Preserving our cabbage tree palms for generations to come

As Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo takes shape in beautiful Blueys Beach, it’s being built with a deep respect for the past. 

Construction on Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo is now well underway but before work even began, one feature stood out as integral to the character of the site – the striking groves of mature Cabbage Tree Palms.  

Towering and distinctive, these palms are a defining element of the Mid North Coast landscape, instantly recognisable and deeply connected to the area’s natural identity. 

Rather than remove and replace them, our team made a deliberate decision, in agreement with MidCoast Council. They would retain the healthy palms and integrate them into the community’s masterplan. 

Ingenia Communities Head of Development NSW and Victoria, Simon Burk, said the decision reflected a strong commitment to preserving the natural character of the site while creating a community that feels authentically connected to its surroundings. 

“From the outset, we recognised that the Cabbage Tree Palms were more than just landscaping, they’re part of the natural character of Blueys Beach,” he said. 

“Retaining them was about honouring the identity of the site and ensuring Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo sits naturally in its stunning coastal environment.” 

Although preserving mature trees of this scale was no simple task, the team was committed to ensuring their survival throughout the construction process. When demolition of the former park commenced, specialist arborists carefully relocated the palms to a temporary nursery at the rear of the site to allow civil works to proceed. 

“Relocating mature palms of this scale is a highly specialised process,” Simon explained.  

“It required careful planning, expert arborists and a coordinated approach across demolition and civil works. It wasn’t the simplest option, but it was the right one.” 

The journey has been carefully staged. As construction has progressed, the palms have moved once more, some repositioned to the northern edge of the site where they will eventually form part of the green spine and welcoming frontage of the community. Others have been relocated near the future clubhouse, where they will frame one of Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo’s central gathering spaces. 

When complete, these established groves will create an immediate sense of place, creating maturity and character from day one. 

For the development team, retaining these palms was about more than visual appeal. It was about preserving the site’s natural DNA. 

Simon added: “Wherever possible, we aim to preserve the existing DNA of a site. By retaining endemic trees that are already adapted to the local environment, we’re creating a landscape that feels established from day one, rather than something that needs years to grow into its setting. 

“It means residents will immediately feel a sense of maturity and place as soon as they arrive. 

“By using the palms to frame key community spaces and create a green spine through the development, the community will have character from the very beginning.” 

Ultimately, the effort reflects a broader philosophy. 

“Great communities are about more than homes, they’re about how people feel when they move in,” Simon said. 

“Preserving these palms helps create that sense of belonging and continuity with the natural landscape.” 

As Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo continues to rise along the Mid North Coast, these Cabbage Tree Palms stand as a reminder that great communities don’t just build forward, they pay tribute to what came before. 

Rooted in place, shaped by nature and thoughtfully preserved, they will help define the character of Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo for generations to come. 

Interested in calling Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo home? 

Homes in the first release at Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo are now available with prices starting at $865,000 for a modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom property, perfect for downsizers seeking a low-maintenance coastal lifestyle. 

Our onsite Sales Suite provides a perfect opportunity to view the community’s plans and see firsthand the quality fixtures and finishes.