Downsizing to an over-50s lifestyle estate doesn’t always mean retirement begins, with some residents at Lincoln Lifestyle Mudgee Spring finding a comfortable work-life balance within the vibrant community.
It follows national increases in the average age of retirement, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics reporting a 5.5% rise from 54.3 years of age in 2015 to 57.3 in 2025.Â
Whether they are retired or still working, 43 residents already enjoy secure, relaxed living at Lincoln Place’s Mudgee Spring lifestyle community, which will deliver 206 new homes alongside a multi-million-dollar amenities precinct upon completion.
One of the community’s newest residents, Dr Bryan Galvin, 78, his wife Lynne and Cavoodle Banjo, moved into the community in May, relocating from a large home in Sydney. Although he had plans to retire, Dr Galvin still works two days a week at a local medical centre.
“The theory was I would be retired by now, but there’s some need up here so I’m doing a few sessions a week where I can,” Dr Galvin said.
“We’ve only recently moved in but are looking forward to being part of a community and the sense of belonging that comes with living here. It means we can settle in before we fully lean into retirement.”
Dr Galvin said they previously lived in Mudgee and had fond memories of the region, which was part of the reason why they moved back.
“We were both born in the country and moved to the city when we were quite young, it was just getting busier and busier,” he said. “We previously lived in Mudgee and have always enjoyed this area, particularly the food and wine scene, and there’s lots of events. It’s also only a few hours from Sydney.
“I never really thought of land lease before but there were some great financial benefits, and it’s given us some extra flexibility for things we might wish to do in the latter parts of our life, including travel.”
Fellow resident Colleen Harvey, 62, works full-time as a School Administrative Officer in the Food Technology and Science Department at Gulgong High School.
“My background is in hospitality, so I enjoy seeing the kids develop their cooking skills,” Ms Harvey said.
“I work fulltime and do a lot of cooking, supplying to restaurants, cake orders and local markets, which keeps me busy. While I haven’t joined many community events yet, my street is really welcoming and friendly, which made the transition very easy.”
Having lived in Gulgong most of her life, Ms Harvey was drawn to the security and affordability aspects of the community.
“I had been looking for months to buy a house and with the rising interest rates I decided to have a look at the Lincoln Lifestyle community. I was drawn to the safety and security, and the no exit fees and no stamp duty, made it more affordable,” she said.
Under Lincoln Place’s land lease model, residents own their home and keep 100% of any capital gains while leasing the land it occupies. For residents at Lincoln Lifestyle Mudgee Spring, it means no stamp duty, council rates and entry or exit fees, offering significant financial advantages for residents seeking to downsize without compromise.
The welcoming Lincoln Lifestyle Mudgee Spring community, located at 38 Spring Flat Road, Spring Flat, provides secure living, complemented by facilities including a competition-size bowling green, pickleball
court, barbecue area and caravan storage. A range of new resort-style facilities are planned with a clubhouse under construction, including a swimming pool, cinema and dining areas.
The community is only minutes from the town centre, in the heart of Mudgee wine country, and close to established amenities including Mudgee District Hospital and golf, bowling and tennis clubs.
Homes are selling now from $640,000. For more information or to book a tour, call 1300 844 492 or visit lincolnplace.com.au.
