When Libby Eke’s husband passed away, she suddenly found herself living an isolated existence. While she had a lovely family home in England’s picturesque Cornwall, her daughter was halfway around the world on the NSW Central Coast.
At 70, Libby decided it was time to pack up and move to be near her daughter and her family. As she started doing her homework, friends told her about land lease communities, and this is when she found her “forever home” at Pine Needles in Erina, just five minutes from her daughter.
“I had friends who had lived at Pine Needles Village for several years, and they highly recommended the Village. I did visit similar land lease communities but decided that Pine Needles Village was the place for me,” Libby said.
“While doing my homework as to where I should go, I found that the staff went out of their way to make me feel welcome. Their professional attitude made my final decision an easy and positive experience.”
Libby is not alone in celebrating Pine Needle’s welcoming community environment. The community 81 km north of Sydney’s CBD took out the GOLD award for NSW Land Lease Community of the Year at the 2024 industry Awards of Excellence, with judges noting the community’s “superb customer service”.
Libby moved into Pine Needles in 2020, and she hasn’t looked back. Now 75, she marvels at how she travelled halfway around the world to find home.
“The best aspect of living in a land lease community is the sense of community spirit and the security,” Libby said.
“It’s a great alternative to a retirement village, as there is no entry or exit fees to pay. I honestly can’t think of any negative aspects of living at a land lease community,” said Libby when asked to name a downside.
“We have a weekly happy hour where residents can get together and socialise, as well as special get-togethers for new residents to get to know other residents in the village.
“We have movie nights, concerts, bingo, and other fun things to attend. We have a fabulous Residents Committee that organises lots of functions on behalf of the residents. Anzac Day, Australia Day, Melbourne Cup, Christmas, Christmas in July to name a few of the regular yearly events.
“What is nice is that there is no pressure to go to these events, but it’s all here if you want it. We also have a Travel Club run by one of the residents, with day trips and weekends away to full week trips. These trips are very popular and give single residents the opportunity to go away with a group.”
With her daughter’s family now just five minutes away, Libby loves spending time with her grandchildren.
“I would recommend a land lease community for anyone wishing to downsize and spend more time relaxing than doing house maintenance or gardening. The community spirit is also fantastic for those who live alone and want company. As I said, there’s no pressure to get involved in anything socially, but it’s there if you want it.”
Land Lease Living Industry Association CEO, Wayne Lange, says Libby joins a growing number of Australians enjoying the convenience and connection of land lease communities.
“Land lease communities are uniquely meeting the needs of an ageing but still active population,” said Wayne.
“With Australia’s 65-plus population expected to grow from 4.75 million to 7 million by 2040, this community-focused housing solution is emerging as an affordable and attractive option for downsizers.
“It’s the lifestyle facilities, like tennis courts, bowling greens and swimming pools, plus the organised group activities, that are attracting both couples and singles.
“Communities like Pine Needles are focused on promoting engagement and physical activity that support residents’ wellness and healthy ageing, which is helping to address the growing mental health issue of loneliness among older Australians.”