At Bangalow in the Byron Bay, NSW hinterland, there&#39;s $3.3 million hopes held by&nbsp;David Daniel, co-founder of CanPrint, and his wife, Debbie for their&nbsp;modern Queenslander, Cedargrove.

Its set on a&nbsp;4.5 hectare holding.

With an easterly aspect, the four-bedroom house has a wrap-around verandah with 300 degree views of the&nbsp;hinterland.

<a href="https://www.uniqueestates.com.au/Sales-Detail.aspx?id=ue321&amp;wlid=7bef62d1-289d-442f-a931-fe100f418c99" target="_blank">The&nbsp;2008&nbsp;home </a>has a home theatre.

The estate includes two spring-fed dams suitable for swimming, plus&nbsp;an infinity lap pool with an outdoor entertaining area and a resort-style cabana.

Nicolette van Wijngaarden of Unique Estates holds the listing.

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Cedargrove, Bangalow listed with $3.3 million hopes 

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An eight month investigation by Western Australian Police working with WA Consumer Protection has resulted in an arrest in Nigeria over the alleged attempted fraudulent $785,000 sale of a home in Western Australia.
The Australian authorities thwarted the sale of the house in Falcon, south of Perth, after a tip-off by the suspicious local estate agent.
The husband and wife owners of the home are based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Ntuen Promise Ekenmini, 27, was apprehended by Nigerian authorities when he went to collect documents using a fake driver's licence in the name of the home owner.
Police allege the attempted fraud began when a man contacted the property manager of a Mandurah real estate agency last December pretending to be the owner of a home requesting documents relating to the rented property.
He allegedly used an email address in the name of one of the real owners requesting all future correspondence be forwarded it to the new email address.
On 18 January, 2013 the agency received a request to sell the property with a sales agreement with false signatures returned to the agent, along with copies of fake passports. There was also a forged document purporting to be from the Australian High Commission in Pretoria confirming their identity.
It was then the estate agent became suspicious and reported the attempted fraud to the agency principal, Kent Murphy from Mandurah Estate Agency and authorities.
At one stage instructions were given to deposit $785,000 into a bank account in South East Asia, Detective Senior Sergeant Dom Blackshaw said. The Major Fraud Squad of the Western Australia Police worked with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) along with authorities in South Africa and Nigeria.
Police are investigating whether the matter was linked to several cases of real estate fraud in WA as six of the seven cases involved owners who lived in South Africa. Only two got to the stage of its actual sale. The first successful property fraud in Western Australia was reported in September 2010 when home owner Roger Mildenhall, based in South Africa, discovered his investment home in Karrinyup had been sold for $485,000 in August 2010 without his knowledge or consent by the agent who was managing the property on his behalf.
In April 2011, a home in Ballajura owned by a couple who were living in Nigeria at the time, was sold for $410,000 allegedly by Nigerian fraudsters. The fraudulent sale was not reported until August 2011 when the owners returned to Perth wanting to inspect the property.
In both cases the funds were transferred to bank accounts in China.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/western-australia/absentee-investor-alert-nigerian-scammers-sell-%24410000-house-they-didnt-own/2011081751195">All had investment properties in Perth which were rented</a>.
"There's every chance that these people are the same offenders, however we are working with the police in Nigeria to identify whether that is the case," he said.
The WA Consumer Affairs commissioner Anne Driscoll said the threat to absentee property owners, especially those in Africa, had not diminished and urged expatriate landlords to set up clear communication protocols which could not be altered.
In November 2011, the code of conduct for WA real estate agents and sales representatives and settlement agents (conveyancers) was strengthened to incorporate strict identity verification guidelines for all transactions, particularly involving overseas owners. The Western Australian Government’s land titles office, Landgate, put in place strict fraud prevention measures.
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Perth police arrest Nigerian scammer after attempted house sale fraud of absentee landlord's $785,000 Falcon property

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It's no understatement to say the bosses of the Network Ten have long made a habit of playing musical chairs with homes in Mosman. And sometimes even directly among themselves.   
Title Tattle notes the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.belleproperty.com/for-sale/NSW/North-Shore-Lower/Mosman/House/2P5415-26-medusa-street-mosman-nsw-2088">former Network Ten chief executive Grant Blackley</a> has just listed his Mosman mansion.
Currently the chief of Four Seasons Media, a diversified media consultancy, Grant Blackley and his wife, Nicole, are downsizing.
They bought the Medusa Street property in 2005 for $3.35 million when he was running Channel 10 and now after its renovation into a five bedroom house he is seeking $5.5 million plus at its September 14 Belle Property auction.
Its being marketed by Tim Foote as a "flawless" family residence with traditional design elements and sophisticated interiors.
There are alfresco spaces with pool and pool house and gym on its 1,233 square metre block.
Title Tattle recalls that the home was actually his predecessor's house, the abode of the then retiring boss of the network, John McAlpine and his wife, Judy, who moved to the top of Balmoral near Spit Road into a home they bought for $3.45 million in 2005.
Title Tattle recalls that Grant had a 1% stake in the 1230 square metre property with Nicole holding the other 99%.
Its been their home since they sold their four-bedroom Cabramatta Road, Mosman Federation home for $2.35 million in 2005. It had cost $900,000 in 1997.
It was 2008 when the current Network 10 boss Hamish McLennan, the then global chief executive of advertising agency Y&amp;R, and his wife, Lucinda spent $6.9 million at Mosman for his striking Pearl Bay Avenue residence.
It was sold to McLennan by the insurance broker Kevin Whelpton after the house was built to a design by architects Sandberg Schoffel.
McLennan, had soon after his 2006 posting to New York, listed his then Mosman residence. But the four-bedroom Hunter Road house, with study, didn't sell until 2007 for $4.1 million. It had been renovated after the couple paid $3.4 million in 2002.
Grant Blackley, who began his advertising career at George Patterson's Sydney agency in 1985, was ousted in February 2011 when Lachlan Murdoch was named acting CEO of Network Ten. Lachlan Murdoch owns in Bellevue Hill, but resides on the Vaculuse beachfront.
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Former Network Ten television boss Grant Blackley tests Mosman mansion reception

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Consumer confidence was higher in August, according to the Westpac-Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index, which rose 3.5% as lenders cut mortgage rates.
The result was close to 10% up on a year ago, though still seven per cent below 2010 levels when household respondents were initially optimistic the 2007-2008 global financial crisis had passed.
The latest August 6 rate cut led to a bounce in the outlook for people deciding to possibly buy a dwelling, Westpac's chief economist Bill Evans noted.


The overall 3.5% jump in sentiment was accompanied by a 3.7% rise in those surveyed saying it was a good time to buy a home.

The index had a big jump immediately following the Reserve Bank's easing taking the cash rate to a record low of 2.5%.
"The rate cut is likely to have had a solid positive impact on sentiment," said Mr Evans. 


Westpac expect another rate cut in November.
"Further evidence of the positive response can be found in the response of those folks with a mortgage with their confidence lifting by 7.4%," Mr Evans said.

Responses on spending intentions were mixed as the index of whether it was a good time to buy a major household item dropped 5.5%.
 
 
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Confidence boosted with good time to buy a home outlook rising 3.7% cent: Westpac-Melbourne Institute sentiment index

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The Commonwealth Bank of Australia has posted an annual profit of $7.8 billion – its fourth consecutive year of record profits and the biggest ever reported by an Australian bank.
Lower bad debts and stronger profit margins on loans after the CBA held back some the RBA’s interest rate cuts last year helped trigger the result.
CBA’s net interest margin widened by four basis points to 2.13% driven by lower funding costs. But CBA chief Ian Narev remains cautious about the economic outlook.
“Our outlook for the global economy remains similar to six months ago," he said.
"Our primary areas of economic focus are the level of confidence of Australian business and households, the impact of economic conditions in China on the demand and price for resources, the value of the Australian dollar and the resultant impact on export-sensitive parts of the Australian economy and the stability of funding markets.”
He suggested indicators had been "mixed" over the past six months, and "we expect that to remain the case in the near term.”
“However, we are well positioned to meet the needs of our customers should the economy rebound more quickly than anticipated.” He noted home loan and deposit competition was intense.
Competitors, the National Australia Bank has this week offered home owners $1000 if they switch mortgages.
The CBA profit result will be followed by the ANZ Banking Group posting its third quarter profits on Friday.
National Australia Bank reports its third quarter results next week.
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Lower bad debts and stronger profit margins on loans trigger CBA's record $7.8 billion profit

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<img height="313" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/08/bellevue-hill-aug-6-new-white-line.jpg" alt="bellevue-hill-aug-6-new-white-line" style="font-size: 0.8em;">
Addenbrooke, the stately Bellevue Hill trophy home, hasn't hung around for its formal spring trophy home marketing campaign.
It's attracted the attention of competitive interest.
Overnight print speculation has it that the property developer Bob Ell may have secured the offering which was listed through Sydney Sotheby's International Realty agent Michael Pallier.
Property Observer previously suggested it came with $33 million hopes by the downsizing vendors, Denis and Charlotte O'Neil.
<img height="127" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/yieldsbanner.jpg" alt="yieldsbanner" style="font-size: 0.8em;">
And the eastern suburbs whisper - repeated in the Australian  newspaper - is that its sold at about $27 million, and then possibly a little more for a vacant adjacent grassed block of land.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trophy-homes/addenbrooke-bellevue-hill-the-inland-spring-trophy-home-listing/2013080763856">It last traded in 1988</a>.
<img height="57" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/trophyhomesstrapone.jpg" alt="trophyhomesstrapone">
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Addenbrooke, Bellevue Hill sold before spring marketing

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Today’s market presents an exceptional time to buy, with three year fixed rates now under 5% and various experts predicting further falls in the variable rate, estate agent John McGrath says.
"No matter where you are in Australia, you can benefit from today’s market conditions in the switch from renting to home ownership," he told his Switzer blog readers. 
He noted the recent release of  a  list where it is cheaper to buy than rent has increased substantially over the past six months  – in fact, it’s more than tripled from 179 in December 2012 to 692 in July this year, according to RP Data’s latest Buy vs Rent report.  He added it gets cheaper if you fix your ‘P &amp; I’ loan for three years at 5.15%.
"On these metrics, there are 864 suburbs where it is cheaper to buy – up from 193 six months ago.
"Guess what happens on an interest-only fixed loan – 3,230 suburbs become cheaper to buy in, up from 1,153."  Among capital cities and major regional centres, Sydney offers the largest number of cheaper-to-buy suburbs at 73, followed by Brisbane at 71 and the NSW Hunter Valley at 40 suburbs. This is based on a principal and interest (P &amp; I) loan on a variable rate of 5.4 per cent.  It’s becoming cheaper to buy in many areas for three reasons – rising rents; falling official interest rates; and strong competition among the banks that has seen them drop rates – especially fixed rates, independently of any official movement by the Reserve Bank.  "Young Australians really need to consider this carefully," he suggested.
He lists the top 5 suburbs in every capital city (plus the Gold Coast) where it is cheaper to buy than rent, based on a 5.4% P &amp; I variable loan:  <img height="188" width="350" src="https://www.switzer.com.au/assets/2300/Sydney_normal.png" style="border-style: none; color: #202121; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: #d0d0d0;"> <img height="187" width="350" src="https://www.switzer.com.au/assets/2301/Brisbane_normal.png" style="border-style: none; color: #202121; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: #d0d0d0;"> <img height="151" width="350" src="https://www.switzer.com.au/assets/2302/GoldCoast_normal.png" style="border-style: none; color: #202121; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: #d0d0d0;"> <img height="165" width="350" src="https://www.switzer.com.au/assets/2303/Canberra_normal.png" style="border-style: none; color: #202121; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: #d0d0d0;"> <img height="176" width="350" src="https://www.switzer.com.au/assets/2304/Melbourne_normal.png" style="border-style: none; color: #202121; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: #d0d0d0;"> <img height="192" width="350" src="https://www.switzer.com.au/assets/2305/Perth_normal.png" style="border-style: none; color: #202121; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: #d0d0d0;"> <img height="234" width="350" src="https://www.switzer.com.au/assets/2306/Adelaide_normal.png" style="border-style: none; color: #202121; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: #d0d0d0;">
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John McGrath urges buying over renting given its an "exceptional time" to buy

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Sydney’s residential rental market has opened up slightly with increases in the vacancy rate for the inner and middle markets, according to data from the Real Estate Institute of NSW.
The July 2013 vacancy rate across the Sydney metropolitan area rose 0.1% to 2.2%.
The inner suburbs (0-10km from CBD) vacancy rates was up 0.3% to 2.5%, the middle suburbs (10-25km from CBD) up 0.1% to 2.0% and the outer suburbs (more than 25km from CBD) was down 0.2% at 1.9%.
“The inner suburbs of Sydney are seeing the highest vacancy rates since January 2006, reflecting an increase in stock entering the market place,” says REINSW president Christian Payne.
“While this is positive for those seeking rental accommodation, more support is needed for those seeking to invest in the property market.”
Across the state, the Hunter region is up 0.4% to 3.3%, led by a 0.2% increase in Newcastle to 2.4%.
The Illawarra vacancy rate rose 0.5% to 2.8% and Wollongong is up 0.7% to 3.2% - a level last seen in August last year.
Coffs Harbour remains the easiest place to find rental accommodation – it’s steady at 3.7%. Levels also stayed the same on the Mid-North Coast, Murrumbidgee, Riverina and Orana at 2.9%, 2.4%, 3.0% and 1.3%.
The vacancy rate in Albury slipped 0.4% to 1.4% and the Central Coast dropped 0.6% to 2.6%.
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July vacancy rate across Sydney rises 0.1% to 2.2%: REINSW

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Tourist operator Colonial Leisure Group will seek to streamline tourism services between Orpheus Island and Daintree Eco Lodge and Spa in North Queensland.
It bought the lodge recently and has owned Orpheus since 2011.
Owned by Computershare founder Chris Morris, the leisure group plans to merge synergies by offering helicopter services between the UNESCO World Heritage listed destinations.
“We plan to continue the success established over the 23 years of operation, in which the Daintree Eco Lodge &amp; Spa has achieved a number of Australian and international tourism accolades,” Morris told eGlobal Travel Media.
Daintree Eco Lodge &amp; Spa has a sense of exotic remoteness being 90 minutes (113km) north of Cairns airport and about 40 minutes (45km) north of Port Douglas at the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Claimed to be the “most pampering ecolodge in the world” the eco lodge offers 15 rainforest tree-house style banyans nestled in the rainforest. It won the title of World's Leading Eco Resort and Spa at the 19th World Travel Awards in 2012.
Orpheus Island, on 1300 hectares of national park in the Great Barrier Reef, has long topped the tourist wishlist as it indulges just 34 guests at any one time. It offers guests the ultimate in tropical escapism – at a price: a beach front room is $1400 per night for two guests, a beach front villa $2800 per night for four guests, and a South Beach front suite $1100 for two guests. All come with gourmet meals and every conceivable extra.
Morris, who bought the lodge from receivers, is said to be keen to spend up to $1 million on improvements ‘’straight away’’ without closing the resort. He says this latest acquisition will go hand-in-hand with Orpheus and the company will eventually offer tourism packages and connecting flights between the resorts, The Weekend Australian reports. 
It has already invested more than $10 million in new aircraft, including a B407 and two EC120s, growing its fleet to 10 since May, when it bought Heli Charters and rebranded it Nautilus Aviation.
Colonial Leisure said in a statement it would invest significantly in upgrades to the lodge "subject to strategic and financial assistant from the Queensland government".
Mr Morris said government could ‘’give lots of help’’ in areas such as approvals for renovations and permits.
The purchase of the lodge comes at a time of volatility in the tourism market. China Eastern, previously one of the biggest international airlines to service the region, reportedly suspended flights from Shanghai to Cairns airport last week due to low passenger yields for the next few months.
Mr Morris declined to comment on the purchase price of the resort.
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Chris Morris expands North Queensland holdings from Orpheus Island to include Daintree Eco Lodge

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The Stockland managing director Mark Steinert has described the past year as a "trough" year for Stockland as it reported its results for the year ended 30 June 2013 with its underlying $494.8 million profit, down 27% on the previous corresponding period.
It reflected soft conditions in the new housing market, the impact of asset sales, and the previously reported change in approach to capitalised interest.
"This has been a challenging year and we have responded with a number of important strategic decisions that position our business for stronger future returns," Mr Steinert said.
"Although global economic conditions have improved over the last six months, there is still considerable uncertainty and volatility.
"In Australia business confidence remains low and consumer spending is relatively soft as households continue to deleverage.
"We expect consumer sentiment will remain relatively subdued, however we do anticipate continued moderate economic growth. While the housing market is showing clear signs of improvement, the recovery is likely to be modest and uneven."
Mr Steinert said he expected steady improvement in Stockland’s earnings from FY14 largely from its new retail, residential and retirement living projects beginning to contribute, along with recent industrial letting, rental growth and as benefits of cost reduction initiatives come through.
However, improvement in residential earnings "will likely be constrained as Stockland continues to work through a number of impaired and low margin projects.
"It will also take some time to see the full benefits of the Group’s new strategic priorities, particularly in Industrial and medium density housing development.
"Our decision to hold our distribution at 24 cents per share, despite being outside our target payout ratio, demonstrates our confidence that earnings should continue to improve from FY14," Mr Steinert said.
"We significantly restructured the business to reduce costs and improve core processes and skill sharing.
"We reviewed our residential landbank to create a clear classification of core and workout projects, and also maintained our strong balance sheet and A-/stable credit rating."
As previously flagged, the performance of its residential business was significantly impacted by "market softness" which affected both volume and prices.
Its profit also reflected the shift in sales mix with a lower proportion coming from higher margin projects in Victoria, and the previously reported change in our approach to interest capitalisation.
The residential division group executive Andrew Whitson said Stockland had reduced "finished goods by 50%, ensuring a good mix of affordable products and accelerating the sale of impaired lots to release capital for reinvestment."
While looking to accelerate the work out of impaired projects, Stockland are now  focused on bringing new higher margin projects to market such as East Leppington (Willowdale) in NSW and Banjup in WA.
It has also identified projects in its portfolio where it can increase revenue and broaden its market reach by expanding our medium density offering.
"Importantly we have outlined a clear strategy to optimise securityholder returns within an acceptable level of risk through the cycle," Mr Steinert said.
"This includes setting target asset weighting ranges that reflect our strengths and which will deliver the right balance of income and growth.
"We have a refreshed senior management team in place and are determined to execute our strategy with a disciplined focus that will deliver reliable profit and EPS growth over time."
Its statutory profit was $104.6 million, down 79%, largely due to a previously disclosed $355 million impairment in the value of the residential book.
Its underlying EPS was 22.4 cents, down 24% from FY12.
Stockland’s full year distribution was 24 cents per security.
Stockland announced it will sell its 14.9% stake in its retirement rival, FKP Property, a strategic holding which dates back to 2008.
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Trough year for Stockland who are now focused on higher margin residential projects

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<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/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Joel Robinson

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<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. 
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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.

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<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. 
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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. 
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"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.

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"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. 
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"<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."

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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. 
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"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. 
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"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."

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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. 
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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. 
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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.

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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.

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Jonathan Chancellor

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