A PREMIUM, Balinese-inspired retirement village to be built in Ipswich has set an environmental standard to which other residential developments can only hope to aspire.
Abadi Gaia has gained the highest rating possible from the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), one of only five lifestyle villages nationally to have earned the accreditation.
“The Institute is proud to certify Abadi Gaia Adult Residential Village with the 6-leaf rating,” said Taylor Hood, Director of Sustainability and Research at UDIA Queensland. “This project has truly set the standard in sustainable design and environmental excellence.
“With forward thinking and an environment-first attitude, ensuring that native habitat is protected and rehabilitated, Abadi Gaia has also created a special place to live in the Greater Brisbane region.”
The 6-leaf rating considers ecosystems, waste, energy, materials, water and community.
Abadi Gaia’s Development Manager Chanel Slijderink said the company had set out to deliver a world’s best practice eco-retirement village.
“We are thrilled to be awarded the 6-leaf rating.
“Among our environmental measures are water sustainability, waste recycling, solar optimisation and a commitment to wildlife health and diversity including improved glossy black cockatoo feeding opportunities, bee pollinating, species enhancement and koala population protection including seven hectares dedicated to koala habitat.
“Abadi Gaia has a long-standing commitment to the advancement of koala conservation in Ipswich, including sponsoring a koala at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary who is, naturally, named Abadi Gaia meaning ‘timeless mother earth’.”
Other leading environmental initiatives at Abadi Gaia include:
• High levels of passive and active recreational pursuits.
• Extensive water harvesting and recycling.
• A self-serving solar grid, complemented by sensor lights, LED and low-level light fittings.
• A non-religious feng shui plan integrating materials, textures, colours and accessibility.
• Extensive plantings.
• On-site waste recycling of organics to link to a vermiculture system.
• Shaded and private balconies.
• Thermally insulated and double-glazed windows.
Construction of the resort village is expected to commence in 2026 with an initial limited release of 32 villas and 14 apartments which are now open to expressions of interest.
With apartments starting from $550,000 interest in Abadi Gaia is already high.
