double garage.”
“If the average family home sells for $450,000 buyers can use part of this equity to buy into a lifestyle resort and allow the remainder to work as an investment.”
Living Gems sales manager Dennis Ring said that resort features a stunning lake and parkland area which forms half of the 18-hectare resort.
“Homeowners enjoy the walking trails that follow the Quinzeh Creek and loop around the resort lake. Birds, turtles and other wildlife are abundant and assist to create the country-style ambiance unique to this resort.”
“This stand-out feature serves as a wonderful recreational space for homeowners to enjoy a number of outdoor activities such as golf, croquet, tennis, swimming and lawn bowls,” says Mr Ring, “Homeowners also enjoy taking their furry companions to exercise in the dog off-leash area.”
“Opal by Living Gems offers a number of indoor facilities within the fantastic country club such as the cinema, games room, hair salon, library, music room, workshop, art and craft studio, bar, ballroom and lounge.”
“Homes at the resort are stamp duty exempt, also, there are no deferred management fees to worry about when purchasing a home at Opal by Living Gems.”
“Homeowners enjoy the convenience of local shopping with a Woolworths, medical centre, chemist, newsagent and bus stop within easy walking distance of the resort.”
Opal by Living Gems is open seven days from 10am to 4pm. To book a personal resort and display home tour call Dennis on (07) 5547 2333 or pop in any day to 42 Quinzeh Creek Road, Logan Village.
Homeowners Jan and Barry Smith have spent their working lives in a nomadic fashion, moving all over New South Wales, from Boorowa to Dubbo and everywhere in between. 12 months ago, they made the move to Living Gems Pacific Paradise and aren’t planning on leaving anytime soon. Jan tells us more about their lifestyle since moving in to the resort.
We moved around plenty whilst Barry was working as a banker, mine accountant and school bursar and myself as a teacher in New South Wales. Eventually we settled in Batemans Bay and enjoy the coastal lifestyle there for 13 years until we decided to make the move up the Sunshine Coast. We lived in Buderim for three and a half years before discovering Living Gems Pacific Paradise.
My sister was already looking to buy here at Living Gems Pacific Paradise, so we thought we would come and have a look around. Barry and I decided that this would be the perfect place to live and we’ve been thoroughly enjoying the lifestyle ever since. We both love the incredible sense of community here; everyone is very friendly, social and supportive. We chose the right resort.
My sister, Helen and I have been very involved with the social committee, the committee was only in its early stages when we first moved here, but since the opening of our country club at the end of 2017 numbers have been growing.
As chair of the committee I have been busy organising everything from craft groups to monthly catered meals. Our committee recently organised a Biggest Morning Tea event to help raise funds for cancer.
Cancer has touched my family many times, so this is a cause that is close to my heart. I had previously held the event when living in Batemans Bay and raised $17,000 over five years, so I thought let’s see what we can do at Living Gems.
All the homeowners provided the food; we had sandwiches and cakes and opened the bar to serve champagne and orange juice. Local businesses donated prizes that we could raffle off and, in the end, we raised $1140 – more than twice our goal! 60 homeowners and friends attended, it was a wonderful way to raise awareness and a donation for the cause.
Last Sunday we fired up the industrial ovens in the country club, greased the egg rings, lined our baking trays and out came delicious bacon and egg rolls – a masterpiece that we decided should be repeated every month.
There is always something happening at our little resort. We all enjoy “Friday at Five”, the monthly happy hour event hosted in the country club. Members of the social committee help out by serving up the drinks at the bar. Every month we have a lady’s day out in the resort bus, the last trip was to Montville including morning tea at Secrets on the Lake.
Next month, we will have Christmas in July and a band will be coming to play 60s rock music on 13 July for our Black Friday themed night.
It is wonderful to be surrounded by friends and family, enjoying great food, drink and entertainment. Barry and I are hardly ever home!
More information
1800 785 594
victoria@livinggems.com.au
Regardless of whether you’re Googling to find the best agent in town, or you’re happy to list with someone you’ve used before, we’ve compiled a list of helpful questions to get your sale campaign heading in the right direction.
Question 1: What is the status of the current market?
Knowing if the current market at its peak or at the very bottom, rising or declining or if it’s stable is very helpful in accurately predicting buyer behaviours. For example: if you’re selling at the very bottom of a stable market, buyers will be looking to secure a contract quickly before the market starts to recover again, as this will maximise their capital growth.
Question 2: How does my suburb perform differently to the neighbouring suburbs?
Finding out what market trends are unique to your suburb can help to identify your target demographic, as well as track the progress of your sale campaign more accurately.
If the majority of comparable properties are being purchased by investors and selling in less than 35 days on market, you’ll know where to direct your advertising budget. This also arms you with a good yardstick for the sale campaign timeline.
Question 3: Recommended method of sale for my home – Private Treaty (with a price) or Auction?
Make sure you fully understand the reasons your agent has recommended a particular method of sale, as it is not always best to go with what we as the seller feel more comfortable with.
Question 4: Agent market share and performance?
Your agent should be able to demonstrate experience and proven performance as this is essential to achieving the best possible result. For instance: An agent new to the industry won’t be able to provide data or client testimonials from previous sales.
Question 5: Commission and marketing costs?
This is without a doubt the most difficult area to compare as not all commission & marketing are created equal and as the old saying goes “you get what you pay for”. The ‘cheapest’ agent who ‘pays for theadvertising’ can sometimes be the most expensive agent. The most important figure to focus on is the profit, the amount you have left in your pocket at the end of the transaction
Do your own online research:
Herron Todd White property report – Month in review
Last year, Relay for Life team Opal by Living Gems, raised $7500 for cancer research. This year the team have started their fundraising efforts early in hopes to surpass last year’s donation.
Living Gems residents and team captain Nola Green said last year they hadn’t heard of the Relay for Life until attending an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event.
“After speaking to some representatives from Cancer Council, we came home and put together a team of fifty. We didn’t start fundraising until May 2017 but still managed to collect $7500, which we were very happy with.”
“This year we have renewed vigour, we achieved second place in the fundraising last year, so this year we aim to be first.”
At the closing ceremony of last year’s event, the Opal by Living Gems team were also presented the ‘Spirit of Relay’ trophy, which is awarded to an individual or team that displayed exemplary effort.
“Last year was a fantastic weekend and everyone who came enjoyed themselves, we are all looking forward to this year’s event.”
“I find Relay for Life the perfect fundraising initiative as it is for all cancers and the 18 hour relay event is a good way to show that cancer never sleeps.”
“There are so many people in our society that have been touched by cancer, it is a terrible disease, it makes me happy to know I can help.”
The team have been hosting events since the beginning of the year to kick start their fundraising initiatives.
“We have been hosting monthly BBQs in the Opal by Living Gems resort and we recently held our ‘Swimming for Life’ event which was great fun, residents competed in individual and team events.”
“You can come and support our team at the upcoming Opal by Living Gems Open Day, on 29 April, where we will be selling raffle tickets and sharing information about Cancer Council.”
“I would like to thank all the residents and Living Gems management for their continued support this year, so far we have raised $2000,” says Nola.
The team will complete a walking relay around a set course in Jimboomba for 18 hours, from 3pm Saturday, 6 October to 9am Sunday, 7 October.
Relay for Life is a fun and moving overnight event hosted by Cancer Council that aims to raise vital funds for Cancer Council’s research, prevention and support services.
You can donate to the Opal by Living Gems team via the Relay for Life website and selecting their team page, you will receive a receipt for your donation.
For more information about Relay for Life visit www.relayforlife.org.au or for more information about Living Gems resorts call 1800 785 594.
Queensland based company Living Gems is shaking up the way Australians over 50 experience their golden years.
Living Gems General Manager Vlad Pullich said that baby boomers are demanding higher standards in over 50s living options with buyers focused on an active and social lifestyle.
“Lifestyle resorts offer a new style of living that exceeds the current demand from the over 50s market.”
“The premium, high set country club is the centrepiece of the community and has been designed on a grand scale. The country club is a hub of activity, catering to a myriad of recreational activities.
“Our newer resorts are designed with over 20 different facilities to accommodate a healthy, social and active lifestyle.”
“The facilities include the following: a bar, lounge area, ballroom with dance floor, theatre stage, change rooms, commercial kitchen, meeting room, arts and crafts room, workshop, cinema, music room, hair salon, library, games room, consultation room, BBQ pavilion, lawn bowls, heated swimming pool, spa, tennis court.”
“The country club is finished with a high level of luxury inclusions and no expense has been spared,” says Mr Pullich.
Living Gems Sales Manager Victoria Dent said that each resort has a dedicated social committee that organise regular activities for homeowners to enjoy.
“The heated pool is one of the most popular facilities that homeowners can take advantage of all year round. Activities like aqua aerobics is a great activity to keep your muscles and bones strong.”
“Living Gems resorts offer something for everyone, we understand that everyone has their own hobbies and interests, so we do our best to accommodate this.”
Two residents are working on a project in the workshop at the Ruby by Living Gems resort.
“At any one of our resorts you will find social groups for knitting, quilting and other arts and crafts, as well as for mah-jong, cards and scrabble. Walking, tennis and lawn bowls are also among the most popular.”
“This style of living appeals to baby boomers as they are a very social demographic. Homeowners will often say to me that a short stroll to the letterbox with their furry companion can soon turn into a much longer affair as everyone will stop to say hello.”
For those planning their retirement, the question of how to finance this next stage of life can be daunting for some.
While the government offers the Age Pension, $826.20 for singles and $1245.60 for couples paid fortnightly, this is not always necessarily enough to live on.
There are a number of options to get extra cash in your pocket, such as a reverse mortgage, but is this the best solution?
It is an often-stated view that Baby Boomers are typically cash poor and asset rich, making right-sizing an attractive way to free up the equity in your home.
Right-sizing is the process of finding a home that better suits your wants and needs. This process offers the opportunity to free up your time and to focus on the things that are most important to you.
Over 50s resort-style communities are among some of the most popular retirement living accommodation options in Australia. There are an overwhelming number to choose from with close to 200 communities in Australia.
Lifestyle resorts across Australia offer different styles of living from multi-story apartments to duplexes and full-sized homes at prices for every budget.
Living Gems lifestyle resorts offer a popular formula to home ownership; they are beneficial financially and offer homeowners peace of mind.
“We make dreams possible because we make them affordable.”
Living Gems is a Queensland based, family owned and operated lifestyle resort company, with eight resort locations across south-east Queensland.
Living Gems general manager, Vlad Pullich says free standing homes in the Toowoomba and Logan Village resorts start as low as $350,000 and offer an impressive set of standard inclusions.
“Our aim is to provide a resort lifestyle for active over 50s, seniors and retirees which is why we offer such an extensive range of premium facilities in our new resorts.”
“The recent opening of the multi-million-dollar country club in our Toowoomba resort is an exciting milestone. It is the newest addition to the resort”
“The country club is fitted with a lounge, bar, ballroom and a cinema.”
“Other facilities include a heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, BBQ pavilion, gym, bowling green, tennis court, games room, hair salon, library, music room, workshop plus an art and craft studio.”
“With everything you need in one place you don’t have any hefty membership fees or travel fees that other gyms and sporting clubs would normally charge,” says Mr Pullich.
Living Gems Sales Manager Victoria Dent said that residents at the Pacific Paradise resort certainly make the most of every day.
“It is wonderful to see everyone enjoying all the resort has to offer; be that lawn bowls competitions, tennis matches, aqua aerobics, leisurely strolls around the resort or happy hour drinks with friends.”
“You occasionally go quite some time without seeing certain residents as they’re always off travelling the world,” says Ms Dent.
Living Gems residents David and Beth Nielsen said moving into Pacific Paradise allowed them to downsize from their former canal-front property on the Sunshine Coast, and it has freed them up to do more travelling.
“We felt that it was time to downsize, and by living here, at a turnkey resort, we knew we could go off travelling even more than we had in the past.”
“We have been on 70 cruises spanning every continent apart from Antarctica. We travel to see this fascinating world in which we live, and we are somewhat addicted to it,” says David.
Ms Dent said that residents at Living Gems Pacific Paradise all agree that they have found their place in the sun.
“As well as enjoying meals in the country club and BBQs by the pool on a Sunday afternoon, residents enjoy getting out and exploring the local area for the perfect place to eat.”
“We are surrounded by an abundance of restaurants serving up delightful food that would make even the most accomplished foodie sing.”
“The North Shore Tavern is only a 10-minute walk from the resort if you’re after pub food, or you can travel ten minutes by car to reach The Loose Goose, Nouveau Bar or Lily’s on the Lagoon in Twin Waters.”
“The Piano Bar in Maroochydore offers a lovely atmosphere and most nights you can enjoy live jazz music. Make sure to try one of The Piano Bar’s signature cocktails,” says Ms Dent.
With all this at your fingertips you can be sure you’ll live everyday like you’re on holiday at Living Gems Pacific Paradise.
For more information call 1800 785 694, visit our website www.livinggems.com.au or send an email to info@livinggems.com.au.
Living Gems Toowoomba’s multi-million dollar country club is the newest addition to the resort-style retirement village.
It was recently unveiled to the residents of Living Gems and members of the public will be able to view it at a celebratory open day this month.
The completed country club has residents excited.
The country club if fitted with a lounge, bar, ballroom and a cinema.
Other facilities include a heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, BBQ pavilion, gym, bowling green, tennis court, games room, hair salon, library, music room, workshop plus an art and craft studio.
Living Gems residents testing out the new tennis court.
Living Gems General Manager Vlad Pullich said Living Gems have brought a high quality housing and lifestyle product to Toowoomba.
“Living Gems suits the requirements of the locals and allows them to stay close to their social networks.”
“The recent opening of the multi-million-dollar country club in our Toowoomba resort is an exciting milestone.
“Our aim is to provide a resort lifestyle for active over 50s, seniors and retirees which is why we offer such an extensive range of premium facilities in our new resorts.”
A game of pool with friends.
The region’s residents will be able to view the country club and resort’s facilities on Saturday, April 21 from 10am to 3pm at 500 South St, Glenvale.
For more information please contact 1800 785 594, visit our website www.livinggems.com.au or email us at info@livinggems.com.au.
Living Gems residents around south-east Queensland are getting set for the Commonwealth Games. Over 22 home owners will be participating in the Commonwealth Games 2018 in a multitude of ways.
In the middle of it all are our Living Gems Gold Coast volunteers Mervyn and Betty Handley, Helen Dwyer and Bill Elliot, as well as Baton Bearer Leonie Thompson.
Volunteers are from left to right: Mervyn and Betty Handley, Leonie Thompson, Helen Dwyer and Bill Elliott.Leonie Thompson carrying the baton through the Labrador segment.
For 70-year-old Leonie Thompson, age is just a number, and won’t hold her back from her yearly marathons and boxing hobby.
“I love to exercise – running being my favourite. I have attended 173 Park Run’s with a PB of 33.27 minutes, but I tend to average 34-35 minutes,” says Ms Thompson.
“Volunteering has always been a big part of my life, I have spent the last 20 years attending fund raising marathons for various charities.”
“It was so exciting, and I felt so proud to participate in the Queen’s Baton Relay event. My whole family, my gems and my jewels, were there to watch as I carried the baton through the Labrador segment on Easter Monday.”
Leonie Thompson sharing the excitement of the day with family.
“I am also really looking forward to participating in the five kilometre Gold Run! I get a lovely golden shirt to wear and at the end of the course we can cheer on the GC2018 Marathon runners at the closing stage of their run.”
Julie Harrison ready for action as a fleet driver volunteer.
Sapphire by Living Gems resident Julie Harrison has been working two days with one day off as a fleet driver. She has been driving GC2018 officials around since 20 March and will finish on 18 April.
“I decided to volunteer for this once in a life time opportunity to tackle something exciting and different. It is quite an honour to have been selected as one of the 15,000 volunteers from the 40,000 that applied.”
“I have to give full marks to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC), everything has been really well organised, and I am really enjoying the experience. I have had the opportunity to meet so many different people from all around the world,” says Ms Harrison.
Keith Revell
Keith Revell, baton bearer in the Queen’s Baton Relay, tells of the exciting and exhilarating experience carrying the baton through the Beenleigh segment on Easter Sunday.
“It was such an honour to be nominated, and then to be chosen, from so many other very worthy nominees. It was a privilege that was very humbling.”
“To be in the bus talking with the other runners was inspiring and to hear so many uplifting stories of their contributions to improve their communities.”
Keith Revell surrounded by family and friends.
Keith says as well as participating in the Queen’s Baton Relay he will also be volunteering at the games along with four other home owners from Opal by Living Gems.
“At Opal there are four residents volunteering in various capacities at the Commonwealth games, myself as a fleet driver based at Fleet Depot Central for all our visiting officials and dignitaries; my wife, Gwen as a commonwealth games association assistant based at the Athletes Games Village; Lyn Yensch also as a fleet driver, based at the Athletes Village and Wendy Broxham who is based in the Hockey venue.”
Wendy Broxham shares in the excitement of the games saying just a glimpse at the website stirs the adrenaline.
“There will be fireworks. There will be Ferocity. Hockey is 60 minutes of full-throttle sporting action,” says Ms Broxham.
Thirteen residents from Ruby by Living Gems will also be active volunteers through the games, two of the thirteen have been sworn to secrecy about their uniform as they are participating in the closing ceremony.
The Living Gems volunteers selected for the 2018 Commonwealth Games are among 15,000 of more than 45,000 applicants.
From left to right: Graham Douglass, Jenny Hawkins, Del Barbour, John Lennon, Doug Berry, Helen Berry, David Emmerson, Trish Allen, Brian Allen and Kay Lennon. Absent were: Heather Redman, Colin Gough & Eileen Gough.
Often referred to as downsizing, right-sizing is the process of finding a home that better suits your wants and needs. We prefer this term over downsizing, as it suggests you are giving up something, rather than trying something new.
There are plenty of moments throughout our lives where we will have recognised the need to right-size our home. We make space in the beginning for our children; we collect so many furnishings and items as they grow up, that by the time they leave the nest we’re left asking ourselves, what now?
Right-sizing offers you the opportunity to free up your time and to focus on the things that are most important to you. Be that an old hobby you’d like to start again, or something different altogether.
Image: Living Gems homes offer luxurious, low maintenance homes perfect for right-sizing
There are so many benefits to picking up where you are and moving into a space that better caters to your lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to try something new; move to that countryside suburb, or that breezy coastal town you’ve always loved.
Embrace the fear of missing out and use it as a motivational tool to push yourself to new heights; ask yourself what your heart desires.
It is important to take care to choose a home that you could see yourself in for a long time – moving is not anybody’s favourite task.
Right-sizing is a great opportunity to sort through the things you have collected throughout your life, keeping the things most important to you and getting rid of the rest.
Rather than a large, high-maintenance, suburban home with all the trimmings – opt for a home in a community with these facilities included. Living Gems Pacific Paradise offers residents all the facilities they could desire, without the hassle of maintenance. Relax in the spa, swim laps in the heated swimming pool, work out in the gym, start a new project in the hobby and craft room or put on your dancing shoes and join in the many social events.
Living Gems has described the practices of retirement village operators exposed in the media as “unfortunate”, and says that in contrast, Living Gems is a shining example of an ethical over 50s resort business.
A recent Four Corners program highlighted the business practices of a retirement village operator, which charges large exit fees and allegedly strives for high resident turnover.
Living Gems General Manager says it is unfortunate that people who are in a sensitive time at their lives are put in the position as has been described in the media.
Congratulations to Patricia Simmons who is celebrating 20 years working with Living Gems!
Patricia is our lovely Administrations Manager. When she started working at Living Gems, she was the only person in her department. Now the team consists of eight people!
Luxurious Mercedes Sprinter Transfer MWB Minibuses have now been delivered to Living Gems Residential Resorts at Pacific Paradise, Caboolture and Glenvale in Toowoomba. The 12-seater resort buses are ready to hit the road for day trips and shopping sprees. Resort managers say driver and passenger reports are excellent. Looking after our homeowners is one of the keys to Living Gems’ success, the new buses will take people out and about in comfort.
