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A former Paddington garage transformed into a two bedroom terrace with parking fetched $1.415 million at weekend auction, some $65,000 above reserve.
The then single storey lock-up garage<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-paddington-113013491" target="_blank"> sold at $822,500</a> in July last year. The vendor, by doing much of the conversion project himself, was able to do it for around $400,000 before transaction costs, with $500,000 more likely to have been required in the normal course of construction.
Not quite as reported by the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2786208/This-garage-sold-822-thousand-year-ago-total-makeover-s-expected-1-2-million" target="_blank">Daily Mail</a>, who covered the story with the headline: "Sales like this drive the property boom! Couple who bought GARAGE for a record $822,500 make $600,000 profit in a year."
Positioned between <a href="/expert-insights/buying/transformed-paddington-garage-now-with-residence-atop">adjoining terraces</a>, the then lock up garage occupied its 76 square metre block with a width of 4.6 metres.
It now has 93 square metres of living space plus 23 square metres of courtyard along with Centrepoint Tower views.
The Paddington house price median sits at $1.55 million according to RP Data.
More than $1.2 million was being tipped.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/photogallery_new.ds;jsessionid=AD5F9A0E1C4DFC4221F5BDA19ECB4AD6?id=113013491&amp;theme=rea.sold" rel="photos" data-id="113013491"><img src="https://i1.au.reastatic.net/456x342/471c7d6ef95c494be7037f09057f5a8409447d6482edc9286f3754348d813452/main.jpg" alt="19 Hopewell St, Paddington" title="19 Hopewell St, Paddington" data-index="0"></a>
Above: The garage before its renovation. It sold through Position Realty agent Deborah Terley with development approval last July and again on the weekend.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Successful, but slim profit: Transformed Paddington garage fetches $1.4 million

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The historic 1886 homestead Glen Alpine near Tamworth has burnt down two days before its sale settlement.
But the $4.5 million sale of the heritage-listed John Horbury Hunt-designed home on 1335-hectares is likely continue to conclusion.
The buyer, landscaper-builder Antony Tisch and his wife Wendy, had already bought out some of the neighbours to increase their land holding.
Rural crime investigator Detective Senior Constable Scott Kellahan said police at Werris Creek noticed the blaze just after midnight on Wednesday.
Court proceedings to determine what insurance is payable to either party is expected.
Property Observer wrote in March this year that <a href="https://propertyobserver.com.au/finding/location/rural/29150-glen-alpine-the-horbury-hunt-designed-mansion-listed" target="_blank">much of the Glen Alpine mansion had undergone extensive renovation</a> retaining beautiful period features within its hallways, reception rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms. However, the servery wing and billiard/ballroom require restoration and awaited any new owners' interpretation.
It had been listed with a $5.9 million asking price.
Fairfax Media and <a href="https://www.nbnnews.com.au/index.php/2014/10/08/historic-homestead-destroyed-by-fire/" target="_blank">NBN Nine News</a> reported the fire was suspicious.
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Historic John Horbury Hunt residence, Glen Alpine burns down

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Throsby Park, one of Australia's most significant homesteads in the NSW Southern Highlands, is back in the hands of the Throsby family.
Well, its leasehold is, after the winning tender – <a href="https://propertyobserver.com.au/forward-planning/advice-and-hot-topics/title-tattle/30314-historic-throsby-park-offered-by-nsw-historic-houses-trust-as-southern-highlands-leasehold" target="_blank">one of 12 to the Historic Houses Trust</a> – by expatriate investment banker Tim Throsby, which promised a $2.5 million investment in conserving the house along with $1.3 million in annual rental over the 40 years. Tim Throsby is the global head of equities at JPMorgan.
Throsby Park had been home to six generations of Throsbys when it was donated to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service in 1975.
The adjoining property, Barnham Stables, where workers lived while the homestead was being built, was purchased in 2007 by Tim Throsby for $1,425,000.
The latest acquisition is a 74 hectare Sutton Forest estate, just one kilometres east of Moss Vale, with <a href="https://www.kenjacobs.com.au/1511374/" target="_blank">colonial Georgian homestead</a>, the 1834 Throsby Park.
The 27 room house comes with beautiful Australian red cedar joinery, polished hardwood floors along with the charming entry with fluted pilasters. 
Its large bay windows frame country views. Conceived as a cottage orné or picturesque verandahed bungalow, it was probably to the design of colonial architect, Mortimer Lewis. 
The estate comes with other historic buildings including stables, piggery, mill, barn, chapel and tennis pavilion. 
Throsby Park House has undergone a sympathetic restoration including reinforcing the roof, underpinning, repairs and rewiring.
It is best known for its riding school which was established in 1934 and run by Del Throsby for many decades until her death in 2006. There were five generations of Throsby's living there through the years.
Tim Throsby's father Pat was Del's first cousin, who had lived at the property when he was young.
Undoubtedly one of Australia's oldest and most picturesque country mansions, Throsby Park was built on 1,000 hectares of land granted to Dr Charles Throsby by governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1819, reputedly the earliest land grant outside the County of Cumberland. 
Throsby had no children and lived in a weatherboard cottage on the holding. The current homestead was built by his nephew, Charles (1798-1854) whose wife, Elizabeth Broughton resulted in 17 children and many descendants.
Throsby Park homestead was also leased to notable tenants, establishing the Southern Highlands as a prestigious holiday destination. In 1868 the Earl of Belmore, and Governor of NSW (1868-72) took it as a summer retreat for his wife, Lady Belmore who found the Sydney summers oppressive. In 1872 the homestead was leased to Frederick Barker, Archbishop of Sydney and then the Fairfax publishing family in 1891.
The property was the subject of an 1836 painting by distinguished 19th century artist Conrad Martens which was picked up by the philanthropic Caroline Simpson Library and Research Collection. 
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/thorsby%20park%20april%2017.jpg" alt="">
View of Throsby Park by Conrad Martens, c1836. Caroline Simpson Library &amp; Research Collection, Sydney Living Museums L2005/7
Of course the Southern Highlands has always been closely associated with the English landscape. It was Governor Lachlan Macquarie who noted in 1820 that the Throsby Park district was particularly beautiful and rich, "resembling a fine extensive pleasure ground in England".
The long mooted leasehold offering will involved a requirement for continued restoration work implementing a 100 plus page conservation manual compliance.
The Historic Houses Trust engaged agents, Ken Jacobs and Darren Curtis at Christies International on the 40 year leasehold offering. Apparently the costs of upkeep were steadily growing, so continuing as a house museum, was no longer an viable option.
The Historic Houses Trust became the owner of Throsby Park in 2010, after it was transferred from the National Parks and Wildlife Service, which owned the site since 1975. 
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Historic Southern Highlands Throsby Park back with the Throsby family

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Plummeting temperatures and fluctuating Spring weather across southern Australia, bringing wild storms to Sydney and snowfalls to the Australian Alps and Blue Mountains, has left our property contrarians Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok yearning to be huddled by an open indoor fire. 
When the mercury plummets, there’s nothing like a cosy fireplace – wood, slow combustion or gas – to warm the body and soul.
Fireplaces have been a familiar feature for hundreds of years, however until very recently, they have undergone very little change from the traditional hearth.
Now fireplaces are again becoming the design focus for many rooms - even the bathroom - with technological advances making it possible to do more with the fireplace than ever before. At the press of a remote in many offerings.
This week Jonathan and Margie discuss fireplaces and options available.  
HE SAID <img src="/images/2014/03/28/jc-silhouette-7.jpg" style="line-height: 1.3em; float: right;"> 
I think there is always something very welcoming when approaching a house with smoke coming out of the chimney. For me, the perfect indoor fireplace is wood burning with a raised hearth, bench seating and adjacent storage for logs. Ideally, the ledge seat and bottom of the fireplace should be about 50 centimetres above the floor so it sends out its heat effectively. An excellent example of this type is in the family room of a large <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-turramurra-117510655" target="_blank">residence at Turramurra</a>, on Sydney’s upper north shore, sold in August through Chadwick Real Estate (pictured below).
An attractive focal point of the room, this fireplace has sandstone surrounds, two wood storage niches and a long bench seat – just the spot to perch while chatting to family and friends or watching the 7pm ABC news. 
<img src="/images/2014/10/17/Turramurra%20140%20Pentecost%20Ave%20-%20Chadwick%20.jpg" alt="">
But flat screen televisions fixed to the wall above or next to a fireplace are a definite no-no. Not just a safety issues as it always looks odd and confuses the focal point of the room. This style is evident in the living room of “Jessica”, a pretty circa 1910 Edwardian residence listed for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-st+kilda+west-118064171" target="_blank">October 25 auction</a> through Marshall White Albert Park agents, Oliver Bruce and Kayne Layton (pictured below). While the raised fireplace works, the television screen jammed up next to it doesn’t suit for mine.
<img src="/images/2014/10/17/St%20Kilda%20West%2035%20Mary%20St%20-%20fireplace%20%20tv.jpg" alt="">
Simplicity is essential with fireplace design. The antithesis of this is a confusing brick chimney in a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-sassafras-115851903" target="_blank">cottage located on the outskirts of Sassafra</a>s, a rural hamlet about 40 kilometres east of Melbourne. Positioned at the centre of this home, it services a wood burning stove, a combustion oven as well as an open fireplace – while practical, it’s not very pretty  (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/10/17/Sassafras%2010%20Lennox%20Grove%20VIC-1.jpg" alt="">
For me a very simple sandstone or bluestone works. Though contestant couple, the chimneysweep, Steve and partner Chantelle on the Block Albert Park won their lounge room with a more colourful Russet stone tiling from <a href="https://www.beaumont-tiles.com.au/TileDIYInfo/Blog/tabid/87/ID/166/Steve-and-Chantelle-The-Block-Living-and-Dining-room-reveal.aspx" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Beaumont Tiles</a>. 
<img src="/images/2014/03/28/mb-silhouette-6.jpg" style="float: left;">SHE SAID
I love wood burning fireplaces. But having lived in a cold climate for many years, I know the practical reality of slow combustion and wood burning open fireplaces involve a lot of work: collecting kindling, carting logs, sweeping out ashes and constantly cleaning fine dust. The idea of flipping a switch to make a roaring fire appeals to me, so when it comes to a favourite for everyday use, the gas fireplace gets my vote. 
On a recent visit to one of the best houses in Paddington, I noticed a beautiful example of a gas fireplace. With an elegant stone surround and heavy timber mantelpiece, it works well practically as well as aesthetically for it serves as a focal point but doesn’t take over the living area (pictured below).
Designed by architect Alex Roth with interior design by Nellie Tilley, the house is set for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-paddington-118119623" target="_blank">November 3 auction</a> through Ballard Property’s William Manning.
 
<img src="/images/2014/10/17/Paddington%20108a%20Paddington%20St%20-%20gas%20fireplace.jpg" alt="">
Another fine example of a home where gas fireplaces work exceptionally is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-glen+osmond-117584471" target="_blank">Plane Tree House</a>, a modern residence at Glen Osmond, high on the hillside above the Adelaide Plains. Listed through Ouwens Casserley agent, Alexander Ouwens (and currently under contract), the house features Escea gas fireplaces integrated with beautiful bespoke joinery. Inspired by the Japanese architect Tadao Ando, the three-level house is designed by Architects Ink (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/10/17/Glen%20Osmond%20Plane%20Tree%20House.jpg" alt="">
While Jonathan’s no-no is placing a television screen next to a fireplace, mine is candles on display in the hearth. This looks so silly – especially in photos of a property listing. Take for instance the fireplace of a living room in a house for sale at Latrobe in Tasmania <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-latrobe-118113663" target="_blank">listed for sale</a> through Saunders Property Group Devonport. The room would seem much cosier and more appealing if the agent has ditched the candles and lit some logs at the time of the photo shoot. 
 
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Hot trends and traditions for fireplaces: He Said She Said

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Melbourne City Council has secured the $76 million purchase of a 6462-square-metre property site opposite the Queen Victoria Market, although there were bids above $80 million from offshore buyers.
The vendor Robert Munro's family had owned <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/2011417217/for-sale/vic/melbourne/development-land" target="_blank">the Munro site, as it's known, for 104 years</a>.
The Queen and Therry Street warehouse industrial property last sold in 1910 when bought by Robert Munro’s grand­father James Munro for 19,000 pounds from McEwen’s Hardware Co. The property has been retained by his family ever since, with the exception of occasional sales of smaller components such as the site now occupied by McDonalds on Elizabeth Street, in 1989. Ironically, the under-bidder for the site in 1910 was the Melbourne City Council who bid 15,000 pounds. According to marketing agents Clinton Baxter and Nick Peden of Savills, the property offers development potential virtually unrivalled and no longer obtainable within the Melbourne CBD.  
With 160 metres of main street frontage directly opposite the world famous Queen Victoria Market, the property has Capital City 1 zoning. "This property represents the single best redevelopment opportunity to be offered to the Melbourne market in many years. "The most significant in 20 years,’’ Mr Baxter said. “We were inundated with interest from across Asia, and in particular Mainland China, but after significant consideration, the vendor family elected to leave a legacy by selling to the City of Melbourne at a discount to higher bids.  
"The family is keenly aware of its 104 year history at the site and decided that its future was best handled by the City of Melbourne.”
It was bought from McEwan’s hardware business for the Munro family to run its automotive, manufacturing and spring businesses after James went to Paris to secure the agency for ­Clément-Bayard cars.
The sale adds a major element for the unfolding Town Hall plans to ­revitalise the market precinct.
The council will control the site eventually bringing in a private sector developer.
Commentators suggests buying the Munro site ought allow the council to convert the existing car park into public open space.
Five of the top six bids for the property were from mainland Chinese developers.
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Queen Victoria Market precinct site sells to Melbourne City Council after 104 year wait

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The Mosman home of Lady Patricia Byers, wife of the late Sir Maurice Byers, has been listed for sale.
The Kardinia Road home cost $765,000 in 1995, after they sold elsewhere in Clifton Gardens. Sir Maurice Byers, a noted constitutional expert, died in 1999, characterised as the finest lawyer never to have been appointed to the High Court.
Ray White Lower North Shore is suggesting $2.8 million plus for its <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/nsw/mosman/1206819/" target="_blank">November 8 auction</a>.
It is being marketed as one of the few remaining original homes in the tightly-held Clifton Gardens pocket.
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Original Clifton Gardens offering for November auction

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A grand Victorian estate in Toorak with a garden and grotto designed by Rodney Alsop has been listed for sale.
After 102 years, the Wettenhall family has listed Aberfeldie, the 4,425 square metre offering at <a href="https://www.14lascellesavenue-toorak.com" target="_blank">14 Lascelles Avenue</a>.
It includes an 1865 Victorian residence, a second more substantial property, built in 1962, and a north-south tennis court, which runs the length of Orrong Road.
It was Dr Roland Wettenhall, who bought Aberfeldie in 1912, and his son, Dr Norman Wettenhall, who also lived at the home.
In the 1960s the north-west corner of Orrong and Toorak roads was sold making way for an apartment tower.
Marshall White Stonnington's Richard Mackinnon is expecting about $12 million.
The early 20-century architect Rodney Alsop, who died in 1932, designed Perth's English-style London Court and the University of Western Australia.
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Toorak's Aberfeldie with garden grotto designed by Rodney Alsop

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The Rabbitohs chief executive Shane Richardson and his wife Kate have listed their Coogee home.
The downsizing couple bought the two level 1930s Raleigh Street semi-detached house for $1.1 million in 2005, the year after Richardson left the Penrith Panthers.
The four-bedroom, two bathroom home on its 226 square metre cul de sac holding has $1.7 million plus hopes for its <a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-coogee-nsw-2034/241706/?searchID=43554077" target="_blank">November 8 auction</a>.
Title Tattle recalls back in 2008 it was briefly offered for sale, when more than $1.5 million was tipped by then listing agent Rodney Prestia. 
Richardson up a career job in the finance industry around 20 years ago to take a 50% pay cut and move his young family to Sydney to have a go at NRL club management.
Nick Pappas recruited Richardson from Penrith in 2004. He had earlier been at Cronulla and headed up the then new English club Gateshead in the UK Super League.
 
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Rabbitohs' Shane Richardson lists Coogee home

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Recent reports that the businessman John B Fairfax has sold the Double Bay harbourfront estate, Elaine (pictured above), are wrong.
The property, initially <a href="https://propertyobserver.com.au/forward-planning/advice-and-hot-topics/trophy-homes/26247-elaine-john-fairfaxs-long-redundant-double-bay-harbourfront-listed" target="_blank">signalled as being for sale in September 2013</a>, <a href="https://www.christiesrealestate.com/eng/sales/detail/170-l-86-1310101657419473/elaine-point-piper-sydney-sw-2027" target="_blank">appears as for sale</a> on the Christies International Real Estate website.
The News Ltd <a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/real-estate/elaine-rumoured-to-have-sold-for-a-new-price-record/story-fndban6l-1227092355677" target="_blank">blog posting</a> on its supposed sale was by Kirsten Craze and Prue Miller which referred to the "rumour mill."
Copycat reports followed with the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2795063/australia-s-expensive-home-sold-100-million-record-breaking-price-kept-wraps" target="_blank">Daily Mail</a> unhelpfully suggesting it was a $100 million sale.
Property Observer is aware of the tenants moving out, which may have contributed to the publication of the error.
The six-title offering of 6,900 square metres, at 550 New South Head Road, (highlighted below), has been in the publishing family for 100 plus years, but tenanted over the past two decades by the prudent Edgecliff based publisher and pastoralist.
Its most recent tenants have been the joint chief investment officer of Caledonia Investments, Mark Nelson, and his wife, Louise.
Sydney's official record price stands with Altona in Point Piper, with RP Data records indicating a $52 million sale earlier this year. Villa Veneto, also at Point Piper, is reputed to have sold for around $52 million in 2010, but without confirmatory documentation. The $57.5 million Australian price record was a multi-dwelling Mosman Park compound on the Swan River in Perth in 2009.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/09/17/doublke-bay-sept-18-one.jpg" alt="doublke-bay-sept-18-one" width="470" height="357">
Elaine has been traded or handed down within the Fairfax family since bought by Geoffrey Evan Fairfax for 2,100 pounds.
The exclusive listing agent Ken Jacobs was overseas, but when available for comment said it was still for sale.
Its introductory <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://vimeo.com/82254294" target="_blank">video marketing campaign</a> kicked off the international sales campaign earlier this year. 
A wider internet marketing campaign will resume later this year, with better access for buyers to the now mostly vacant property.
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Sydney Harbour trophy home Elaine still marketed as available for sale

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iProperty Group founder Catcha Group was seeking to sell one-quarter of its stake in the Asian real estate business on Wednesday night.
The 25% stake is worth around $27 million.
The Australian Financial Review's Street Talk column said broker Morgans was looking to place 10 million iProperty Group shares after the market closed, calling for bids at $2.70 to $2.75 a share.
The block represented about 5% of iProperty’s shares on issue. iProperty shares had closed up 13% to $2.82 in Wednesday trade.
Catcha Group chief executive Patrick Grove, a BRW Young Rich lister, runs online businesses valued at around $US1 billion, some of which are listed on the Australian Stock Exchange.
Real estate portal iProperty Group owns online property websites across Asia. When it debuted on the ASX in September 2007, the iProperty company had a market value of $25 million. 
Earlier this year Mark Britt, the former chief executive of Nine Entertainment’s Mi9 joined the subscription video-on-demand and internet television division of Patrick Grove’s Catcha Group.
Catcha’s decision came soon after iProperty bought the Hong Kong real estate business Squarefoot from major shareholder REA Group. The scrip-based deal valued Squarefoot at $15 million.
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Patrick Grove's Catcha Group selling iProperty stake

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada Australia</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada Australia's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada Australia as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

Jonathan Chancellor

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