Mooroolbark Pioneers Come Together With Benetas

Known as the St John’s Rise Pioneers, the first group of people to secure the architecturally designed retirement living units, set to be completed in the heart of Mooroolbark by 2022, were hosted by provider Benetas, earlier this month.

Benetas General Manager Strategy, Infrastructure and Housing, Bruce Webb said it was a great occasion to meet those that will form the heart of the St John’s Rise community, and for them to meet each other.

“These are a group of people who are passionate about where they want to live and we are thrilled that they share our vision for the development of the St John’s Rise Village,” he said.

“Many of the residents are local to Mooroolbark, and have clear plans to live out their retirement years right here, close to all the local amenities they already enjoy. It has been a lovely connection given Benetas has also been a proud member of the Mooroolbark community for over 50 years.”

Two of the purchasers, Yvonne Kowalski and Marisa Seagle (pictured), told us that they have been friends for more than 50 years and are looking forward to living next door to each other at St John's Rise. It was also a wonderful opportunity to meet other neighbours and share their stories over a cup of tea.

One of our couples Harry and Kathleen Jackson are also local to Mooroolbark and they are so happy their futures will remain in the community near their favourite baker, butcher, church and friends. In fact, the couple is already friends with other Pioneers, Peter and Beth Hookey and have already exchanged numbers with a new neighbour with plans to connect before the big move next year. It is abundantly clear that the community at St John's Rise will be friendly and inviting.

The initial part of the development with 22 homes is set to be completed early in 2022 with a further 24 to follow. Stage Two will include the construction of the community centre with an indoor pool, gym, cinema, cafe, dining room, hairdresser and consulting suite. The complete development is planned to include 131 homes and extensive communal facilities including a men’s shed and communal gardens.

Bruce Webb thanked the pioneers for choosing St John’s Rise and hoped that they will have decades of enjoyment in their new home.

“We know this area has a lot to offer nestled in peaceful suburbia, close to the convenience of Mooroolbark, and it’s one of the reasons why many of our residents are returning to the location,” he said.

“What Benetas is creating for St John's Rise is a regeneration of the precinct full of high quality, low maintenance energy efficient homes and facilities dedicated to lifestyle. We are so pleased that those who joined us today could meet and visit the place they will call home next year.”