Frequently Asked Questions
Browse through some of the most asked questions about living at our Aura retirement villages in southeast Queensland.
What is Aura Holdings?
Aura Holdings, a Queensland-owned retirement village operator, was founded in 2016 by Tim Russell and Mark Taylor, who together have more than 35 years’ experience working within the industry. Aura Holdings is currently managing six high-quality retirement communities in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Toowoomba and has development approvals for two new communities in Brisbane.
When should you consider a retirement village?
Any time after the age of 60 and you don’t need to be retired to move in. Many people move to a village from their family home because they want less maintenance and more free time. The decision to move should not be based on age but all about the lifestyle you desire.
What makes a good retirement village?
When you walk through the village entrance you should feel right at home. The essentials of a good village are: your own beautiful apartment, a welcoming community, modern facilities, an active social life, a friendly village manager and staff. It is a place where you are respected and treasured.
How much money do I need to live in an Aura village?
All our apartments are owner-occupied so you will need to be able to purchase your own. Other expenses include the General Service Charge (the weekly fee – it varies depending on the village you choose to live so please check with your sales consultant for current information about these charges) and residents are responsible for normal services to their apartment such as electricity, water, phone, internet and content insurance.
Are residents happy in retirement villages?
Independent research from the National RVRA Survey 2024 shows an overwhelming majority, or 84 per cent of village residents, were satisfied with living in their village – appreciating all that retirement communities have to offer, enhancing their quality of life.
Are retirement villages a good idea?
One of the most often heard statements in our villages is “I wish I’d moved here sooner.’’ Vibrant retirement villages offer numerous lifestyle and social benefits. Without home maintenance but with your friends on hand and state-of-the-art facilities, residents feel like they are on holiday every day and choose to be as social as they wish.
Who owns the business?
Our villages are owned and operated by experienced southeast Queensland-based company, Aura Holdings. The Directors Mark Taylor and Tim Russell have more than 35 years’ experience working within the retirement living industry. Learn more about Aura Holdings.
Do I pay stamp duty when I purchase an apartment at the village?
No. Stamp duty does not apply to your retirement living apartment.
Do I actually own my apartment?
You purchase a “right to reside” under a leasehold agreement overseen by the Retirement Villages Act 1999 (Qld). Your leasehold agreement will give you the right to live in your apartment for as long as you wish. The lease automatically terminates on the death of the surviving resident or when the apartment is sold.
Can I get help to declutter and pack my old home and style my new apartment?
We partner with hands-on decluttering and downsizing experts who can assist you to move effortlessly from your old home into your new apartment. If you need help to furnish or style your apartment, Viera Tischljar, of VT Interiors, who styles Aura Holdings’ display apartments, can offer advice on incorporating your favourite pieces with any new purchases. Viera can be consulted for a fee.
Do you have a range of apartment sizes?
At Aura we listen to our residents and we cater to their needs, offering a wide range of apartment sizes and styles from one-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom spacious penthouses. Read our blog here.
Can I make changes to my apartment?
We want you to feel comfortable and happy in your new home and recognise that you may wish to tailor it to your needs at your own cost. Please contact your Village Manager who will endeavour to accommodate your needs and desires where possible, taking into consideration council regulations and conditions of the village’s development approval.
What are the benefits of living in a vertical living development rather than individual houses in a large village?
Residents of a vertical living development only need to hop into the lift to access all the village’s facilities. In a traditional village, you may need to walk long distances to access facilities, problematic in severe weather condition or if a resident has mobility issues. Aura is able to build vertical villages in quality locations, while traditional, sprawling villages tend to be sited in more remote areas. To learn more about the design of our Aura retirement communities, click here.
Where is The Ninth retirement community located?
The Ninth is located at 245 Rowbotham Street, Middle Ridge Queensland 4350
Can family or visitors stay with me?
Yes, of course, it is your home and family and friends are very welcome. In fact, just try keeping them away when they see all the fabulous facilities on offer! If you have guests staying for an extended period, we do ask that you apply for a guest licence.
Can I have a pet?
Well behaved pets are very welcome under our Pet Ownership Rules. Your pet is sure to become a much-loved member of the village community.
What is the size of the retirement community?
The Ninth Middle Ridge is a close knit community with three buildings and a total of 74 apartments.
What are the facilities like?
The Ninth Middle Ridge has a vast range of facilities on offer for you to enjoy at your leisure. Facilities for your entertainment include a billiards room, wine room and storage, library, a multipurpose room for craft activities. The Ninth also has a gym onsite, a commuity garden, yoga and pilates area and golf club and golf buggy storage. Outdoor facilities include a BBQ area, a bocce court and the Toowoomba Golf Club is at your doorstep should you fancy a game of golf or a bite to eat.
What are the fees associated with this retirement village?
At The Ninth, there are fees associated with coming into the village, living in the village, and when you depart the village. Please refer to the fees section.
Do you have electric vehicle charging stations?
Yes, we do have 1 EV charging station onsite with 2 charging ports. This station is serviced by an external party and charging costs are additional and outside the Ninth’s General services charges, should you wish to use this service.
The Ninth Middle Ridge
Unmatched comfort and security, vibrant social connections, and a range of tailored amenities