Construction has begun on Torhaven, Defence Housing Australia’s masterplanned residential community. DHA Chairman, ‘Sandy’ Macdonald said Torhaven was DHA’s first major masterplanned community in the Ipswich region.

“Our vision for Torhaven is to create a sustainable and safe parkland community with high quality homes, tree-lined streets and shared community spaces.”

Comprising 294 land lots, Torhaven is set to deliver approximately 100 homes for Australian Defence Force personnel and their families. A further $2 million will be spent on open space.

DHA acquired the site in 2015 from Andy and Sandra Rawlings, of the family that founded the iconic Rawlings Shoes & Menswear in 1898.

“To begin this project alongside a family that has called Ipswich home for some 115 years is in the true spirit of the community feel we hope Torhaven personifies,” Mr Macdonald said.

The first allocation of 43 Defence homes is due to be delivered in September 2018.

With sales of the first 62 retail lots scheduled to begin in November, Torhaven is on track to become a core part of Ipswich’s rapidly growing community.

He said developments such as Torhaven had particular appeal to young families.

‘With the new Deebing Heights Primary School across the road, and abundant natural corridors and parks across 20% of the 37-hectare site, we expect to see couples and families keen to take advantage of the affordable prices … even more so considering Torhaven’s convenient location.’