The striking stone facades that define the streetscape of Bellarine Springs are more than just a design choice; they are a testament to traditional trade skills. Andrew Moore of AM Stone Masons shares the story behind the stonemasonry craftsmanship and the pride his team takes in contributing to the high-quality homes within the village.
The process of creating these unique exteriors begins long before the first stone is laid. By choosing authentic materials over mass-produced alternatives, the development ensures a finish that is both beautiful and permanent.
“The stone we are using at Bellarine Springs is sourced from a quarry in Castlemaine,” Andrew explains. “This unique rock is prized for its great textural colourings and grain. We cut it to size using the grain to split the rock cleanly, then use specialised tools to smooth out the edges. Everything is done by hand—it’s a laborious process, but truly a labour of love.”
Stone masonry is a specialised skill that differs significantly from standard bricklaying. Andrew notes that the goal is to avoid straight lines, focusing instead on intricate patterns. “Laying the stones in place is a bit like playing Tetris,” he says. This meticulous approach is typically reserved for high-end homes where premium finishes are a priority, ensuring each facade is a unique work of art.
Andrew Moore and Tom Wilson, both local tradespeople, have been a constant presence at the village for nine years. They have been responsible for every stone facade on the Henderson and Ormond home designs since construction began. Each individual facade takes approximately 2–3 weeks of intensive hand-tooling to complete, marking the final stages of these particular designs.
The use of natural stone is a key pillar of the Pinnacle Living philosophy, which prioritizes durability and timeless aesthetic appeal over cheaper, short-term trends.
By committing to local materials and skilled tradespeople, Bellarine Springs supports the regional economy and keeps the traditional craft of stone masonry alive. While the market offers cheaper stone veneer options that are simply glued in place, they cannot compete with the durability and structural integrity of original stonework. Many prospective homeowners visit the village specifically to see the quality of this craft firsthand before planning their own builds.
Geoff Reeve, Pinnacle Living CEO and developer of Bellarine Springs, maintains that there is no compromise when it comes to the quality build of the homes. His vision is centered on creating an elevated living environment that residents can be proud of for decades.
“I have an absolute commitment to building beautiful, timeless homes that will stand the test of time,” says Geoff. “Our residents often tell us how proud they are to live in a low-maintenance, well-built home that continues to look good year after year. For many, this is their final independent living home, and they deserve the very best quality in their retirement years.”
