Editor's Letter
As the Noosa Hinterland bursts into colour, we are reminded of the unique lifestyle and community spirit that make this region such a remarkable place to live, work, and grow. Spring has always symbolised renewal, but in 2025 its meaning feels especially profound. We are witnessing innovation, creativity and wellness becoming a way of life, and travel being reimagined. This edition of Noosa Country Style celebrates all of these, along with shining a spotlight on a key market trend – sustainability. So, find a spot in the garden and settle back to enjoy our latest collection of stories to assist you on your buying, selling, or investing journey.
This issue, sustainability takes centre stage. No longer simply a lifestyle preference, it has become one of the most powerful forces shaping our property market. Greener homes are now achieving sale prices up to 11% higher than traditional counterparts. From solar panels to biophilic design, buyers are increasingly prioritising properties that align with wellness and environmental values. Legislative changes and incentives are amplifying this momentum, presenting sellers with a golden opportunity to embrace this space. Here in the Noosa Hinterland, our UNESCO-recognised Biosphere gives us a natural advantage, providing both a lifestyle and a legacy of stewardship for future generations.
Similarly, Prestige Home Transformations demonstrates how sustainability does not always require sweeping change. Their eco-friendly painting and roof restoration services refresh homes while reducing waste and improving energy efficiency. Walt Construction Group also reveal that sustainability is not an add-on but the foundation of their building approach, introducing us to their Pheasant Lane project in Doonan.
The arrival of the warmer weather and blooming flowers also brings practical reminders – pest activity increases. Nicky and Jay from Laguna Pest Control highlight why prevention is key during this season. Staying outdoors, we also interview the Founders of Second Chance Wildlife Sanctuary – a registered charity and not-for-profit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing Australia’s native wildlife.
Wellness is also front of mind. Sanctum Medical Aesthetics, led by Director Bonnie Paine, has quickly become a trusted local haven for skin health and confidence. The Noosa Junction clinic blends science with lifestyle, offering evidence-based treatments delivered with calm and care, rooted in a philosophy that reflects the growing shift towards intelligent ageing and living well.
We also celebrate creativity across our hinterland region. Designer Sara Leonardi’s boutique, It’s A Fad,
curates bold, limited-edition collections crafted by women, reflecting her philosophy of authenticity, legacy, and community. That same spirit of innovation is echoed in other ventures. GT Collective has grown into a hub for prestige auto care and motorsport, while ThirdHome redefines travel by turning second homes into gateways to luxury stays worldwide. Locally, Joel and Alisa Laventure of iO2 Insurance Group deliver tailored protection with integrity, proudly leading one of Noosa’s only wholly owned brokerages.
Looking to the property market, this season brings renewed optimism. The Reserve Bank of Australia’s decision to cut the cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.6% has provided fresh momentum, lifting buyer confidence nationwide. Auction clearance rates have surged to their strongest levels in more than a year, while forecasts from leading economists point to continued growth into 2026. Brisbane continues to shine, achieving its 32nd consecutive monthly record, and regional markets such as ours remain the standout performers, driven by lifestyle appeal and migration trends.
Locally, we are seeing this momentum continue. Hinternoosa open home attendance has increased by 34% and private inspections are up 42% in the past month. Buyer urgency has led to multiple offer situations and strong pre-auction sales, with standout results across Black Mountain, Doonan, Cooran and Cooroy. These outcomes highlight both the resilience of our market and the benefits of a proactive, strategic approach.
At Hinternoosa, our mission is to set the benchmark for real estate in our region, guided by our values of culture, clients, and community. If you are considering your next move or simply curious about your property’s position in today’s market, our trusted team would be delighted to assist. With local expertise, a genuine passion for property and commitment to first-class customer service, we are here to guide you home.
Sincerely,
Sirah Robb
Noosa Country Style Editor Hinternoosa Director and Principal
Noosa Country Style is the Noosa Hinterland’s only Premium Property and Lifestyle Magazine since 2000. It is a free publication published four times a year by Hinternoosa. For advertising and distribution enquiries: marketing@hinternoosa.com.au © Lifestyle Realty Group Pty Ltd. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these particulars but no warranty is given by the vendor or the agents to their accuracy. Interested parties should not rely on these particulars as representations of fact but must satisfy themselves by inspection or otherwise. These particulars are not to be construed as constituting part of any contract. Published in September 2025.
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Blue Chip Acreage - Stunning Residence
Stunning private estate captures sweeping views of Noosa Hill, hinterland landmarks, and the Pacific Ocean. Beautiful winding drive in past paddocks, dams, and native bush to a striking Ken Robinson built home, extensively upgraded for relaxed, elegant living.
Open plan spaces, soaring ceilings, indoor flows to many terraces, while the entertainer’s kitchen boasts granite benchtops, and a walk-in pantry.
Incredible timber and glass stairwell leads to the parents’ retreat with walk in robe, luxe ensuite, and wide deck with coastal views.
Ground level offers three double bedrooms with outdoor access, home office, and sophisticated lounge with fireplace.
Outdoors enjoy the sparkling pool, tennis court, five bay shed, and lush grounds, all designed for both lifestyle and leisure.
Whether you are dreaming of a private retreat, a lifestyle haven, or a luxurious family estate, this 22-acre property delivers with sweeping views, resort-style amenities, and peaceful privacy in Noosa’s hinterland. Book your exclusive inspection today.
It's A Fad Brings Global Design to Noosa
Two threads are interwoven through Sara Leonardi’s career portfolio: an eye for beautiful craftsmanship and a head for business. Inspired by her global travels, Sara curates limited-edition pieces that are as beautiful to wear as they are to look at. She talks to us about her journey to Noosa and the evolution of her label.
How did your roles in real estate, interior design and art curation lead into fashion?
After university, I worked for a multinational car company in the US, then as Executive Assistant to the head of South Florida’s top real estate firm –learning about high-value transactions, profitability and client service. In Prague, I covered trends for a lifestyle magazine before moving to Cape Town to study interior design, blending creativity with business. Later, I opened a gallery in Sydney, which deepened my expertise in sales and PR. After my daughter was born, I launched IT’S A FAD, which has grown into a fully-fledged label.
When did fashion feel like the next step?
It began at Bondi Markets, selling ice-dye T-shirts after a trip to India. The brand has evolved into IT’S A FAD by Sara Leonardi, reflecting my belief that businesses exist because of their customers. Without my early supporters, I would not be here today.
Do you see parallels between dressing a home and dressing a person?
Absolutely. People decorate their homes as they see the world, and they dress as they want to be seen. Both take time: you do not decorate in five minutes, and a great wardrobe is collected over years. Quality is everything. I wear pieces passed down through generations and love layering contemporary designs with classic or antique details.
What is the philosophy behind It’s A Fad?
I am passionate about curating inspiring pieces from around the world and bringing them to Noosa. Every brand we stock is designed by women – true support means investing in their creativity and businesses. Our designers include Nadia Dafri, Yass and CVH, and our circle continues to grow. Collaborations with like-minded women make the process joyful and energising. Limited-edition collections keep the store fresh and exclusive, with pieces that are eclectic yet timeless, much like my own journey.
Your collections are known for bold colour and detail. How do you balance creativity with wearability?
Wearability is non-negotiable – 99% of our pieces are machine-washable, everything has pockets, and most pieces have belts. They are effortless dayto-night staples, perfect for travel and everyday life. I only work with natural fibres that are breathable, durable, and easy to care for. I am passionate about colour. There is enough beige in the world! My knowledge of colour theory helps me create combinations that are original yet harmonious. I never design anything I would not wear. My collections reflect what women in their 40s and beyond want: clothes that are versatile, flattering, and joyful. Equally important, I design with a global perspective. A dress should feel at home in Sydney, New York, Paris or Sicily. We guide women toward shades and silhouettes that suit them, making fashion both wearable and meaningful.
What do you love most about living in the Noosa Hinterland?
Moving here was a family decision. I had never visited before relocating, but I trusted my instincts. Today, we could not imagine living anywhere else. Noosa’s balance is special: tranquil countryside, vibrant coast, incredible produce, warm people, and cosmopolitan flair. While much of my creativity is sparked outside the “everyday bubble,” living here gives me the lifestyle I love and space to create.
You opened your Hastings Street boutique in 2023. How does community shape your brand? There is a genuine sense of connection here. The community is diverse, collaborative and supportive, and I have found the perfect setting for what IT’S A FAD by Sara Leonardi represents.
You have partnered with local and national collaborators. How do these align with your vision?
Collaborations with Andrea Rembeck of Tutu Du Monde, Julie Somaia of Style Runner and Taryn Delaney grew naturally through shared values and energy. I also love working alongside inspiring leaders like Deb Caruso (In Noosa) and Sirah Robb (NCS and Hinternoosa), whose creativity is remarkable.
What legacy do you hope to create?
My legacy begins with my children James, Holly, and Madison. The values I live by and the example I set daily matter most. I do not plan too far ahead. Instead, I focus on being present, consistent, and the best version of myself. I hope to be remembered as someone who contributed to her community, supported her friends, and was always there when needed.
Whether you are looking for stylish work wear or a striking occasion piece, Sara has something to suit every body.
Winoa - Prestige Acreage with Dual Living and Views feature
Set in the heart of the prestigious Golden Triangle and surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, “Winoa” is a rare rural haven offering lifestyle, income potential, and versatility across 95.3 productive acres. This exceptional holding at 279 Cooroy Mountain Road blends natural beauty with thoughtful infrastructure in one of the region’s most tightly held locations.
The property boasts two spacious, self-contained homes, perfect for multi-generational families, guest accommodation, or dual income. The main residence features three bedrooms (one as an office), an open-plan layout, modern wet areas, and a tiled, enclosed verandah that flows seamlessly to a solar-heated saltwater pool with poolside kitchen and entertaining area – all with sweeping views of Mt. Cooroy.
Whether you are seeking a private sanctuary, a sustainable lifestyle, or an income-producing property, “Winoa” delivers the ultimate rural escape with every detail considered. Book your exclusive inspection today.
Healthy Homes, Healthy Hinterland:
Eco Pest Solutions in Spring
As spring arrives in the Noosa Hinterland, the region bursts into colour. Flowers bloom, trees blossom, and wildlife becomes more active. But alongside this natural beauty comes an increase in pest activity. Warmer temperatures and higher humidity provide the perfect conditions for ants, cockroaches, spiders, and termites to thrive – making spring one of the most important times of year for pest control.
Why Spring Pest Control Matters
Many pests emerge from hibernation or ramp up breeding cycles during spring. This means infestations can quickly take hold if not addressed early. Termites, in particular, are a year-round concern in the Sunshine Coast’s subtropical climate, but spring is when their activity becomes more noticeable. Left unchecked, these pests can cause significant damage to homes and businesses.
Prevention
is Key
Spring is the ideal season to focus on prevention. Simple steps like sealing cracks, clearing away clutter, and removing standing water can make your property far less attractive to pests. Regular professional inspections are equally important. A licensed technician can spot early warning signs and apply targeted treatments before infestations develop.
Eco-Conscious Pest Solutions
Laguna Pest Control is proud to be Australia’s leading eco-conscious pest control company. Based locally, we understand the balance between protecting your property and caring for the environment. Our PESTShield Green service offers a safer, sustainable approach to pest management, while our No Spray options provide effective control without traditional chemicals.
By choosing eco-friendly pest control, you are not only safeguarding your home or business - you’re also helping to preserve the natural beauty of the Noosa Hinterland and the Sunshine Coast for future generations.
Take Action This Spring
Do not wait until pests become a problem. With preventive care and environmentally responsible treatments, you can enjoy all the beauty of spring without the worry of unwelcome intruders.
Learn more about our eco-friendly services:
-PESTShield Green https://lagunapestcontrol.com.au/pestshieldgreen/
-No Spray Solutions https://lagunapestcontrol.com.au/no-spray/
Nicky and Jay: Founders and Owners of Laguna Pest Control
When Sanctum Medical Aesthetics opened the doors of its Noosa Junction clinic in July 2024, it brought with it decades of cosmetic medical experience and a philosophy that blends evidencebased treatments with a deep sense of care and calm.
One year on, the clinic has become a trusted destination for locals and visitors alike – a place where skin health, intelligent ageing and wellness are embraced as part of living confidently.
Inside Noosa's Doctor-Led Medical Aesthetics Clinic
she says. “To live and work here, guiding clients through their skin and wellness journeys, has been such a rewarding chapter.”
Science Meets Lifestyle
A Sanctuary for Skin
Founded in Hobart in 2011 by Cosmetic Physician Dr Asha Ram, Sanctum has grown steadily, with clinics in Hobart, Launceston, and now Noosa. Dr Ram, who has been at the forefront of aesthetic medicine for over 25 years, envisioned the Noosa clinic as more than a treatment space.
“Our beautiful Noosa clinic is a true sanctum,” she says. “It is about creating a bespoke approach for each individual, using the best of research, data and technology to support skin health, confidence and longevity.”
Community Roots
The clinic has quickly woven itself into the fabric of the Noosa community. CEO Dr Clair McCartney reflects:
“From the beginning, we wanted to be more than a clinic – we wanted to be part of the Noosa lifestyle. It has been incredible to see clients embrace our approach to self-confidence, calm and wellness.”
Leading the way in Noosa is Director Bonnie Paine, who relocated from Tasmania with her family to open the clinic. “I have always adored Noosa,”
Sanctum Noosa remains the only clinic in the region to prescribe skincare from both Rationale and SIRCLE, two ranges that set the benchmark for science-driven, results-focused formulations. SIRCLE is the Tasmanian-owned, Australian-made skincare brand co-founded by the very team behind Sanctum – Dr Clair McCartney, Ella Mackay, Bonnie Paine, Katie-Jo Webb, Georga Jeffery and Dr Asha Ram. Created by clinicians who live and breathe skin health, the brand translates medical knowledge into simple, effective daily rituals. Paired with state-of-the-art devices from global leaders such as Cutera and body contouring with Emsculpt, Sanctum Noosa offers a holistic suite of treatments that balance science with lifestyle.
Looking Ahead
As Sanctum marks its first year in Noosa, the team is proud to offer a curated range of treatments designed to restore skin health, confidence, and radiance. From aesthetic solutions for sun damage and lines/wrinkles to personalised care for acne, scarring, and pigmentation, every treatment plan is tailored to the individual. Clients also have access to advanced therapies including LED light therapy, lymphatic drainage massage, skin needling, Platelet Rich Plasma therapy, body contouring, IV infusions for whole-body wellness, and dedicated consultations with our doctors to support women’s hormonal health and menopause. Grounded in evidence-based care and genuine connection, Sanctum is evolving as Noosa’s trusted destination for intelligent ageing and lasting skin confidence.
Because for Sanctum, skin is more than appearance. It is the art and science of living well.
Green With Envy:
Sustainability is the New Selling Superpower
From solar panels to biophilic design, buyers are paying more for eco-conscious homes – and the Noosa Hinterland is reaping the rewards.
Spring is a season of renewal, and in 2025 it has taken on new meaning in the Noosa Hinterland. Beyond blossoms and fresh beginnings, sustainability has become much more than merely a lifestyle preference – it is a driving market force. For owners and investors alike, the message is clear: greener homes are commanding stronger buyer interest and achieving sale prices 9 - 11% above their conventional counterparts.
A Market in Full Bloom
Queensland’s property landscape is shifting rapidly, with more than 50% of homes sold this year boasting energy-efficient features. Solar panels remain the most common, appearing in 38% of sales across the state. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is riding this momentum with particular enthusiasm, as buyers seek out eco-villages, modular homes, and even off-grid living solutions that align with lifestyle and environmental values.
Locally, demand is being fuelled by middleincome households, Millennials, and Gen Z buyers – many of whom rank sustainability among their top priorities. 73% of Queensland buyers now consider energy efficiency a deciding factor, while 68% are willing to pay a premium for homes that carry verifiable green credentials. The appetite is here, and it is shaping values in real time.
Living Within a UNESCO-Recognised Biosphere
Adding to the region’s allure is the Noosa Biosphere Reserve – a UNESCO-recognised sanctuary where people and nature thrive in balance. Stretching across 150,000 hectares of diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to rainforests and the globally rare Noosa Everglades, it is a protected landscape and living laboratory for sustainability. Here, conservation, research, and community-driven initiatives work hand-in-hand, celebrating wellness and culture while fostering a way of living that respects both heritage and habitat.
For homeowners and investors, being part of the Biosphere adds a sense of stewardship and ecological responsibility. This aligns perfectly with the growing appetite for homes that support wellness, sustainability, and connection to nature.
Rise of Biophilic Design
Biophilic design has evolved from an emerging trend to an increasingly mainstream approach. A practice that encourages an emotional connection between people and nature, our subtropical climate provides the perfect setting for this, leading to an increased presence in new developments. From natural lighting, crossventilation, and seamless indoor-outdoor living
spaces, they represent the wellness and lifestyle benefits that buyers increasingly value.
Passive house principles, vertical gardens, and green roofs are also emerging as signatures of new developments, while retrofitting existing homes with insulation, water-efficient fixtures, and smart irrigation can reduce energy bills by up to 30%. These elements not only enhance liveability but also amplify long-term value.
Policy and Progress
Beyond consumer demand, legislative changes are amplifying the sustainability movement. The National Construction Code 2025 introduces stronger energy efficiency requirements for all new homes. Meanwhile, Australia’s national
emissions reduction target – to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 43% by 2030 and achieve netzero by 2050 – is steering the property sector towards greener outcomes. State and local governments are incentivising change through rebates, low-interest green loans, and fast-track approvals for certified projects.
Why Sellers Should Act Now
This culmination of policy, buyer preference, and financial incentive represents a golden opportunity. Whether you are considering the sale of a family home, an acreage retreat, or an investment property, presenting energyefficient features can directly influence buyer urgency and elevate your return.
Your Next Step
Spring has always been a time when the Noosa Hinterland shines, and in 2025 sustainability is giving sellers an extra edge. The numbers are compelling, the demand is rising, and the time to act is now. Scan the QR code for an instant online estimate or book a personalised market update with our team. We will show you how going green can boost your property’s worth and position you to capture the strongest results this selling season.
Scan here to instantly find out where your property sits in the market
From Noosa to the World:
Unlock Global Getaways Through
Your Second Home
For those who cherish the art of slow travel, the elegance of thoughtful design, and the quiet magic of discovering somewhere new without surrendering the comforts of home, ThirdHome is redefining the way we travel. A private club for second homeowners, ThirdHome is an invitation into a world where luxury meets resourcefulness and where travel becomes not just a holiday, but a way of life.
The concept is both clever and refreshingly simple. Members deposit unused time in their second homes onto the ThirdHome platform, and in exchange, they receive travel credits. These can then be used to book stays in other members’ homes, opening the door to over 20,000 high-end properties in more than 100 countries. From grand Tuscan villas to modernist hideaways in Palm Springs, alpine chalets to tropical beachfront pavilions, the network is rich in variety and unified in quality.
But this is not a mere house-swap. Properties are rigorously vetted to ensure they meet the standards the community expects. Think: sweeping views, tasteful interiors, and a sense of privacy and poise that rivals the best boutique hotels. Whether it is a family gathering in the hills behind Byron Bay or a solo escape to a Spanish finca, every stay feels personal –because it is.
For homeowners in Noosa and beyond, ThirdHome offers an elegant solution to the often-underused nature of second homes. Rather than lying vacant, your property becomes an asset passport that opens up a world of curated experiences. You are not letting out your home to strangers in the traditional sense; instead, you are part of an exclusive exchange with like-minded individuals who share your sensibility and respect for space.
There is a distinct feeling that binds the ThirdHome community together. It is a love of exploration that is both cultivated and comfortable. It is travel that does not ask you to compromise on lifestyle or quality. And it is a gentle reminder that the true value of owning a beautiful home extends beyond its location, it lies in the doors it opens elsewhere.
In a region like Noosa, where natural beauty and design-forward living go hand in hand, ThirdHome feels like a natural extension of a life well-lived. For those fortunate enough to own a second home here, it offers not just a new way to travel, but a new way to see the world with elegance, ease, and a sense of belonging that stretches far beyond your own front gate.
Director and Principal, Sirah Robb, highlighted, “Hinternoosa are proud to be a ThirdHome Ambassador, connecting our clients and community with this global network of extraordinary homes. Our partnership with ThirdHome means your property can open doors to unique experiences around the world, while remaining part of an exclusive and likeminded community.”
With ThirdHome, Hinternoosa clients can leverage their investment or vacation property to travel the world to exceptional destinations. When referred by Hinternoosa, you will receive a waived initiation fee, a free club membership for 12 months, plus US$7,500 in bonus travel credits to start your adventures. Total value for Hinternoosa clients US$10,000.
Whether you are curious about how ThirdHome could work for you, or ready to explore where your second home might take you next, the team at Hinternoosa can guide you through every step. Together, we can help transform not just where you live, but how you travel.
Want to know more?
Scan here to find out and sign up today.
Magic Mt Cooroora Country Estate
GT Collective
THE New Standard in Auto Care
spring
EDITION - 2025
Growing Into a One-Stop Destination
Spring always feels like a season of growth, and at GT Collective, that’s exactly what’s happening. What began as a boutique motorsport and servicing hub in Noosa is fast becoming a true one-stop destination for prestige auto-care. From Mercedes and BMWs to modern supercars and, of course, a strong focus on Porsche models, our team looks after a wide spectrum of vehicles with the same attention to detail and care.
A Note from Our Director
As we move into spring and celebrate just over a year in our Noosa home, I am incredibly proud of how far GT has come. What started as a small workshop with big ideas has quickly grown into a hub where prestige vehicles are not only serviced and stored, but protected, refined, and even transformed.
The trust and enthusiasm from our community continues to drive us forward. Every car that comes through our doors –whether it is a weekend toy, a treasured classic, or a full-blooded race machine – reminds us why we love what we do.
With our expansion underway and new services like SurfaceLab now a part of the fold, we are excited for what next. Thank you for being part of the journey forward to sharing the road ahead with you.
Justin Anthony - Director / Founder
We have built our reputation on meticulous attention to detail –whether we’re preparing a race car for the track, performing a full-service on a luxury daily driver, or restoring a classic to its former glory. Over the past year, our services have grown to include everything from logbook servicing and wheel
Motorsport Updates New Chapters and New Machines
On the motorsport front, things have been equally exciting. Our Audi R8 GT3 recently changed hands, now destined for competition in France, marking the end of an exciting chapter. Closer to home, we wrapped up our season in the Toyota 86 Scholarship Series, a rewarding journey that has strengthened our team and sharpened our focus for what is ahead.
We are also excited to welcome James, a seasoned motorsport engineer, to the GT Collective team. James brings a wealth of experience from international racing, having worked on Porsches, LMP2, GT3, and GT4 machinery at world-class circuits including Le Mans, Spa, and Silverstone. While he supports the workshop day to day, his primary focus is on our racing program – ensuring our cars and drivers perform at their very best.
Porsche 992 GT3 Cup Joins the Stable
The latest addition to our stable is a Porsche 992 GT3 Cup, fitted with select upgrades from Manthey Racing including traction control and ABS. After two days of testing, the car has proven incredibly fast and is ready for Kevin Vedelago to campaign in 2025.
Introducing SurfaceLab and Xpel
Our latest addition is SurfaceLab, bringing world-class detailing, wraps, and protective films to Noosa. As authorised Xpel installers, we are now able to offer the very best in paint protection film technology – shielding your vehicle against stone chips, scratches, and UV damage while remaining virtually invisible.
But SurfaceLab is much more than just paint protection.
windscreen protection, along with a full suite of detailing options tailored to prestige and performance vehicles. The demand for these services has been incredible, and professionalism and precision in vehicle presentation as services in-house, we ensure that every detail is handled
Need servicing, detailing, or storage e work by , so give us a call or shoot us an email to secure your
2 Production Street, Noosaville
io2 insurance group INSURANCE THAT MEANS BUSINESS
iO2 Insurance Group is known for protecting homes and the important things in life –but did you know we also have a dedicated business insurance team?
From food trucks to fabrication workshops, retail stores to construction crews – we understand the unique risks businesses face and tailor coverage to suit your needs. Whether you are mobile, local, or industrial, our team delivers expert advice and reliable protection so you can focus on what you do best.
Business insurance specialties include:
• Hospitality and Food Services
• Mechanical Repairs and Fabrication
• Printing and Signage
• Carpentry and Joinery
• Pool and Spa Services
• Electrical and Plumbing
• Warehousing and Storage
• Flooring and Construction …and more
“Breathe
easy, we have got you covered.”
Suite 9, Lanyana Way Noosa Junction
At Walt Construction Group, sustainability is not a box we tick, it is the way we build. Our Pheasant Lane project in Doonan brings this to life, starting with the on-site relocation of two existing dwellings. Rather than demolishing them and adding to landfill, we have carefully moved and restored them, reducing the need for new materials and cutting waste. Both dwellings will be fitted out as accommodation, giving them a sustainable new purpose. Relocating and restoring existing homes is an approach that is often overlooked in favour of starting from scratch. Yet it offers one of the most powerful
ways to reduce construction’s environmental impact. By conserving resources and cutting waste, these homes gain character that new builds often can not match, while also delivering real economic benefits.
Inspiration has also been drawn from the land itself. Natural stone unearthed on the property has been crafted into a 120-metre retaining wall, avoiding transport emissions and making the most of what is already on site. This approach anchors the homes beautifully within their environment, keeping the project in harmony with its natural setting.
"At Walt Construction Group, sustainability is not a box we tick, it is the way we build"
Whether you are exploring ideas or have plans drafted to build or renovate your home, consider how sustainability can shape your choices. Have a chat with your builder about what is possible for your project, as the small decisions now can make a lasting difference.
The Evolving Role of Property Managers
In this landscape, property managers are more than caretakers of bricks and mortar – they are stewards of land, lifestyle, and community wellbeing. A sustainable approach to property management can include:
Encouraging Eco-Friendly Upgrades
Supporting homeowners to invest in solar panels, rainwater tanks, LED lighting, and efficient appliances not only boosts rental appeal but future-proofs the property. Tenants are increasingly prioritising these features when choosing a home.
Sustainable Landscaping and Land Care
Thoughtful garden design – native planting, mulching, efficient irrigation – can reduce water use, attract wildlife, and lower maintenance costs. Property managers play a role in guiding both tenants and owners toward responsible land care.
Waste Reduction and Recycling
Clear communication with tenants about local waste and recycling options, green bins, and composting supports more sustainable household practices. Simple steps like encouraging compost bins or worm farms can also reduce waste going to landfill.
Tenant Engagement and Education
A proactive property manager can help tenants understand and maintain sustainable features of a property. For example, ensuring tenants know how to operate rainwater pumps, solar inverters, or greywater systems is essential to keep these assets functioning long-term.
Preventive and Responsible Maintenance
Sustainable management also means taking a long-term view of property care. Preventive maintenance reduces costly repairs and waste. Choosing tradies and contractors who use ecoconscious methods and materials also contributes to achieving broader sustainability goals.
A Shared Responsibility
Ultimately, sustainability is a shared responsibility between homeowners, property managers, and tenants. Owners can invest in upgrades and infrastructure, property managers can provide education and stewardship, and tenants can embrace sustainable living practices day-to-day. By working together, we can ensure that our surrounds continue to be not only a place of natural beauty but also a community of resilient, forward-thinking households that live lightly on the land.
Looking Ahead
The property management industry is shifting towards a more holistic, sustainable model. This transition feels both natural and necessary. With its rich landscapes, strong community values, and growing demand for eco-friendly living, the hinterland region is uniquely positioned to lead the way.
Sustainable property management is about more than compliance – it is about creating homes that nurture people, respect the land, and secure the future for generations to come.
If you are a homeowner or investor we invite you to take a moment to speak with our Property Management team. Whether you are looking to maximise the return on your biggest investment, or seeking the best way to lease your property with sustainability in mind, we are here to help. Our team understands both the market and the unique values of our community. We would love to explore how we can support you.
Queenslander in Cooran
Saving Australia's Wildlife
An Interview with the Founders of Second Chance Wildlife Sanctuary
Born from heartbreak and built on hope, Second Chance Wildlife Sanctuary is a registered charity and not-for-profit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing Australia’s native wildlife. These are animals who have lost their homes, their mothers, and, too often, their only chance of survival.
For over two decades, the sanctuary has been a lifeline, responding to the devastating impacts of habitat destruction, introduced predators, and climate extremes. As mammal extinction rates accelerate, the founders stand at the forefront of conservation, determined to protect what cannot be replaced. Their vision is bold: a purpose-built refuge with a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital, sustainable facilities, and natural recovery spaces where wild lives can heal.
Founders and Directors of the Second Chance Wildlife Sanctuary: Trae Thomas, Michelle Rodgers, Susanne Scheuter and Jane Duxberry
Today, we meet the four women behind this mission – independent, determined, and united by one powerful goal.
Can you tell us about the origins of Second Chance Wildlife Sanctuary?
Susanne: This began with a shared passion for wildlife and deep heartbreak over the rapid loss of habitat in Australia. I sold my business in Switzerland to follow this calling, starting my journey at the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie, where I met Jane. Since then, we have rescued and rehabilitated hundreds of animals. This sanctuary holds everything we have poured our hearts into –it means everything.
What inspired you to take the mission to the next level?
Jane: Our sanctuary in the Noosa Hinterland is also our home, and it is overflowing with injured and orphaned wildlife. The need is immense. To truly meet this crisis, we need a larger, purposebuilt facility with a hospital and rehabilitation spaces. That would mean 24/7 care and no animal ever turned away.
What makes your approach unique?
Michelle: We envision a living, breathing ecosystem – restored habitats, volunteer housing, and respectful eco-stays that connect guests with orphaned wildlife in meaningful ways. It will be a place where education, community, and compassion come together, empowering people to help injured animals and fostering a wildlife-conscious future.
How do you see the sanctuary impacting the future of conservation?
Trae: By securing and restoring land, we are creating a permanent refuge for native species to thrive. Our mission goes beyond saving individual animals – it is about preserving entire ecosystems. Every act of healing wildlife is also an act of healing ourselves, reconnecting us to the natural world.
How can people support your mission?
Susanne: Every donation – big or small – brings this vision closer. Your support will help us secure a larger sanctuary, build a wildlife hospital, and provide ongoing care for countless injured and orphaned animals. Visit our website, or contact us directly. Website: scws.org.au
Together, we can give Australia’s wildlife a genuine second chance at life.
