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Stradbroke, an 1870s St Kilda mansion that was the birthplace of former Prime Minister Stanley Melbourne Bruce, has been sold by the Presentation Sisters.
The 1,761-square-metre property has been the home to the Sisters of the Society of Australian Congregations of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, better known as the Presentation Sisters, since 1919.
It had been listed for an expressions-of-interest campaign, but the buyers sought an auction from the Bennison Mackinnon agency.
Despite interested parties securing the transparent auction process, there was just the one $3.8 million bid made – and it was sold for an undisclosed higher price after the auction to a local family.
An adjoining 788-square-metre parcel of land at 71a Grey Street, <a target="_blank" href="/news">St Kilda</a>, was passed in on a vendor bid of $1.5 million.
Both properties had been offered earlier this year to Port Phillip Council, which declined to proceed with any acquisition.
The 18-room mansion, which has been operating as a boarding house, was built by Thomas Moore Esq in 1873.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/bruceplaque.jpg">
In 1919 the Presentation Sisters purchased the property from the Sisters of Mercy.
The mansion includes arcaded verandas over its two levels and an 18-room interior, including a chapel and a wine cellar.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/birthplace-of-former-prime-minister-stanley-melbourne-bruce-listed-by-st-kilda-nuns/2012100556999">Bruce, the prime minster of Australia from 1923 to 1929, was born in the property on April 15, 1883, in the house</a>.
From windows overlooking Port Phillip Bay, its occupants would have been able to see ships laden with goods from the mother country sailing from the Great Southern Ocean, writer David Lee said in his book Stanley Melbourne Bruce: Australian Internationalist.
Bruce’s family is better associated with Wombalano, a large colonial-style Toorak mansion.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Presentation Nuns sell 1870s St Kilda mansion

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The nation’s construction activity declined further in October albeit it at a slower rate, according to the Australian performance of construction index from the Australian Industry Group and the Housing Industry Association.
October was the 29th month of declining activity, marking almost two and a half years of hardship for the construction industry.
The Housing Industry Association chief economist, Harley Dale suggested the period extending to 29 consecutive months represented a "blight" on Australia’s economic performance and had made it difficult to find any glimmer of hope for the construction industry.
But the director of public policy at the Australian Industry Group, Dr Peter Burn, said while the construction industry, and particularly the commercial and residential sub-sectors, were still contracting, the pace of decline had turned for the better in October.
“This was most noticeable in the long-suffering housing building sub-sector where a combination of lower interest ratest and a shift in the focus of new home buyer support have helped slow the pace of construction.” he said.
In particular, new orders and supplier deliveries declined less than in previous months.
"The residential and commercial sub-sectors still have a lot of recovering to do with construction activity, new orders and employment all remaining in the red," Dr Burn said.

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Construction activity declines in October making 29 consecutive months

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Mining tycoon Clive Palmer has confirmed his purchase of the Sea Temple Golf and Country Club at Port Douglas for about $7 million.
He told The Cairns Post he made the "unconditional" deal last Friday after making an aerial inspection by helicopter on Thursday of 20 properties between Townsville and Cairns.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/seatemple1.jpg">
It is his first investment in the far north, having missed out last year on buying the Sheraton Mirage at Port Douglas, which was sold to developer David Marriner with the support of a Chinese group.
Sea Temple golf was sold by the Juniper Group, having been on the market for a year.
The deal includes the award-winning 18-hole golf course designed by Thomson, Wolveridge and Perrett, along with a housing estate development with about 45 premium home sites.
He said he had no immediate plans for the golf course and the surrounding residential land.
"I haven't decided but I am happy for it to continue as a golf course."
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/seatemple2.jpg">
Palmer says he personally bought the course, not his company, which owns three other courses on the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/clive-palmer-becoming-the-prince-of-paradise-point-with-cheap-royal-acquisitions/2012061555136"> Sunshine and Gold coasts</a>, including the Hyatt Regency at Coolum. He also bought the Robina Woods and the Colonial golf courses at Robina on the Gold Coast for about $7 million last year.
CBRE Hotels Queensland director Wayne Bunz says the Sea Temple contract was unconditional with settlement in 30 days.
"He's paid substantially below replacement value," Bunz says.
Bunz says golf courses usually cost $1 million a hole plus the cost of land.
The tourism pioneer John Morris, who developed the course in the late 1990s, told the Post he was "delighted" that Palmer was the new owner.
It is understood others interested in the golf course included Sheraton Mirage owner David Marriner.
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Mining tycoon Clive Palmer confirms Sea Temple, Port Douglas golf course resort purchase 

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A Double Bay mansion sold at auction for $3.1 million in the nation's top sale for the week, but the sale price reflected a 22% price decline on its peak prior price.
Its latest price reflected a 4% loss annually since it sold in boomtime 2007, and an 8% annual deterioration over the past 20 months.
The Court Road property was sold by Shelley Griffin, the wife of the late Allco executive Phil Griffin, who is moving to Woollahra where she recently purchased a heavily discounted $5 million Gothic mansion.
The two-storey Double Bay home sits on 429 square metre block with a 7-metre lap pool. It last sold at $3.62 million in 2011 and at $4 million in 2007.
The agents were quoting $3 million plus with five bidders having registered on auction day. Three bidders took part in the auction after bidding opened at $2.8 million.
The sale was conducted by McGrath agents Peter Starr and Bernadette Berlyn in conjunction with Sotheby's International Realty.
Given the absence of prestige auction listings in Melbourne due to the cup racing carnival, every property in the top 10 this week was in Sydney. 
 
1.<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/7_court_road_double_bay_nsw_2028/2116989"> 7 COURT Road, Double Bay, NSW, 2028</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on November 3 by McGrath Estate Agents for $3.1 million
2. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/7_delmar_parade_gladesville_nsw_2111/2398997">7 DELMAR Parade, Gladesville, NSW, 2111</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on November 3 by Ray White Gladesville for $2.93 million
3. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/3_mitchell_street_greenwich_nsw_2065/2634623">3 MITCHELL Street, Greenwich, NSW, 2065</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on November 3 by Century 21 Blunts for $2.675 million
4. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/21_woonona_road_northbridge_nsw_2063/5073350">21 WOONONA Road, Northbridge, NSW, 2063</a>, five-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on November 3 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.45 million
5. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/45_greville_street_clovelly_nsw_2031/1863433">45 GREVILLE Street, Clovelly, NSW, 2031</a>, three-bedroom house, sold on October 30 by Goodyer Donnelley Real Estate Woollahra for $2.3 million
6. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/154_arden_street_coogee_nsw_2034/1925687">154 ARDEN Street, Coogee, NSW, 2034</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on November 3 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.2 million
7. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/16_brighton_street_freshwater_nsw_2096/2363567">16 BRIGHTON Street, Freshwater, NSW, 2096</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on November 3 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.13 million
8. 96 CRESCENT Road, Newport, NSW, 2106, four-bedroom house, sold on October 30 by McGrath Estate Agents for $1.79 million
9. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/2_carlisle_street_tamarama_nsw_2026/6665335">2 CARLISLE Street, Tamarama, NSW, 2026</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on November 3 by McGrath Estate Agents for $1.76 million
10. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/175_military_road_dover_heights_nsw_2030/2121176">175 MILITARY Road, Dover Heights, NSW, 2030</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on November 3 by McGrath Estate Agents for $1.752 million
 
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Clean sweep for NSW in RP Data top 10 sales as Double Bay sale reflects 22% price decline

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Estate agent John Bongiorno has part ownership of two runners in today’s Melbourne Cup.
He has an interest in Glencadam Gold and also Fiorente, both trained by Gai Waterhouse.
Glencadam Gold has been among the most successful of horses the Waterhouse stable has identified in Europe.
He won his first four starts in Australia ending last month winning the McGrath Estate Agents Metropolitan, the group one race at Randwick, before failing as favourite in the Caulfield Cup.
Fiorente will be having his first start for Waterhouse in the race. John Bongiorno is part of the Bongiorno Herron syndicate, who along with Team McDonnell, the Sydney businessman John McDonnell and wife, Anne are co-owners with K Wood, R Smith, Paul McClure, B Pang, G Diamond, Fesen Pty Ltd, B Stracey &amp; the UK Stayers.
John Bongiorno, a director of Marshall White, has also just published a children’s book.  <a href="https://www.santaandhisbrotherdownunder.com.au/">Santa and his Brother Down Under</a>, the book, was launched in <city><place>Melbourne</place></city> last week.
The inspiration for the book came after jogging past the Australian Embassy in <state>Washington where he </state>noticed the entrance decorated for Christmas with lights depicting Santa on a surfboard being pulled through the sky by kangaroos instead of reindeers.
With illustrations by Caroline Keys, the book tells the tale of a busy and beleaguered Santa, who turns to his brother in Australia and a mob of flying kangaroos for help delivering presents.
Profits from the book, which sells for $14.95, go to Koala Kids, a Children's Cancer Centre Foundation program.
KOALA Kids was founded in 2005 by a 13 year old <place><placename>Melbourne</placename><placetype>Grammar School</placetype></place> student Nick Mandie and today is run by a team of dedicated volunteers.
Most of Melbourne's agents take time off during the Melbourne Cup carnival - with just the 163 weekend auctions last Saturday.
But no doubt Bongiorno is still always seeking out interested buyers of prestige Melbourne  property. His listings include the Brighton home of mining executive Peter Reeve and his wife Anne with expectations of more than $7.5 million.
 
 
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Estate agent John Bongiorno seeks Melbourne Cup quinella

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Rainham, a historic Georgian Bathurst homestead, has been listed for sale for the first time in more than 150 years.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/10/rainham.jpg">
It comes with $500,000-plus homes for its December 6 auction through John Fagan of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.raineandhorne.com.au/bathurst/properties/249684">Raine &amp; Horne Bathurst</a>.
The 31-hectare property could appeal to renovators, tree-changers and especially history buffs as well as having commercial potential.
The home was built in 1832 by Captain Thomas Raine, whose son, Tom co-founded Raine &amp; Horne. It comes with well-preserved convict accommodation wing and horse stables with cobblestone floor and traditional swinging doors.
It was held by the Raine family for about three decades. It's been held by the Boyd and Richardson families for five generations.
It's prime farm land with views towards Queen Charlotte Vale Creek and the Blue Mountains.
It's being marketed as viable as a restaurant or a bed and breakfast.
Bathurst is a regional centre in NSW about 200 kilometres west of Sydney. It is the oldest inland European settlement in Australia and has a population of about 37,000.
Rainham is one of five period properties being offered for sale through the agency.
The others are <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/60-mitre-street-bathurst/Property-Details-buy-residential-4640885">60 Mitre Street</a>, a grand Victorian home in one of Bathurst’s most sought after established areas;
Trevallyn at 154 Peel Street, a six bedroom home next to the heritage listed Miss Trails cottage;
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bathurst-112146567">152 Brilliant Street</a>, a circa 1897 home adjacent to George Park at the top of the CBD; and
176 Rocket Street, which is a four-bedroom home boasting a panoramic outlook over Bathurst’s CBD and beyond.
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Rainham, the Bathurst Georgian homestead built for the Raine family, listed

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The failed builder Southern Cross Constructions (NSW) owes its subcontractors and suppliers at least $42 million, according to the first preliminary esdtate by its administrators Cor Cordis.

The information was advised to the creditors meeting in Sydney yesterday, a source confirmed to The Australian Financial Review.

The figure eclipses the<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/southern-cross-constructions-nsw-in-voluntary-administration/2012102657459" target="_blank"> initial $17 million estimate given by the CFMEU </a> when the company went into voluntary administration two weeks ago. Southern Cross Construction was a commercial builder, with 39 staff members owed $1.5 million and four projects underway in NSW, including a Bunnings Warehouse and Woolworths at Balgowlah in Sydney’s North.

The administrators will examine a transaction earlier this year when Melbourne construction company Icon bought Southern Cross Constructions and launched a new company called Icon Southern Cross, the source said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490]

The administrators told creditors they would investigate what projects and benefits transferred from Southern Cross Constructions into the Icon Southern Cross entity.

The directors of Southern Cross Constructions, Andrew Box and Lewis Yazbek, are partners in Icon Southern Cross.

Uncertainty surrounds $230 million worth of commercial and residential projects in NSW after Southern Cross Constructions (NSW) was placed administration.

Box and Yazbek did not put forward a proposal to resume control of Southern Cross Constructions, and it looks likely that the company would be placed into liquidation.

Creditors were told that the company’s main assets were a property in Edgecliff that houses its headquarters, which is worth about $9 million and traded at $6.5 million in 2002. 

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929]

There is also reportedly a building at Neutral Bay worth about $17 million.

A separate business in the Southern Cross group, Southern Cross Constructions (WA) was placed into administration on November 1. 

Administrators from Hall Chadwick were called into Southern Cross Constructions (WA) by the builder's two Sydney-based directors, Andrew Box and Lewis Yazbek.

The WA arm is believed to owe millions to building sub-contractors who worked on the company's construction of Bunnings' new warehouse in Armadale.

It is due to open next week.
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Southern Cross (NSW) debt at $42 million after collapse

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The former AFL Melbourne champion-turned-football commentator Garry Lyon has listed his Inverloch holiday home for sale at $899,000.

<div></div>
It's been listed LJ Hooker Inverloch director Allan Mann.
Architecturally designed with a contemporary style, its being marketed as able to accommodate a large family for either permanent or holiday living.
The four-bedroom <a target="_blank" href="/news">Inverloch</a> home has seamless in/outdoor entertaining space.
It was built by local award-winning builder Steve Fisher to capture the northern winter sun at the popular South Gippsland summer spot.
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Garry Lyon's Inverloch weekender listed

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A Hermès pop-up store has opened in South Yarra timed to accompany Melbourne’s spring racing carnival celebrations.
Not quite the full-on orange box, it's in the Le Louvre salon in stylish <a href="/news">South Yarra</a>, which attracts Melbourne’s style seekers.
The temporary store comes with a uniquely created silk scarf, designed by Bali Barret, deputy artistic director of women’s collections at Hermès, as homage to the Ballarat dressmaker Lillian Wightman, the founder of Le Louvre.
<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/2012/10/hermes3.jpg">
Bali Barret, created the Monsieur &amp; Madame signature Hermes scarf design, integrating the signature ocelot print of style doyenne Miss Wainwright, who died two decades ago at 90.
<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/2012/10/hermes5.jpg">
Le Louvre, which offers fashion, art and design, is just off Chapel Street on Daly Street.
With its main display under its arched entrance, and two side windows, Australia's first Hermes pop-up follows similar pop-ups in Liberty of London in 2009, and then Colette in Paris.
<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/2012/10/hermes4.jpg">
In June this year the famous French luxury house opened a pop-up store of 80 square metres of retail space dedicated to its shoes at 8 rue de Sèvres in the 6th arrondissement of Paris.
It was in 2010 when Le Lourve, the Collins Street landmark, set up in South Yarra, having been on the Paris end of Collins Street since the 1930s but swallowed up by a high-rise tower.
<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/2012/10/hermes2.jpg">
Its owner, Georgina Weir, and her colleague Amelia Coote, the daughter of the late famous former Melbourne interior designer John Coote, worked with Domenic Ridolfi, director of Ridolfi Architects, to transform the two-storey 1920s red brick shell that had been originally used by the tramways.
The shop is bordered by the Deague family's art series hotel, The Olsen, on one side and another site where the China-based builder LYZ Property Group has its 20-level, 432-unit development site for the apartment tower called Lucia.
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Smooth as silk, South Yarra's Le Louvre salon decked out as Hermes luxury pop-up shop

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Brisbane was the only capital where the pace of residential property sales slowed during October, according to Australian Property Monitors.
It was a dramatic tunraround for Brisbane given its September results.
Stock was selling faster - or equally as fast in Melbourne and Canberra  - in most capital city markets over October.
The biggest improver was Perth were the time on market dropped from 120 days to 110 days.
Canberra remained the quickest, Clinton McNabb at Australian Property Monitors said.
 
 
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/10/apmnov7.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/10/apmnov7thumb.jpg"></a>
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Stock selling faster - or equally as fast - in seven capital city markets in October: APM

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.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

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The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

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For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

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As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

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Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

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

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

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&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."

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&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.

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Jonathan Chancellor

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