Highlights of 2024: Celebrating community and growth in Aura
What a year it's been! As we approach the end of 2024, it's time to reflect on the remarkable moments that made Aura a truly special place. From eco-conscious initiatives to exciting new amenities and vibrant celebrations, we've accomplished so much together. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and relive some of Aura's biggest highlights for the year!
Aura Farmers Market launches
In June, we welcomed the eagerly anticipated Aura Farmers Market, bringing fresh produce, gourmet treats, food trucks and live music to the community every Saturday. The addition of twilight markets on the first Friday of each month has made this vibrant space the go-to spot for locals and visitors to come together on the weekend. Enjoy shopping local, sample delicious food, and soak in the lively atmosphere with a changing array of entertainment, from family trivia nights to free skateboarding sessions.
Leaping forward in sustainability
This year, Aura took a giant leap forward in its conservation efforts with the expansion of our frog habitat. Thanks to Stockland’s ongoing rehabilitation efforts, we added a whopping 18 hectares (that's the size of 144 Olympic swimming pools!) of protected land for the adorable Wallum Sedge Frog! With over 150 thriving frog ponds, Aura is leading the way in sustainable community development, with its commitment to protecting and regenerating the local environment.
Fuelling up and filling up
The long-awaited EG Ampol fuel and convenience store opened its doors in June, bringing a convenient one-stop spot for fuel, food, and daily essentials (including coffee!) to the Aura community. Located on Symonds way in Baringa, it also features an Oporto drive-through, with a Guzman y Gomez soon to join the lineup.
Emergency services precinct opens
August saw the official opening of Aura's state-of-the-art emergency services precinct. This new hub in the Aura town centre, housing police, fire, and ambulance services, ensures improved safety and faster response times for the Caloundra South region. Over 2,000 residents attended the community open day to explore the facilities and meet the dedicated teams who keep our community safe.
More than 2,000 residents come out to show their support for Aura’s new emergency services precinct.
Celebrating NAIDOC week
Aura proudly supported NAIDOC Week with a community event held at Baringa Forest Park, celebrating the rich history, culture, and achievements of Australia’s First Nations people. Highlights included traditional performances, cultural workshops, and storytelling sessions, creating an evening of celebration, learning and connection for Aura’s residents and visitors.
Cheering on our Paralympians
Gold medal fever was alive and well at a special mini sports day held at Goodstart Early Learning Baringa to send off two Paralympians to the Paris Games. Kids had the opportunity to interview these inspiring athletes and Aura residents as well as participate in fun activities like mini javelin throwing and creating supporter posters. It was a wonderful way to get everyone into the Games spirit and show our support for these hometown heroes.
Aura Brook officially opens
Stockland proudly celebrated the official opening of Aura Brook, a beautifully designed green space in the heart of Banya, coinciding with the launch of Rivus at Aura, a new residential precinct. Aura Brook features an enchanted garden with glow-in-the-dark stones, a dog park, and scenic nature trails, offering something for everyone to enjoy. This vibrant new space also provides a direct connection between Banya and Nirimba Primary School, making it easier for families to walk and cycle to school.
Keen to spend more time outdoors? Aura Brook offers something for everyone, from scenic natures trails to a dog park and enchanted garden.
Brew Box Collective wins big
Aura favourite Brew Box Collective brewed up a storm in 2024, claiming the title of Best Café on the Sunshine Coast in the Love My Café Awards. Known for its great coffee and welcoming atmosphere, the café has become a beloved community hub. A big congratulations to Justin and his team for making Aura proud!
A magical Christmas celebration
Christmas at Aura brought festive cheer to Baringa State Primary School with Santa's motorbike arrival, a holiday movie under the stars, and a dazzling fireworks display. Families enjoyed a jam-packed evening of activities, from face painting to a 'ho ho ho!' competition. It was a night to remember as residents gathered to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!
Looking ahead to an exciting 2025
As we celebrate the incredible milestones of 2024, we can't help but be excited for the year ahead. 2025 promises to be another milestone year for the Aura community! From the first students walking through the doors of Notre Dame College to the opening of the Goodstart Early Learning childcare centre and a vibrant new retail hub in Nirimba, plus the highly anticipated Baringa Sports Complex – it’s set to be a bright 2025 for Aura!
Click here to watch Aura's 2024 highlights.