Art home to roost

Developer keen to create talking point as green open space a priority in new familyfriendly community

PELICAN, cockatoo and eagle sculptures have been installed at a new $500 million Gold Coast community.

The birds, which are now roosting at The Surrounds, Helensvale, are the latest installation in developer Villawood Properties’ commitment to public artwork.

A 6m tall pair of herons were installed at the project last year.

Villawood executive director Tony Johnson said public art would form a crucial element in ensuring The Surrounds was a “vibrant and welcoming environment” for residents and visitors.

Created by acclaimed Tasmanian sculptor Folko Kooper using corten steel, the five pelicans, three cockatoos, a pair of eagles and the herons are nestled among the greenspace on Country Club Drive. Mr Kooper’s distinctive steel artworks are a signature feature of Villawood communities along the east coast.

The latest addition coincides with the completion of civil and earthworks before construction on the first homes starts within weeks.

“Kooper’s sculptures are a stand out feature at our residential developments across Australia and The Surrounds will be no different,” Mr Johnson said.

“The eight new ‘residents’ at The Surrounds reflect birds native to the Gold Coast and create a talking point for visitors, homebuyers and residents. We’re looking forward to welcoming our human residents as the project approaches settlement and construction of the first homes.”

Mr Johnson said demand for land on the Gold Coast remained strong with the project notching sell-out results since the first release in July 2016. Villawood was now planning fast track the next relese to meet buyer interest.

“The Surrounds is proving to be one of Queensland’s most sought after communities,” he said. “We are consistently hearing from buyers they are attracted to the family friendly lifestyle and convenient connection to amenities such as shopping centres, the light rail and the easy access to the M1 motorway.”

Mr Johnson said the sales and information centre at Country Club Drive, Helensvale, was now open seven days a week to meet demand.

Located on the former Gold Coast Country Club, The Surrounds is bordered by Westfield Helensvale and Coombabah Parklands.

About a third (30ha) of the community will be dedicated to green open space, including new parklands, and a green buffer that fringes the site. Lots have been mapped to ensure each home is less than 200m from greenspace.

Villawood is growing its southeast Queensland portfolio, which also includes Montego Hills at Kingsholme and a soon-to-be released new project. The three communities will bring more than 1,000 building opportunities to local builders during the next few years.