Construction of a 247-home heritage-inspired over-50s community in New Gisborne, north of Melbourne, has commenced, after significant early interest from across the Macedon Ranges and city following approval of its first stage late last year (2025).
Construction will create about 325 full-time jobs at its peak, with work underway on the first phase of 116 two-bedroom plus multipurpose-room homes, along with $15 million of recreational facilities, including a cinema, café, dining area, kitchen, pool, lounge, library, and billiards room.
GemLife New Gisborne is the second community in the Macedon Ranges by ASX-listed land lease developer, GemLife, following the completion of GemLife Woodend in 2025.
Kyneton-based Prendergast Earthmoving has been appointed to complete civil construction for the community. The family-owned business, which has been operating in the region for five decades, also worked on GemLife Woodend.
GemLife Chief Operating Officer Andrew Coulter said early interest in GemLife New Gisborne had been strong, ahead of the community’s official launch next month (April 2026), with homes anticipated to start from mid-$800,000.
“We’ve already received a high level of enquiry, with more than half from those already living in the Macedon Ranges in areas like Gisborne, Macedon, Kyneton and New Gisborne,” he said.
“There has also been solid interest from Melbourne’s inner, north and west, as people look to downsize to this relaxed regional area, while staying close to city connections and conveniences.
“New Gisborne is ideal because of its balance of accessibility, with strong transport links to Melbourne and surrounds, and sense of community, providing an active, well-connected lifestyle in a location with genuine local character.”
The 23-hectare site, at 72 Ferrier Road, offers sweeping views of the Macedon Ranges, with 35 per cent to be dedicated to open space including established ornamental gardens, an orchard and preserved 100-year-old trees.
The restoration and modern expansion of the circa-1908 Westport Homestead into a recreational hub, envisioned by Melbourne architect Taylor Knights and landscape team Taylor Cullity Lethean, will be completed as part of the first stage.
“Honouring the site’s heritage was extremely important to us, with the restored settler home to be a true focal point of the community and a place for people to come together,” said Mr Coulter.
“The theme will carry through from the gated stone and timber entry to the individual homes, which blend historic charm with a modern low-maintenance, open-plan design.”
As a land lease community, buyers will own their home and rent the land, with a weekly site fee covering security, maintenance and management. Unlike retirement villages, there are no entry, exit, deferred management or stamp duty fees, and homeowners retain all capital gains. For more information on GemLife New Gisborne, please visit www.gemlife.com.au/gng.
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