Work on RAAFA's Stirling apartments at AFME has started! Forming stage six of the estate's master plan redevelopment, the Stirling project occupies the site of the former Sivyer, Harris, Fraser and Ingram buildings, and will see an additional 63 high quality apartments built to accommodate Western Australia's growing population of retired residents.

The contemporary purpose-designed apartments over six floors will comprise one, two and three-bedroom configurations, with an additional resident's lounge and secure undercover car park located on the ground floor of the building.

And, of course, AFME residents were the first to know that work was about to begin, following a well-attended meeting held at the estate in February, to formally announce commencement of the project's construction - and which saw more than 130 residents in attendance.

RAAFA CEO Michelle Fyfe said the Stirling apartments will provide high quality, independent living arrangements for retired Western Australians looking for a community to call home.

"RAAFA's Air Force Memorial Estate blends the best of both worlds, offering residents access to tranquil, natural surrounds within the convenience of a well-connected community. We are delighted to be expanding our connected, amenity-filled and thriving community which we know suits the needs of Perth's growing retired resident population," she said.

Set to revitalise the northwestern corridor of AFME, work on the Stirling project is being undertaken by head contractor and local building group Georgiou.

Georgiou Group General Manager Steve Okill adds: "Since our initial engagement it was clear to us that close collaboration with RAAFA and its trusted consultants would be required to ensure our efforts aligned with their vision. We're excited to continue this journey together and further strengthen our relationship as we bring the project to life."

An ode to the Short Stirling, a British four-engine heavy bomber used during WWII, the Stirling development adds to RAAFA's rich heritage in aviation and service, with the estate also home to the Aviation Heritage Museum.

The master plan will see the site's original units replaced with contemporary apartment accommodation in stages over the next decade. With construction now underway, Georgiou Group has earmarked practical completion of the Stirling project by mid 2025.

And so, what did some of the residents who were relocated for the demolition have to say about construction starting? Well, here are their sentiments, in their own words:

Margaret Trail
"I'm excited about the new build. I came from Queensland to live here and can't wait to get into the new apartments. I turn 85 in a few weeks and am looking forward to it."

Seet Chong
"Am very happy that it is proceeding and looking forward to moving and am feel very blessed."

Ken and Zina Haake
"It will be a wonderful 50th anniversary present for us. We were neighbours with Seet in Harris house and think it is fantastic that the development is proceeding."

Pat Sligo
"I moved from one of the original blocks into another one of the original blocks and have no complaints at all. The estate is very well run."