What’s Happening?
Developer GemLife has received Mackay Regional Council approval for an over-50s land lease community at Shoal Point.
The project will be Mackay’s first coastal land lease development and GemLife’s first community in the region.
It will form part of Pointglen Development’s Shoal Point Waters masterplanned community. A construction start date has not been determined.
Why It Matters
GemLife Managing Director and Group CEO Adrian Puljich said the location addressed a gap in Mackay’s retirement housing market.
“When we looked at the existing land lease and retirement living market around Mackay, the majority of development is in town or inland, with no current opportunity for those who want to live close to the ocean,” he said. “The Northern Beaches is a lifestyle destination, and we’re expecting strong interest from buyers in Mackay and surrounding rural and semi-rural areas who are looking for a beachside location within easy reach of urban conveniences.”
Local Impact
Each home will offer space for residents moving from a family home or larger rural property.
“All homes will feature a garden courtyard, two bedrooms plus multi-purpose room and double garage,” Puljich said.
He said these features would provide residents with privacy, space and flexible living options while downsizing. The Country Club will include two pools, a gymnasium, cinema, salon, ten-pin bowling and golf simulator. A sports hub will provide a tennis court, pickleball court and lawn bowls.
“There will also be a central Country Club and sporting amenities for residents to socialise and keep active, as part of our commitment to creating communities designed to support healthy ageing.”
By The Numbers
- Council approved the 232-home project on Tuesday, 8 September 2026. Its expected gross realisation value is $203 million.
- The site covers 10 hectares and fronts the proposed 80.35-hectare Shoal Point Waters Park. It is about one kilometre from Bucasia Beach and two kilometres from Shoal Point lookout.
- Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows 35.9 per cent of Mackay’s population is aged 50-plus. Census data recorded 18.3 per cent growth among residents aged 60 to 64 between 2016 and 2021. This was Mackay’s largest five-year change among age groups.
Zoom In
Puljich said the Shoal Point setting would guide the community’s appearance and landscaping.
“The look and feel of the community will reflect its beautiful location, with contemporary coastal-inspired architecture and lush landscaping providing a visual connection to surrounding parklands and open green space,” he said.
Zoom Out
GemLife recently committed $6 million to wellness initiatives across its communities.
These include a partnership with Amplar Health, which will offer personalised health coaching to new residents for 12 weeks.
What To Look For Next?
GemLife has yet to determine a construction start date. A confirmed timetable will clarify when building work at Shoal Point may begin.
