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The Block All Stars got over 1 million viewers – but fell short of winning its timeslot on its first Sunday night outing.
Its overall audience was 1.11 million, beaten by Channel Seven's Sunday Night, which rated 1.18 million in the 6.30pm to 7.30 timepm.
Although winning the ratings within many key demographic groups, it's only the second time above 1 million for the show amid its initial 10 shows.
Perhaps there's not the ongoing curiosity there since the audience knows all the contestant characters.
The overall weakened viewing is certainly not for want of getting straight into the renovations, as there have already been two quick room reveals by the so-called All Stars.
The first time over 1 million was achieved was last Monday night's first room reveal.
The Monday night room reveal had a 1.13 million audience, according to OzTAM.
The four couples to star in The Block: All Stars season hark back to Adelaide's Phil and Amity (2003), then Sydney's Mark and Duncan (2010), Melbourne's Josh and Jenna (2011), and Melbourne's Dan and Dani (2012).
It was in March last year when Property Observer first wrote The Block renovation television series was set to return home to Sydney after its South Melbourne series.
The production company bought four single-level semis at Bondi, with its hush-hush purchase costing an estimated $4.4 million or more.
The two first seasons were hugely successful in the ratings, with the first season averaging 2.4 million viewers an episode, and over 3 million watching the 2003 season finale.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Room reveals secures million-plus The Block All Stars audience

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Barry Station at Nundle has been listed for sale with offers due March 28.
Its a large-scale cattle breeding farm in the rain-favoured north-east of NSW, set south-east of Tamworth.
Barry Station is an 8,522 hectare (21,058 acre) aggregation being sold by former earthmover, Ian Anderson, who bought it 21 years ago from Australian Goat Breeders Ltd, after the latter ran into difficulties.
<img height="225" width="400" src="/images/stories/2013/02/barrystationfeb18.jpg" alt="barrystationfeb18">
Australian Goat Breeders had paid $1.7 million in 1988. Anderson paid $2.35 million in 1995.
Much earlier in its hostory it was held  by Australian Agricultural Company (AACo), which used it to breed young cattle for finishing on its inland properties.
On its unsuccessful 2009 listing, Mr Anderson recalled Barry Station was a “blackberry farm” when it was bought in 1992.
It had price indications of $10 million plus on its 2009 listing after nearby New England big ticket sales in the prior period including Wombramurra Station.
No price indication has been given by its mortgagee, Provident Capital which has it listed through Peter Etheridge at <a target="_blank" href="https://peproperties.com.au/">Peter Etheridge Properties </a>and <a target="_blank" href="https://rea.colliers.com.au/property-livestock-nsw-nundle-7514371">Craig Young at Colliers International</a>.
"It is the policy of the receivers and managers,  PPB Advisory not to give any price estimations or expectations on the property.
"The property is for sale by tender, with the hope of letting the market find the true value.
"Inquiry has been strong to date with requests for full particulars from more than 30 interested parties from virtually every state, being both rural and city based investors.
"Barry Station presents an excellent  opportunity to invest in a large scale grazing operation, being just over 1 hour from Tamworth, in a high rainfall area and with the potential to add value by further development," the sales team advised.
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Barry Station at Nundle for sale

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The Rae's on Watego"s guesthouse at <a target="_blank" href="/news">Byron Bay </a>is back on the market after its $20 million purchaser failed to settle the October 2012 pre-auction deal.
''We had much genuine interest in Rae's at the auction, and I'm annoyed about this situation, having exchanged a signed contract with guarantees from a reputable international businessman who has not delivered,'' owner Vincent Rae told Fairfax Media, having returned from his Paris base to undertake the re-marketing of the beachfront property.
The Marine Parade, Wategos Beach property had been scheduled for early 2013 settlement, but denied whispers began to circulate that the sale was not proceeding.
 In January Rae told News Ltd papers that he intended to meet with the intending buyer, the hedge fund manager William Morris in London in late January to discuss the delayed settlement.
Only last Thursday Property Observer was advised the sale was proceeding.
"News to me," a conjunctional selling agent said when Property Observer suggested the sale was not proceeding.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/rae-s-at-wategos-sold-in-the-hour-before-its-auction/2012102657462">During the marketing campaign</a>, the conjunctional agents issued 25 contracts to local and international parties, but just minutes before the auction, there was an announcement that contracts had just been exchanged and the property was sold.
Located on a prized 1,049-square-metre beachfront Marine Parade block, the property was set for auction through Ray White Hotels agents Tony Bargwanna and Andrew Jolliffe in conjunction with Gerald Delany of Kay &amp; Burton in Melbourne.
The auction was scheduled for 2pm but following last minute negotiations, the auctioneer Andrew Bell, of Ray White Surfers Paradise, announced <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-nsw-byron+bay-500448523">the property </a>had sold.
"It's a momentous day," he told the large waiting curious crowd which included representatives of a Chinese investor with coalmining interests in Australia.
The selling agents have declined to give any indicative pricing, although the local paper says it fetched more than $21 million.
The agents expected interest from hoteliers, but it would mostly likely attract considerable residential buyer interest. There is recent approval for a new underground car park, cocktail bar, lift, sub-penthouse, spa area and a 200-square-metre entertaining terrace.
It charges between $600 to $1,380 a night.
Rae's is opposite the 1,406-square-metre record-setting holding bought by property developer Danny Goldberg for $15.68 million in boomtime 2006.
It was 1994 when the Rae's property sold for $1.37 million.
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Rae's at Wategos relisted after momentous $20 million sale wipeout

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A striking 1957 two-level Toowong brick house – designed by immigrant architect Vitaly Gzell – has been sold.
Exuding 1950s style, the refurbished house retains its original solid structure.
It has had a contemporary renovation of the kitchen and bathrooms.
Set on 658 square metres, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-toowong-qld-4066/174775" target="_blank">it was sold by McGrath agent Gabrielle Trickey for $1,135,000</a>.
"It was spacious, quiet and generous," she said.
Listed in October last year with $1,265,000 hopes, the Herbert Street house had last sold at $1.1 million in 2010.
It had previously sold in 2000 at $320,000 and $235,000 in 1993.
The marketing says the house appeared in the 1959 book, Buildings of Queensland, published by the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, Queensland chapter.
It doesn't, however, appear with the collection of papers relating to <a href="https://www.library.uq.edu.au/fryer/ms/uqfl227.pdf" target="_blank">47 projects </a>by Vitaly Gzell held by the University of Queensland.
Writer David Malouf once wrote that "Gzell was largely unknown on the world stage but contributed many distinguished buildings."
"Working within an honest everyday modernism which was both appropriate to the terrain but also nudged architecture forward here, within a very conservative climate," <a href="https://www.cityofsound.com/blog/2007/08/hear-that-rain" target="_blank">he blogged</a>.
<div class="detailText"></div>
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Modern 1950s Queensland gem sells

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As the sun set on Tasman Street, Bondi, Friday evening, the first auction sign went up out front of one of the four The Block All Stars cottage offerings.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/02/philamityauction.jpg" width="470" height="351" alt="philamityauction">
It's the cottage listed by Phil and Amity through 1st City Hasemer + Caldwell.Eyles Double Bay.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/02/philamityauction2.jpg" width="470" height="351" alt="philamityauction2">
They've revealed their offering ahead of the pack.
<img alt="philamityauction3" height="339" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/philamityauction3.jpg">
Meanwhile. Ray White boss Brian White congratulated his Maroubra agent, Cameron Airlie, on Twitter today.
"About to have the real estate experience of his life! He's the agent for Josh &amp; Jenna from TV's The Block," White tweeted.
Mystery surrounds the Josh and Jenna agency as <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rhdoublebay" target="_blank">the televised footage</a> this week suggested <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.raineandhorne.com.au/doublebaybondibeach/cms_lists/5437/cms_pages/9148">Paul Langsam</a> from Raine &amp; Horne had secured the selling role.
McGrath agent Chris Volpatti was spotted undertaking diligence at Dan and Dani's cottage yesterday. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://m.mcgrath.com.au/buy/details/176408" target="_blank">His website </a>gives the revealed bedroom image in the two bedroom, two bathroom offering.
BresicWhitney agent Seaton Jones has the offering of the tradesmen, Mark and Duncan, although his colleagues knew nothing when asked of his soon to be starring role.
The Phil and Amity offering is a three-bedroom cottage with two bathrooms and one loft study.
The signage has no auction date as The Block All Stars auction is only tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, March 19, with neighbours being advised recently of the provisional auction timetable countdown.
Property Observer understands it will be a by-invitation-only registered bidders onsite event. 
The public open for inspections of all four offerings is also tentatively scheduled for Saturday, March 2, and Saturday, March 3, subject to Waverley Council approval. Unlike the initial 2003 series, there are now strict television filming approvals required by council.
The reality television show’s audience sat steady at 842,000 on Thursday night, the same as Wednesday night.
But it ranked, excluding news and current affairs, as the night’s third most popular show across the networks, which Property Observer gleans was its highest overall ranking so far this series.
The second room reveal will be this Sunday.
 
 
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Auction sign board goes up on The Block All Stars without any date

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A<a target="_blank" href="/news"> Dee Why</a>, Sydney, property caught in a storm over market price estimates, has been sold for $890,000.
The property had been listed with $880,000-plus hopes through First National Dee Why agent Frank Caterina.
However it had been given a <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/NSW/Dee-Why/?adid=2010280218">$725,000 to $800,000 market price estimate</a> by the Domain website which the agent told Property Observer had not been helpful.
The property (pictured below) now appears as under contract on the Domain site.
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/02/deewhy1.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/02/deewhy1thumb.jpg"></a>
 
The property had previously sold at $850,000 in May 2012 having been listed with $820,000 plus hopes.
The listing was among those earlier this month where vendor advertisements on Domain were being given unsolicited market price estimates from Australian Property Monitors, the Fairfax-owned data company.
But the Domain management <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/domain-pulls-apm-market-price-estimate-campaign/2013021559360?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=news">took down the market price estimates from listings</a> across the country after the initiative caused chaos.
 
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Dee Why property sells at agent's price guide, as Domain market estimate falls short

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Domain, the Fairfax Media real estate website, has scrapped its recent Australian Property Monitors market price estimate offering.
The market price estimates were being published until mid-morning today on vendor-paid Domain property listings, but they were causing havoc among listing agents.
Vendors were threatening to withdraw their advertising unless price estimates were removed from the site as the APM market price estimates were often at distinct odds with the selling agency/vendor expectations.
One agent told Property Observer after it was brought to his attention that "it would not surprise me if vendors withdrew their property listing from the Domain property portal".
'It was very client unfriendly – and not helping the mum and dad vendor one bit," he said.
One agent said clients had threatened to report the agent to the office of fair trading given the advertisement included price estimates well below the vendor asking price. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/unders-and-overs-apm-s-askew-market-price-estimates-upsetting-domain-agents-listings-aplenty/2013021359339?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=industrynews" target="_blank">The free market price estimate offering chaos was reported by Property Observer yesterday</a>. The Domain links now longer come with the free market price estimate, but page impressions taken by Property Observer show the campaign before being pulled by Fairfax management.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/friday-feb-15-observer-why-you-should-not-rely-on-property-data-reports-patrick-bright/2013021459354?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=observers" target="_blank">Property industry commentators</a> have contributed to the ensuing debate about the merits and usefulness of the various data offerings.
The offering is tipped to return to the Domain website in future weeks, but in a different format.
It would be likely that free private access to the market price estimate was available without any very public damaging disclosure.
  
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Domain pulls APM market price estimate campaign 

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Camelot, the 1967 Martin Road, Centennial Park house designed by Nicholas Munster, has finally been sold.
The outstanding example of 1960s architecture last traded for $5.61 million in 2006.
It's been resold at $4.175 million.
It's been bought by Damian Secen, co-chairman of Macquarie Renaissance Infrastructure, through <a href="https://www.ballardproperty.com.au/Buying/Search/residentialresult/residentialdetail.aspx?id=WOOLLAHRA%202012008&amp;wlid=736117da-d072-496d-8443-ca2a58e062e6" target="_blank">Ballard Property agent Mark Lowe</a>. Renaissance Group specializes in high opportunity emerging markets in Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Sub-Saharan Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States and Cyprus.
It had been listed by Dana Swebeck, wife of architect William Zuccon, for sale in October 2010.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/welcome-to-the-60s-in-centennial-park/2011072550905" target="_blank">Property Observer reported on its listing in July 2011</a>.
It was the iconic home of Ford Pills founder William Rogers. The single-storey, flat-roofed Martin Road house, built to a design by Nicholas Munster, after the land was sold for $36,000 in 1967.
It was first traded for $1,295,000 in 1992 by Rogers' daughter, Joan. 
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Camelot at Centennial Park finally sells but with bitter price pill

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It was 2007 when one of Victoria’s then most successful bookmakers Simon Beasley quietly purchased a luxury penthouse in South Yarra’s Domain Road.
Now the former bookie Simon Beasley has sold - and understood to have secured $8 million plus on his luxurious pad.
The full-floor apartment - one of only three in the 155 Domain Road block - covers 400 square metres.
The former VFL player and his wife, Meredith, bought into the boutique development for $3.98 million in 2007. The boutique apartment complex was developed by Sam Beck, the son of Max Beck, of Becton fame who reportedly joined forces with South Yarra general practitioner Dr E. C. Wong on the project. It was designed by Michael Jefferson, with interiors by Stephen Akehurst, with contemporary European-influences. Beck jnr bought the original Victorian pair of houses on the site.
Across from the Botantic Gardens, the property has four bedrooms, four living areas, four outdoor terrace areas and private lift access.
Kay &amp; Burton agent Andrew Baines is keeping things quiet, but Title Tattle can affirm the apartment did better than the one directly above sold which fetched $7.52 million in 2010.
Simon Beasley, who prior to becoming a bookie had been champion 1980s full-forward for the Footscray Football Club, is speculated to return to bookmaking very soon.
 
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Simon Beasley bags $8 million plus South Yarra apartment sale

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<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/flagtitletat.jpg" style="margin: 5px; float: left;">
Just because billionaire developer Bob Ell has abandoned plans to build on his 4,397-square-metre, four-lot Cremorne harbourfront doesn't mean the days of the mega-mansion are over.
Indeed, Title Tattle has spotted something quite special happening at Bronte.
<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/2013/02/bronte.jpg" alt="bronte" width="470" height="351">
The funds manager Seumas Dawes and his wife, Rosemary Seaton, initially spent $12.3 million for a large, modern three-storey residence in 2006. One of the most expensive coastal suburbs in the east,  the <a href="/news">Bronte</a> property sits along the exclusive strip known as The Cutting. It was a modern five-bedroom residence on the ocean side of Bronte Road overlooking the beach and ocean.
<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/2013/02/bronte1.jpg" alt="bronte1" width="470" height="351">
Then earlier this year the couple splashed out with the $16.5 million purchase of the neighbouring house, which they're set to bulldoze.
<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/2013/02/bronte3.jpg" alt="bronte3" width="470" height="341">
Weir Phillips Architects are undertaking the 672 square metre works, which include extensive undercover garaging on the newly acquired block, (above right with palm tree) which will have grounds prepared by Formed Gardens. The new works which include gym and cabana, improve the neighbouring contemporary houses's north eastern aspect. It's only going to cost $846,000 apparently, which will take the spend to $29.6 million.
<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/2013/02/bronte2.jpg" alt="bronte2" width="470" height="351">
The total holding is the original 801 square metres plus the latest 778-square-metre acquisition.
Dawes, the one-time adviser and private secretary to the former 1980s Federal treasurer Paul Keating during the era of banking deregulation, and his Albury-born partner, Seaton, were Hampstead, London-based on their initial 2006 acquisition.
It was bought from from Christina Patterson, who built a modern house after consolidating two blocks.
Dawes is an old boy of the NSW Right, having been assistant secretary of the NSW ALP from 1983 to 1985.
Title Tattle recalls that after quitting Canberra in 1989 for the heady world of merchant banking, Dawes spent time with Faye Richwhite, Merrill Lynch, Paribas and then at Ashmore, the London-based emerging markets fund management business since 2000. He's the senior portfolio manager and member of investment committee at <a href="https://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/snapshot/snapshot.asp?capId=6234478">Ashmore Group PLC.</a>
The couple's previous home in Sydney was sold for $640,000 in 1999.
<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/2013/02/ell1.jpg" alt="ell1" width="470" height="221">
<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/flagtitletat.jpg" style="margin: 5px; float: left;">Back to Bob Ell, whose company, Leda Holdings, has listed the building blocks (above and below) that come with permission for a nine-bedroom house with two pools on its 4,397-square-metre holding.
<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/2013/02/ell2.jpg" alt="ell2" width="470" height="305">
<a href="https://www.randw.com.au/749071/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">It is one of the largest waterfront properties on the north shore</a>. Offers are due March 12.
"Approval is in place for the construction of a 2,739-square-metre home of extraordinary calibre presiding over its exclusive waterfront position," says the marketing.
"Our strategy initially is to target the Chinese market both locally and internationally," says listing agent Richard Simeon of Richardson &amp; Wrench.
<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/2013/02/ell4.jpg" alt="ell4" width="470" height="381">
The $12 million scheme includes a rooftop tennis court with a retractable fence and parking for eight cars.
<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/2013/02/ell3.jpg" alt="ell3" width="470" height="305">
"Masterfully conceived, the one-of-a kind residence features such remarkable amenities as a guest house, caretaker's house, two pools, N/S tennis court, gym, billiard room, home theatre and office whilst still enjoying over 1000sqm of level lawns and garden," the R&amp;W advertisement says.
"With Laurie's Sutton's recent sale at 10 Bay Street Mosman for $20 million we have expectations of early to mid-$20 millions," Simeon told Property Observer. 
They will try to find a buyer in one line.
Simon Clausen, who debuted on 2009's BRW Rich List with a $180 million fortune after selling his software company, PC Tools, was another high-flyer who spent big on residential consolidation. Clausen outlayed $31 million between 2008 and 2009 consolidating three adjoining Balmoral Slopes properties. The adjoining properties with direct views out towards Sydney Heads included a since demolished new home that was sold by developer Albert Bertini, onetime star of The Secret Millioniare. But the bulk of the 3,180 square metre site amalgamation has been offloaded as he know spends most of his time overseas. He retains the heritage home that cost $12 million in 2009.
 <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/flagtitletat.jpg" style="margin: 5px; float: left;">
The real battle for mega-mansion is between media tycoon scions James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch.
Lachlan Murdoch's Bellevue Hill mansion Le Manoir is undergoing works that exceed a $10 million spend. 
Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch's Le Manoir, the 1928 Bellevue Hill estate, began with the $23 million outlay in late 2009. They also spent $2.63 million on an adjoining property in 2010.
The SJB architectural plans approved by Woollahra Council <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/lachlan-murdoch-calls-in-the-renovators-with-%2411.6-million-plans-for-bellevue-hill/2011111152328" target="_blank">were for an $11.6 million redevelopment</a>. That's $34.6 million.
It involves alterations and additions to the existing mansion plus a new pool and pool house. It includes "construction of a new garage with security access areas with subterranean access to the dwelling". Underground appears vital for mega-mansions.
<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/2013/02/packer.jpg" alt="packer" width="470" height="351">
James Packer is doing his Batcave-style security fortress set-up too out at Vaucluse, (pictured above and below) and that building contract could be many times dearer than Murdoch's. The furniture delivery trucks started arriving this week out in Vaucluse.
It was 2009 when Packer and his wife, Erica, lodged their plans for the $11.4 million Tzannes Associates makeover and extension to the 1972 landmark Guilford Bell house at Vaucluse. The Packers engaged the University of Melbourne professor of architecture, Philip Goad, as a consultant. Goad wrote a chapter in the 1999 book on Bell, whose clientele was drawn from a who's who of the establishment.
Bell designed another Packer family home, the now demolished Hordern House at Point Piper, which was eventually replaced by the John Symond house.
The Packers bought the hillside 2374 square metre Vaucluse property from the executors of the estate of the oil shale pioneer Sir Ian McFarlane for $18 million, then added another two blocks which allowed for their innovative underground wing. The extra land cost $12 million adding 985 square metres to the property.
The official tally comes to $41.4 million for the Packers. Ofcourse at Cairnton, the family's Bellevue Hill fiefdom, the Packers made nine separate acquisitions since the original purchase in 1935 by James Packer's late grandfather, Sir Frank. These have cost about $9.1 million.
 
<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/2013/02/packerreno.jpg" alt="packerreno" width="470" height="351"> 
 
 
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A cut above the rest – the era of Sydney mega-mansions far from over: Title Tattle

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

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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