CHL’s Ironbark Place development in Southport, Queensland has won the Social Housing Project award at the Master Builders Queensland 2026 Housing & Construction Awards, Gold Coast Region. The award recognises the project for delivering safe, high-quality homes and a lasting positive impact for the local community.
Ironbark Place provides 37 new homes for people aged over 55 and two Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) apartments for people eligible under the NDIS. Built to high accessibility standards, the homes offer generous dimensions, step-free access and features chosen to help residents live comfortably and independently as their needs change. It’s a place designed to help older Queenslanders age in place and feel part of a connected community.
Ironbark Place was delivered by CHL in partnership with the Queensland Government and project partners RyallSmyth, Paynters, Gaskell Planning Consultants and MCD Australia. The property takes its name from the Ironbark tree, which is native to the Southport area and symbolises strength and resilience.
Carly Bairstow, CHL’s Queensland State Manager, says: “We’re proud to see Ironbark Place recognised at the Master Builders Queensland Awards. This result reflects the hard work of our project team and partners, and our shared commitment to delivering high-quality homes where older Queenslanders can age in place and feel part of a connected community.”
That sense of community is built into the design. Residents share garden spaces and a rooftop terrace with barbeque facilities, while lift access, secured entry and CCTV help to make the property safe and easy to navigate. Ironbark Place is also close to public transport, shops, community amenities and the beach, helping residents stay connected to the life of their local area.
The development plays a part in a broader housing solution. By giving older Queenslanders the opportunity to right-size into a home that suits them, Ironbark Place helps free up larger homes for families who need them. It reflects CHL’s wider work across Queensland, where many developments are designed to help older residents age in place within thriving, connected communities.
Read more about Ironbark Place.
