A 600m2 block of land might seem like a stark contrast to 150 acres, without a neighbour in sight, but for Alan and Lauraine Evans, time and instinct tell you when to move.
After 20 years operating an Angus cattle stud 40km from Port Macquarie at Pipeclay, west of Beechwood, the couple, now in their 80s, made the decision to return to surburbia.
In their search for a new home, the Evans stumbled upon Sovereign Hills five years ago and found they could still retain their treelined view and sense of space, just 12 minutes from Port Macquarie’s CBD and beaches.
They settled on a block of land facing the Stirling Green parkland and set about creating an oasis for the next chapter of their lives.
“We loved the location, the beauty of the natural trees, the master planning of the estate, including parks, bicycle tracks, pathways, and the ambience of it all coming together,” they shared. “Importantly, we are just three minutes away from our local Sovereign Hills shopping centre.”
The couple, who recently celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary and spent 30 years living in Sydney’s Northern Beaches raising their family prior to Pipeclay, visit the Sovereign Place Town Centre at least twice a week.
“We have watched the centre grow and enjoy the outdoor feeling that has been developed, and our favourite shops are The Hill Café for coffee, and Triple Two for gifts and clothing.”
They have also made new friends and enjoy walking around the estate every afternoon, taking time to chat with the locals.
“There is such a variety of ages and interests; we have a great variety of friends,” they added.
After enjoying a healthy dose of city and country life, the Evans have now found their in between – their happy place at Sovereign Hills.
