The story of Woodlands began in the mid-1990's with the proposed re-development of a large site owned by the Hogarth family. The original plans were to develop the site reflecting the traditional values of neighbourhood and community with little disturbance to the local area. After a long association with the Hogarth family, it was Gordon Douglas, Managing Director of PRD Realty, who successfully negotiated and planned the final development of the site. The chosen team of developers, Sir Donald Trescowthick and Ern Suaress, working together for the first time, supported the creation of a collection of 44 freehold title homes set among more that 3 hectares of majestic old trees and botanic gardens established by the Hogarth family over a period of 30 years. Stage 1 of Woodlands Residences was launched amid a fanfare of street parties and music on the weekend of 27 and 28 June, 1998 to celebrate the completion of the first ten homes. A waterfall, a 20 metre swimming pool, a barbeque and entertainment area and a forested park added the central features to the gated, garden-filled property. The stylish designs of the individual residences proved to be most attractive and drew many favourable responses to this upmarket modern development. At this time it was considered a most successful outcome of the initial planning and represented the first of four stages in the marketing of the whole project by PRD Realty.

The traditional Queenslander was at the heart of the concept when the architect, Peter Smith, set about designing 16 different styles to suit individual tastes and living requirements. Protected outdoor living areas and wide verandas of many early homes were included to take advantage of the warm climate and cool coastal breezes. As project architect, Peter planned single level 'Courtyard' homes available in 5 designs or the split level 'Mountain Vista' and 'Parkland' homes, also in a variety of designs. Interiors combined light colours with fine timbers allowing for contemporary decoration and furnishing. Large windows ensured the homes were bright and breezy encouraging natural light and taking advantage of parkland or mountain views. Kitchens were recognized as the heart of the home and were fitted with stainless steel, marble and the latest European appliances. The architect planned for privacy with the clever positioning of homes so that there would be little sense of intrusion between neighbours. Such standards were ensured throughout the 4 stages of development until the completion of the project in 2004.

It was recognized the growth and increased complexity of maintaining property standards as well as the continual upkeep of community gardens and amenities necessitated the need for on-site management. Thus the management team of Graham Baum and Marion Wallis took up residence in October 1998. There have been very few changes of management over the years and currently our Caretakers work towards a cohesive, well-maintained community and neighbourhood. Each year a Body Corporate Committee of seven members is elected to manage the finances under the guidance of Body Corporate Services of Southport, to maintain the standards of the Property By-Laws and to represent all residents.

This neighbourhood holds a rich history in the development of the City of Gold Coast. For those residents who are interested in history, the Local Area Studies Library at Southport and the Gold Coast and Hinterland Historical Museum at Bundall hold the early stories of this rich green area beside the Nerang River. The original inhabitants of the area were the indigenous people of the Kombumerri or Saltwater people, a clan who spoke the language of the much larger tribal group of the Yugambeh. These people were the hunters, gatherers and fishers over this south-eastern corner of Queensland and into northern New South Wales. In the mid 1800's the lifestyle of these people changed for all time with the coming of European settlement. This was one of the first areas developed along the Nerang River by pioneer farmers growing such crops as cotton and sugarcane. Such stories make interesting reading along with the development of Benowa. It is an interesting exercise to identify some of the original buildings which still exist. The Rosser and Andrews families are representative of the more recent dairy farmers and bee-keepers who followed those early pioneers into this neighbourhood and their descendants are still our nearest neighbours. Woodlands will always be the home of trees and gardens, laneways and walking tracks leading to other neighbouring properties which offer peace and relaxation; the Gold Coast Botanic Garden and the Royal Pines Resort and Golf Course.

Today, Woodlands remains as it has always been, a small secure residential community in a botanical setting in the heart of the City of Gold Coast.

Ref:

• Local Studies Library, First Floor, Southport Branch Library. Lawson St., Southport. www.slq.qld.gov.au
• Gold Coast and Hinterland Historical Museum. 8 Elliott Street, Bundall. www.magsq.com.au