RETIREMENT LIVING: Brand new Mossman village to help fill accommodation gap

MOSSMAN DEVELOPMENT

David Gardiner

Journalist

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A duplex at Cooloola Waters Holdings’ existing retirement village in Tin Can Bay, Qld. Picture: Supplied

Construction of a new retirement village with close to 60 homes approved on a site behind Mossman Hospital is expected to start later this year – with up to 35 jobs created during building.

Douglas Shire Council has conditionally approved the application by Cooloola Waters Holdings to build the facility next to the existing Kuburri Aged Care Centre at Johnston Rd.

The new village will consist of 57 single storey units as well as a gymnasium, multi-function hall, communal kitchen, swimming pool and hobby shed.

When complete the village will employ three full-time staff – Village Manager, Maintenance Person and Groundsman.

“The establishment of the new retirement village is expected to have a positive economic impact on the Port Douglas area,” Cooloola Waters Group CEO Gary Simonite told Newsport.

“Beyond the direct employment opportunities during the construction phase, the ongoing operation of the village could generate additional jobs in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and retail,” Mr Simonite said. 

“Furthermore, the influx of retirees into the area typically boosts local spending, benefiting businesses across various sectors.”

The company said it has already received four expressions of interest to purchase the single storey 126 square metre duplex style units – each consisting of three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a single garage.

“The concept of a well-equipped and thoughtfully designed retirement community in Mossman has resonated positively with retirees and their families seeking a lifestyle in a picturesque setting,” Mr Simonite told us.

Specific details are still being finalised but Cooloola Waters Holdings estimates the prices of the homes to be somewhere in the range of between $420K to $460K. 

The developer believes the complex will address “a significant gap in retirement accommodation” within the Douglas Shire. 

“With an aging population and an increasing number of retirees choosing to relocate to coastal regions like Port Douglas, there has been a clear demand for purpose-built retirement communities offering lifestyle amenities, healthcare facilities, and social opportunities.

“Our project aims to meet this demand while enhancing the overall liveability and vibrancy of the community.”

Douglas Shire Council said while the project has been approved subject to a range of conditions including appropriate car parking, footpaths, landscaping, drainage, water and sewerage, it hasn’t indicated any issues that might delay the village going ahead. 

Mayor Lisa Scomazzon welcomed the approval of the new retirement village.

“I put up a motion about three years ago in regards to a retirement village, to go out and find who can build one, so it’s exciting to see we have it on paper now,” she said.

“I look forward to seeing this village being built in the near future.”

A plan of the new retirement village behind Mossman Hospital. Pic: Supplied

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