Doug Goodwille from Kayne Anderson speaks to Drew Meredith from The Inside Network on market thinkers.
While a surging gold price is on hold as the world adjusts to a Trump presidency, all the factors that saw its price rise more than 50 per during his first term in office – trade disputes, fiscal deficits and geopolitical tensions – are almost certainly guaranteed the second time around.
Berry is becoming a destination of choice for retirees
Forget Noosa, the Gold Coast and even pricey Byron Bay. For many retirees looking for the ideal place to spend their golden years, a small coastal town on the New South Wales south coast is attracting a lot of attention. It seems Berry, a small and tranquil town of less than 3,000 people, has many of the benefits that they want.
Location-wise, it’s a short drive to Wollongong, Sydney and even Canberra is only two-and-half hours away, so the conveniences that the cities offer – think healthcare and sporting and cultural events – are within easy reach.
That said, many in Berry never take advantage of those conveniences, because the town itself offers them everything they need from a day-to-day and lifestyle perspective – with five reasons explaining why it is often pinned as the next big hotspot for retirees.
Food: For retirees who enjoy discovering restaurants and new food experiences, Berry punches well above its weight. The main commercial district features dozens of cafes, restaurants and bars in just a few blocks, and these are backed up by local wineries and speciality food producers. Fresh local produce, artisanal sourdough breads, handmade chocolates and exquisite gelato are just a taste of what Berry offers on the culinary front. The locals are well aware of their foody reputation, with several cooking classes on offer.
Boutique shopping: Although the town is small, Berry is the place to go if you want something different, thanks to its range of boutique shops. Whether your taste runs to antiques, art galleries, homeware, fashion or jewellery, the commercial centre offers a lot that is truly one of a kind. For a more local experience, there are also the Berry markets that showcase local crafts, plants, produce and live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere for retirees to explore and discover hidden gems. People rarely choose to retire to a place because of the shopping, but Berry’s shopping does make the town a delightful and eclectic place to live and explore.
Outdoor adventures: Surrounded by rolling green hills, working dairy farms and breathtaking beaches, Berry captivates nature enthusiasts. Retirees can easily explore the scenic countryside by themselves, but many prefer to take advantage of the guided tours so they can enjoy learning more about the region’s beauty and history as they explore.
Coastal views and activities such as whale watching, fishing, surfing and kayaking beckon adventure seekers. The town’s proximity to Kangaroo Valley, the Shoalhaven River and Seven Mile Beach National Park opens up even more avenues for discovering nature’s wonders. Finally, the town is a delight to get around, with ample opportunities for bike riding on designated paths or even horse riding for those interested.
Rich heritage: For people who enjoy learning about history, Berry is a proud town with a long history. The museum offers a captivating journey into the town’s past, while the courthouse and the historic cemetery provide a glimpse into other elements of life back in the day. Beyond the history, many cultural experiences provide retirees with the opportunity to be social and feel like part of the community. Annual events such as the Berry show, the Berry musicale and the Celtic festival are all community-building events that the entire township turns out to enjoy.
Relaxation and rejuvenation: Although the medical facilities are limited (Wollongong hospital, the closest major hospital, is 45 minutes by car), Berry does offer retirees many opportunities to focus on their health and well-being. Everything that you might need, including spas, beauty salons and massage therapists are readily available, while community groups offer yoga or meditation classes to provide a broader and more holistic approach to well-being.
Many smaller towns across Australia are less than ideal for retirement because they often lack the infrastructure and services that retirees need. Berry stands out as a rare opportunity, thanks to its proximity to major cities while maintaining a village atmosphere.
