Trackside living is a residential trend quite rare around the world, but the unique lifestyle benefits are catching attention.
Seeing prominent sporting events live from your balcony, stepping out of your front door into the heart of the action, and enjoying the year-round amenity of a destination precinct are just some of the appealing aspects of this lifestyle.
Among the few global examples are Silverstone Circuit in the UK, and Happy Valley Racecourse on Hong Kong Island, both showcasing vastly different interpretations of trackside living.
In Melbourne, Moonee Valley Racecourse is primed to take this trend to the next level, through its current redevelopment to become part of the new Moonee Valley Park (MVP).
“The connectivity between Moonee Valley Park and the new Moonee Valley Racecourse will offer residents a fully integrated precinct with vast green open spaces to explore and enjoy,” says Michael Browell, CEO, Moonee Valley Racing Club (MVRC).
“The level of amenity will provide an enhanced lifestyle for residents in the heart of Moonee Ponds.”
The Melbourne precinct leading the trackside trend
The redevelopment of the MVP precinct is the work of a partnership between Hamton, Hostplus and Moonee Valley Racing Club (MVRC). One of the key residential offerings sitting trackside at MVP is The Eveline, which features luxurious apartments overlooking the racecourse across to the Melbourne Skyline.
“This precinct will offer the best of apartment living with access to a vast array of lifestyle, sporting and recreation facilities across Moonee Valley Park and the racecourse grounds,” says Mr Browell.
Residents will be amongst the buzz of not just the spring racing carnival – which will return to the course in 2027 – but plenty more activity. MVRC hosts around 23 race meetings each season, including Friday night racing under lights, and Saturday afternoons.
“Outside of the racing, the Club will look to activate the facilities for a wide range of events, functions, expos and trade shows,” says Mr Browell.
“We look forward to creating a mix of sporting, leisure and recreation facilities across the precinct for the benefit of the local community.”
He adds that the community is quickly growing, with over 1000 new residents becoming part of the precinct in the last five years.
“We are creating a precinct that will be attractive to a diverse demographic, from first home buyers to families to downsizers,” he says.
A nature-based approach to design
While the track takes centre stage, The Eveline makes its own claim to fame as it will be the tallest building in the MVP precinct to date.
Its biophilic design draws inspiration from the surrounding natural landscape and heritage of the racecourse, explains Simon Lewin, Development Director, MVP.
“The biophilic design connects residents with nature, creating a sense of calm and openness,” he says.
“Extensive landscaping, natural materials and sweeping views across the racecourse and infield bring the outdoors into everyday life, offering a distinctive balance of tranquillity and vibrancy rarely found in apartment living.”
Key features of the architecture include a unique brick podium that takes inspiration from the historic retaining walls of the original racecourse, and the curved architecture that offers a warm, inviting aesthetic.
“Generous glazing and expansive outlooks celebrate the racecourse, infield and Melbourne skyline, bringing the surrounding landscape into residents’ everyday experience,” says Mr Lewin.
Amenity-rich living all year round
While the spring racing carnival will bring MVP into full bloom, residents of The Eveline have plenty to embrace all year round.
A double-height lobby offers a grand welcoming, while on the rooftop there are dining and entertaining spaces with views across the racecourse and Melbourne skyline.
“At ground level, a 25m lap pool overlooking the racecourse is complemented by a dedicated wellness offering, including a sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools and a fully equipped gym and yoga room,” says Mr Lewin.
A co-working space makes work-from-home days easy. When it’s time to get out and about, there is plenty to enjoy within just 10 minutes of The Eveline.
“Residents can enjoy outdoor recreation, connect with nature or soak up the atmosphere of major racing events, while the surrounding Moonee Ponds precinct offers a vibrant mix of cafés, restaurants, shopping and everyday conveniences,” says Mr Lewin.
Buyers interested in The Eveline can select from a variety of spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom homes with different aspects and price points, explains Mr Lewin.
“Living at MVP offers a sense of being part of a unique destination, combining the prestige and heritage of the racecourse with a distinctive lifestyle that is difficult to replicate elsewhere,” he says.
Article featured on Realestate.com.au
