Advertorial for GemLifeJaymie HooperMay 25, 2026 — 10:38amThere’s a reason more over-50s are leaving the city for the Macedon Ranges. With its heritage gardens, acclaimed food and wine scene, village atmosphere and mountain views, the region offers a compelling tree change — and demand is growing.The latest census data shows Australians over 50 make up the largest age group in this attractive region, while further research into regional migration trends suggests many Victorians are seeking a slower-paced lifestyle outside metropolitan areas.GemLife New Gisborne blends modern luxury with the scenic, natural beauty of the Macedon Ranges.Ready to meet the needs of these discerning buyers is GemLife New Gisborne, a $267 million community that strikes the perfect balance between heritage charm, modern luxury and a semi-rural lifestyle.“Our buyers are over-50s who are ready for a different pace of life,” says Alison Rice, sales manager at GemLife New Gisborne. “Many are coming from larger homes across Melbourne and regional Victoria, where upkeep, commuting and the demands of city living have started to outweigh the benefits.”The new lifestyle resort, which marks GemLife’s second property in Victoria, will feature 247 energy-efficient homes complete with weatherboard cladding, pitched roofs and spacious open-plan layouts.“Resort-style living at New Gisborne is about everyday life feeling more enjoyable and less weighed down by household repairs and maintenance,” Rice explains. “People are increasingly looking for places that support a healthier, more enjoyable way of living — and the Macedon Ranges delivers that naturally.”The best of both worldsToday’s over-50s may be looking for a change of pace, but that doesn’t mean they want to put the brakes on completely. At GemLife New Gisborne, homeowners don’t need to choose between slowing down and living life to the fullest — they have the freedom to do both.“[Residents] simply want more time for the things they enjoy,” Rice says. “That might mean travelling more often, spending time with family and friends, exploring hobbies or living somewhere that feels calmer and closer to nature.”Located just an hour from Melbourne by road or rail, New Gisborne provides all the perks of country living without being isolated. According to Rice, that urban accessibility is a big part of the appeal, particularly for people who still have family, friends or interests connected to the city.“The region also has a strong identity of its own,” Rice adds. “Towns like Woodend, Macedon and Kyneton are known for their food and wine culture, galleries, boutique shopping and beautiful gardens. Seasonal festivals, farmers markets and live music events create a lifestyle that feels vibrant and social throughout the year.”Designed for connectionBoasting ornamental gardens, a rejuvenated orchard and panoramic views of the Macedon Ranges, GemLife New Gisborne has ample green space for residents to enjoy, but its social hub will be found in the state-of-the-art Country Club.Centred around the beautifully restored, circa-1908 Westport Homestead, this precinct combines two modern, architecturally designed buildings with relaxed garden courtyards and a striking sculptural fireplaceThe resort’s social hub features garden courtyards and a striking sculptural fireplace, creating natural spaces for residents to connect.Linked by a shared roofline, these spaces will include everything from a billiards room, library, cafe lounge and cinema to a heated pool, gym, and arts studio — creating natural opportunities for residents to connect through shared experiences.“The social calendar plays a big role too,” Rice says. “Friday-night drinks and relaxed Sunday sessions in the Country Club ballroom are often highlights of the week, while concerts and live entertainment – from talented homeowners as well as guest performers – help create a lively atmosphere within the community.”More importantly, there’s no pressure to be involved in everything the resort has to offer. Residents can engage as much or as little as they like.Unlock your potentialAlthough the land lease community model is relatively new in Victoria, it’s been extremely popular in Queensland for many years. “We’re now seeing growing awareness through established communities like GemLife Woodend, just 15 minutes away, where homeowners have become strong advocates for both the lifestyle and financial benefits the model offers,” Rice explains.At GemLife, homeowners purchase their home and lease the land through a weekly site fee, which may be defrayed by the Commonwealth Rent Assistance for eligible Age Pension and Department of Veterans’ Affairs cardholders.The site fee contributes to the upkeep of the resort and its premium facilities. Unlike traditional retirement villages, there’s no stamp duty on the purchase of the home and there are no entry and exit fees to pay. GemLife residents retain any capital gains if they decide to sell, which fosters a greater sense of financial certainty.“For many people, the move also frees up equity from the family home, creating greater financial flexibility for travel, lifestyle goals, future planning or extra super payments,” Rice says.“At the same time, people don’t feel they’re compromising on lifestyle. Residents still enjoy beautifully designed homes, landscaped surroundings and premium facilities that support active living and social connection.”GemLife creates vibrant lifestyle communities for Australians over fifty in sought-after tree change and sea change locations across Australia, including GemLife Woodend and the newly launched GemLife New Gibson. Learn more about GemLife New Gisborne at gemlife.com.auFrom our partners