Coastal village designed around changing needs of retirees

A new retirement living community is set to take shape on the Sunshine Coast, with the sod turning on a beachside development.

BlueCare’s Bokarina Beach Village at Wurtulla will include 28 beach houses designed for coastal living, while there are plans to build another 234 apartments on site in future stages.

The community has been designed with shared spaces and landscaped outdoor areas that encourage social connection, wellness activities and everyday interaction between residents.

Representatives from UnitingCare Queensland, the operator of BlueCare, gathered on site with project partners, community leaders and Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie for the official blessing of the development.

UnitingCare Queensland CEO Ben Edwards said the village would help meet growing demand for quality retirement living.

“The Sunshine Coast is one of the fastest growing regions in Queensland and we know there is strong demand for high-quality retirement living options that allow people to stay close to family, friends and the coastal lifestyle they enjoy,” he said.

“Bokarina Beach Village is about more than new homes, it’s about the kind of community people genuinely want to live in: where they can stay independent, connected, and enjoy life.

“Residents will be able to start their day with a walk to the beach, meet friends for coffee, take part in wellness and recreation activities, and return home to low-maintenance living designed to support their independence for years to come.

Unlike traditional retirement developments, Bokarina Beach Village has been designed as an integrated coastal community where residents remain closely connected to the surrounding neighbourhood, lifestyle and amenities.

“It also plays a role in the broader housing challenge, giving people more options to downsize, and freeing up homes for other families in a market that’s under pressure,” Mr Edwards said.

The plans for a further 234 apartments, in future stages, are going through the approvals process via Sunshine Coast Council.