Discovering the Magic of Grafton

Perfectly located in the heart of the north-coast of New South Wales is the charming rural city of Grafton. Rich in history stemming back to 1849, Grafton can be characterised by its wide streets adorned by the famous purple Jacaranda trees, elegant Victorian buildings, lush parks, civic beauty, and prime location on the banks of the Clarence River. It is no surprise why residents of the Jacaranda Grove Community call this beautiful place home.

“My husband and I have lived in Grafton for 57 years, so it made sense to make the move to Jacaranda Grove. We have been here for nearly nine years and haven’t regretted it once,” said Hazel Partridge, resident at Jacaranda Grove.

Fittingly named, Jacaranda Grove is a well-established community offering those over 50 a relaxed country lifestyle. “We had friends living in the community who would often have us over for dinner and tell us how great life is living at Jacaranda Grove. It took a little while for us to make the move but after our family had grown up, we decided the time was right for us. We wanted to be part of a community and around company of a similar age,” said Hazel.

Residents can keep active by enjoying the pool and catching up with family and friends in the BBQ area. “Jacaranda Grove has a nice sense of community, which is what its all about. That’s what we were missing before we made the move and now we have new friends and are part of a great community. We have a pretty good social life that we never had before which includes weekly BBQ catch ups with our friends within the community” said Hazel.

In an exciting step forward, construction is now underway on the new community centre at Jacaranda Grove. The community centre will feature a country inspired interior where residents can enjoy their morning coffee in one of the alfresco areas with views of the pool, relax in one of the lounge areas with a book from the library, or meet up with neighbours for a sundowner drink at the bar.

Often referred to as Jacaranda City, Grafton is home to over 1,400 Jacaranda trees and when in full bloom the streets are alive with the magic of cascading purple blossoms. The Jacaranda trees are celebrated annually at the renowned Grafton Jacaranda Festival which is a 10-day festival honouring the towns glorious lilac trees with live music, art exhibitions and markets.

“When our children were younger they would take part in marches in the festival each year. Once the kids left home my husband and I would still enjoy going and having a Jacaranda ice cream which is a vanilla ice cream with a purple hue. The markets are wonderful with home made pickles and jams. It’s great to go down and support,” said Hazel.

If you’re looking for a day of exploring there is no better place to start than experiencing the delights of the Clarence Valley and the nearby (approx. 40 minutes) coastal towns of Yamba, Wooli and Iluka. Enjoy a walk across the Grafton Bridge taking in the sights of the Clarence River and Susan Island, spend a day on the water fishing, sailing, or swimming or keep to a land-based activity and explore the Yuraygir National Park or the Bom Bom State Forest bike trail.

“Grafton is a very old city rich in history and is surrounded by beautiful old homes which are being lovingly restored and hundred-year-old Jacaranda trees. It really has everything you need from beautiful drives to the beaches 40 minutes away, great picnic spots and every day needs in the shopping centres. There is always plenty to see and do in Grafton!” concluded Hazel.

To learn more about Jacaranda Grove visit the website.