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There was a $2.4 million vendor bid when historic Crookwell farm, Jessmondeen went to recent auction, and it now comes with a $2.5 million asking price.
The 896-hectare southern tablelands NSW farm dates back to the 1840s when John Kelly took up Jessmondeen, or, as it was then known, Hillis Mount, to establish the original Kelly settlement in the Crookwell district.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/jessmondeenapril22one.jpg" alt="jessmondeenapril22one" width="470" height="314">
The mixed farming property remained in the Kelly/Kensitt families until it was purchased by Sydney investor Robert Rich and his wife Helen in 2005.
The Crookwell district property, which comes with a seven kilometre frontage to the Lachlan River, is just under an hour’s drive from Goulburn and three hours from Sydney via the Hume Highway.
It has 640 acres of improved pastures, plus 75 acres of lucerne, with the balance top dressed native pastures with some 30 surface dams.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/jessmondeenapril22two.jpg" alt="jessmondeenapril22two" width="470" height="314"> There is an attractive three-bedroom renovated 1920s Federation granite stone homestead plus a manager’s cottage.
Its operating improvements include a woolshed, sheep yards, cattle yards, stables and hay sheds.
“One of the features of Jessmondeen is undoubtedly its livestock production ability – every time I visit the farm I see both sheep and cattle in excellent order,"  Chris Meares from marketing agents Meares &amp; Associates said.
It was initially listed with a $2.5 million to $3 million price hope guide.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/jessmondeenapril22three.jpg" alt="jessmondeenapril22three" width="470" height="314">
Robert Rich, the deputy chairman of Sydney investment company, Argo Investments, has other properties including Kippilaw in the district. 
Last September he listed the historic homestead, Kippilaw at Goulburn, which remains listed for sale through Meares &amp; Associates. 
The six-bedroom stone homestead is set in beautiful Italian-style gardens overlooking the Wollondilly River was the headquarters of the Rich family's 4050-hectare rural operation in the Goulburn district.
Kippilaw came with $6 million to $8 million price expectations.
It was 1998 when the Trinidad-born Bellevue Hill businessman offloaded his Kangaloon Southern Highlands holdings, Valley View, Braeside and Trig Farm which totalled 160 hectares, for the southern tablelands.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Jessmondeen at Crookwell farm offered at $2.5 million by pastoralist investor Robert Rich

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Nationally advertised distressed property offerings are possibly on the decline.
The number of distressed sales in the March quarter was down by 25% on the same quarter in 2012, according to the Landmark White report.
The report noted residential project offerings were at "an untypically low 19% of the total," with the highest numbers of distressed listings in the March quarter coming in the agricultural sector, accounting for 23% of the total number, in part, as a number of farming aggregations were being broken up and sold off individually by receivers.
The latest mortgagee rural sale is the 5440-hectare Goondiwindi Queensland offering, the irrigation stations, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-cropping-qld-goondiwindi-7537323">Mobandilla and Kingumbilla </a>(pictured below) which has a May 23 expressions of interest closing date through Ray White Rural.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/distressedapril22one.jpg" width="470" height="326" alt="distressedapril22one">
Across the other sectors industrial and leisure offerings sat at 16% and retail at 15% in the Landmark White report.
As usual the smallest number was provided by the office sector, with only 4% of the nationally advertised receiver sales.
Over the full 12-month period, the residential sector (mainly development opportunities) suffered from a higher ratio of receivers’ listings than any other - with almost one in two (48%) assets in distress when it came to nationwide sales marketing campaigns collated by LMW.
The vast majority of receivers’ stocks advertised for sale were in regional (80%) rather than metropolitan (20%) areas, in the quarter which wasn't that dissimilar to the full year split at 78% to 22%.
For the fourth time in six quarters, more than 50% of all distressed nationally advertised listings were in Queensland, with the Sunshine State making up 54% of the national total during the first quarter of 2013 and 53% across the last 12 months.
The New South Wales share of distressed listings fell significantly in the March quarter; accounting for only 9% of the total, versus 22% across the full year.
The growing share of receiver sales found in Victoria continued in 2013, as 15% of all advertisements placed by receivers and mortgagees were located in the Garden State in the March quarter. This was up from 11% in the December 2012 quarter and 10% in the year to date.
New South Wales had the the most positive change, as only 7% of all properties advertised in that state were listed by a receiver or mortgagee - a record low. By comparison, the proportion in the same quarter of 2012 was 31% and the next lowest was 17% in the September quarter of 2012.
Although the distressed ratio in Queensland dropped by 6%, the report noted it remains stubbornly high at 39% of all advertisements. Victoria saw the smallest improvement in the distressed ratio, with a drop from 20% to 19%, which meant that for the first time in the series, Victoria had a higher ratio than New South Wales.
The report noted the overall national distressed ratio was at its equal lowest of the past 18 months, at 23%.
"Both of which are certainly positive indicators," the Landmark White report noted.
However they noted with just 343 properties advertised for sale (distressed or otherwise), there were fewer new listings in the March 2013 quarter than during any time in the series so far.
They also noted the first quarter of the year was typically quieter than the other quarters due to the Christmas break.
The low number of distressed sales nationally – listed by either a mortgagee, receiver or liquidator –surprised the LMW research manager Ross Horsley, who compiles the data using sales advertisements listed in the national commercial property press.
But Mr Horsley suggests anecdotal evidence suggested that a lot of distressed property remained on banks’ books.
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Victoria overtakes NSW, sitting second to Qld in distressed listings

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The 1860s South Melbourne terrace of the AFL's No.2 man, Gillon McLachlan and his wife Laura was passed in on a $4.4 million vendor bid at auction today. But its sold sticker was posted early afternoon before the bounce of the ball at the MCG.
The sale price was undisclosed but about $4.525 million was the whispered price gleaned by Property Observer.
There had been an opening and only bid of $4.3 million from one of the few interested parties prepared to show their hand at the onsite parkside auction. 
It had been listed by Rob Vickers-Willis and Jock Langley of Abercromby's Real Estate Armadale initially by private treaty in February without success.
The envisaged revised auction marketing price range was between $4 million and $4.5 million on the <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/tip/melbourne" target="_blank">Property Tycoon</a> tipping website.
The weekend's highest disclosed weekend sale was nearby at St Vincent Place, Albert Park where $3.97 million was recorded at a mortgagee auction through Cayzer agents Michael Szulc and Geoff Cayzer.
It was the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/rare-st-vincent-place-mortgagee-sale-attracts-four-bidders/2013041560418">second of three adjoining unrenovated terraces offered for public auction over three consectutive weekends</a>.
There were whispers the $3.97 million buyer - one of the five bidders - may have been associated with the mortgagor.
The REIV reported a 67% weekend auction success rate on initial results. Its been 69% in the year to date.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan1.jpg" width="470" height="353" alt="mclachlan1">
The three bedroom, two bathroom house sold by the McLachlan's (pictured above) cost $3.6 million in 2007. Set on a 460-square-metre block, it was formerly owned and restored by broadcaster Peter Couchman, who then bought next door.
<img alt="mclachlan2" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan2.jpg">
When Couchman bought it in the 1970s, it was divided into flats, but underneath plaster boards and layers of paint were fine period features.
The terrace, one of a pair built for a locksmith overlooking a little park, had previously traded at $1,925,000 in 2004, then $785,000 in 1996 and $625,000 in 1992.
<img alt="mclachlan3" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan3.jpg">
It was mid-last year that McLachlan, the AFL  deputy chief executive, knocked back the job as chief executive of the ARL Commission in Sydney.
He married, Laura, the daughter of Spotless chief Brian Blythe in 2003.
Property Observer will provide an update on Monday on all the weekend auction results.
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Price undisclosed but Gillon McLachlan secures weekend top sale as South Melbourne beats Albert Park

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The 1860s South Melbourne terrace of the AFL's No.2 man, Gillon McLachlan and his wife Laura was passed in on a $4.4 million vendor bid at auction today.
There was an opening bid of $4.3 million from one of the few interested parties prepared to show their hand at the onsite parkside auction. Locals in attendance included retired politican diplomat Richard Alston.
It had been listed by Rob Vickers-Willis of Abercromby's Real Estate Armadale initially by private treaty in February without success.
The envisaged price range was between $4 million and $4.5 million on the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/tip/melbourne">Property Tycoon</a> tipping website.
The Georgian terrace comes with contemporary living and kitchen area with sliding doors that open to leafy courtyards.
<img alt="mclachlan1" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan1.jpg">
The three bedroom, two bathroom house comes with rear contemporary studio apartment with private entrance above its two car garage.
The terrace cost $3.6 million in 2007. Set on a 460-square-metre block, it was formerly owned and restored by broadcaster Peter Couchman, who then bought next door.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan2.jpg" width="470" height="353" alt="mclachlan2">
When Couchman bought it in the 1970s, it was divided into flats, but underneath plaster boards and layers of paint were fine period features.
The terrace, one of a pair built for a locksmith overlooking a little park, had previously traded at $1,925,000 in 2004, then $785,000 in 1996 and $625,000 in 1992.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan3.jpg" width="470" height="353" alt="mclachlan3">
It was mid-last year that McLachlan, the AFL  deputy chief executive, knocked back the job as chief executive of the ARL Commission in Sydney.
He married, Laura, the daughter of Spotless chief Brian Blythe in 2003.
Property Observer will provide an update on Monday on all the weekend auction results.
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AFL's Gillon McLachlan South Melbourne home passed in with $4.4 million vendor bid

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Just weeks after the series finale, renovators Dan and Dani have been spotted looking around the Melbourne suburb of Kingsville for a home.
The winnings of  Dani Wales and Dan Reilly was $448,000 for the South Melbourne effort and a tidy $220,000 profit after the Bondi series.
They have suggested on Facebook its a "beautiful little pocket" after a "Loooooonnnnnggggg afternoon house hunting."
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/dananddaniapril19one.jpg" width="470" height="55" alt="dananddaniapril19one">
One recent sale last weekend went ahead with no sign of them at all.
It was the $570,000 sale of an unrenovated <a target="_blank" href="https://www.barryplant.com.au/yarraville/index.cfm?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2288814&amp;realestate=97_Wales_street_KINGSVILLE_VIC_3012&amp;menuItemID=58293">three-bedroom home on Wales Street</a> (pictured below) which was marketed as "just needs a little TLC to transform it back into a prince!"
<img alt="dananddaniapril19two" height="312" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/dananddaniapril19two.jpg">
"We've heard they are looking, but they didn't inspect this one," agent Brooke McFarlane said.
The duo have been used in advertisements promoting the Townsville region project, the North Shore Display Village.
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The Block's Dan and Dani house hunting in Kingsville

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Byron Bay has recorded the highest median house price among 17 key coastal towns during the second half of 2012, according to PRDnationwide research.
PRDnationwide research analyst Aaron Maskrey noted the Byron Bay house price currently sat at $664,000, equating to an increase of 11.1% from the previous year.
The 17 coastal towns also included Coffs Harbour, The Entrance and Yamba in NSW; Agnes Water, Gold Coast, Hervey Bay, Port Douglas, Sunshine Coast, Whitsundays and Yeppoon in QLD; the Fleurieu Peninsula in SA; Bells Beach, Lakes Entrance and 90 Mile Beach in Victoria; and Broome and Dunsborough in WA.
The report found the average gross rental yield achieved for Australian coastal town houses was 4.8%, reflecting a small 0.3% decrease from the previous year. 

Coastal town units registered an average gross rental yield of 4.9% reflecting a 0.8%.

But PRDnationwide warn that despite increasing gross rental yields for units "potential investors should do their homework on each particular market they are interested in, as some unit markets could be subject to oversupply.” 

Mr Maskrey said the highest coastal town rental yield for houses was 8.7% in 90 Mile Beach in Victoria and the highest coastal town rental yield for units was Broome in Western Australia at 7.7%.
"Of all coastal towns included, both Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour were in the top three gross rental yields for units - at 6.3% and 5.9% respectively," he said.

"The Byron Bay house market appears to have lifted off the bottom of its cycle from the second half of 2011," he said.
<img alt="byronbayapril19one" height="264" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/byronbayapril19one.jpg">
"Annual growth in the median house price over 2012 was an exceptional.
"And sales activity strengthened by 42%," he added.

"Observing the demographic shifts within Byron Bay, it is apparent that a large portion of the youth population aged 24 and under have left the region over the past five years, amounting to a fall of almost 3%.
"The age segment of 55 to 74 has increased by a large 5.6% of total residents.
"This significant shift is greater than just a resident population ageing, and signifies a growing number of incoming residents that have just retired or are near retirement."

The research indicated that Coffs Harbour also demonstrated similar demographic changes, with a contraction of 1.3% in youths aged 5 to 14, while the portion of residents aged 55 to 44 increased 1.3%.
"Coffs Harbour has recorded a median house price of $365,000, registering an increase of 2.8% from the previous year." 

Mr Maskrey said The Entrance was another New South Wales coastal market with an increase in sales activity despite the adverse macro-economic factors which have influenced other coastal regions.

"Conversely, buyers have taken advantage of the favourably low interest rates and increased government stimulus spending during 2009 which observed a boost in sales activity coupled with a rise in both the median price of houses and units," he said.

"Over 2012, the median house price has increased by 2.4% to $425,000, with the majority of house sales occurring in the $300,000 to $399,999 price bracket. By observing movements within the house price points, it is apparent that the price bracket of $700,000 to $799,999 has expanded by four per cent, while the $900,000 plus bracket has contracted by three per cent."

The house market within Yamba experienced a significant price correction over 2011 and into 2012.

"However, the second half of 2012 has seen renewed demand enter the market with an increase in activity, resulting in the median price rising by $35,000 (9.5%).
"If there is a sustained period of increased sales activity in 2013 (upwards of 40 house sales over a six month period) then the improved buyer sentiment should see house values continue to build upon the growth experienced at the end of 2012."
Images of Byron Bay lighthouse courtesy of Flickr.
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Byron Bay prices have lifted off the bottom as it tops the list of 17 Australian coastal towns

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Film world idealists Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin have withdrawn their $15 million home, Iona in Darlinghurst, from sale.
Or perhaps just not given their estate agents the keys to the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/baz-luhrmann-and-catherine-martin-list-iona-the-italianate-darlinghurst-record-setter-mansion/2013041560411">iconic 1880s Italianate home</a> to enable its sale. 
Luhrmann and Martin have been in New York since the property listing premiered in the nasty news pages of News Ltd papers last weekend, headlined The Great Blowout.  
Reports the couple needed to sell Iona for financial reasons due to a budget blowout on their The Great Gatsby venture were then vehemently denied by the McGrath listing agents Joe Abboud and Chris Chung in the next day's SMH.
"Baz and Catherine want to buy a family home with a garden for their children," Joe Abboud told the SMH's Margie Blok.
"The reason Iona is for sale is because they want to separate their business from their home life."
The couple paid $10 million for the grand Victorian building in 2006 and had rented it for nine years before that.
It has been both home and work for the couple, with the ground floor being the headquarters of their production company Bazmark and upstairs a residence for Luhrmann, Martin and their children Lillian and William.
Joe Abboud emphatically hosed down suggestions of the couple running out of money, saying they were even preparing to buy a house in the Vaucluse and Watsons Bay area or near the eastern suburbs beaches.
"If they find the right house, they'll purchase it before selling Iona," he advised adding they also want to buy a creative space, a warehouse or something smaller than Iona, where they can work with their production team.
The SMH subsequently reported that the McGrath agents had a frantic conference call with the couple after all the unhelpful press.
Apparently without access to the house, everyone would have to quieten down, although its didn't stop the AFR's must-read columnist Joe Aston from giving his perspective on the couple.
The couple were (pictured below) this week at a Tiffany's function in New York.
<img height="526" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/luhrmannapril19one.jpg" alt="luhrmannapril19one">
"The vendors are overseas and will make a decision in due course if they decide to move," was the formal advice to Title Tattle.
Baz Luhrmann's really eagerly-awaited film The Great Gatsby has been chosen to open this year's Cannes Film Festival which starts May 15.
Starring Leonardo DiCaprio as Jay Gatsby, Carey Mulligan as Daisy Buchanan, the film is adapted from the novel by F Scott Fitzgerald set in the roaring 1920s.
"It is a great honour for all those who have worked on The Great Gatsby to open the Cannes Film Festival," Luhrmann said in a statement.
"We are thrilled to return to a country, place and festival that has always been so close to our hearts, not only because my first film, Strictly Ballroom, was screened there 21 years ago, but also because F Scott Fitzgerald wrote some of the most poignant and beautiful passages of his extraordinary novel just a short distance away at a villa outside St Raphael."
The Great Gatsby will open in Australian cinemas on May 30.
Photo courtesy of <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/KellieHush">Kellie Hush</a>
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Cut ....... Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin withdraw their Iona Darlinghurst listing from sale

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Herb and vegetable growers Richard and Nina Kalina have sold the organic Berridale Farm at Blackheath.
Richard Kalina, a British photographer-turned-farmer and his wife, Nina never expected to  become celebrity foodies renowned for their radishes, aubergines, onions, tomatoes, artichokes, pea seedlings, fennel, turnips, broccoli, carrots, plums, pears, currants and berries.
Berridale Farm, near the Blue Mountains village of <a target="_blank" href="/news">Blackheath</a>, was bought in 2004 after spotting it on the internet from London.
And then after a chance meeting in 2006 with chef Peter Gilmore from the three-hatted Quay restaurant, the 20-hectare property turned into a cool-climate organic oasis growing 35 varieties of heritage fruit and vegetables that have served up on the menus of Sydney's finest eateries.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.downerandmaher.com.au/viewproperty.asp?ID=14705">Its been sold for $1.6 million by Downer and Maher Real Estate Leura.</a>
Berridale Farm was cleared over 100 years ago and began its life as a berry farm.
It then became an orchard with apples and pears and later an Alpaca property when the house was updated and became an architect designed getaway as a  armhouse with a two storey cedar redwood four bedrooms house.
It has an entertaining deck with north eastern Megalong Valley views.
<img alt="berridaleapril19two" height="200" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/berridaleapril19two.jpg">
It was initially listed for auction last November as the family - including daughters Luna, and Natasha, - are moving to England, where Richard has a new job at the amazing Eden Project, a large organic produce facility in Cornwall.
<img alt="berridaleapril19three" height="259" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/berridaleapril19three.jpg">
Set on the Shipley Plateau between the Megalong and Kanimbla valleys, Richard and Nina came with no plans to farm the land.
The new owner's intentions are not known.
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Organic Berridale Farm at Blackheath sold by Kalina family for $1.6 million

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One of Melbourne’s greenest buildings, the Grocon-built Pixel has been listed for sale.
Located at 205 Queensberry Street Carlton, the distinctive building is touted as a highly-sustainable commercial office development.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/pixelapril19one.jpg" alt="pixelapril19one" width="470" height="313">
It comes with $6 million plus reported price hopes.
The building has previously been used by Ross Garnaut’s climate change team as temporary office accommodation in 2011. It has also served as the sales suite for the Swanston Square apartments.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/pixelapril19two.jpg" alt="pixelapril19two" width="470" height="300">
Sitting on 900 square metres, the building has received many awards since it was built in 2010, including a perfect score from the Green Building Council of Australia. It also earned the highest sustainability rating from the US Green Building Council. Designed by Melbourne-based Studio505, it has four levels of office space and a rooftop garden with wind turbines and solar panels powering the building.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/pixelapril19three.jpg" alt="pixelapril19three" width="470" height="325">
Pixel has achieved an unprecedented number of accolades and awards since construction began in 2009, including 6 Star Greenstar Ratings from the GBCA, with a perfect score of 105 credits for Design and 104 credits for As Built. In 2012, it also achieved the world’s highest LEED rating and score from the US Green Building Council.
Grocon and Umow Lai, the sustainability and engineering services consultancy, are now finalising the BREEAM submission (UK rating) seeking to achieve the highest score to date using this tool.
"We are well on the way to realising our BREEAM target,” said Grocon’s David Waldren.
“Pixel is an iconic building for Grocon and one of which we are extremely proud, both from its innovation in design and construction as well as its industry leading green credentials.”
Grocon says the striking façade allows for maximum daylight, shade, views and glare control.
The private developer expects to receive interest from owner-occupiers and investors looking to express their green values.
“We are hoping that any purchaser will share our values in cutting edge innovation and sustainability,” Grocon CEO Daniel Grollo says.
“Many of the discoveries in building design and technology have been successfully transferred to our other developments,” Grollo says.
CBRE City Sales agents Josh Rutman and Tom Tuxworth are undertaking an expressions of interest campaign closing May 23.
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Carlton's green, but multi-coloured Pixel office block listed for sale by Grocon

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The Australian Pub Fund owned by best mates John Singlton, Geoff Dixon, Allan Johnston and Mark Carnegie, has snapped up the Elephant Arms Hotel in Brisbane and the Bristol Arms Hotel in Sydney.
Their fund is looking to snap up more than $100 million of hotels as the high-powered trio intend to float a pub fund in the next financial year.
The group has a  $150 million portfolio mostly purchased when hotel prices have been longtime lows.
Its daily operational management of all new and existing hotels is being undertaken by Riversdale Group's Paddy Coughlan and Rodney (Ned) Kelly, both who are also major investors.
The hotels include Kinselas, Peakhurst Inn, Unity Hall, the Bellevue, the Toxteth, The Vic at Enmore, the Marlborough, the Como in Sydney and now the Elephant Arms, in Brisbane, and the Bristol Arms.
Geoff Dixon, the APF chairman said the Fund had recently acquired $65 million of new capital to invest and was targeting in excess of $100 million of equity commitments.
Mr Dixon said APF’s strategy would remain securing "good assets in good positions in growth areas and regions with operational upside."
“Up until now we have concentrated entirely on Sydney, but we are expanding to Brisbane and will look at other regions in the future," he said.
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Pub acquisition trail heads to Brisbane for the Sydney mate's syndicate, Australian Pub Fund 

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

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.

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."

[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]

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

Jonathan Chancellor

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