Construction starts on 295-home Townsville over-50s

Construction has commenced on a new $210 million over-50s community in Bohle Plains, Townsville – one of the first projects of its kind to be delivered in the North Queensland city since the 1970s.

Townsville City Council Mayor Nick Dametto joined Living Gems CEO Anthony Puljich and homebuyers Rhonda and Terry Sanderson to turn the first sod on Living Gems Harris Crossing today (Tuesday, 2 December).

The gated community will feature 295 low-maintenance homes designed to meet the needs of the region’s ageing population, where one in three residents is over 50, while helping to free family-sized housing for younger generations.

Construction also commenced on the first of $16 million of community amenities, designed to help residents stay active, healthy and social, including a resort-style pool, pickleball court, golf simulator, bowling alley, bar, cinema, yoga space and RV parking.

About 100 construction workers will be employed at any one time to bring Living Gems Harris Crossing to life over the next five years.

Cr Dametto said he was honoured to join in turning the first sod for a development that was set to diversify housing options for the Townsville community.

“It is no secret Townsville is growing at a rapid rate and a development like this, where 295 homes are set to be constructed can only be a good thing,” Cr Dametto said.

“Not only will this house our community members, whether they be new to our city, or even downsizing – but this development is set to inject $210 million into our economy and employ dozens of local trades to get the job done.

“This kind of diversity in housing is a great example of providing our community a space where they feel comfortable to age in place, while still maintaining the creature comforts of the family home.”

Living Gems Harris Crossing is being developed on a 13.6-hectare parcel at 99 Hogarth Drive, in Maidment Group’s Harris Crossing masterplanned community in the growing western corridor.

Townsville City Council approved the project in May, with local civil construction business, Mendi Constructions, completing the first phase of site work.

Mr Puljich said the start of construction on the first homes signalled a major milestone for Living Gems Harris Crossing, with residents anticipated to begin moving in mid-2026.

“The early response to this new community has been phenomenal,” he said.

“As one of the first land lease projects in more than 50 years in Townsville, it represents new choice for North Queenslanders and has appealed to right-sizers from across the State.

“Now the community is officially launched, and the first homes and facilities are under construction, we’re anticipating enquiries will only continue to gather pace.”

The first stage of 64 homes is now selling at Living Gems Harris Crossing, priced from $715,000. Four designs are available, each featuring either two-bedrooms or two-bedrooms plus a multi-purpose room and a modern, open-plan design.
Rhonda and Terry Sanderson are among the early purchasers in the community. The couple relocated from Victoria about three years ago to be closer to family and said they were looking forward to the lifestyle on offer.

“We’re excited about the community it will offer us, with everything on site, both in terms of the activities and the people,” said Rhonda.

“It is amazing what is available, covering everyone’s needs, with great security for those in our age group as well.

“We have a caravan and travel a fair bit, so you have the option to lock up and go anytime you want, knowing your home will be looked after and secure.”

Mr Puljich said access to the onsite resort-style amenities was a significant drawcard across the board, as was the land lease model, where purchasers own their home and rent the land.

“Community is the central part of land lease developments, with the significant onsite amenities delivering an exceptional lifestyle, promoting a healthy and connected way of living for over 50s,” he said.

A weekly site fee covers maintenance, management and onsite facilities, with eligible buyers able to access Government rent assistance. Unlike traditional retirement villages, there are no entry or exit fees, and buyers do not pay stamp duty.
In November, Living Gems also received approval for a second Townsville community — a $180 million, 328-home over-50s resort at Gumlow, in Maidment Group’s MacKinnon’s Reach. No timeframe has been set for its launch as yet.

The family-owned developer has pioneered land lease living for more than four decades, delivering over 2,000 homes across Queensland, and is currently developing new communities in Rockhampton and Moreton Bay.
For more information on Living Gems Harris Crossing, stop by the sales office at 99 Hogarth Drive, Bohle Plains, open between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday or by appointment, call 1800 954 323 or visit www.livinggems.com.au/locations/harris-crossing/