Relocating with a family can feel daunting, but for Anthony, Sarina, and their family, moving to The Cape was one of the best decisions they ever made. It wasn’t just about finding a new home but discovering a lifestyle that promotes well-being, community, and a connection to nature in a sustainable environment.

The decision to move: Seeking a better environment for the family

Anthony and his family were living for 14 years in Berwick, a suburb south of Melbourne that had grown so fast that it felt overcrowded, lacking real breathing space. They took every chance to get away on weekends to escape and during one of these trips, Anthony and his family stumbled across the Bass Coast and were introduced to Cape.

The initial transition wasn’t easy, especially with the kids leaving strong connections that they had made, but with strong support from the local school and community, they quickly adapted. 

“That was probably one of the best decisions we made—moving down here. The kids are doing great at school and making authentic friendships along the way.” Anthony shares. 

The local schools are in Wonthaggi, approximately a 10-minute drive from home. The kids are at both primary and high school, and we have found the schools foster a nurturing environment, quickly addressing children’s needs and helping them feel included.

A Village to Raise a Child: The Cape’s family-friendly features

Life at The Cape offers Anthony’s family more than just a house; it’s a place where their kids enjoy riding bikes, exploring the local beach, and playing at the sports precinct with newfound friends. Kids also have access to playgrounds, sports facilities, and a friendly neighbourhood. This environment not only encourages outdoor activities but also helps children forge more authentic and lasting friendships. 

Anthony highlights the difference between the friendships his kids made in Melbourne compared to those at The Cape: “The kids come home now and instead of going straight to their rooms, they go to the basketball ring or over to the park and our home has become a very popular sleepover destination with our kids’ friends, which we love”.  Unlike the transient nature of urban friendships, relationships here are more enduring, rooted in shared activities and a close-knit community.

Another appealing aspect of life at The Cape is its emphasis on the classic saying: It takes a village to raise a child. Parents can feel at ease knowing that their children are growing up in a community where everyone looks out for one another. “Here, you can let your kids go to the park or walk down the street without that constant worry,” says Anthony, appreciating the safety and peace of mind that The Cape provides.

Quality education and facilities

Families considering a move to The Cape will find several high-quality educational options in the region. The schools not only offer excellent facilities but also attract experienced teachers who choose to live in the area for its lifestyle benefits. 

Sarina says, “I think the quality of teachers is great, and the facilities are amazing.” 

“The availability of school buses and various extracurricular activities, including sports like AFL, AFLW, basketball, surf lifesaving, surfing, and swimming, means that kids here are exposed to diverse learning and social opportunities. Furthermore, Anthony notes that the community atmosphere of the schools allows teachers to pay more attention to each student, creating a supportive educational environment.”

Outdoor adventures and a healthier lifestyle

Living at The Cape naturally integrates outdoor activities into daily life. The nearby beaches, walking and cycling trails, and sports precincts, including the Cape Surf Life Saving Club, provide endless opportunities for families to enjoy nature and stay active. 

“On warm days, the kids are always eager to hit the beach or explore the outdoors, even on cooler days, they’ll see the weather’s 25 degrees, and they’re asking, ‘ Can we go to the beach?'” Anthony says.

The desire to be outdoors and engage in community activities reduces the kids’ screen time, replacing it with exercise and social interaction. It’s a lifestyle shift that Anthony & Sarina believe makes their children happier and more balanced.

Sustainability and future-proof living

Sarina and Anthony recently moved into their custom-designed, two-story home, designed by Adapt Design and built by TS Constructions. The 7.5-star energy-rated home features four bedrooms, a rumpus room, and a dedicated workspace, all thoughtfully arranged to maximize internal space while maintaining a generous garden on their 306-square-metre block. Sarina shares, “I love our second level, where we can look out over the park and over Bass Strait and we have even been able to see the aurora from our balcony!”

The Cape is known for its commitment to sustainability, and this ethos extends to how residents live. Anthony and Sarina’s decision to invest in an electric vehicle (EV) reflects the community’s values of reducing environmental impact. “I could be spending $150 a week on petrol. Now, with the EV, I can be charging for free, especially with solar,” Anthony says.

The Cape’s infrastructure supports sustainable living, offering local charging stations for EVs and encouraging residents to integrate solar power into their homes. Anthony plans to install a home charger and a battery system to further enhance their energy efficiency, ensuring their home and lifestyle is sustainable and cost effective.

A community built for families

The Cape isn’t just a place to live — it’s a community where families thrive. If you’re ready to give your kids a healthier, happier lifestyle, The Cape is waiting for you.

“What we had when I was growing up is what we have here,” Anthony reflects, noting how the friendly, open design of the community encourages interaction and friendships.

For young families considering a move, The Cape provides an environment that nurtures both the kids and the parents. With access to quality education, sports, social activities, and a network of supportive neighbours, it’s a place that embraces the idea of raising children within a caring village.

If you’re looking for a lifestyle that balances family, community, and sustainability, The Cape might just be the perfect fit. As Anthony puts it, “If people could realise the benefits of moving to an area like this for their family, they’d see it’s not just about the environment—it’s about the quality of life.”