Lewis Land’s newest development, Harbour Shores, has set a new benchmark for sustainable residential living, becoming the first fossil-fuel free, resort-style community on the Gold Coast and earning a prestigious 6 Star Green Star Communities v1.1 rating – the highest possible accreditation for environmental, social and economic sustainability.

The master-planned community features 100% electric infrastructure, eliminating natural gas entirely and reducing emissions by an estimated 1.6 million kg CO2-e annually. With 1,000 kW of solar photovoltaic capacity generating over 1.6 million kWh each year, Harbour Shores achieves a 34% reduction in peak electricity consumption compared to conventional developments.

“We recognised our responsibility to protect the marine ecosystem that makes our waterfront location so special,” says Michael Long, Head of Development at Lewis Land. “By pioneering fossil fuel-free development, we’re demonstrating that projects of our scale can thrive without compromising environmental values.”

The community’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond energy. Over 54% of the site is dedicated to open space and landscaping, with more than 200,000 native plants enhancing biodiversity. A 1.2km sustainable timber boardwalk provides community access while protecting the waterway ecosystem, and a one-hectare public park serves both residents and the wider community.

Harbour Shores was also awarded Gold at the 2025 BETTER FUTURE Sydney Design Awards, recognising its leadership in sustainable design.

Read the full Green Building Council of Australia case study to discover how Lewis Land is charting a roadmap for resilient, future-proof communities: click here