The Last Settlers - Finding home at Halcyon Greens
With their recent move, Bob and Norah became the final homeowners to purchase a brand-new home at Halcyon Greens, marking the completion of this vibrant community. Now fully established, the neighbourhood is buzzing with life, and for Bob and Norah, it already feels like home.
Bob and Norah had spent years contemplating their next move. After four decades in south-western riverside suburbs of Brisbane, they explored all their options - units, townhouses, standard homes in the suburbs - but nothing quite fitted their needs. It wasn’t until they visited Halcyon Greens that everything clicked. The lifestyle, the facilities, and the community spirit all stood out. It was more than just a house; it was a way of life.
What aspects of the community influenced their decision?
The decision wasn’t made overnight. Bob and Norah toured nine other over-50s resorts, carefully weighing their choices. In the end, Halcyon Greens stood out. The undercover pool was a huge bonus—essential for Norah’s fair skin—and the pet-friendly policy sealed the deal. The ability to park their cars in their own driveway was another small but significant advantage.
For Bob, moving to Halcyon Greens was a fresh start.
“After years in the building trade, I was ready to leave it all behind and embrace a new chapter, free from the temptation of climbing onto roofs or taking on projects,” he said.
Just weeks after settling in, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in their new home. Every morning, Bob wakes up feeling like he is on holiday - reminiscent of the times they holidayed in Coolangatta. But this was better. This was home.
What were their initial impressions of the community and the people living there?
“The welcome we received was overwhelming in the best way possible,” said Norah.
Their first day in the community happened to be Melbourne Cup Day, and their neighbours had organised a street party. Invitations were extended instantly, but with trucks arriving and boxes to unpack, they had to decline – but only for now. Since then, they’ve met nearly everyone on their street.
“Many of our neighbours moved in within the past year or so, and they referred to themselves as “the last settlers”. That makes us the lucky last,” said Norah with a smile. “We purchased Halcyon Green’s last new home.”
Have they found it easy to integrate into the community?
Socialising at Halcyon Greens is a choice, not an obligation - something Norah appreciates. She was initially concerned there may be pressure for too much social interaction, but she quickly found the perfect balance. Exercise classes, mahjong, and library visits have kept her thoroughly engaged.
Bob, meanwhile, has joined a small Scrabble group and enjoys coffee at the golf club.
“Although we aren’t golfers, we appreciate the scenic walks and the welcoming atmosphere at the Golf Club,” said Bob.
What facilities are used most by the couple?
“The facilities are exceptional, but with only a few months under our belts, I haven’t settled on a favourite yet, but I’m loving the library and the variety of community spaces,” said Norah.
Whether it’s the relaxed recreation room or the more formal lodge for happy hour, there’s a perfect spot for everything.
“Above all, the people are what truly make this place special,” said Norah.
What do their family and friends think of their move to Halcyon Greens?
“Our family - son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren in Brisbane, and daughter and partner in Canberra - have all visited,” Bob said. Norah’s sister and other friends have also visited.
Their family and friend’s unanimous approval of the new home further cemented Bob and Norah’s faith in their decision to move to Halcyon Greens.
When they first considered downsizing, they had looked at apartments in Tweed Heads and Coolangatta. However, the costs just didn’t make sense.
“With high body corporate fees and a higher purchase price, we realised that for the same standard of living, we would be paying half a million dollars more.
“The no-entry, no-exit fee model at Halcyon Greens was another significant advantage for us,” said Norah.
Once they understood the financial benefits, no other option made sense.
What advice would Bob and Norah give to someone considering moving to Halcyon Greens?
For anyone considering a move to Halcyon Greens, Bob and Norah have one piece of advice:
“Just do it,” said Bob.
It’s unlike anything they had considered before but once they saw it for themselves, there was no other option than to move to Halcyon Greens.
Life at Halcyon Greens isn’t just about downsizing; it’s about upgrading to a lifestyle filled with relaxation, activity, and community spirit.
While Bob and Norah secured the last brand-new home, a range of beautifully established homes are now available.
Don’t miss your chance to join this thriving community!