Catalina Lake Macquarie

29/04/2026

The village recently came together over Easter for a special Make A Wish fundraiser, with our Giant Easter Egg Raffle raising a fantastic $760.35! 🐣

Congratulations to Reiner Schneidereit, the lucky winner of the giant Easter egg – a very well deserved treat. Although we think you might need some help finishing it 😉

A special mention to our residents, Deb and Les Craven, whose generosity played an important part in bringing this together.

Thank you to everyone who contributed, purchased tickets and supported the raffle. It’s a wonderful way to come together and support such a special cause.

We are so proud of everyone involved and their fundraising efforts and look forward to seeing the many ways they continue to support the wider community.

26/04/2026

Easter at Catalina was celebrated with a relaxed Sunday family lunch, with residents enjoying time with neighbours and loved ones while sharing a good meal (and if you were lucky enough to have a visit from the Easter Bunny, plenty of chocolate too). 🐰

Little crocheted bunnies made an appearance as table decorations, beautifully made by our talented resident Roz – thank you. As always, a big thank you to our wonderful bar staff, Lyn, Ian and Peter, who kept everything running smoothly throughout the day.

The afternoon flowed into games of pool and bowls, with others joining in just in time for happy hour. It was a lovely way to round out the weekend, with one or two residents still nursing a sore tummy from the sweets. 🍫🧁

24/04/2026

Today, residents and staff at Catalina pause to remember and honour the men and women who have served our country.

The day begins quietly at dawn, as the morning light grows and the Kitty Hawk firepit is lit, a gentle and enduring symbol of remembrance for the ANZACs. For many residents, the day holds personal memories and connections, making it an important time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice and mateship shown by generations of service men and women.

We come together around the Community Centre for the Last Post, the Ode and a minute’s silence, pausing to honour those who served and those who never returned.

Afterwards, we gather to share a meal together, taking time to reflect, connect and share stories of family and friends, keeping their memories alive in our hearts.

Lest we forget. 🌹

21/04/2026

Who said retirement villages are quiet? At Catalina, we’re here to prove them wrong.

There is always something happening around the village, with residents coming together throughout the week to enjoy a wide range of social gatherings and shared interests. From friendly games of bowls, darts and 8 ball pool to lively trivia nights, bingo sessions and some card games, there are plenty of ways to get involved and meet neighbours.

The social calendar also includes regular group lunches and themed events that bring everyone together, with celebrations throughout the year that add even more fun to community life.

Whether it’s joining a game, sharing a meal with friends or simply dropping in to see what’s happening, residents can fill their days with as much connection and enjoyment as they choose.

Here, life can be vibrant, social and full of activities, but it’s never dull. 💚✨

17/04/2026

Residents at Catalina recently enjoyed a great evening of conversation and camaraderie at the village’s Men’s BBQ.

Hosted by resident Bill Gillett, the gathering brought together the men of Catalina for a catch up over a barbequed meal and a few drinks from the Hangar Bar. The evening was made even more special with a visit from former Wallaby and rugby legend Gary Ella, who joined the group and joined in the conversation.

With plenty of stories, laughter and good company, the night was a great reminder of the friendships and community spirit that make life at Catalina so enjoyable.

A special thank you to Gary for taking the time to visit and spend time with residents. 🏉

16/04/2026

Residents at Catalina continue to show their community spirit through the village card fundraising initiative in the Community Centre Lounge.

Handmade cards created by Fran and the Catalina card making group are available for residents to purchase, with proceeds supporting the Make A Wish Foundation. Thanks to the wonderful generosity of residents, the group has recently added $545.45 to the village’s fundraising total.

The card “store” has become a well-loved part of the community centre, giving residents the chance to pick up a thoughtful card while helping raise funds for a meaningful cause.

As Fran says, “No customers, no dollars. It’s a village effort!”

A fantastic result from the Catalina community supporting an important cause. 💚

13/04/2026

Stage 5 is now selling, with only a few homes remaining.

Stage 5 features beautifully designed villas that allow residents to enjoy independent living with the peace of mind that support is available if it is ever needed. Each home provides the comfort, privacy and space to continue living life your way, while still being part of a friendly and welcoming village.

From social events and outings to quiet moments at home or time spent with neighbours, village life offers both independence and a strong sense of community.

If you’ve been considering retirement living, Stage 5 offers a wonderful opportunity to make Catalina your home.

To learn more or book a personal tour, call 1300 927 786.

Now Selling ...

10/04/2026

As the weather begins to cool, many Catalina residents are spending more time outdoors and making the most of the milder days. 🍂

With the heat of summer behind us, this time of year is perfect for getting out into the fresh air and enjoying the simple benefits of being outside. Some residents may enjoy:

- A gentle walk around the village
- Spending time in the garden or tending to plants
- Sitting outside with a coffee and enjoying the sunshine
- Catching up with neighbours outdoors
- Taking a quiet moment to enjoy the fresh air.

Getting outside around the village is one of the simple ways residents can support their wellbeing while enjoying the fresh air and the company of neighbours and friends.

Now Selling ...

08/04/2026

At Catalina, there are always opportunities for residents to get involved, contribute their ideas and share their time with others.

The village Social Committee is a wonderful example of this spirit. Made up of resident volunteers led by Vickie and supported by Sue, Roz and Isabel the group comes together to plan events, organise activities and decorate the village for celebrations throughout the year. From Australia Day gatherings and birthday lunches to New Year’s celebrations and Christmas in July, their efforts help bring colour, fun and connection to the community. ✨

Their dedication ensures there is always something happening at Catalina, and their efforts continue to bring life and joy to the community they proudly call home.

06/04/2026

Residents from Catalina recently enjoyed a lovely day out at Mount Penang Gardens, spending time together exploring the beautiful grounds. 🏔🍃

During the visit, the group stopped at the Waterfall Cafe for coffee and a bite to eat, sitting by the water and overlooking the gardens and wildlife.

There was plenty of time to wander along the pathways, take in the greenery and catch up with one another throughout the day.

It was a wonderful day spent outdoors and a lovely opportunity to enjoy time together beyond the village.

Now Selling ...

03/04/2026

Residents from Catalina recently enjoyed their monthly lunch outing at the Belmont 16s sailing club, a lovely waterfront venue just around the corner from home. ⛵️

With plenty of variety on the menu, there was something for everyone to choose from, with some residents opting for a delicious dessert to round out the meal.

Our monthly lunches are one of our favourite ways to connect with the community, bringing everyone together over good food, plenty of laughs and new places to try.

A big thank you to Robert for organising the outing and to Tony for doing a great job driving the bus out and back.

01/04/2026

With the school holidays here, Catalina has been enjoying a lovely increase in visits from children and grandchildren.

It is a special time where families spend more time together and the village fills with the warmth and energy that comes from having loved ones close by. Many residents have been enjoying craft activities with their visiting grandchildren, spending time creating, decorating and sharing a few Easter-themed projects together.

Moments like these bring an extra sense of joy to the village, as generations come together to celebrate the season and enjoy each other’s company. 🐣🎨

Now Selling ...