From golf simulators to rooftop bars: The Gold Coast destination made for over-50s

A brand-new Country Club has been unveiled on the iconic Aussie hotspot, with the design and amenity setting new standards in over-50s resort living.

The stylish $22.9 million, three-storey facility is part of GemLife’s Gold Coast community and demonstrates the evolution of the Gold Coast’s property scene and its ability to cater to discerning downsizers.

“The Gold Coast is renowned as a holiday destination,” says Andrew Coulter, GemLife’s Chief Operating Officer.

“We’ve created a luxury resort that wouldn’t be out of place in Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach—but it’s exclusively for our homeowners, who are seasoned travellers with high expectations when it comes to quality.”

According to realestate.com.au data, median house prices in key Gold Coast suburbs like Burleigh Heads, Surfers Paradise, and Pimpana have grown by an average of 21.5% in the past year, far outperforming the 4% average growth seen across Australia’s capital cities.

It’s also booming with population growth, with about 15,300 new residents moving there in 2024—above the decade average.

Downsizers seeking sunshine, lifestyle and community are key to this, Coulter explains.

“GemLife Gold Coast is a game-changer for over-50s lifestyle living. As the largest land lease community in the city, it shows just how far downsizing has evolved,” says Coulter.

A Gold Coast flagship

GemLife’s new Country Club sits on an elevated site and was designed to make GemLife Gold Coast a flagship destination, Coulter explains.

“When we saw the views—stretching from South Stradbroke Island to the Surfers Paradise skyline—we knew we had to create something truly special.

“The Country Club was designed to make the most of this incredible outlook,” he says.

The design was inspired by the Gold Coast’s Mediterranean-influenced architecture built during the 1930s to 1960s.

That influence shines through in the detailed brick arches, vaulted ceilings, and high-end finishes.

“The layout embraces views across three levels, encourages casual encounters and shared experiences. It is a destination for residents, their friends, and family to gather, connect, and celebrate,” says Coulter.

Five-star amenity

On a quest to create the best possible lifestyle experience for today’s vibrant and active over-50s, Jared Poole, principal architect at Jared Poole Design, says the aim was to exceed expectations.

“This is a level of design and amenity far beyond what’s typically seen—a facility that truly adds value to residents’ lifestyles and makes a meaningful contribution to the local area,” he says.

Whether soaking up views from the Sky Lounge and infinity-edge pool on the upper terrace,or practicing in the golf simulator, Poole says there is something for everyone.

The facility also features an indoor bowling alley, cinema, workshop, grand ballroom, wine lounge, salon, library, gym, games room, and more.

“This is about creating a daily resort experience, not just a place to live,” he says.

Location first

With the Country Club, residents will have everything that they desire in one place.

However, being right in the heart of the Gold Coast, Coulter says there’s also so much to embrace in the surrounding area.

“GemLife Gold Coast is perfectly positioned with shopping, dining, and health services just minutes away from the resort,” he says.

“And you’re a short drive from golden beaches, lush hinterland nature and entertainment precincts. It’s all the benefits of a prime location, without the hustle and bustle.”

The combination of bliss and amenity is appealing to over-50s buyers who are still working but want to ease towards retirement.

“For over-50s, it’s a location that encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle with the flexibility to stay connected to family, travel or just soak up the good life,” says Coulter.

Smart living

Far removed from the perceptions of traditional retirement villages of the past, GemLife is determinedly  innovative, recognising how sophisticated the over-50s buyers’ market is today.

“GemLife is a modern, thoughtful evolution in the property landscape—one that puts wellbeing, freedom and lifestyle front and centre,” says Coulter.

He says residents also benefit from a land lease model, in which they purchase their new home, enjoy access to the Country Club and other resort facilities, but lease the land that their home is on.

“Plus, with no entry or exit fees, no stamp duty to pay, and the ability to retain capital gains, our model offers real financial peace of mind,” says Coulter.

With the Country Club launched and residents already making the most of it, there are opportunities for others to make GemLife Gold Coast their home.

“One of our homeowners put it perfectly—she said living at GemLife Gold Coast feels like being on a luxury cruise, where all the action happens at the Country Club and your home is your private stateroom—only much bigger!” he says.

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