News

December 30, 2018 | IN Media Release and News | BY Holly Brennan | 2 min read

As social isolation grows, a Queensland developer is urging fellow industry members to do more to focus efforts on promoting community and building social responsibility within developments.

Brentwood Forest’s fight against social isolation is strengthened by the newest community amenity, the $1.4 million Tucker Family Park, which uses innovative design and unique features to bring the community together.

AVID Property Group General Manager Queensland Bruce Harper said creating a sense of place was crucial to the development of a masterplanned community and AVID’s experience at Brentwood Forest has shown that it’s possible.

“This year, our focus at Brentwood Forest has been on bringing the community together – delivering amenities and holding events to help give our residents a genuine sense of belonging,” Mr Harper said.

According to a Lifeline survey, eight out of 10 Australians think loneliness is increasing, and six out of 10 said they often felt lonely.

“Loneliness can be common at Christmas time as people without friends or family close by feel disconnected,” Mr Harper said.

“The park is designed to attract residents from all walks of life, bringing them together in a shared space to help form new friendships with their neighbours.

“It’s important for developers to understand that building a community is more than just building amenities – we should be encouraging residents and communities to be passionate about where they live and feel a sense of social responsibility.”

Mr Harper has ensured AVID has retained and encouraged its strong commitment to environmental protection within the community.

“Hosting a series of Take 3 for the Sea events at Brentwood Forest in the Tucker Family Park has shown the community multiple benefits of a community space – somewhere to gather for fun or for purpose,” Mr Harper said.

Most recently, Brentwood Forest hosted its annual Christmas Movie in the Park, welcoming more than 150 locals to a screening of family favourite Home Alone.

“It was another great opportunity to help out our local school, with the Bellbird Park State Secondary College P&C fundraising with a sausage sizzle and popcorn stand,” Mr Harper said.

“A development is more than just streets, houses and parks, it’s a community of people – we have worked hard in 2018 to foster new friendships and make our community stronger against social isolation.”

Find out more about Brentwood Forest