Ravenswood's inclusion in the City of Bendigo's investigation into future housing sites has been met with strong support, with developer Villawood Properties highlighting the area's potential to drive the city’s housing and economic growth sustainably.

Julian Perez, Villawood's Victorian regional general manager, welcomed the council's decision to explore Ravenswood as a greenfield site for future development. He believes that Ravenswood offers a unique opportunity to attract the skilled professionals and workers Bendigo needs to thrive in the coming decades.

“We’re very pleased that the city council is considering the south as part of its strategic planning for Bendigo's growth,” said Perez. “Bendigo’s housing and economic future depends on greenfield sites like Ravenswood, which will help attract professionals, such as doctors, teachers, nurses, lawyers, and skilled labourers. A location like Ravenswood, with a shorter commute to Melbourne than other parts of Bendigo, will make the city far more attractive to potential newcomers."

Perez was quick to address concerns raised by some councillors who argued that focusing on greenfield sites like Ravenswood could hinder urban infill development. He stressed that while Villawood supports infill development where appropriate, Bendigo needs a balanced approach that includes both infill and greenfield growth.

“The 70:30 infill-greenfield ratio that some are suggesting simply won’t work,” he explained. “Bendigo needs a variety of housing options and the infrastructure that comes with greenfield sites to support that growth.”

Perez also praised Bendigo’s Mayor, Andrea Metcalf, for her support of Ravenswood as a development site. He noted that the Ravenswood area has few impediments to development. Villawood is known for integrating their clubs into its master planned communities across the country. "Villawood has proudly integrated our signature clubs into masterplanned communities across Melbourne, Geelong, Queensland, and South Australia.

These clubs, complemented by schools, parks, and retail spaces, are central to creating vibrant, connected communities. However, we’ve not yet had the opportunity to bring this successful club model to the Greater Bendigo region as we have not had a site large enough." Cr Metcalf acknowledged that there were very few obstacles to development at Ravenswood.” Perez said. “She highlighted that Ravenswood is just 10 minutes from Lansell Square and only an hour and 15 minutes from Melbourne, making it an ideal location for families and professionals alike.”

Villawood sees the Ravenswood development as a once-in-alifetime opportunity with the potential for 4,000 new homes and a population of over 10,000. Perez believes it is the only land in Greater Bendigo that offers the scale needed to create something truly special and provide real housing choices.

“This development could be a game-changer for Bendigo,” said Perez. “It represents a longterm opportunity for growth and economic prosperity that will support the city for generations to come.” Villawood's executive director, Rory Costelloe, also expressed support for the city’s decision, noting that many professionals and skilled workers have been deterred from living in Bendigo due to its distance from Melbourne.

“Ravenswood offers families the best of both worlds,” Costelloe said. “They can enjoy the country lifestyle in Bendigo, while still having easy access to Melbourne for work or leisure. With the rise of online meetings, they may only need to travel occasionally, making it a fantastic solution for today’s professionals.”

The Ravenswood development marks an exciting chapter in Bendigo's future, with Villawood leading the way in creating a balanced, sustainable community that will support both economic growth and a high quality of life for residents.

About Villawood Properties

Villawood Properties is one of Australia's most trusted residential land developers, with over 35 years of experience in creating innovative, community-focused developments. Since its founding as a small syndicate in Bendigo, Villawood has expanded to complete more than 70 projects along Australia's eastern seaboard, providing land for more than 35,000 homes from Adelaide to Cairns. The company is currently working on 30 projects across the country.

Villawood is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through its Villawood Foundation, contributing approximately $3.4 million each year in grants and sponsorships to community groups. In addition, for every urban lot it sells, Villawood donates two blocks of bushland to state forests, totalling 580 hectares to date. Villawood’s flagship philanthropic initiative, the Good Friday Appeal Charity Home Auction, has raised substantial funds for The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.