ES Summer 2022

3 Military residents find common ground at Elliot Springs With two defence bases in Townsville, Lavarack Barracks and RAAF Townsville, Elliot Springs is perfectly positioned for couples and families, offering easy access to shops and a short commute to work. Location and lifestyle are a big drawcard and after a busy day on base residents can come home to a relaxed lifestyle, while connecting with other military families in the neighbourhood. For Michelle, an ex-serving member of the Royal Australian Air Force, the location and lifestyle were incredibly important when deciding where to build the couple’s dream home. “The huge appeal of Elliot Springs was the rural feel, yet the proximity to everything we need regularly,” Michelle said. “We both grew up in rural NSW towns, so we really love nature, having space, peaceful surroundings and living among like-minded people. “We love how friendly the other residents are, most around our age and at a similar stage of life. Living in a garrison city such as Townsville, it feels more supportive being around other families or couples who have a common connection to the defence industry and are more likely to look after each other, particularly when the serving member is away. “Living only 12 minutes from home to his office on a relatively quiet stretch of highway creates such a good work/ life balance for Cane. Prior to living in Elliot Springs, we were renting 25-30 mins from work, which when his work involves early starts, late finishes and long stints at work, a typical day was tiring and costly on fuel.” With the continued expansion of the defence industry in Townsville, Elliot Springs offers the perfect fit for military members and families, with the option to buy or build or even rent out their home when posted away. When choosing a life off base, a growing number of military couples and families are unpacking their bags at Elliot Springs, excited to be part of a vibrant and connected community. The garden is thriving! Keeping it green to create a sustainable and thriving local community, the volunteer-led garden, is located opposite The Hub in Wadda Mooli Park. A spring working bee saw the planting of a range of new seedlings that are now ready to harvest. Many thanks to the Wesleyan team and Annetts family for their efforts! If you visit the garden, you can help out by turning the hose on for 10 minutes to give the plants a decent watering (the hose is already set up - you just need to plug it in). More hands make light work. Visit the garden’s Facebook page https://bit.ly/3Ao4pVS to learn how you can help keep this garden thriving! Sunshine and warm weather are upon us, making it the perfect time to get your hands dirty and help dig deep at the Elliot Springs community garden.