A strong turn out of Hunter residents gathered at Newcastle Yacht Club on Friday to hear from leading voices in finance, design and leadership on how Australians are redefining life afterwork.

The event was especially memorable for  Alan Cummings, who won a luxury Hunter Valley escape package, featuring a stay at Peppers Hunter Valley, a round of golf at The Vintage Golf Course and dinner at Mezze.

The free community event brought together respected finance commentator Michael Pascoe, architect and interior designer Angelique Perak and Newcastle Knights Head Coach Justin Holbrook, who shared insights on designing a life centred around purpose, wellbeing and connection.

Hosted by Hunter-based retirement and land lease community provider Principle Living, the event challenged outdated perceptions of retirement living while providing practical advice for people considering their future lifestyle options.

One of Australia’s most recognised finance and economics commentators, Michael Pascoe, said many Australians are increasingly viewing downsizing as an opportunity rather than a compromise.

“Downsizing to a land lease community, retirement village or any other smaller housing type can make sense from financial and lifestyle perspectives, which is a winning combination in my book.”

Architect and interior designer Angelique Perak, Director of Studio Duo and a long-term collaborator of Principle Living, said the conversation around retirement living had fundamentally shifted.

“People want homes that adapt with them, support their lifestyle and help them maintain independence without sacrificing design, comfort or connection,” she said.

Mrs Perak has helped shape Principle Living communities including Blueheath at The Bower in Medowie, where thoughtful architecture, walkability, wellness spaces and adaptable homes are carefully considered to support residents through every stage of later life.

Guests also heard from Newcastle Knights Head Coach Justin Holbrook, who spoke about resilience, mindset and navigating major life transitions.

The event took place amid growing national focus on the future of retirement living, with Australians increasingly prioritising lifestyle-led communities that support wellbeing, independence and connection in later life.

Principle Living Executive Director Andrew Mann said the level of interest highlighted the growing focus among olderAustralians in exploring what the next stage of life could look like.

"It was fantastic to see so many local retirees and pre-retirees take the opportunity to consider their future options and hear from our expert panel,” Mr Mann said.

"Retirement today is about much more than finishing work. It's about creating a lifestyle that supports your wellbeing, financial confidence, social connections and personal goals.

"The level of engagement throughout the afternoon showed there is a genuine appetite for information and practical advice as people plan for the years ahead."

To find out more about Principle Living and our communities click here.

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