Cedar Woods unveils Somerley, a new masterplanned community for Corio Geelong

ASX-listed property developer Cedar Woods Properties has officially unveiled Somerley, a new masterplanned community set to bring greater vibrancy, housing diversity and long-term value to Corio — one of Geelong’s fastest-evolving northern suburbs.

Situated on an 18.6-hectare site along Plantation Road, beside Sutcliffe Reserve, the project will deliver approximately 400 new homes for the growing region, supported by a central park, nearby access to the You Yangs Regional Park, walking trails and thoughtfully designed streets that encourage connection, activity and a sense of belonging.

Somerley has been planned as an ideal place for families, first-home buyers, downsizers and investors looking to build their future in a location that balances lifestyle and long-term value. Envisioned to grow alongside its residents, the masterplanned community offers crucial access to local schools, employment opportunities and everyday essentials. With a variety of lot sizes and a wide selection of builders, Somerley will deliver flexibility and freedom for aspiring homeowners and investors.

Greater Geelong has also experienced strong employment momentum, with job growth averaging 4.5% per year over the past five years, further strengthening demand for new housing in the region1.
Less than ten kilometres from Geelong’s CBD, Somerley places residents close to the region’s cultural heritage, while the masterplan builds on this strong foundation, leveraging a location defined by established amenity and significant transport links.

With the Princes Freeway providing direct access to Geelong and Melbourne, and Avalon Airport nearby, Somerley is positioned for connectivity at every scale. Essential services are already in place, including Corio Village Shopping Centre, local schools, open spaces and Corio Railway Station, creating a well-connected and highly liveable setting for future residents.

James Bovell, Victorian State Manager at Cedar Woods, said, “The team at Cedar Woods is excited to introduce Somerley to the Corio and Greater Geelong community. We were inspired by the region’s strong momentum, its economic confidence and the potential we see in Geelong’s north.

“Somerley is designed to deliver a community with a strong sense of belonging, supported by access to quality education, employment opportunities and recreation. Our focus is on creating the foundations for residents to build long, fulfilling lives here.”

Cedar Woods takes a hyperlocal and placemaking approach to its developments to ensure each neighbourhood integrates with its surrounding community and responds to the needs of the area. To support this, Cedar Woods has partnered with Geelong creative agency IvyStreet to help shape the identity of Somerley with a distinctly local lens. The collaboration embeds community insight and local knowledge into the design and narrative of the precinct, creating a neighbourhood that resonates with residents and reflects the progress shaping the Corio area. By focusing on connection and community, the development demonstrates a place-led approach that grows from the existing spirit of Geelong while offering a new chapter for the suburb.

Brad Papworth Managing Director at IvyStreet, said: “Working closely with Cedar Woods to embed local insights, we’re shaping a neighbourhood that residents can connect with, celebrate, and be proud of. Somerley captures the spirit of Corio and the wider Geelong region, translating it into a vibrant new community. Inspired by its surroundings, the name evokes summer meadows and the nearby golden canola fields, creating a sense of place that is both welcoming and grounded."

Somerley is expected to launch its first land release in February 2026, offering prospective buyers the chance to be part of a vibrant, future-focused community in the heart of Corio.