Brand new boutique apartments The Banksia reached a new milestone this week as the roof completes the initial build of the three-storey 35 apartment premium retirement living by BESIX Watpac. Attendees at the official topping out ceremony included MP for Cowper Mr Pat Conaghan, BESIX Watpac, local business owners and the Garden Village community.
Cowper MP Pat Conaghan acknowledged the federal government funding towards the project. “It is part of the federal government’s policy to increase the number of aged care facilities in addition to increasing the funding for home care as well,” he said. Mr Conaghan said the development would provide additional high quality residences at Garden Village.
“With the Banksia roof in place, we’ve reached a significant milestone and look forward to seeing our vision come to life as the internal fit outs shape the interiors of these beautiful apartments,” said Chief Executive Officer, Craig Wearne. “The Garden Village community is excited about the next phase and we already have a waiting list of prospective purchasers,” added Mr Wearne.
BESIX Watpac northern NSW Regional Manager Amos Frankel said “I’m truly excited to see the finished building, I think you will all be very proud. Now to symbolise growth and to bring luck to the new Banksia Apartments I will call on our team to lift the Evergreen tree to the top level.” Simon Lange, BESIX Watpac Foreman lifted the commemorative tree to the roof with a crane.
“Garden Village prides itself on our beautiful gardens for residents to enjoy. The tree will be planted at The Banksia as a beautiful gesture which will grow alongside the Garden Village retirement community,” added Mr Wearne.
Garden Village chairman Andrew Walmsley acknowledged the residents who had moved to other parts of the village to allow for the new Banksia development. “Without your sacrifice this building would not have been possible and you have our deepest appreciation,” he said. He commended BESIX Watpac for their collaborative approach and cooperation.
Garden Village secured $5.2 million towards the development from the federal government’s Building Better Regions Fund. This funding has helped provide a significant number of jobs on the mid north coast with over 72,000 hours worked on the project while pushing $12 million through the local economy, particularly during a time of pandemic and natural disasters. This is a fantastic contribution to the local community.
The boutique apartments boost retirement living options in the Hastings region at a time when demand for property is at an all time high. Interested purchasers can request a prospectus from Garden Village.
