As construction progresses on a luxurious over-55s residential development at Merewether Golf Club in Newcastle, a close-knit community of future residents is already forming. The project, known as Merewether Residences, is attracting individuals and groups who are strategically planning their retirement years together, embracing a lifestyle of independence, social connection, and comfort.
A Family Affair: Brothers Unite in Retirement Planning
Steve "Stinger" Berry and his younger brother David, originally from Gunnedah, exemplify this trend. Now in their 70s and 60s respectively, with children grown and homes empty, the siblings have purchased apartments just doors apart in the upcoming development. Alongside their wives, Janice and Jenny, they eagerly anticipate their "third age" in this serene environment.
"Being able to walk out my door and onto a beautiful golf course like Merewether is like a dream come true," said Steve, an avid golfer. "Having my brother, my best friend, as a neighbour is the icing on the cake." He noted the contrast to his current life, where he must drive from his Gunnedah property to play golf a few times weekly.
The move also brings them closer to family, as David and Jenny relocated to the Newcastle area three years ago to be near their children. "It will be good to be living close to each other again," Steve added, describing the development as "the perfect option for our retirement."
A Personal Connection to the Project
Adding a personal dimension, Steve is the father of Luke Berry, one of the three founders of Third.i Group, the development company behind Merewether Residences. Luke expressed immense satisfaction as construction advances, following ground-stabilising work completed ahead of schedule and under budget. The entire project, including a new clubhouse and 178 apartments, is slated for completion by early 2027.
Luke emphasised that from the design phase, he insisted on creating a high-quality, vibrant community he would want for his own parents. "In the end my parents and my uncle and aunt bought off the plan two years ago and are really excited about living in the same community together," he said. "So, no pressure there—if there's anyone that is going to hold me to account it's those two guys, my dad and my Uncle Dave."
Wider Trend: Friends and Family Retiring Together
The Berry family's story reflects a broader movement among today's retirees, who increasingly seek options prioritising community and social bonds. Luke observed that momentum is building through word-of-mouth referrals at Merewether.
"We'll have one buyer come in and decide to go ahead, then they'll tell their friends, and they'll come in too," he explained. "We have examples of lifetime friends who've bought apartments side by side on the same floor—people they've grown up with or raised families with. They've decided, well, they love each other, and why not spend your retirement near the people you want to be around?"
Another significant referral source is adult children, who may discover the development while golfing and recommend it to their parents as a suitable retirement choice.
Designed for Active Lifestyles
Merewether Residences marks the inaugural project under Third.i Group's Third Age Village division, dedicated to crafting residential developments for older Australians. Initially designed by architect Eugene Marchese of Marchese Partners, a specialist in over-55s communities, architectural oversight has now transitioned to award-winning Newcastle firm EJE Architecture.
Luke highlighted that modern retirees often desire active, engaging lifestyles. "Today's retiree isn't always ready to slow down," he said. "Most now want to be active; they want to be out playing golf, enjoying good food and wine, and they want a home that's suitable for their 'third age' without compromise."
Premier Amenities and Future Prospects
A key early milestone is the construction of a new clubhouse, featuring world-class amenities such as a restaurant, cafe, and bar with an outdoor deck overlooking the 18th hole. This facility is expected to be operational before the first of over 300 residents move into their apartments, which will offer views of the golf course within a resort-style community complete with a health and wellness space, cinema, and pool.
Luke described the project as a landmark endeavour. "We're creating something that will never be replicated in the region, a once-in-a-generation project we're sure will set the benchmark for retirement living in Newcastle," he stated. He also noted the growing demand driven by the Baby Boomer generation, prompting Third.i to assemble a specialised team to meet these retirees' housing needs.
Practical Benefits of the Move
For Steve Berry and his wife, the relocation from Gunnedah brings practical advantages alongside lifestyle enhancements. "Being closer to the health services that you increasingly need as you get older was a big driver for us," Steve admitted, citing lengthy waits for GPs and specialists in their current rural location. Their children also supported the move to ensure quicker access to medical care if needed.
Additionally, the couple looks forward to downsizing from a ten-acre property that requires extensive maintenance. "It's about four hours just to mow it, and that's on a ride-on. The garden takes a lot of upkeep. As you're getting older you don't want to do that," Steve said. "Living at Merewether is going to be a whole new world for us."
As Merewether Residences takes shape, it not only promises luxurious living but also fosters a sense of community among residents embarking on their "third age" together, set against the backdrop of Newcastle's award-winning golf course and stunning beaches.
