Narara Ecovillage

Narara Ecovillage is an intergenerational residential community on the Central Coast of NSW, Australia—nestled in bushland, adjoining magical Strickland State Forest, close to pristine beaches, and an easy drive (or stunning train trip) just over an hour north of Sydney.

Founded in 2006, the Ecovillage has over 50 homes built in Stage 1, with another 45 lots ready for construction in Stage 2. A few lots are still available, and we’re always excited to connect with prospective new members at our monthly open days.

We’re situated on 63 hectares around the site of a former horticultural research station, with 12 hectares zoned for residential development, 12 hectares for agriculture and common gardens, and the remaining 39 hectares for native forest and bushland.

We chose a small housing zone to help maximise food production, recreation and conservation. We were fortunate to inherit existing structures, including two residential dwellings, a large hall, and an office building that now houses our members’ lounge, visitor accommodation and food co-operative. We also inherited greenhouses, sheds, garages and workshops perfect for growing food and collaborative cottage industries.

Narara Ecovillage is a Finalist in the 2024 Banksia Sustainability Awards, Place Making category

This award “celebrates infrastructure and built environment projects that prioritise sustainability through innovative design and practices. These initiatives demonstrate resource conservation, energy efficiency, circularity, renewable energy adoption, and biodiversity preservation, while emphasising social sustainability, inclusivity, mobility, well-being, and community engagement.”

- Read the full story here