Retirement living in Australia is changing fast. More people are seeking modern, lifestyle-focused communities that balance independence with support, especially women living alone.
Research by Ageing Australia found that residents of retirement communities feel happier, safer and more connected than those living alone, with better companionship and easier access to care.
This shift is inspiring a new generation of villages — light-filled, low-maintenance homes designed to help people thrive with comfort, connection and confidence.
Retirees are looking for next-generation villages like Ozcare's Reflections on the Bay in Hervey Bay.
Inside the Hervey Bay project reshaping expectations
Located in the heart of Hervey Bay, Reflections on the Bay is a true boutique retirement community challenging outdated models of retirement living.
“Reflections on the Bay is redefining what retirement looks like,” says Anna Gorgijeski, Head of Retirement Living at Ozcare.
“It’s a close-knit community that offers real independence. You choose how you want to live, with support there if you ever need it.”
Owned and operated by Ozcare, Reflections on the Bay blends modern design, coastal calm and thoughtfully integrated care.
The coastal location is quiet yet connected, with walking paths, cafés and the bay just minutes away.
At the heart of it all is the residents’ clubhouse, a standout social hub featuring an undercover heated pool, bowling green, gym, lounge areas, bar and multipurpose spaces for arts, crafts and dancing.
“There’s even a mobile app for booking events. The social calendar’s always full,” Ms Gorgijeski adds.
The residents' clubhouse at Reflections on the Bay, including its undercover pool, is one of the standout community features.
Apartments designed for freedom and ease
Architecturally designed for retirement living and everyday comfort, the newest collection of apartments at Reflections on the Bay brings together modern design, quality finishes, and a sense of ease.
Choose from one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or two-bedroom plus study-nook layouts — perfect for those who value beautiful design, low-maintenance living, and a true lock-up-and-leave lifestyle.
Each apartment features a full-size kitchen, laundry and bathroom, plus secure lift access, air conditioning and underground parking.
“These homes are light, spacious and beautifully finished,” Ms Gorgijeski says. “You can still have plants on your balcony if you love gardening, but with less upkeep and more time to enjoy life.”
Natural light, smart layouts and thoughtful storage make every apartment feel like a private coastal sanctuary. Your space offers endless possibilities with care that moves with you.
The homes at Reflections on the Bay are designed with both modern style and low-maintenance living in mind.
Care that’s built in, not built around
At Reflections on the Bay, care is seamlessly integrated into everyday living. Homes are designed for ageing in place, with wide corridors, step-free showers and accessible layouts.
Residents enjoy priority access to Ozcare’s trusted Home Care and Support at Home services, offering a variety of supports and healthcare professionals to help you stay independent at home for longer.
Being next to an award-winning aged-care facility also provides peace of mind, making it easy to transition to more comprehensive support if ever needed.
“It’s your life, your way, with care quietly built in,” Ms Gorgijeski says.
Who this model is resonating with and why
The appeal of this new retirement style is clear. Reflections on the Bay attracts a diverse mix of solo women, couples and adult children seeking confident choices for their parents.
Robyn, who moved in five months ago, says location and simplicity were key. “We can walk to shops and services, and we often think, why didn’t we do this sooner?”
Lyn, one of many solo residents, values the friendship and connection. “It’s a wonderful place to live,” she says. “The residents are caring, the activities are great, from bus trips and morning teas to Mexican nights and Japanese cooking classes.”
Smaller scale and genuine connection make this retirement community feel personal, a welcome change from larger villages or lifestyle resorts.
Residents at Reflections of the Bay benefit from a vibrant, active community with care built in.
Discover new possibilities
A limited collection of spacious, coastal-style apartments is now selling and ready to move in, offering full access to community amenities and Ozcare’s trusted support network.
Discover your new home and embrace retirement living that moves with you — your life, your way.
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