From dream home to first look: A Denman Prospect love story

It was back in 2020 when Canberra couple Brogan and Yin were searching for the perfect suburb to build their new home, setting out with a specific wish list to aid in their search. Ultimately it was Denman Prospect that not only ticked all their boxes, but also became part of the canvas of their love story.

“Proximity to the city, well-maintained and landscaped green spaces, a good local café, and places to walk were high on our must-have list. We wanted a suburb that balanced urban convenience with natural beauty,” says Brogan.

It was also Denman Prospect’s unique character that really made them fall in love and choose to build their new home in the suburb.

“Unlike some new suburbs where developers build identical houses in a row, Denman Prospect has a variety of distinct homes. This diversity makes our walks and drives through the neighbourhood interesting and enjoyable. We love the thought and care put into the suburb's design, which sets it apart from other areas in Canberra,” says Yin.

Once they’d moved in and settled into Denman Prospect life, like many other locals, Brogan and Yin found they loved taking a walk through the picturesque Ridgeline Park.

“The view from the top of Ridgeline Park is simply spectacular. Whether it’s admiring a full moon on a clear autumn night, catching fireworks over the lake, or having a quiet chat on the bench, it’s a place that feels both intimate and connected to the community,” she says.

It was a view they decided made for the perfect backdrop for a truly special moment – their wedding first look. Their videographer and photographer captured the moment they both laid eyes on each other for the first time on their wedding day, right there in Rideline Park, adding a real personal touch to their big day in September 2022. They then joined together with family and friends for their wedding and celebration nearby at the National Arboretum.

“The morning started with a brief shower, but it cleared up, leaving behind dramatic and beautiful clouds that made our photos truly special. Celebrating both of our cultures was important to us, so we included a tea ceremony along with the classic ‘I dos’ and a kiss. Everything went perfectly, and the night was absolutely magical,” says Brogan.

“Looking back at the photos and videos from our first look still makes my heart skip a beat. The natural beauty of Ridgeline Park provided a stunning backdrop, making those moments even more memorable.”

Now, a few years into Denman Prospect life, Brogan and Yin continue to embrace the suburb and the lifestyle it offers. From the prime location—just 15 minutes to the city, 10 minutes to Belconnen or Woden—to the easy access to beautiful green spaces and walking spots like Mount Stromlo, Butters Bridge, and the National Arboretum, and of course, being able to walk to their local café.

“The local amenities are fantastic, with a shop, GP, dentist, chiropractor, school, and community centre all within reach. The abundance of trees and green spaces adds to the suburb’s charm,” says Brogan.

The couple loves that they get to watch as the suburb continues to grow and develop around them, and the vibrant, family-friendly community is another highlight.

“The community in Denman Prospect is vibrant and family-friendly, with many young families and children. The developers clearly care about fostering a sense of community, as evidenced by the numerous events hosted around the suburb,” says Brogan. 

And as for Ridgeline Park, it still remains a special place.

“I walk our dog, Toffee, around Ridgeline Park at least four times a week,” says Brogan.

“Toffee often stops to sniff the plants at the top of the park, giving me a moment to stand in the exact spot where we had our first look on our wedding day.”