News
First look: Living Gems Rockhampton’s spectacular Country Club revealed
30
Oct
A private Country Club, world-class facilities and a lifestyle that's anything but ordinary. Take a first look at what's coming to Living Gems Rockhampton.
Something extraordinary is taking shape at Living Gems Rockhampton, and we're giving you an exciting first glimpse of what's to come. Brand-new architectural renders have revealed the impressive design of the resort's future Country Club, showcasing beautifully appointed interiors, sophisticated leisure spaces and a whole new standard of over 50s living. And with the spectacular Summer House preparing to welcome homeowners in time for Christmas, there's plenty to get excited about.
A little luxury. A lot to love.
Forget stuffy country clubs and formal dress codes. This is country club living, the Living Gems way. Beautifully appointed interiors, inviting lounges and thoughtfully designed spaces will create an atmosphere that's sophisticated yet wonderfully relaxed. Pull up a chair, catch up with friends or simply enjoy a little time to yourself. Whether you're dropping in for a quick coffee or making an afternoon of it,...
29
Oct
Less work, more living: Will and Tina’s next chapter at Moreton Bay
After a lifetime of working hard, Will and Tina are looking forward to something a little different. More day trips, holidays to plan and the chance to enjoy life at their own pace.
For Will and Tina, moving to Living Gems Moreton Bay has been the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Like many Australians in their 50s and beyond, they've spent years juggling work and everyday responsibilities. Now, they're ready to make the most of the time ahead. "We've been really hard workers all of our life," says Tina. It's a sentiment many people will recognise. Between work, household responsibilities and everything else life throws your way, the things you really want to do can often end up waiting. As Will and Tina explain, "Then that stops you from doing all of the things in life that you should be doing every day, like enjoying life."
"So now we're wanting to start doing our day trips and, you know, thinking about holidays and everything. And that's what we're...
19
Oct
Harris Crossing Spring Open Day Draws Over 300 Visitors for a Day of Fun in Townsville
More than 300 visitors, delicious food, live music and smiles all round! Living Gems Harris Crossing came alive on Saturday, 17 October, as locals and their families gathered for a Spring Open Day filled with entertainment, community spirit and a taste of the resort lifestyle on offer.
The atmosphere was lively from the moment the gates opened, with early queues and visitors making the most of the opportunity to explore the resort, enjoy a bite to eat and discover what life could look like at one of Townsville's newest over-50s lifestyle communities.
Live music set the mood throughout the day, with delicious food served up by Michel's Catering, freshly brewed coffee from Migoo 'The Croffle House' and refreshing frozen yoghurt treats from Crave Mobile Frozen Yogurt.
Lawn games brought out a little friendly competition, while Gallivanter Travel was also on hand to inspire future adventures and highlight the freedom of the lock-and-leave lifestyle available to Living Gems residents.
Even the weather played along, with...
15
Oct
Moreton Bay Spring Open Day Delivers a Taste of Resort-Style Living
Spring sunshine, great food, live entertainment and a whole lot of excitement. Living Gems Moreton Bay was the place to be on Saturday, October 10, as hundreds of visitors joined us for our Spring Open Day.
With coffee flowing from Mowbray Coffee, delicious bites served up by Good 2 Eat and an acoustic duo setting the scene, there was plenty to enjoy. Between catching up with friends, exploring our stunning display villas and soaking up the atmosphere, visitors got a taste of the lifestyle that makes Living Gems Moreton Bay such a special place to call home.
There was also a special surprise for the Rugby League fans as footy legends Chad Townsend and Denan Kemp streamed the SEN Saturday League Kick Off broadcast live from Villa 2!
Set in the heart of Burpengary East, mere minutes from the highway, Living Gems Moreton Bay offers beautifully designed villas and will boast access to an impressive private country club featuring a heated swimming pool and spa,...
15
Oct
Moreton Bay Spring Open Day Delivers a Taste of Resort-Style Living
Spring sunshine, great food, live entertainment and a whole lot of excitement. Living Gems Moreton Bay was the place to be on Saturday, October 10, as hundreds of visitors joined us for our Spring Open Day.
With coffee flowing from Mowbray Coffee, delicious bites served up by Good 2 Eat and an acoustic duo setting the scene, there was plenty to enjoy. Between catching up with friends, exploring our stunning display villas and soaking up the atmosphere, visitors got a taste of the lifestyle that makes Living Gems Moreton Bay such a special place to call home.
There was also a special surprise for the Rugby League fans as footy legends Chad Townsend and Denan Kemp streamed the SEN Saturday League Kick Off broadcast live from Villa 2!
Set in the heart of Burpengary East, mere minutes from the highway, Living Gems Moreton Bay offers beautifully designed villas and will boast access to an impressive private country club featuring a heated swimming pool and spa,...
12
Oct
Rockhampton Spring Open Day: A Day to Remember
“It just looks stunning!” “There’s so much space.” “I love the walk-in pantry.” The brand new Living Gems Rockhampton display villas have been the talk of the town since the active over-50s resorts threw open the gates for a Spring Open Day earlier this month.
More than 250 people showed up to envisage in-person how their lifestyle could look like at the Parkhurst site. Three gorgeous, fully-furnished display homes were available to view on the appointed tours, showcasing the different floorplans and colour schemes, as well as the luxurious fixtures, appliances and finishes that come standard at Living Gems resorts.
When not exploring the villas, visitors were treated to live entertainment - brightly coloured hula dancers and a soulful acoustic singer - as they made their way leisurely around the event precinct to take a sneak peek at the Summer House and enjoy a bite to eat. A coffee van ensured everyone was well caffeinated, while others sat down with their curated...
23
Sep
A milestone moment for our Moreton Bay Country Club
It was a milestone worth celebrating at Living Gems Moreton Bay last week, as current and future residents and special guests came together to officially mark the start of construction on the community’s $15 million Country Club.
Under sunny Moreton Bay skies, City of Moreton Bay Councillor Mark Booth and Living Gems CEO Anthony Puljich were joined by residents John Pascoe and Neil McLoughlin to turn the first sod on the much-anticipated facility, which is set to become the social and recreational heart of the growing Burpengary East community.
A great group of current and future residents joined the occasion, hearing addresses from Cr Booth and Mr Puljich before gathering for food, drinks and the chance to meet some of the people they’ll soon be calling neighbours.
For Mr Puljich, the occasion offered a glimpse of exactly what the Country Club is being created for.
“The Country Club will be a home away from home for the community; a place that will become its...
15
Sep
Beyond the front gate: Building better connections in Rockhampton
There’s a lot more to building a new community than what happens inside the front gate. At Living Gems Rockhampton, work has been progressing on a major upgrade to Norman Road – an important infrastructure project improving accessibility, safety and connectivity in the growing Parkhurst area. The $8 million Norman Road infrastructure upgrade is being delivered by Living Gems in partnership with Rockhampton Regional Council, funded with $4.3 million support from the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund. The project includes significant improvements to a critical 350-metre stretch of Norman Road bordering Living Gems Rockhampton, Parkhurst State School, Parkhurst Town Centre and established residential areas. Works include road and intersection upgrades, traffic lights and signage, as well as upgraded drainage and stormwater infrastructure. The Residential Activation Fund is supporting the delivery of critical infrastructure needed to unlock new housing across Queensland, including the 505 homes planned for Living Gems Rockhampton. The benefits extend beyond Living Gems, improving connections for residents living between Boundary Road and Olive...
11
Aug
Living Gems Rockhampton welcomes its first residents while construction ramps up
Our first residents are officially at home at Living Gems Rockhampton, marking an exciting new chapter for our growing community just six months after construction began. With more villas rising each week and new homeowners preparing to move in, what was a construction site only months ago is quickly transforming into a vibrant new neighbourhood. One of the resort’s most anticipated spaces, the Summer House precinct, is also making significant progress. With roofing now complete and windows being installed, it’s becoming easier to picture residents relaxing by the pool, enjoying a drink at the swim-up bar and spending time with friends in the entertaining spaces. Another defining feature is also nearing completion, the resort’s impressive entry statement. Designed to create a welcoming sense of arrival, it will mark the entrance to the community and help create a feeling of belonging for residents from the moment they arrive. Over 50% of stage one is now sold; excitement around Living Gems Rockhampton is growing. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your lifestyle, now is the time to discover...
11
Aug
First residents move in at Living Gems Moreton Bay as construction advances rapidly
Living Gems Moreton Bay has reached an exciting milestone, with our first residents settling into their beautiful homes and bringing the community to life.With more than a dozen homeowners now moved in, a neighbourhood that was once a vision is quickly becoming a vibrant place to live. Our newest residents have been blown away by the attention to detail inside the homes, from the spacious layouts and ducted air-conditioning to the premium kitchen appliances and thoughtfully designed finishes. It’s these details that transform a house into a home.As construction surges ahead across the resort, so does buyer demand. Our iconic entry statement is now operational, providing a unique and welcoming arrival experience for residents and visitors alike.More home slabs are being poured, roads are forming, and civil works are progressing rapidly. With bulk earthworks now completed, and water and electricity connections not far behind, each week we are another step closer to a fully established community.More villas are rising every month, and demand is matching the pace, so now is the perfect time to secure your place.Visit the Sales Centre: 273–308 Buckley Road, Burpengary East or call 1800 957 981 📞🕓 Open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm and Saturday, 10am-4pm by appointment🎥 Watch the latest progress from above
11
Aug
Construction moves full steam ahead at Living Gems Harris Crossing as first residents move in
Living Gems Harris Crossing is transforming before our eyes, as our first residents move into their home, more villas near completion, and new homeowners get ready to follow suit. Each week brings another milestone, as kitchens are installed, tiling is completed, and finishing touches are applied. It’s rewarding to see each villa evolve from a construction site into a place more homeowners will soon proudly call home. Construction is progressing on the highly anticipated $16 million Country Club. As it takes shape, with roofing and windows now being installed, it’s becoming easier to imagine residents enjoying the premium resort-style facilities that will be at the heart of the community. Our iconic entry statement is now operational and secure, ensuring our first residents can experience that special feeling of arrival each time they enter the resort. Finishing touches are still being added, including painting and landscaping, and once completed, it will add to the sense of an already established community. With Stage 1 now over 60% sold, demand continues to grow. If you're ready to embrace a vibrant, low-maintenance lifestyle, now is the perfect time to secure your place at...
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Articles
30
Oct
Is Your Family Home Costing You More Than You Think?
You've paid off the mortgage. The house is yours. Surely the expensive part of homeownership is behind you?
Then the rates notice arrives, the insurance renewal lands in your inbox and the ageing house needs another round of repairs. Sound familiar? Even without a mortgage, a larger family home can be surprisingly expensive to run. So could downsizing to a modern villa at a Living Gems over 50s lifestyle resort make better financial sense?
The hidden cost of staying put
Owning your home outright is a wonderful achievement. But mortgage-free doesn't mean expense-free. According to Townsville City Council's 2026–27 Budget, the average residential ratepayer pays approximately $4,484 annually in combined council rates and utility charges, after the applicable prompt-payment discount. That's around $86 a week, before any other outgoings. In Rockhampton, the typical residential ratepayer faces approximately $4,663 annually in council rates and fixed charges, before discounts and water consumption. Meanwhile, 2026–27 Queensland council rates benchmarking puts the annual cost for a median-valued residential property in Moreton Bay...
13
May
Budget 2026: What it means for owner‑occupiers
At Living Gems, our resort communities are made up of exclusively owner-occupiers. Last night’s Federal Budget confirmed changes to Capital Gains Tax and negative gearing that apply to investment properties — owner‑occupied homes are unaffected, so Living Gems buyers (who make their home their primary residence) remain exempt. What this means for Living Gems buyers The great news is that Owner‑occupiers in Living Gems communities ordinarily remain covered by the main residence exemption and will not face CGT on sale because of these reforms. The negative gearing changes apply only to investment properties and do not affect homeowners who occupy their primary residence. Why land lease communities are an attractive option for over‑50s Land lease communities like Living Gems deliver many benefits for Australians aged over 50. With significant financial advantages and a model that supports confident downsizing, Living Gems buyers own their home as an asset without many of the financial burdens of traditional home ownership, and their rights are protected by the Queensland Government’s Manufactured Homes Act. When you buy into Living Gems, you enjoy: Unlocked...
08
May
Locals welcoming locals in Moreton Bay
A new energy is stirring in Burpengary East as Living Gems Moreton Bay begins to take its place along Buckley Road. This contemporary over-50s lifestyle resort is set to reshape community living in the area — and for Sales Consultant Jodie Stieper, there’s a special pride in seeing it evolve right in her community. Jodie has called Burpengary East home for more than two decades. When she and her family first arrived, they were looking for room to grow, an authentic country feel, and a location that balanced peaceful living with convenience. With easy access to beaches, highways, Brisbane Airport, and thriving local hubs, they quickly discovered a community with heart — where locals support homegrown businesses, events, and one another. Starting out in the travel industry before moving into real estate, construction, and wildlife conservation, Jodie has gathered a global perspective — but it’s helping people that’s remained constant. Her studies in interior design revealed a love of creating spaces where comfort and style meet, and that...
05
May
A life well placed in Rockhampton
For Living Gems Rockhampton Sales Manager Victoria Dent, joining the Parkhurst community is more than a career move — it’s a personal choice. “In many ways, it feels like I’ve come home,” Victoria says of relocating to Rockhampton to lead sales at Living Gems Rockhampton, one of the region’s most exciting over 50s lifestyle resorts. Having grown up in the country, Victoria appreciates the balance Rockhampton offers. “I love the atmosphere of a city–country town,” she says. “You have everything you need close by — shopping centres, medical services and everyday conveniences — while still enjoying a relaxed lifestyle. Plus, you’re only a short drive to the beautiful eastern beaches.” With more than 25 years’ experience in property and project marketing, Victoria began her career in the Whitsundays, working across Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island, before moving to Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. Her portfolio includes premium developments such as the Hyatt Regency at Coolum. Now, she’s proud to be helping others discover the benefits of over 50s living in Rockhampton. “I’m incredibly excited about this...
16
Feb
How Much Money Do You Need to Retire in Australia?
Ever wondered, "How much money do I need to retire comfortably?" It's a big question for Australians eyeing retirement planning, especially in sunny Queensland. Whether you’re adjusting to retirement or planning for it in a few years, your retirement savings goal hinges on lifestyle dreams. There’s a handful of things to consider when it comes to answering the golden question, like age pension eligibility, expenses, and ideal lifestyle. Let's break it down to see what retirement looks like for you.
Define Your Dream Queensland Lifestyle
What does your ideal lifestyle look like? Is it quiet mornings by the coast, regular travel or staying active in the community? Your retirement lifestyle dictates how much you need for retirement. Whether you have a modest or comfortable lifestyle, factor in housing, entertainment, healthcare, and daily expenses.
Define your income sources
As you’re easing into retirement, consider your income sources. Everyone’s individual circumstances vary; some over-50s have multiple, while some depend on one income source. This can come in all forms, such as a salary, investments, superannuation, age pension, if you’re eligible, and a dedicated retirement savings compartment. Determine your cash flow to have an idea of...
16
Feb
Easy Ways to Stay Active and Social in Retirement
Staying active and social during retirement keeps your body strong and your mind sharp. These simple activities blend physical movement with social connections, perfect for vibrant over-50s living.
Walking
It might be common sense but sometimes we stay sitting for too long without realising. Walking is an easy, low-impact way to stay active while building friendships. Join local walking groups to meet others and stay social. 30 minutes daily can boost heart health and mood without strain. Want to start slow? Make it a habit to walk every day after lunch to keep the body moving.
Aqua Aerobics
Aqua aerobics offers gentle resistance in a pool, ideal for joints. Aqua aerobics turn workouts into fun social hours with neighbours, keeping you active and social at the same time. You'll improve flexibility, tone muscles, and laugh through splashes. Book Clubs
Make reading social! Have a book you want to recommend? Join a book club and make your recommendations! It’s also great for those nights you want to kick back and unwind with some quiet time. Reading keeps the brain engaged and opens doors to friendships with like-minded...
