They bonded over first pregnancies, gym sessions and the challenges of being a FIFO wife, now best friends Nikky Hill and Kelly Newbold are looking forward to having a street address in common – just doors away from each other at Glen Iris Estate.
Among the early-bird purchasers, the long-time friends and soon-to-be neighbours were both drawn to the leafy streetscapes and big blocks on offer in our new residential neighbourhood.
Nikky, husband Cameron, and children Riley (7) and Keely (5) currently live in Hammond Park, while Kelly, husband Ryan, and children Alise (7) and Asha (4) are about an eight-minute drive away in Success.
“We had always joked about one day living on the same street. Now both our families have fallen in love with the same area and we’ve actually been able to make it happen,” Nikky says.
“Glen Iris is going to be a really lovely place to live, plus we’ll be only two freeway exits away from the city and the children’s school is on the doorstep.”
For dog trainer Nikky and high school teacher Kelly, buying land at Glen Iris Estate is the opportunity to design their dream homes.
Both have selected blocks big enough for family-sized properties with a pool, play space for the children and a great indoor/outdoor entertaining area.
“It was so exciting when the land settled to take all the kids to the block and tell them about the new lifestyle there,” Nikky says.
The family are already planning walks in the new park with their dog Miso.
Nikky and Kelly’s friendship went from strength to strength after they met at a mothers’ group eight years ago. Their children have grown up together and their husbands have become good mates.
While the families will be eagerly watching their new homes take shape in 2025, the decision to move to Glen Iris Estate has been four years in the making.
Kelly remembers driving through Glen Iris and surrounds after visiting a friend who already lived in Jandakot.
“I just thought, this is such a beautiful area to live. It’s that bit closer to the city and it’s got these lovely established gardens,” Kelly says.
“Then another friend moved to the area, so when we found out about the redevelopment, we thought, excellent, let’s buy a block there!
“Building is the chance to start from scratch and design what we want. It’s a home we plan to be in for a long time.”
Kelly’s family is building with Plunket Homes and Nikky’s family with Summit Homes.
Needless to say, the friends have been visiting display homes together and swapping mood boards and design ideas.
“We’re so enjoying building at the same time,” Kelly says.
While Nikky and Kelly have a head start when it comes to building a new neighbourly network, they’re also looking forward to making new local connections.
Not only will the well-established Glen Iris community be on their doorstep, but with new parks, cycleways, nature trails, fitness zones and picnic spots coming to the area, there will be plenty of opportunities to meet the neighbours.
