From the pristine beaches of Bribie Island to the stunning views of the Glass House Mountains, South East Queensland is one of Australia's premiere lifestyle destinations.
And it's becoming a haven for active downsizers looking for a fresh start in a scenic location.
"South East Queensland has a natural pull – and it’s easy to see why,” says Andrew Coulter, chief operating officer of GemLife, one of Australia’s leading over-50s lifestyle resort operators.
With GemLife communities across Queensland, Mr Coulter knows why downsizers are drawn to the region.
“With its relaxed climate, beautiful beaches, rolling hinterland, and vibrant communities, it offers the kind of lifestyle many over 50s have worked hard for and are now ready to enjoy,” he says.
One community perfectly placed in this downsizer heartland is GemLife Elimbah, a lifestyle resort at the gateway to the region’s best.
With plenty of natural beauty, South East Queensland is a haven for lifestyle-focused over-50s.
Resort-style living, centrally located
Located in the City of Moreton Bay, Elimbah has a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that makes its GemLife community special.
“GemLife Elimbah really does offer the best of both worlds,” says Mr Coulter.
“You’re surrounded by the peace and quiet of a country-style setting, within walking distance of local shops – but just minutes from the coast and everything the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane have to offer.”
Bordering Caboolture to the north, Elimbah is nestled among a string of semi-rural communities that retain the relaxed, village-like vibe that visitors and locals alike love.
Tourist favourites like Bribie Island, Moreton Bay, and the D’Aguilar ranges are close by while easy access to the Bruce Highway means the Brisbane CBD and the airport are less than an hour-and-a-half drive away.
“Our home buyers tell us time and again that they love how central GemLife Elimbah is,” says Mr Coulter.
GemLife Elimbah's Moreton Bay location means residents have access to all the region has to offer.
Homes designed with Queensland's South East in mind
The homes at GemLife Elimbah are all about thoughtful design, tailor-made for not only the way that residents want to live but also to perfectly fit the location.
“Each home is filled with natural light, open-plan spaces and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, making the most of Queensland’s warm climate,” says Mr Coulter.
Each home offers two bedrooms plus a multipurpose room, alongside a kitchen with walk-in pantry, open-plan living-dining spaces, and covered alfresco areas.
“There’s room to relax, entertain, and simply enjoy daily life in comfort and style,” says Mr Coulter.
“We’ve also made sure they’re low maintenance, so residents spend less time on upkeep and more time doing what they love.”
The homes are designed to take advantage of the Queensland climate for more than just the natural light and fresh breezes, with industry-leading virtual power plant technology and rooftop solar panels included.
Each home is also fitted with energy-efficient appliances and water-saving systems, contributing to GemLife Elimbah’s seven-star energy rating.
More than just a feel-good extra, this commitment to sustainability is a practical choice that makes a real difference.
“Our residents love knowing their homes are built for a smarter, greener future as well as saving money on utilities bills,” says Mr Coulter.
“It’s about being environmentally conscious while also enjoying the financial and lifestyle benefits that come with it.”
Amenities for connection, wellbeing, and fun
“Staying active isn’t just about exercise, it’s about being part of something,” says Mr Coulter.
Starting construction in early 2026, GemLife Elimbah's Country Club will feature state-of-the-art facilities designed to bring the community together.
The two-storey Country Club will include a heated indoor pool, gym, grand ballroom, golf simulator, ten-pin bowling alley, and private cinema.
It’s the kind of place where neighbours can connect while staying active or enjoying some of their favourite hobbies.
The upcoming Summer House offers a relaxed space to unwind.
With a resort-style pool, club lounge, and outdoor kitchen with barbecue and pizza oven, the Summer House is perfect for relaxing and entertaining with friends.
“These resort facilities are social heart of our communities,” says Mr Coulter.
“Our residents want to feel energised, inspired and socially connected, and these spaces help make that happen every day.”
The Country Club's heated indoor pool is just one of the resort-style amenities available to GemLife residents.
Why smart downsizers are choosing the land lease community model
The homes at GemLife Elimbah are offered under a land lease community (LLC) model, where residents own their homes but lease the land is sits on for a weekly site fee.
“The LLC model gives our homeowners financial freedom and flexibility,” says Mr Coulter.
“It means residents don’t pay entry or exit fees as they would in a retirement village. Nor do our homeowners pay stamp duty or council rates, and they keep 100 percent of any capital gains. That’s a big win – especially in today’s market.”
Land lease communities give peace of mind and can help make budgeting simple and downsizing smarter.
Each of the homes also come fully appointed with high-end inclusions as standard, meaning there’s no costly surprises.
“At GemLife Elimbah, affordability doesn’t mean compromise,” says Mr Coulter.
“For over 50s looking to free up equity or just make the most of their retirement, it’s a future-focused choice that puts them in control.”
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