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Wests Tigers champion Braith Anasta and his actor wife Jodi Gordon have officially lowered their price guidance on their recently listed four-bedroom, two-bathroom Clovelly home.
Initially <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/braith-anasta-and-jodi-gordon-list-clovelly-home-weststigers/2013060261856" target="_blank">more than $1.8 million </a>was being suggested for the two-storey semi, but now the agents are quoting $1.7 million plus.
Agents hope the lowering of the price guide might introduce stronger competition in the lead-up to next weekend's auction.
It was bought for $1,805,000 in 2011 by Anasta. It had sold previously at $1.76 million in 2009.
Its purchase by Anaasta was funded when the then Sydney Roosters captain sold a Malabar investment property for $1.32 million in early 2011.
It has been scheduled for June 25 auction through his estate agent brother Damon Anasta at McGrath Coogee inconjunction with his colleague, Mark McPherson.
Its initial price hopes were based on a Winchester Road semi that sold recently at $1.85 million.
RP Data gives Clovelly's median house price as $1.365 million, down 9.8% over the past year.
Its down 3.8% over the past five years, according to RP Data.
<a href="/news">The average discounting required of vendors is typically around 10% to secure a sale</a>. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Braith Anasta and Jodi Gordon lower their Clovelly auction price guidance

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The REIV has issued a list of the suburbs in Melbourne that have a median house price in excess of $1 million.
It covers all sales in the past year.
The REIV notes due to some suburbs small size or low volume of sales on a quarterly basis a median house price may not be suitable for calculation, however using sales over the year ensures a more representative picture.
In the 12 months ending May 2013, Melbourne had 42 suburbs with a median house price in excess of a million dollars.
<table><tbody><tr>
<td>EAST MELBOURNE DEEPDENE TOORAK CANTERBURY BRIGHTON RED HILL SOUTH ARMADALE ST KILDA WEST MALVERN HAWTHORN KEW SOUTH YARRA ELWOOD MIDDLE PARK CAMBERWELL BALWYN EAGLEMONT PARKVILLE CAULFIELD NORTH ALBERT PARK IVANHOE EAST RED HILL CAULFIELD HAWTHORN EAST GLEN IRIS SURREY HILLS ELSTERNWICK KANGAROO GROUND PORTSEA HAMPTON SANDRINGHAM PRINCES HILL MONT ALBERT BRIGHTON EAST KEW EAST BLACK ROCK MALVERN EAST YARRAMBAT BALWYN NORTH IVANHOE ALPHINGTON FLINDERS</td>
<td>$2,600,000 $2,512,500 $2,225,000 $1,800,000 $1,750,000 $1,687,500 $1,660,250 $1,487,500 $1,471,500 $1,426,500 $1,380,000 $1,360,500 $1,342,000 $1,340,000 $1,331,500 $1,315,000 $1,310,000 $1,280,000 $1,278,750 $1,276,250 $1,270,000 $1,250,000 $1,247,500 $1,215,500 $1,200,000 $1,191,500 $1,160,500 $1,155,000 $1,150,000 $1,132,500 $1,103,000 $1,098,250 $1,095,000 $1,075,000 $1,060,000 $1,050,000 $1,050,000 $1,045,000 $1,033,500 $1,020,000 $1,017,500 $1,010,000</td>
</tr></tbody></table>
 
The REIV's Robert Lorocca noted the north eastern suburbs was one area with increasing million dollar sales including Eaglemont <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/real-estate/melbourne/north-east/eaglemont/" title="Eaglemont Property for Sale">Eaglemont</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/real-estate/melbourne/north-east/ivanhoe-east/houses-for-sale/" title="Ivenhoe East Property for Sale">Ivanhoe East</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/real-estate/melbourne/north-east/ivanhoe/houses-for-sale/" title="Ivanhoe Houses for Sale">Ivanhoe</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/real-estate/melbourne/north-east/alphington/houses-for-sale/" title="Alphington Property For Sale">Alphington</a>.
"These suburbs all have one locational feature in common; they have a frontage to the Yarra River."
The REIV noted there were no suburbs with million medians with the most expensive one in the year ending May, being Malvern at $987,500.
Source: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reiv.com.au/en/Property-Research/Median-Prices/Million-dollar-suburbs">REIV</a>
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East Melbourne tops Melbourne's 42 million dollar property suburbs: REIV

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Melanie Greensmith who runs the clothing label, Wheels and Dollbaby, with her partner Mark McEntee  have spent about $4.25 million on an apartment in the Spanish Mission style Del Rio apartment block in Elizabeth Bay.
Located on the Billyard Avenue dress circle harbourfront, it was the first time the home had been offered in 12 years.
Real estate agent Jaime Upton of Ballard Property Group says the ground floor apartment feels like a house due to its accessibility to the garden for the couple's dogs.
Its an apartment block often featured in prize <a target="_blank" href="https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/collection/works/287.1984/">paintings</a> given its lovely setting between the iconic Elizabeth Bay House and the harbour.
Del Rio was designed by John Spencer-Stransfield in 1928, who is more famously known for designing the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/1917-gilgunyah-bungalow-in-haberfield-secures-%2422-million-plus/2013051661190">federation suburb Haberfield</a>.
The 2009 Belle-featured apartment was purchased in October 2001 for $1.96 million and has undergone $1.5 million worth of improvements by designer Garth Barnett.
The property originally had a three-bedroom layout - with the third bedroom used as the maid’s quarter - however its been transformed into two large comfortable bedrooms.
The property features soaring ceilings, French parquetry and travertine floors and two marble-finished bathrooms.
Its vendor was Charles Wilkins, a leading Sydney caterer who bought it in 2001 from Stuart and Kerry Lodge through estate agent Shannan Whitney for $1.96 million.
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Divine Del Rio, Elizabeth Bay trophy garden apartment sells to fashionista Melanie Greensmith

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Matt and Jane Martino who were 2004 contestants on the reality television show The Block have listed their ultra-modern Armadale family project home with $1.995 million hopes through Marshall White agent James McCormack.

The three-bedroom <a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/5567013/" target="_blank">Fetherston Street</a> residence (pictured below) comes with floor-to-ceiling windows onto the paved courtyard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26734]

Matt Martino has <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://martinogroup.com.au/developments/21" target="_blank">his own development firm </a>as he was a restaurant manager during the series. The firm has undertaken projects in Glen Iris and Richmond.

<img alt="martinojune14one" height="380" src="/images/stories/2013/06/martinojune14one.jpg" width="470">

Above: Matt Martino's sketch of the Fetherston Street house.

The Fetherston Street block cost $775,000 in 2011.

The 78 Valley Parade, Glen Iris property (pictured below) sold for $1.72 million in early 2012. It was described as modern family home without being cold and minimalist.

<img alt="gleniris" height="292" src="/images/stories/2013/06/gleniris.jpg" width="470">

The 32 to 34 Jubilee Place, Richmond industrial home had raw concrete walls and exposed steel beams soaring up three levels.

The couple walked away from their Block experience all but empty-handed when their top floor apartment only just met the $795,000 reserve.

They were however compensated with the car they won after being named the most popular couple on the Channel Nine reality show in a viewer poll.

They got married while filming the second series of the Block at Manly in Sydney.

<img alt="trophyhomesstrapone" height="57" src="/images/stories/2013/05/trophyhomesstrapone.jpg" width="470">
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Matt and Jane from The Block list their $1,995 million Armadale project home

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The fine wine industry specialist Henry Dawson-Damer has emerged as the likely mystery buyer along Vaucluse's Kutti Beach.
He has bought from the Kelly family paying close to the $15.5 million price last paid in 2011. Dawson-Damer currently lives in Vaucluse as do other clan members.
<img height="350" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/vauclusemay29two.jpg" alt="vauclusemay29two">

The Kelly fashionista family are upgrading homes to a $20 million house on exclusive Kutti Beach in Vaucluse.
It's one of just the seven beachfront houses in the scenic location with postcard perfect images across Sydney Harbour.
The Dawson-Damer biography says he is currently studying for the London-based Institute of Masters of Wine program.
It was at the age of 15 when Henry had an "explosive" start to his career trying to barrel ferment his first vintage in his mother’s linen cupboard. The family are all in Debrett's Peerage.
<img height="34" width="25" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" alt="flagtitletat" style="font-size: 14px; margin: 5px; float: left;">Nick and Susie Kelly, founders of Industrie clothing, will soon be moving into the Goymour family (below) home - the 2004 Graham Jahn-designed house.
The Kellys were in the news last month as they successfully ought redress against entertainment industry couple Toni Collette and David Galafassi over their failure to proceed with their $6.35 million purchase of the Kellys' Stewart Street, Paddington double terrace.
The Kutti Beach house was listed only last month with a June expression of interest marketing campaign with $20 million expectations. It had been listed in 2011 with $25 million hopes.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may29vaucluse]}
It's the house where architect Graham Jahn's design divided the property into summer and winter living spaces.
The two zones were linked by a bridge crossing pools and courtyards which forms a "transition zone" that "captures sunlight and provides one of many private relaxing getaways".
The property has lawns and landscaped gardens, is 1,200sqm, has garage space for two cars and includes the sandy beach on the title.
The house has 650 square metres of living space and has a Northerly aspect but is sheltered from prevailing winds.
There's a restored cedar boat-house providing entertaining space on the waterfront.
"Of the thousands of properties I've inspected through the years, this place is an absolute standout," the then SMH Domain property writer Margie Blok wrote on its 2011 listing.
Title Tattle seems to recall it was the 2004 Belle magazine House of the Year award winner.
The Kellys had bought on Kutti Beach only in March 2011 from Michael and Julianne Maxwell paying $15.5 million for the matrimonial home of the former property chief of the Babcock &amp; Brown group. Maxwell snared the harbourfront residence of Multiplex executive Andrew Roberts and wife Andrea, who were off to Gladswood Gardens, Double Bay.
<img height="34" width="25" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" alt="flagtitletat" style="font-size: 14px; margin: 5px; float: left;">
The 1191 square metre beachfront of Philip and Tanya Goymour had $20 million hopes on its listing last month through Savills agent Adam Ross inconjunction with Ben Collier of McGrath Estate Agents.
It was built after the block was bought from Warwick Negus for $4.175 million in 1999. It had been with the Joris diamond family previously.
<img height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/vauclusemay29three.jpg" alt="vauclusemay29three">
Philip and Tanya Goymour are semi-retired from their innovative nautical engineering technology company with plans to spend more time at their Church Point property.
The neighbour inbetween the two sold houses is investment banker Ben Brazil and his partner, Diana Saw, who spent $16,126,000 to buy Mirridong from David Mickler, the former Yahoo! Asia director of sales in 2007.
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Fine wine advisor Henry Dawson-Damer buys on Kutti Beach, Vaucluse

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Country Victoria’s median house price showed no change, remaining at $280,000 in the December 2012 quarter, according to official valuation date.
Over the 12 months to December 2012, the median house price in country Victoria also remained unchanged.
The number of country Victoria house sales for the December 2012 quarter is expected to be 5,772, which is 7.3 per cent more than the December 2011 quarter.
Bendigo is a powerhouse with strong growth both over the quarter and year.
A comparison of house prices in regional, seaside and large towns also indicates various trends, although the quarterly data is highly dependent on the nature and the volume of the stock that sold.
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/06/regionalcitiesjune13one.gif" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/regionalcitiesjune13onethumb.gif"></a>
Regional city housing markets continued to show significant variations for the December 2012 quarter due to a paucity of sales. Bendigo median house prices increased by 12.3% for the quarter, having increased by 5.1% in the previous quarter. This is a 12 month increase of 23.4%. Horsham decreased by 7.1 per cent for the quarter, having decreased by 1.9 per cent in the previous quarter.
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/06/regionalcitiesjune13two.gif" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/regionalcitiesjune13twothumb.gif"></a>
The sample above is the same used in the previous quarter’s report. It shows that six of the 12 large towns had increases in their median house price for the December 2012 quarter. In the previous quarter six showed increases and in the June 2012 quarter five increased. Morwell had a decrease of 6.5%, having decreased by 1.6% in the previous quarter. Yarrawonga increased by 7% and Traralgon decreased by 4.2%. Sale had a decrease of 1.9% for the December 2012 quarter, having increased in the previous quarter by 3.8%.
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/06/regionalcitiesjune13three.gif" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/regionalcitiesjune13threethumb.gif"></a>
The above sample shows that three of the 10 seaside towns selected had increases in their median house prices from the September 2012 to December 2012 quarters. Anglesea increased by 47%, having decreased by 33.2% during the previous quarter. Cowes median house price decreased by 2.2% for the December 2012 quarter, having increased by 4% in the previous quarter. Sorrento median house price had no change during the December 2012 quarter, having increased by 5.1% in the previous quarter.
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Bendigo and Moe lead regional Victoria median house price growth: Victorian valuer general

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The former Olympic swimmer Giaan Rooney - now presenting the weather of Channel 7 - has listed her Port Melbourne cottage.
More than $1.08 million is tipped for its July auction through Brett Hallan at Greg Hocking Real Estate Albert Park.
Hallan says its been "impressively renovated and intelligently extended."
The Victorian terrace has three bedrooms and two bathrooms with an indoor-outdoor focus at the rear.
There are polished floors and high ceilings.
Its upstairs has the main bedroom with walk-in robe and ensuite.
It last traded at $770,000 in 2006.
Meanwhile the veteran Channel 7 weatherman David Brown has secured the first house sale as he embarks on a new career in real estate.
His <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-park+orchards-113584487">first listing </a>at <a target="_blank" href="/news">Park Orchards</a> sold last month after being listed with $740,000 plus hopes.
The meteorologist signed on with Hoskins Real Estate in Melbourne's east having been replaced in his prime-time news slot by former Olympic swimmer Giaan Rooney.
He stays on at Seven as network meteorologist covering special weather events for shows including Sunrise, Sunday Night and Today Tonight.
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Former Olympic swimmer Giaan Rooney lists Port Melbourne terrace

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Marara, which is being marketed as Pittwater's largest deep waterfront, has been relisted with $30 million hopes.
The Careel Bay, Pittwater <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/142196/" target="_blank">deep waterfront</a> has had its asking price reduced from $40 million in 2010.
The 12,685 square metre holding with 119 metres of sandy beach has been listed by Peter Higgins, founder of broker Mortgage Choice.
"Marara at Avalon was a great place to bring up our children,'' Mr Higgins told News Ltd papers.
It's only the second time in 80 years that the property overlooking Careel Bay has been for sale.
It comes with a bungalow that dates back to the ownership of gynaecologist Sir Herbert Schlink, who died in 1962, leaving a £75,000 estate.
His wife, gynaecologist Meg Mulvey, died in late 2001. The Cabarita Road, Avalon, property was sold for $15 million in 2003 to Higgins, who then added another block costing $3.2 million.
The couple had met in 1945, when Bertie was 62 and Meg 28.   
It comes zoned for step 5 development plans.
There is approval for six separate titles.
It comes with three residences, two boathouses, one super wharf and one slipway.
Its been listed by Richardson &amp; Wrench Mosman agents Richard Simeon and Mark Manners.
The other significant Pittwater holding for sale is <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/historic-pittwater-retreat-yamba-seeking-new-bibliophile-owners-%E2%80%93-byo-boat/2012112158014" target="_blank">Yamba, on Scotland Island</a>.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/trophy-homes/" target="_self"><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/stories/2013/05/trophyhomesstrapone.jpg" alt="trophyhomesstrapone" width="470" height="57"></a>
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Marara, Sydney's largest deep waterfront listed with $30 million hopes

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House Rules has been renewed for a second series with the Channel 7 ratings sitting above one million after a slow start.
Its host Johanna Griggs recently told Property Observer its slow but sure success came from "people power."
"This show has people power to thank as more &amp; more people spread the word, &amp; to 7 for sticking by us!" <a href="https://twitter.com/JohGriggs_HR" target="_blank">Johanna Griggs </a>tweeted to Property Observer.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/06/houserulesjune13one.jpg" alt="houserulesjune13one" width="470" height="141">
Griggs has said she can't diss a show (The Block) that's done so well for so long.
"Instead I can just talk about how much I love ours," she tweeted a viewer.
The casting call came this week for teams of two from all over Australia to compete in the second series where the winner's have their mortgage completely wiped.
<a href="https://go.mycastingnet.com/Apply/Show/HouseRules2" target="_blank">Applications close August 1, 2013</a>.
To be eligible you must own your own home, with mortgage, and it must be your primary place of residence.
Team members must have a pre-existing relationship, eg be friends, relatives or partners.
Contestants must be Australian citizens or have been a permanent resident for at least two years to participate.
They are being asking to include before and after desired floor plans of their home.
The opportunity requires a commitment to a filming period of up to three to four months.
Tuesday night's rating was 1.093 million in the five city capitals, according to OzTam.
On Wednesday night the show had 1.13 million viewers, making it the fifth most popular show of the night.
Last Friday Glenn Dyer, the Crikey media commentator noted in his ratings round up that "the big news though from last night was ... a significant development -- the episode of House Rules that started at 8pm topped The Block's main program on Nine (and easily beat the lower ratings for the silly "unlocked" part of the episode) nationally and in regional markets, but not in metro markets.
"The numbers: House Rules -- 1.694 million nationally/ 1.066 million metro/ 628,000 metro from 8pm to 9.15pm. The Block (from 7pm to 8pm) averaged 1.689 million (not much in it at first glance) nationally/ 1.160 million metro/ 529,000 regionally.
"The Block Unlocked (the silly 30 minutes of product placement for Mitre 10) averaged 1.212 million nationally/ 899,000 metro/ 313,000 regionally.
"Average the two programs and you get (sorry for the figures fest) The Block from 7pm to 8.30pm averaging 1.455 million nationally/ 1.035 million metro/ 421,000 nationally.
"By whatever way you measure it, House Rules beat The Block last night in metro on the average of the two programs and certain beat it nationally after winning the regional markets by 100,000 viewers," Dyer wrote. 
House Rules premiered May 14 up against the Channel 9 perennial, The Block. 
The launch was beaten by Channel Nine’s perennial favourite The Block Sky High which was the second highest rating show with 1.308 million viewers across the city metro areas and the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/house-rules-the-new-addictive-reality-television-show-on-the-block-renovates-for-keeps/2013051261200" target="_blank">House Rules launch</a> rating 11th nationally, with 803,000 viewers.
The state-versus-state renovation series, from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, has built up to deliver true home renovations under stress.
The six contestant couples have put their entire home on the line promising an emotional return to their new homes after the seven-day renovation.
The teams have to work independently on their own zone within each house but they also have to work as a team to ensure each room complements the other when it's completed.
The six teams competing are: <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/"></a>
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/" target="_blank">Michelle &amp; Steve</a> (Collaroy Plateau, New South Wales)
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802347/amy-sean-qld/" target="_blank">Amy &amp; Sean</a> (Nundah, Queensland)
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802523/carly-leighton-sa/" target="_blank">Carly &amp; Leighton</a> (Warradale, South Australia) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/"></a>
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/" target="_blank">Jemma &amp; Ben</a> (Melville, Western Australia)
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16803037/jane-plinio-tas/" target="_blank">Jane &amp; Plinio</a> (New Town, Tasmania)
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/" target="_blank">Nick and Chris</a> (Preston, Victoria)
Each of the six House Rules teams hand over the keys to their homes and allow their competitors free reign to transform their house.
It's been hosted by Johanna Griggs.
"It's a bunch of likeable Australians with amazing back stories," Griggs said.
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House Rules applications sought by Channel 7 for second series from mortgaged contestant couples 

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Mirvac Group has announced that Gary Flowers will be leaving in October 2013.
Gary Flowers has been with Mirvac since 2008 having been initially appointed chief operating officer of the funds management division, before taking on the role of chief operating officer at Mirvac.
Since January 2013, he has been group executive, business initiatives.
Susan Lloyd-Hurwitz, the managing director said Gary had played a key role in rebuilding and restructuring the business after the global financial crisis.
Flowers, a former chief of the Australian Rugby Union, plans to pursue a portfolio of executive and board work.
He is currently a non- executive director of DataDot Ltd and Ethiad Stadium, and the chairman of Mainbrace Constructions.
 
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Mirvac's Gary Flowers set to depart in October

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Joel Robinson

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

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.

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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. 
&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. 
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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. 
&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."

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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. 
&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."

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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. 
&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.

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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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Jonathan Chancellor

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