23 April 2026 – Residents at Lincoln Place’s Officer Lifestyle Estate will once again gather on-site this ANZAC Day to honour the courage and sacrifice of Australia’s servicemen and women, continuing a cherished tradition that unites the community.
Resident and former serviceman Kevin Witt coordinates the annual service and curates an extensive ANZAC memorabilia display, regarded as one of the most comprehensive in the district. Personal artefacts, letters, and photographs contributed by local families turn the community’s clubhouse into a moving museum, inspiring conversations between residents, families and the broader community.
As a veteran with a long family history of service, Kevin has always been deeply passionate about preserving the legacy and is pleased the community has embraced the tradition. Around 70 residents, family and friends attended last years’ service, and even more are expected to join this year.
“For many of us, ANZAC Day is about remembering family, friends and the stories that shaped our country,” Kevin said.
“It’s wonderful to see grandchildren attending and proudly wearing their grandparents’ medals. It reminds us that remembrance links generations and keeps our history alive.”
Kevin and his wife moved to Officer Lifestyle Estate six years ago to be closer to family, and each year the ANZAC tradition has continued to grow. The morning service is followed by a community breakfast and friendly ANZAC biscuit baking competition, celebrating camaraderie as much as commemoration.
“Everyone gets involved in their own way. We have residents who raise the flag, read poems, or help with the breakfast after. It’s a way for everyone to really connect with the community and share stories of family and friends,” he said.
Fellow resident and close friend Linda Fillingham moved to the community with her husband in 2021 and has played a key role in preparations, leading a group of resident crafters who create crocheted and knitted poppies for display on the day.
“Every year we add more poppies to the display and showcase the names of those who have participated, which I think is important because it shows how people are getting involved in lots of different ways. That’s what our community here is all about, connection, respect and shared purpose.”
Linda and her husband have made many close friends in the community since downsizing from their Berwick home, several of whom also take part in the ANZAC Day event.
“So many people here at Officer Lifestyle Estate have family or friends we remember on ANZAC Day, and the whole community comes together to show how we honour and care. Over the years, we’ve gotten to know our neighbours as we all come together to participate.”
Lincoln Place Portfolio Manager – Operations, Dalyss Briggs, said the annual service is an important highlight in Officer Lifestyle Estate’s calendar of events and reflects the thriving community spirit. “It’s wonderful to see residents and the community come together for events like this,’’ he said.
Officer Lifestyle Estate is a masterplanned community in Melbourne’s outer southeast, designed for downsizers. Operating under a land lease model, residents own their home and any capital gains, while leasing the land – without paying stamp duty, body corporate fees or council rates. A weekly site fee covers community maintenance and access to lifestyle amenities.
Final homes selling fast at Officer
Officer Lifestyle Estate is now over 95% sold, with only a limited number of homes remaining.
Set in Melbourne’s south-east, this welcoming over-50s community offers architecturally designed homes, low-maintenance living and feel-good facilities including a gym, sauna and community bus. With a vibrant social calendar and great neighbours, it’s easy to enjoy a lifestyle built around connection and wellbeing.
With the final release now selling, this is your last chance to join the community and start living life well.