Riverbend over-50s project under construction as it taps into demand for Hervey Bay's lifestyle

Queensland developer Metacap is capitalising on the appeal of Hervey Bay as a lifestyle destination with the company under construction of its first project in the coastal township, a $130 million over-50s lifestyle resort at Urangan.

The development will deliver 160 new designer homes targeting local, regional and interstate buyers in the first project of its kind for the area, with Riverbend Hervey Bay set to create a resort-style gated community for the over-50s market.

Metacap, a syndicated property development company with more than 30 years’ experience in the residential and commercial property market, has positioned Riverbend Hervey Bay among its flagship projects within the company’s expanding over-50s development portfolio.

“The reality is there is no development like this in the area, especially in central Hervey Bay, so close to the marina precinct and all the amenities of the township,” said Metacap CEO Alex Jimenez.

“We have fielded a solid run of interest from local and interstate buyers, notably empty nesters who are downsizing and who want to be a part of this emerging community in the heart of Hervey Bay.”

Riverbend Hervey Bay, set on a 6.5ha site at Moolyyir Street, will include a community recreational centre featuring premium resort facilities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a gymnasium, cinema, library, craft room and activity centre.

A highlight of the recreational centre will be a range of wellness health and exercise events and activities for residents who wish to participate.

The landscaped surrounds will incorporate shaded areas with plenty of seating for quiet reflection and enjoyment, as well as picnic and barbecue areas that can host family and friends.

The landscaping will be complemented by meandering paths that mimic the curves of riverbends and provide easy pedestrian access, while ample lighting and security provide peace of mind for residents at night.

Riverbend Hervey Bay will also include a dedicated RV parking area for residents.

“Riverbend Hervey Bay has been crafted to be a tropical oasis that will make residents feel as though they are on a constant holiday,” said Mr Jiminez.

“I gained the inspiration from visits to Bali and our design-led vision is to replicate the tropical resort hotel feel for this new community.

“We are sparing no expense on landscaping to create the right ambience for residents from the day they move in, with well-established Balinese-style elements.

“We are also spending more per square metre and on the facades and more on architectural elements than any other project of its kind in the area.”

Designed for a lock-and-leave lifestyle, Riverbend Hervey Bay is attracting strong interest from local buyers, with many coming from south-east Queensland.

“While we are also seeing significant interest from interstate buyers, the majority of interest in Riverbend Hervey Bay is from Queenslanders who know the area well and love the lifestyle it offers,” said Mr Jimminez.

Stage one is currently well under way and will deliver the first 13 homes at Riverbend Hervey Bay by October.

Fully completed homes are priced from $610,000 to $760,000.

The Hervey Bay development will join Metcap’s growing portfolio of over-50s projects nationally, including a second Queensland project, Riverbend Agnes Water, which also is currently under construction.

Metacap recently secured development approval for its largest over-50s development to date, a $300 million project at Port Hughes in South Australia.

The company’s Riverbend portfolio includes joint management of over-50s villages in Burpengary and Yandina in Queensland and Ballina in NSW.

“Affordable luxury is a key consideration for buyers in this market, and demand for our resorts has been driven by a combination of appealing price points and a high level of amenities for residents amid some of Australia’s most popular lifestyle hubs,” said Mr Jiminez.

“Our development model provides us with the flexibility to deliver a value proposition through spacious architect-designed homes in locations that deliver the relaxed lifestyle that these buyers demand.

“Riverbend Hervey Bay is a prime example of delivering on our mission with the location within walking distance of Urangan Pier and the boat harbour, offering an active lifestyle for those residents who enjoy the outdoors.

“It’s also very close to Hervey Bay's waterfront dining precinct and minutes away from shops and other urban amenities.”