A circa-1911-built church in the Orara Valley, NSW, has been&nbsp;sold for $180,000.

The&nbsp;heritage property is at<a href="https://www.nswrealestate.com.au/pol/property/search.asp?f_propertyID=1914640&amp;xsl=2943" target="_blank">&nbsp;612 Upper Orara Road&nbsp;</a>.

Under provisions of the Coffs Harbour LEP 2000 this &lsquo;Rural 1A&rsquo; zoned property can be converted into a dwelling, with the addition of a bathroom and kitchen.

The Coffs Harbour-based NSW Real Estate agent Grant Larsen, who negotiated the sale, says the new owners intend to restore the building to its former glory and convert it into a dwelling for their own use.

Larsen says he received solid interest in the property during the marketing campaign.

&ldquo;The property received over 6,600 views on the internet sites and in excess of 50 buyer inspections,&rdquo; he says.

According to the property listing the former Anglican Church is &ldquo;a high quality example of a &lsquo;carpenter gothic style&rsquo; church from the early 20th&nbsp;Century.&rdquo;

One of four Anglican Churches in the Orara Valley, it has solid timber walls, high-pitched timber ceilings, exposed timber trusses, arched doors and leadlight windows as well as front, side and rear entrances.

Situated on 1,011 square metres of land and nestled amongst liquidambar trees the property was built from local timbers hauled to the site by bullock dray.

It was originally listed at $235,000.

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Century old Orara Valley church sells for $180,000

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An aeronautically designed five-star hotel for pilots is set to open at Mudgee Airport next month. 
   The first of its kind in Australia, the luxury accommodation is located just 120 metres from the runway and provides an active taxiway connection direct to its door.   Designed as a multi purpose resort for pilots, it caters for groups of up to 14 guests and has facilities for functions as well as workshops, flight training and aircraft storage.   It has five hotel suites, conference rooms, a pilot’s lounge, pilot’s residence, swimming pool and a commercial kitchen.   Owner, Observe Air is an approved ‘call when needed’ operation and will use the hangar as a seasonal base for the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) in times of bushfire danger.   Maurice Patten of Patten Designs was commissioned by the company to design the hotel and it was built by local Mudgee builder Peter Barlow.   Mr Patten says the design of the building was inspired by World War Two Hangars and the local landscape in Mudgee.   “Henry Lawson’s old cabin is actually further along there, and that has an old chimney on it, so that inspired me to put a chimney on the social area of the building,” he says.   Patten says his client, chief pilot at Observe Air Brad Welch, is passionate about flying and is now living at the complex himself.   The process began in 2009, with six months of planning before building commenced in 2010. The project was completed last year and the hotel will be officially opened next month.   Patten says Mid Western Regional Council played an important role in getting the development underway.   “The council was really great, they were really involved in the process. It was a long but very considered process. Normally you would think of councils as being a bit of a pain but they actually assisted,” he says.   The surrounding area has been subdivided and construction is underway on an aircraft hangar on a lot adjoining Hanger House Hotel. 
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Five-star hotel for pilots set to open at Mudgee Airport

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A corner retail building in Melbourne’s CBD has sold to a local investor for $7.15 million. 
 More than 150 people attended the auction for the property, located on the corner of Lonsdale Street and Drewery Lane, but it was not sold until shortly after the auction. It last sold for $4.1 million in 2008.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/06/lonsdalejune26one.jpg" width="470" height="311" alt="lonsdalejune26one">
The 498-square metre, 4-storey building (pictured below) is freestanding and in an ideal location with triple street frontage and situated next to Melbourne Central QV complex and opposite the new Emporium Melbourne complex.
<img alt="lonsdalejune26two" height="262" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/lonsdalejune26two.jpg"> 
  CBRE agents Josh Rutman, Ed Wright and Mark Wizel handled the properties sale and say that it’s success is part of a larger trend in investor interest in the Melbourne CBD.   “The sale… illustrates the confidence of investors, and more importantly their banks, in this up and coming retail precinct,” Mr Rutman says.   A recent CBRE review highlighted strong investor demand for Melbourne CBD properties priced between $2 million and $10 million.   It also noted that only 4 notable transactions of this kind were completed in the second quarter of 2013, showing a lack of opportunities to purchase in this market.   The Lonsdale property returns a yearly rental income of $195,806. CBRE said it translated to a yield of 2.58%.   CBRE Melbourne City sales division says it has potential to be developed as retail, office or residential space, subject to council approval.   Recent low interest rates and Melbourne’s strong population growth have contributed to a renewal of local investor demand, but Mr Wright says it is rare to find a property of this kind.   “Very rarely does an opportunity to purchase a freehold property in the retail core become available, let alone a corner property with triple street frontage, which is directly opposite what is mooted to be Melbourne’s most prestigious retail centre,” he says.
The building was home in the mid-1990s to the retailer, Fax &amp; Typewriter City.
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Lonsdale Street, Melbourne building sells at 2.58% yield

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Retailing tycoon Gerry Harvey has purchased the Cairns Hypermart for $16.175 million. 

The 15,300 square metre shopping centre (pictured below) has several big-name tenants, including Harvey Norman which has 9400 square metre space which represents 61% of the centre's space.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june26hypermart]}
Its other tenants include Snooze and Freedom Furniture.
It returns a rental income of $1.94 million per annum. Its about 99% leased.

The centre and office tower located on the corner of Spence and Draper streets comes with 162 car parks on its 2.43 hectare site. It has been bought through the Harvey Norman subsiduary, Calardu Cairns.
It is the former Cairns Brewery site.
Both Harvey Norman and Freedom Furniture have been tenants in the building since its 1995 construction, Harvey Norman having made lease agreements until 2018 and Freedom until 2015.  They pay 66% of the centre's income.

Harvey told the Cairns Post he thinks the region has a good long-term future. 

“We think Cairns is a wonderful place. We have been there for a long time.

“Overall, Cairns is one of the better towns in the country and it’s got a good long-term future,” he said. 

The buyer catchment area for the property is 229,920 people and that number is expected to grow at a rate of 1.5% to 1.8% per annum. 
On its listing last year there were $20 million price hopes.
The last valuation was $17 million as at December 31, 2012.
It last sold for $16.8 million in 2001. It sold at $17.55 million in 1999.
It was sold by Charter Hall Direct Property Management Ltd, which had taken over the hypermart's owners, PFA Diversified Property Trust.
 

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Confident Gerry Harvey buys Cairns Hypermart

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A residential development site on Sydney’s lower North Shore was sold at auction yesterday for $5.03 million.
Currently a 1,211 square metre car park, the property was sold by Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) to Asian Developers, and has potential for the development of 30 residential apartments plus 300 square meters of retail and commercial space, according to Savills Metropolitan and Regional Sales. 
The property at 11-13 Birdwood Avenue, Lane Cove is located just minutes from Lane Cove plaza shops, including supermarkets, café’s restaurants, aquatic center, fitness center, medical services and childcare facilities.
Savills agent Robert Lowe says the property has the potential to be a landmark residential development site.
“Lane Cove in currently experiencing strong gentrification and as a result the site presents a suburb opportunity to create a landmark residential development site,” he says.
Located 10 kilometers from the Sydney CBD, Lane Cove was rezoned in 2010 in preparation for a 30% rise in population over the next 25 years.
In April, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/sydney-s-lane-cove-proves-an-apartment-construction-hotspot/2013040759968">Property Observer reported</a> that the area had $388 million worth of construction underway, with another $37 million planned. This included 19 sites, with 1601 units under construction and a further 182 areas pending.

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Lane Cove development site fetches $5.03 million at auction

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A shopping plaza in the rural NSW town of Temora will be auctioned off on July 5 that may fit neatly into a self-managed super fund investment portfolio. 



Paleface Plaza (pictured below), on Hoskins Street combines six separate leases with a rental return of approximately $50,000 per annum.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june26paleface]}


Ray White Rural Temora real estate agent Melanie Preston says they expect the property to fetch in excess of $500,00 when it goes to auction. 



Temora is located one-hour north of Wagga Wagga and two-hours and 45 minutes west of Canberra and is home to an internationally acclaimed aviation museum. 



The town's tourism website claims it has a reputation as the states “friendliest town” and is a place where country hospitality rings true.



Paleface plaza was originally a John Meagher and Co department store.
<img alt="8" height="340" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/8.jpg">
John Meagher and Co.’s stores were the first to open business in Temora at the beginning of the Gold Rush in August 1880. 



John Meagher opened the store in a tin shed in 1881 and began building the first brick store in 1882.
<img alt="7" height="307" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/7.jpg">


The Plaza takes its current name from the famous Australian harness racing horse, Paleface Adios, who competed as a pacer throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. The horse was born in Temora in 1969. 



The property has previously sold for $225,000 in 2006, $365,000 in November 2003, $254,000 in July 2003, and $183,550 in 2002. 



In December last year the Melzer House building at 116-120 Hoskins Street Temora sold for $247,000, despite an asking price of $300,000. The same property has previously sold for $175,000 in 2003.



Another commercial building, at 135 Hoskins Street, Temora, sold for $242,000 in August last year and had previously sold for $177,000 in 2007, $190,000 in 2005 and $111,000 in 2000. 

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Paleface Plaza in Temora goes to auction with $500,000 hopes

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Four NSW liquor retail spaces will go to auction in July. 



The properties are part of a Burgess Rawson investment portfolio due to go to auction on July 2 and are all currently leased by subsidiaries of the Wesfarmers group. 



Liquorland Belmont in Newcastle, First Choice Liquor in Naremburn, Vintage Cellars in Cremorne and Vintage Cellars Freshwater in Manly, each return an income in excess of $180,000 pa, according to Burgess Rawson.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june25liquor]}


Liquorland Belmont comprises a strong corner position, onsite parking for 17 cars and is positioned opposite an Aldi supermarket and close to McDonalds and KFC. It comes complete with a five-year lease and options for a further 10 years.



First Choice Liquor Naremburn is the largest of the buildings, at 1,324 square metres, has a desirable corner frontage, onsite parking for 21 cars, and is located within a bustling retail village. It comes with a seven-year lease plus options for a further 20 years. 



Vintage Cellars Freshwater is located in the sought after Sydney northern beaches, and includes a substantial four-bedroom, first floor residence. Both the retail space and the residence are leased for five years, with options for a further 10 years. Car parking and public transport are conveniently located immediately to the rear of the property. 



Vintage Cellars Cremorne is located adjacent to the iconic Hayden Orpheum theatre in the Blue Ribbon, Lower North Shore landmark and has two street frontages on Military Road and Parraween Street. The 1,132-square metre property comes with a five-year lease and options for a further ten years. 



Burgess Rawson agent Billy Holderhead says the liquor store market is receiving solid interest because private investors have confidence in the familiar brands that lease them. 



“At the moment, you’ve got either Woolworths or Wesfarmers tenants. You get at least a 5-year lease term with solid tenants.



“If you’ve got a tenant you’re comfortable with and familiar with and read about on a daily basis, you feel more comfortable with that,” he says. 



A further two First Choice Liquor stores in NSW were sold recently, one in Erina, which sold for $4.5 million and is expected to return a profit of $345,265 pa on a yield of 7.67%, and a second in Goulburn. 

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NSW liquor stores expected to whet investors' appetites

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The largest drop in the value of units in Australia has occurred in Wide Bay Burnett, Queensland, according to a report released by RP Data. 



Unit values in this area have dropped 19.8% since the market peaked in 2007-2008, with fewer units now for sale in the area. 



The Wide Bay Burnett area, including Bundaberg and the Fraser Coast, is well known for established agriculture and tourism industries, with access to whale watching and Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island. 



Tim Lawless, national research director at RP Data, says the largest declines in property values have been recorded across the coastal and lifestyle markets, such as Wide Bay Burnett, and these declines are more concentrated across unit dwellings within these regions. 



Rae Vella, principle estate agent at A1 Realty, Wide Bay Burnett, puts the decline down to an improvement in the rental potential of houses in the area. 



“Investors are going towards houses more than units because the rental return in better,” she says. 



Vella says property investors looking to lease out properties make up most of the buying market in Wide Bar Burnett, contributing to the fall in unit values. 



She adds that the few units that are listed with A1 Realty have tended to have been on the market for long periods of time, causing owners to reduce the asking price. 



“Some units that have been on the market for quite some time have come down in price,” she says. 



Current units in Wide Bay Burnett are listed at between $149,000 and $285,000. 
<div>
Recent unit sales in the area show price falls - though not as much as the headline figure. The sales have included a 2-bedroom unit on King Street, Bundaberg North, which sold for $229,000 in March. The unit had previously sold for $235,700 in February 2011 and $233,000 in March 2009. 

A three-bedroom unit in Svensson Heights is currently listed for sale with an asking price of $299,000, the same price it was sold for in May 2009. 

</div>



Other areas that have experienced a significant drop in property value include Far North Queensland, the Barwon region of Victoria and the Gold Coast, Queensland.
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Unit values fall 19.8% in Wide Bay Burnett as investors preferences shift to houses

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Some of the country's most high profile CEOs and community leaders will camp out across the country tomorrow night to raise money and awareness for homelessness.  
The annual St Vincent de Paul <a href="https://www.ceosleepout.org.au" target="_blank">CEO SleepOut</a> began as a local community event in Sydney in 2006 and last year the 1,033 participants raised a total of $5.3 million nationally.  
This year, the Victorian sleepout will be held at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne and in NSW, CEO's will sleep at Carriageworks and Eveleigh Markets in Eveleigh.  
So far this year Victoria’s 177 participating CEO’s have raised over $495,000 and NSW’s 326 participants have raised over $1.8 million.  
Last year, the Victorian event raised a total of $638,000 and NSW made it to $1,832, 573.  
So far this year, some of the highest individual fundraisers include;  
- Tony Barber, deputy CEO of Willis Australasia, who has raised $13,222.05,
- Timothy Collyer, managing director of Growthpoint Properties Australia, who has raised $11,645,
- Martin Leach, danaging director at Bendigo Property Services, who has raised $3,115.00,
- Holly Kramer, CEO at Best &amp; Less, who has raised $119,901,
- Gary Barnier, managing director at Domain Principle Group, who has raised $7,650 and
- Ross Greenwood, presenter of Money News on 2GB radio, who has raised $1,600.  
- Georg Chmiel, the CEO of LJ Hooker has raised $11,450 for the sleep out tonight.
The purpose of the event is to raise funds and awareness for homelessness by asking CEO’s and community leaders to rise to the challenge and experience homelessness for one night.  
All the money raised goes to St Vincent de Paul’s homeless services to help the 100,000 people who sleep rough around the country each night.  
“The discomfort of sleeping on the streets is a fragment of the larger reality we hope to impart upon influential leaders of the community,” says St Vincent de Paul.  
They say the overall goal of the event is to eventually bring an end to homelessness.  
The event begins at 6pm tonight and finishes at 7am on Friday morning. The fundraising figures are as Wednesday afternoon.
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Annual St Vincent de Paul CEO sleepout set to raise homeless charity funds

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Buyers looking for something a little different can now get their hands on their own replica medieval castle. 



The three-bedroom property at <a href="https://www.leumeahunited.com.au/buy-residential-real-estate/house-4-dowling-street-leumeah-nsw-11372100183" target="_blank">4 Dowling Street, Leumeah,</a> NSW is for sale for the first time in its 30-year history. It has $600,000 plus hopes.



Inside, the house contains three large bedrooms, two bathrooms, sunken spa bath, lounge with open brick fireplace, and separate dining room with French doors, but what makes this property so unique is what’s outside the doors. 



With 10 turrets, gargoyles, stained glass windows, medieval furnishings and even a moat, this property has become something of a local landmark. There's even a UK style post box out front.



It has been host to several themed weddings and busloads of tourists often stop at its gates to take pictures. 



The current owner Ron Farmer built the house 30 years ago when he and his wife Joan moved to Australia from England. 



“The wife decided to build it for something that reminded us of home,” Farmer told the Macarthur Chronicle. 



The Farmers are selling because they have decided it’s time to downsize.



“It seems a shame to leave it. But the upkeep nowadays is too much for us to look after by ourselves,” Farmer says. 



He says they are looking for a buyer with a sense of history who can enjoy the property. 



“We’ve has it for 30 years and its time somebody else got to enjoy it,” he says. 



The property will be auctioned off and listing agent Anne-Marie Johns, Leumeah United First National, says it is difficult to predict what it will sell for “because it has never been on the market.” 



Other three-bedroom properties in Leumeah have sold for between $305,000 and $362,500 and the suburb's median house price is $330,000.
According to RP Data, the highest sale price in Leumeah was $580,000 for a five-bedroom house, in March this year. The previous record was $550,000 for a four-bedroom house in 2004.
<img alt="trophyhomesstrapone" src="/images/stories/2013/05/trophyhomesstrapone.jpg" width="470" height="57">
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Leumeah 'medieval' castle listed for auction

Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374394]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

Joel Robinson

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Jennifer Robertson

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