NEWCASTLE HERALD | APRIL 15TH 2026

By Jade Lazarevic

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A 112-home retirement village in Port Stephens is edging closer to completion.

The final stage of homes in Blueheath at the Bower in Medowie is under construction as the Hunter-based company behind the project, Principle Living, works toward completing the development in June.

An open day event held on-site on April 11 attracted downsizers and retirees looking to make a move to an established retirement community.

"We had a great response on the day, with a steady flow of people coming through to see the village and all the great amenities we have available for residents," Principle Living operations and sales manager David Kelly said.

"For many visitors, it was about getting a feel for what day-to-day life looks like here, walking around the community and enjoying genuine conversations with residents.

"With the final stage of homes now well advanced, buyers can see exactly what they're getting and have a clear understanding of timing for their move.

"That certainty is really important, particularly for those who are planning the sale of an existing home or starting the downsizing process."

There are limited homes available in the final stage, with 19 homes under construction that are priced from $740,000.

Mr Kelly said interest in the community has remained strong as the project approaches completion.

"There is definitely a sense of urgency now, with only a limited number of homes remaining," he said.

"We're seeing a lot of inquiry from people who want to be part of an established, well-connected community rather than waiting for a future development."

Blueheath, which is located in Medowie's Bower Estate, comprises 112 architect-designed homes in a community setting that Mr Kelly said aims to promote social connection, wellbeing and independent living.

Shared amenities include a clubhouse with dining and lounge areas, an indoor heated pool, a gym, a two-lane bowling green, a library, a games room, a workshop and community gardens.

Principle Living is also establishing a 300-home land lease community at the former Stonebridge Golf Course in Cessnock.

The Hermitage development is set to transform the golf course site, which closed in 2019, into an over-55s community with resort-style amenities.

The $200 million project includes reinstating the golf course and refurbishing the existing clubhouse on the 91-acre site.

Details, including the number of holes, par and public access times, will be released later this year.

Residents will have exclusive use of a private clubhouse, an indoor pool, a wellness gym, lawn bowls, pickleball courts and green spaces.

There will also be a dedicated parking area for caravans.

Residences include a range of architecturally designed two- and three-bedroom homes set across three landscaped precincts, including some with golf course views.

Principle Living is a partnership between the Stevens Group, a privately owned NSW property development company which has delivered residential and commercial projects across the state, and the Mann family, founders of myHomecare.

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