Why Everleigh Felt Like Home: A Young Families Story

For Mhea Cantalejo, a passionate childcare teacher and expectant mother, moving her family into a new home wasn’t just about finding the right house, it was about discovering a community where her family could truly thrive.

With her partner’s support and their lively three-year-old son, Deronte, the family embarked on a journey to find a place that matched their lifestyle, values and love for the outdoors. Living in Marsden at the time and working just 20 minutes away in Greenbank, Mhea had the local area on her radar. 

"We visited all the estates in the area, but Everleigh stood out. It was sophisticated, spacious and accessible," Mhea recalls.

As a family that thrives on outdoor adventures like camping, walking and exploring, Everleigh’s natural environment felt like an extension of their own lifestyle. With bushland surrounds, wide-open green spaces and a thoughtfully designed layout, the community offered the perfect combination of space and scenic beauty.

"We're an outdoor family with a nature-loving vibe. Everleigh's surroundings felt like home," says Mhea.

Now living in the heart of the community, it’s the everyday moments that reaffirm their choice. Morning strolls, impromptu basketball games with Deronte and casual catch-ups with neighbours have become part of their routine.

“We often walk to Ginger Park, it’s our favourite,” Mhea says, referencing one the community’s beloved playgrounds.

“Our son loves playing basketball there. He’s incredibly social and has a little ritual of saying hello to everyone we pass when we leave the house.”

It’s that strong sense of community that continues to make an impression. AFL game days have become a highlight for many Everleigh families, including the Cantalejos. The Everleigh Sports Park transforms into a lively gathering space, where parents cheer the Greenbank Giants from the sidelines, kids run free and everyone embraces the laid-back, welcoming energy that defines the neighbourhood.

“There’s just this community spirit you can’t ignore. The AFL Oval is like the local hangout, and it feels like everyone belongs – it’s heartwarming,” said Mhea.

Another key feature that made the decision so easy was the convenience. Everleigh is home to the Everleigh State School. The school is an easy walk from anywhere in the neighbourhood and close to everyday essentials. The family also enjoys regular visits to The Eve Café, the community’s central social hub, where Mhea says the Friday night hospitality has added something special.

“Wine nights overlooking the oval are such a nice way to wind down and connect,” she says. “And our son is obsessed with their milkshakes!”

As they prepare to welcome their second child, Mhea and her family are confident that they’ve found a place where they can continue to grow.

“Everleigh isn’t just a home, it’s our foundation,” said Mhea.

“We’re building our life here, surrounded by people who share our values and within an environment that inspires us every day.”

With plans for a neighbourhood retail precinct and additional amenities in the pipeline, Everleigh continues to evolve, ensuring residents have everything they need within reach.

"Everleigh isn't just a place to live; it's a community that grows with you," Mhea concludes.