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No sale yet for Namatjira, former champion surfer Wayne Lynch's Victoria coastal family haven.
The surfing icon Wayne Lynch is selling the Great Ocean Road, which sits about halfway between Anglesea and Airey's Inlet at Urquhart Bluff.
Married to Lindy with two children, Jarrah and Merinda, <a href="https://www.hayden.com.au/view.cfm?OID=6486901&amp;tp=432_view" target="_blank">Namatjira</a>, has been in the family for 35 years. 
But Lynch, who works for surfwear brand Patagonia, is apparently considering a move to the NSW north coast of NSW.
The three-level house with expansive coastal views sits on 4.45 hectares of protected natural bush at 765 Great Ocean Road. There is a three bedroom house plus separate three-bedroom bungalow.
Marius Tekin, of Hayden Real Estate, has had it listed for $3,995,000 since January this year.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Surfing champion Wayne Lynch lists Angelsea and looks north

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A Hurstville Hungry Jacks premises sold for $6.65 million at auction last week.
It reflected a yield of around 2% for the Forest Road premises. 
The vendor’s reserve was $3.15 million according to William Gunning from Gunning Commercial.
Strong buyer interest from local buyers and mainland Chinese investors meant the Hurstville retail market was strong with yields sometimes under 5%.
Late last year the Huaxing Supermarket premises at 198 Forest Road fetched $2.23 million when sold to L &amp; J Zhang Pty Ltd. The premises are 209 square metres.
The last big sale was $11.65 million last June when 124 Forest Road was sold to Shanghai Lihua Hurstville Pty Ltd by Smart Giant (Aust) Pty Ltd.
In 2012 the refurbished two-storey retail strip property leased to NAB sold for $9.013 million equating to a yield of 5.85%.
The bank branch sits on a 418-square-metre site at 252 Forest Road.
On the office front, earlier this year Centuria sold a 4,800 square metre commercial office building at 8 Woodville Street, Hurstville for $17.35 million ($3,615/m²), reflecting a yield of 8.3%.
It last sold for $13.38 million in 2008 when bought from Immer (169) Pty Ltd. 
The office market is being watched closely as the NSW Office of State Revenue is moving from Hurstville to Parramatta premises.
The decision was part of the push which will see more than 3,000 public servants head west under the proposal of then Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Barry O’Farrell “decade of decentralisation” policy.
The Office of Environment and Heritage is also moving Hurstville to Parramatta.
The Australian Taxation Office’s announced last year that it would close its Hurstville office in early 2015, with the relocation or loss of about 500 jobs.
Gunning have listed an investment opportunity in a central location in the shopping strip and commercial precinct .
The 227-229 Forest Road building comprises four levels – with the upper three commercial space. 
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The property has multiple tenancies, and a rental income of $1,011,812 gross. The building size is 1,776 square metres.
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Retail investors hungry for Hurstville despite office market unrest

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The veteran ABC sports commentator Peter Wilkins, best known as "Wilko" has listed his two storey five bedroom Elanora Heights home.
It has been his Sydney home since paying $835,000 in 2003 with wife, Susie. They have two children.
Some $1.3 million plus is being sought for the 1975-built Kalang Road house that sits on a 703 square metre property.
It goes to 1 May auction <a href="https://www.ljhooker.com.au/HCSF6Q/5-bedroom-house-for-sale-elanora-heights" target="_blank">through LJ Hooker Collaroy agent Gordon Spring</a>.
Apparently the couple are seeking a sea-change after its sale. He loves golf, the guitar and surfing.
Currently presenting Grandstand on ABC TV News24, he ranks the radio broadcast of the Socceroos qualification for the 2006 World Cup as a career highlight of the past 32 years.
RP Data puts the median house price at <a href="/news">Elanora Heights</a> at $975,000.
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Peter "Wilko" Wilkins, ABC sports veteran, lists Elanora Heights home

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Finally the sales marketing, including video, has appeared on Belle Property websites for 18 Molong Street, Curl Curl North.
Of course it's the redundant home of the Sydney glamour couple Jennifer Hawkins and builder model husband Jake Wall.
Last week the estate agents posted a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhPFKHOoc5I" target="_blank">1.40 minute You Tube drone video</a> on the "sublime sanctuary" where Jen and Jake have watched whales cruising across the horizon.
{qtube vid:=RhPFKHOoc5I}
Gotta love the curtains fluttering in the breeze!
There had been just the 179 video views in its first four days.
The house is also featured with <a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/buying/NSW/Northern-Beaches/North-Curl-Curl/House/12P4639-18-molong-street-north-curl-curl-nsw-2099" target="_blank">photos on the Belle website</a>. 
The whisper marketing campaign began early April with the local paper Manly Daily exclusive.
There's still no official price guidance from agent, Steve Thomas at Belle Property who has had a hand in two prior sales in the Windy Drop Down gated community.
Property Observer noted sales have ranged from $2.7 million to $6.7 million over the past four years.
Another non-cliff front designer property fetched $3.15 million two doors away in late 2012 when Thomas sold the 2007 built four bedroom house.
The couple have lived in the Molong Street home for the past three years since they built on a former tennis court block that cost $1.375 million in 2010.
It comes with <a href="https://www.darrenpalmer.com/north-curl-curl.php" target="_blank">Darren Palmer interiors</a>.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2014/04/11/curl%20curl%20april%2011%20one.jpg" alt="">
They are soon off to their next nearby Koichi Takada-designed (below) home.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2014/04/11/hawkins%20instagram.jpg" alt="">
Source: Instagram
Before Hawkins made the move to the northern beaches, The BRW rich lister who ranks number 22 on the Top 50 Entertainers list owned a townhouse in Coogee, which cost $2.27 million in 2009 for $2.27 million and was sold for $2.3 million in 2012.
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Inside Jennifer Hawkins and Jake Wall's North Curl Curl, Sydney listed home

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Sydney's median house price sits at a record $782,973 after the moderating 2014 March quarter price growth, according to one of the property data companies, Australian Property Monitors. 
The record house price median was <a href="/expert-insights/buying/sydney-march-quarter-price-moderation-but-still-far-stronger-than-every-other-capital-city-apm">up 16.9% over the past year to $782,973</a>.
So Property Observer went looking for what house buyers got at around this price. 
Here's our baker's dozen.
<ol>
<li>The nearest to the city was a Surry Hills terrace that fetched $780,000 in an off market sale. The 575 Riley Street terrace on a 127 square metre block had last sold at $400,000 in June 2000. There was 90 square metres living space including three bedrooms in the 1900 built terrace. </li>
<li>
At Kirrawee, $783,000 secured 36 Wylie Street (pictured below), an 1980 built three bedroom house on a 569 square metre block. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-kirrawee-115790767" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">The house</a>, with 126 square metres of living space, previously sold at $679,950 in October 2012. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/kirrawee%20april%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
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<li>
The private treaty vendors at 13 Carmel Close, Baulkham Hills (pictured below) had been looking for $770,000 plus since last November, and took a $780,000 offer in January for the four bedroom 1990 built house through <a href="https://raywhitebaulkhamhills.com.au/nsw/baulkham-hills/1054973/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Ray White</a>. Set on a large 746 square metre cul de sac parcel of land in a sought after pocket of Crestwood, it was marketed as close to reputable schools, reserves and public transport. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/baulkham%20hills%20apirl%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
A one bedroom Enmore semi sold for $780,000, the smallest offering at around the Sydney median house price. The<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-enmore-115458171" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> 29 Gladstone Street</a> (pictured below) offering had previously traded at $600,000 in November 2009. There was 60 square metres living space on the 100 square metre block. The vendors had tried to get $708,000 in early 2011. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/enmore%20april%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
There was a nicely <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-terrace-nsw-newtown-115968539" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">renovated one bedroom Newtown semi sale</a> at $780,000 through Callagher Real Estate. The 57 Kent Street (pictured below) sale got just 50 square metres living space, the smallest Property Observer came across. It sat on an 89 square metre block. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/newtown%20april%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
The $780,000 offer through Century 21 Liverpool for a five bedroom, three bathroom Voyager Point house secured the equal biggest number of bedrooms that Property Observer found. The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-voyager+point-115709123" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">2A Pelorus Avenue house</a> (pictured below) had failed to sell at November auction. It was built in 2001 on its 673 square metre block with 320 square metres of living space. It last sold at $615,000 in January 2012. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/voyager%20point%20apirl%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
A five bedroom 1998 Prestons house that sold at $780,000 had a special staircase. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.wiseberry.com.au/property/165030970" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">It was marketed by Wiseberry agent Oscar Montes de Oca</a> as a luxury offering. The 6 Mildura Place property (pictured below) came with pool too. Its cinema screen was a tad problematic. Its last sale was $560,000 in June 2009. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/prestons%20april%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
There was a $784,600 sale at The Ponds, one of Sydney's newest suburbs through Century 21 Rouse Hill. The four bedroom, two bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-the+ponds-115875739" target="_blank">21 Viceroy Avenue</a> (pictured below) came with media room with 84’’ fixed cinema screen. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/the%20ponds%20apirl%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>A Tempe semi which was listed with $660,000 plus hopes fetched $780,000. It was two bedrooms at 112 Tempe Road. It last sold at $598,000 in May 2010. The 86 square metre space included attic bedroom. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-tempe-115904435" target="_blank">The 278 square metre block</a> (pictured below) had enough space for veggie garden. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/temple%20april%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> </li>
<li>
On the well established upper north shore, a 1970s brick house at Wahronga sold in February at $785,000 through McConnell Bourn ahead of its scheduled March auction. The four bedroom home with 144 square metres living space sits on the largest block Property Observer came across, 1,119 square metres <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/10-cooper-crescent-wahroonga/Property-Details-sold-residential-6674307" target="_blank">at 10 Cooper Crescent</a> (pictured below). It had previously sold at $315,000 in 1996 and 1991. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/wahroonga%20paril%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
The property needing the most work was 24 London Street, Enmore (pictured below) which was offered by the NSW Public Trustee. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-enmore-116002687" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">It sold at March auction for $780,000</a> through Laing &amp; Simmons Newtown agent Namir Mikha who had been giving a $650,000 plus pre-auction price guidance on the two bedroom house. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/enmore%20april%2028%20two.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
Investors secured the $785,000 purchase of 25 Kirkham Road, Auburn. <a href="https://www.rent.com.au/property-house-auburn-2144-924272" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">The three bedroom is available for rent at $570 a week</a>. 
</li>
<li>
Interesting that investors have a high presence on the list with this one at Edensor Park rented out at $650 a week after it was bought for $780,000. And <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-edensor+park-115834415" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">14 Keesing Street</a> (pictured below) is another five bedder, which has been another strong feature of the list. <img src="/images/2014/04/28/edensor%20park%20april%2028%20one.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
</ol>
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What buyers actually get for Sydney’s record $782,973 median house price

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Motorcycle legend Wayne Gardner and his wife, Toni, have sold their oceanfront home at Fairy Bower, Manly for slightly less than its initial $8 million hopes held on its February listing.
Title Tattle gleans the price was at least $7.25 million.
Wayne Gardner paid $2.05 million in 1999.
The three storey home comes with 17-year leasehold title up for renewal in October with the Catholic Church. 
Leases were first offered for around 150 blocks along Bower Street, Fairy Bower Road and College Street in 1915 for a few thousand pounds.
The former grand prix motorcycle racer and family moved to Barcelona, Spain in 2012 to pursue the racing ambitions of their sons Remy and Luca.
The five-bedroom sold through McGrath agent Jake Rowe. It comes with three indoor living areas, along with pool, poolside family room and pool bar at the 68 Bower Street, Manly holding. 
For many years Manly's record price was the Belle Epoque-style mansion, Fairy Bower, which fetched about $9.5 million when sold by the Potts Point-bound former car dealer Terry Mullens and his wife, Wendy in 2009.
Les Flots Bleus, the clifftop Shelley Beach, Manly, property, held the suburb's residential record when $6.75 million was paid by Jane Fitton-Williams, a professional cookery expert, through Jake Rowe from McGrath in 2007.
Manly's house sale record earlier stood at $6.5 million when Terry Agnew and his wife Kyril sold their 1920s mansion, Fairy Bower, in 2004.
Prior sales on the dress circle have included $6.75 million for 62 Bower Street in 2007.
There was the $4.3 million sale of 81 Bower Street in 2008.
The Mediterranean-style villa Beach Haven was among the earliest prestige sales, fetching $3.1 million in 2000 through Bergelin Real Estate's Bernie Bergelin, the former Manly Rugby Union captain, when bought by the family of surgeon Michael Christie from transport magnate and former Manly sporting identity John McPhee and wife Laura. It had been virtually rebuilt since bought by the McPhees for $465,000 in 1984, from the estate of Lady (Mollie) Askin, widow of the late premier Sir Robert Askin.
The Gardner couple have leased their 57 hectare hobby farm near Berry.
The Meroo Meadow farm on the NSW south coast had been previously listed with $2 million-plus expectations.
It's a picturesque grazing and lifestyle property that cost $1.8 million in 2003. 
It comes with some rainforest with private waterfalls. The four-bedroom farmhouse  comes with substantial garaging and farm outbuildings.
With well-planned fencing and paddock layout, it has a carrying capacity of 50 breeders. "The owner has enjoyed the farm lifestyle, however business and family interest have moved offshore," the marketing noted.
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Motorcycle legend Wayne Gardner sells Bower Street, Fairy Bower, Manly leasehold home

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Retired rugby league champion Brad Fittler and his partner, Marie Liarris, have listed their Rose Bay investment semi, Salisbury Cottage.
The four-bedroom, three-bathroom semi with two car spaces has reputed $1.7 million expectations for its <a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-rose-bay-nsw-2029/222433/?searchID=38696325" target="_blank">May 17 McGrath auction</a>.
The Channel 9 commentator bought the 1920s Salisbury Road semi (pictured as on purchase) for $1.67 million in May 2013 <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/nsw/rose-bay/961246/" target="_blank">through Annette Pollak at Ray White Double Bay</a> when offered to the market for the first time in more than 20 years.
Reflecting four percent yield, it was leased after becoming available with an initial weekly $1300 asking rent through Andrew Anastassiou at <a href="https://www.homeestateagents.com.au" target="_blank">Home</a> Estate Agents Bronte. 
It sits on a 304 square metre holding.
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Brad Fittler lists 1920s Rose Bay investment semi

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Druids House, the office block at 302 Pitt Street, is set to become a hotel.
It follows its late 2013 purchase by Melbourne property developer brothers, Dean and Jonty Rzechta for around $10 million.
It had previously traded in 2004 for $5 million to G Capital Holdings, associated with Bill Gertos, when offloaded by the Grand Lodge of the United Ancient Order of Druids.
<a href="https://development.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Datasource/DANotifications/1145200_022.pdf" target="_blank">The application before Sydney City Council is for the adaptive re-use as 136 room hotel</a>.
The application seeks a 10 storey addition to the six storey 1909 building set on 520 square metres between Bathurst and Liverpool Streets.
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A 500mm setback is proposed to levels six, seven and eight then levels 9-15 will be setback six metres from the street frontage. 
There had previously been off the plan marketing of residential units with prices from $425,000 for studio apartments, for a 10 months period beginning late 2010 that accompanied plans for a 17 storey apartment block.
It was marketed as an "extremely rare developer release, pre-DA opportunity."
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There is no heritage listing with the Lodge Room on level four the only strong reminder of the Druids’ occupation of the building. It is proposed to be removed, but there will be retention of the façade and windows, most of which date from 1927. 
Druids House was built as a five-storey 1909 factory for the Welsbach Light Company, known then as Welsbach House. 
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The Welsbach Lighting Company which was founded by Carl Auer von Welsbach, a chemist who is famous for inventing the gas mantle and the metal filament for light bulbs. 
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It was a fully-equipped factory in Sydney owned by the company, which had until then been operating in Australia by carrying out various stages of its manufacturing in England. But having German origins, the company was declared an enemy in 1914 and its occupation of the building ended.
In 1927, 302 Pitt Street was altered for use by its new owners, the United Ancient Order of Druids, a fraternal society founded in London in 1781.The Australian contingent of Druids had been active since the 1850s and another Druids House was established in Melbourne in 1927 at 407 Swanston Street. 
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At the time of the 1928 opening ceremony, the United Ancient Order of Druids had approximately 240,500 members and was playing an active role as a Friendly Society in Sydney.
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Druids House in Sydney was opened in 1928, with the Sydney Morning Herald reporting that the opening ceremony was attended by the assistant treasurer, Mr S. Stevens.
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The plans have been prepared by Scott Carver with an estimated $22 million cost for the company, Ninety Four Street.
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The last plans date back to 2011 when <a href="https://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1336071" target="_blank">a 17 storey residential building was approved</a>, then in 1997 when Peter Skerrett held an option to buy 302 Pitt Street with residential prospects.
The current plans are likely to attract opposition from residents of the neighbouring Princeton complex.
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Druids House on Pitt Street set to become 15 storey Sydney hotel

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Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury has yet to sell his former Albert Park abode (pictured above), after it was passed in at weekend auction on a $1.5 million vendor bid.
<a href="https://www.greghockingrealestate.com.au/real-estate/property/717835/for-sale/house/vic/albert-park-3206/23-boyd-street/" target="_blank">The unfurnished three bedroom house </a>was among the 330 auctions across 158 suburbs on the Anzac Day weekend where the highest sale was 14 Hannaslea Street, Box Hill (pictured below) at $1.36 million.
<img src="/images/2014/04/28/BOX%20HILLE%20APRIL%2028%20ONE.jpg" alt="">
Pendlebury purchased the double-fronted Victorian house at 23 Boyd Street in late 2011 for $1.3 million, as he moved from <a href="/news/vic/scott-pendlebury-secures-newport-cottage-offer">Newport</a>.
On initial results, the REIV reported a clearance rate of 69%, the same rate as this weekend last year. It was 70% on the pre-Easter Saturday this year.
There were 242 auctions reported to the REIV taking the total this year to nearly 7,500 homes sold by auction with an average clearance rate of 71%. 
Next weekend the REIV expects about 830 auctions, Enzo Raimondo the REIV chief said. Then 10/11 May with 670 auctions and 17/18 May with 650 auctions.
The busiest auction locations were Epping (eight auctions), Carnegie (five auctions), and Rye (five auctions).
The number of auctions this week was lower than the 10-year average of 517 auctions per week in April due to the timing of Anzac Day. 
The REIV has noted clearance rates have trended lower since the beginning of the year although the number of transactions so far this year is about four percent higher than his time last year.
With his fiancee Alex Davis, Scott Pendlebury is now looking to buy something larger, possibly in much the same neighbourhood.
Pendlebury attended the recent no-bid auction on Nelson Road, South Melbourne (pictured below), a double-fronted five bedroom, three level Edwardian that was renovated a couple of years ago by architect Dean Lewis with interiors designed by Kerry Phelan. It has been listed with as yet unrealised $4.5 million hopes.
<img src="/images/2014/04/15/south%20melbourne%20april%2015.jpg" alt="">
Pendlebury's current three bedroom home has another bedroom in a self-contained studio at the rear.
John Holdsworth, of Greg Hocking Holdsworth, was quoting $1.5 million plus in the auction guidance on the prize corner holding with central living/dining space featuring dado panelling. 
In the meantime the narrower two bedroom cottage diagonally opposite <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-albert+park-116700439" target="_blank">has popped for May 10 auction</a>.
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Scott Pendlebury's off field Albert Park Anzac Day weekend offering passed in

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Unnamed property experts declared Fitzroy "the next Toorak" in weekend Fairfax Media silliness.
It was off the back of house price growth on Melbourne's north outpacing the south by 9.7% in the past five years.
"It is now more expensive to buy a home in Fitzroy than Windsor and Prahran," according to the news report.
But of course, Windsor and Prahran aren't Toorak.
The city's most expensive suburb remains Toorak, with a median house price of $2,430,000 in the March quarter – down from $2,875,000 in the December quarter. 
However, it was still above second place which was East Melbourne's $2,242,000 with a handful of mansion sales, and Kew in third place, with a $1,944,000 median, up from $1,700,000.
Fitzroy North's median house was $1,135,000.
And it's poorer cousin Fitzroy had a $1.08 million house median.
And anyway looking at the list, Parkville seems to outrank the near suburbs from the other side of Nicholson Street.
<table style="width: 460px;"><tbody><tr>
<td>TOORAK  EAST MELBOURNE*  KEW  BRIGHTON  MALVERN*  CANTERBURY*  BALWYN  ARMADALE*  MIDDLE PARK*  HAWTHORN EAST*  SURREY HILLS  CAMBERWELL  PORTSEA*  IVANHOE EAST*  HAWTHORN  ALBERT PARK*  PARKVILLE*  SOUTH YARRA*  SOUTH MELBOURNE*  SANDRINGHAM*  CAULFIELD NORTH*  ELWOOD*  GLEN IRIS  HAMPTON  MONT ALBERT*  BALWYN NORTH  BRIGHTON EAST  KEW EAST*  ELSTERNWICK*  BLACK ROCK*  BEAUMARIS  ALPHINGTON*  ASHBURTON*  MCKINNON*  MALVERN EAST  FITZROY NORTH*  ST KILDA EAST*  ORMOND*  ST KILDA*  CAULFIELD SOUTH*  PORT MELBOURNE  FITZROY*  BOX HILL*  PRAHRAN  BENTLEIGH  FAIRFIELD*  MONT ALBERT NORTH*  WINDSOR*  PARK ORCHARDS*  TEMPLESTOWE  CARLTON*  CARLTON NORTH*</td>
<td>$2,430,000  $2,242,500  $1,944,000  $1,915,500  $1,908,750  $1,804,000  $1,740,000  $1,670,000  $1,670,000  $1,669,250  $1,551,000  $1,525,000  $1,520,000  $1,516,250  $1,505,000  $1,487,500  $1,467,500  $1,455,000  $1,335,000  $1,320,000  $1,317,500  $1,310,000  $1,310,000  $1,307,500  $1,305,000  $1,301,500  $1,301,000  $1,270,000  $1,268,500  $1,240,000  $1,220,000  $1,208,000  $1,175,000  $1,155,000  $1,146,000  $1,135,000  $1,127,500  $1,110,000  $1,110,000  $1,095,000  $1,085,000  $1,080,000  $1,065,000  $1,060,500  $1,050,000  $1,050,000  $1,047,500  $1,047,500  $1,045,000  $1,033,000  $1,027,500  $1,005,000</td>
</tr></tbody></table>
Source: REIV
(*fewer than 30 sales)
The nine reasons Fitzroy/Fitzroy North will not be the next Toorak.
<ol>
<li>
The celebrity chef <a href="/news/chef-george-calombaris-sells-fitzroy-north-pad-as-he-upgrades-toorak-mansions">George Calombaris sold out of Fitzroy North</a> recently to upgrade Toorak residences to a $4.75 million French Provincial family residence with picture book windows overlooking Paul Bangay gardens. 
</li>
<li>The queues over summer outside the Messina gelato shop on Smith Street are too long. Best send the butler from the air-conditioned Toorak mansion to collect the salted caramel take-away tub. </li>
<li>
Clifton Hill holds first rights to the title as it was described back in the 1880s as the "Toorak of Collingwood". 
</li>
<li>
Fitzroy only had two salons, Unico and Redroom, on the recent <a href="https://www.theurbanlist.com/melbourne/a-list/where-get-melbourne-s-best-blow-dry" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">The Urban List</a> of Melbourne's best blow dry. Toorak, and neighbouring South Yarra, had six entrants among the 16 salons. 
</li>
<li>The 3,200 Toorak houses have an average 640 square metre block size. Fitzroy North's 3,500 houses come with a 240 square metre average. Fitzroy's 2,300 houses sit on an even smaller 165 square metre average square metre holding. </li>
<li>
The typical Fitzroy fare is plant-based Latin cuisine highlighted by the Smith &amp; Daughters menu of pazole, paella, chorizo, ceviche and croquettes. There apparently isn't a single animal product on the premises.  
</li>
<li>
The top sale in the Fitzroy district has been $4.2 million since the 2012 sale of the charming <a href="/news/fitzroy-north-tops-sales-with-strathfield-seizing-sydneys-highest-result-for-second-consecutive-weekend">Walkley</a> set in 740 square metres of beautifully landscaped grounds on Alfred Crescent. Toorak has had around 250 sales above $4.2 million, topping out at <a href="/news/nigel-austin-the-cotton-on-retailer-chain-founder-the-one-towers-road-toorak-buyer">$21.5 when the Cotton On boss Nigel Austin bought last year</a>.  
</li>
<li>Around 40% plus of Fitzroy/Fitzroy North houses are semis or terraces compared to just 15% in Toorak. </li>
<li>Toorak is dominated by owner occupiers, with investors holding around 50% of stock in the Fitzroy precinct.</li>
</ol>
The pity was the captivating, though now amended, headline in The Age, "Million-dollar suburbs smash north-south divide", alluded to something significant occurring within the systemic divide, but then disappointed, I'd suggest in delivery.
And it has since come to light, from at least one of the unnamed experts, that they actually agree Fitzroy won't be Toorak. They were told "Fitzroy North becoming the Toorak of the north". What was reported was different.
Aerial photo of Fitzroy courtesy of Wikipedia/Creative Commons.
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The nine reasons Fitzroy will not be the next Toorak

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X8K0Bozug7A?si=Puwc6vx_ZO0qQZF8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=364553]

From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=336455]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Location and lifestyle drive demand at Candela Ivanhoe

As apartment buyers increasingly look beyond the four walls of their residence, the quality and depth of shared amenity has become a defining factor in how developments are designed and experienced, particularly in the high-rise, new apartment development space.

In Southbank, where high-density living continues to evolve, developers are placing greater emphasis on creating environments that support wellbeing, connection, and convenience as part of everyday life.

That approach sits at the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aura-at-melbourne-square-7-hoff-boulevard-southbank-vic-3006">AURA</a>, the latest residential tower in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>’s $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct. Rising 67 storeys above Hoff Boulevard, the 673-apartment development has been conceived around what OSK describes as a “vertical wellness ecosystem”, a layered collection of amenities that extends throughout the building rather than being confined to a single podium level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370263]

The amenity offering begins on the seventh level within the AURA Club, a dedicated resident hub focused on health, relaxation, and daily convenience. Here, residents will have access to an indoor swimming pool, cold plunge, spa, sauna, and steam room, alongside a fully equipped gym, reformer Pilates studio, and yoga room.

The wellness facilities are complemented by a range of spaces that acknowledge the changing ways people live and work. Work-from-home lounges and co-working areas sit alongside a library, music room, games room, cinema facilities, and open-air terrace spaces, providing residents with flexible environments that can adapt throughout the day.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367468]

Beyond the internal amenity, AURA introduces a series of Japanese-inspired gardens that form a quieter counterpoint to the tower’s social spaces.

Landscaped retreats feature curated outdoor dining, tranquil courtyard seating, fire pit, and a tea house pavilion. Rather than functioning as simple recreational areas, the gardens have been designed as places for reflection and informal gathering, drawing on principles of balance, nature, and calm that underpin the project's broader design philosophy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367810]

The social amenity continues to evolve as residents move higher through the building. Levels 49 and 50 house the Meridian Club, where a lounge bar, conservatory spaces, and private dining rooms take advantage of elevated city views. At the summit of the tower, the exclusive Cumulus Club spans Levels 66 and 67, offering additional lounges, private dining, and meditation and treatment rooms positioned above Melbourne’s skyline.

For OSK Property, the extensive amenity offering reflects a broader focus on wellbeing as a core component of apartment living rather than an added feature.

“Aura stands tall as an exemplar of holistic wellness – its focus on social, physical and mental health culminate in a building that is calming, restorative and relaxing, where residents will have their own sanctuary within the well-connected and sought-after Southbank,” says OSK Property CEO Chong Boon Woon.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367796]

AURA’s amenity strategy extends beyond the tower itself through its integration with the wider Melbourne Square precinct.

Residents will have direct access to Kennedy Park, Southbank’s 3,745 sqm landscaped public park, alongside a full-line Woolworths supermarket, childcare centre, hospitality venues, and approximately 1,600 sqm of additional retail planned within AURA’s lower levels. Together, these elements create a highly connected residential environment where daily needs, recreation, and wellness are woven into the fabric of the community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370253]

As Melbourne’s apartment market continues to mature, developments are increasingly judged by the lifestyle they provide beyond individual residences.

Through its combination of wellness facilities, landscaped retreats, social clubs, and precinct-wide amenity, AURA represents a shift toward a more comprehensive model of vertical living, one where shared spaces play as significant a role as the homes themselves.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151921]

AURA elevates amenity living at Melbourne Square

Builder-developer Scion is the latest to target Sydney's booming Hills Showground Metro precinct, filing plans for more than 100 apartments within walking distance of the station.

Scion has lodged a concurrent rezoning and State Significant Development Application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-33-middleton-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154">27–33 Middleton Avenue</a>, where it plans to replace four existing homes with an 11 and 14-storey mixed-use development comprising 109 apartments, six affordable housing dwellings, and a ground-floor café.

Designed by BHK Architects, the proposal includes three levels of basement parking with 174 spaces, more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space, and extensive landscaping across the 3,791 sqm site.

The development has been designed as two buildings connected by a recessed wintergarden spine, with the 14-storey building positioned to the south and the 11-storey building to the north.

<img alt="Scion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64dc359d-736b-43b8-87a8-70a8285cab47" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-25%20at%208.47.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=PXh.m8id_aevBPHEckPf88wQ2RQThPos" />

The apartment mix has been weighted towards owner-occupiers, with 13 one-bedroom apartments, 55 two-bedroom residences, 31 three-bedroom apartments, six three-bedroom lofts, and four four-bedroom homes. Six apartments will be dedicated as affordable housing in line with the NSW Housing SEPP.

According to the Architectural Design Report by BKH, the proposal seeks to create "a place-responsive architecture" inspired by the natural landscape surrounding Cattai Creek, while strengthening the public domain through landscaping, active frontages and a neighbourhood café.

Atlas Urban, in its Urban Design Report, says the proposal takes a different approach to increasing density around Hills Showground Station by favouring a more slender, vertically articulated built form over a conventional mid-rise outcome. The report argues this allows for greater deep soil planting, improved solar access and a better public domain outcome, while still delivering additional housing close to rapid public transport.

The site sits around 500 metres from Hills Showground Metro Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant residential intensification following the opening of the Sydney Metro Northwest line. Planning documents accompanying the application note that Greater Sydney's population has grown by more than one million people since planning for the precinct first began, reinforcing the need to accelerate housing delivery around existing transport infrastructure.

Scion is expanding its development pipeline which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/chatham-west-ryde-2-6-chatham-road-west-ryde-nsw-2114">Chatham in West Ryde</a>, 62 apartments which are approaching completion. They also have a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/96-anzac-avenue-west-ryde-nsw-2114">145 apartments on Anzac Avenue</a>, also in West Ryde.

Jonathan Chancellor

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