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Brad and Lara's South Melbourne The Block 2012 terrace has been listed for 2pm June 30 auction.
It’s being marketed as bigger than the other three offerings in ads the appeared on realestateview.com.au.
“And appointed to a higher level than the other offerings,” its listing agent Karl Gillon at Buxton Albert Park says.
It’s billed as a stunning home with an extensive rear decking with built-in pizza oven and barbecue.
“Nothing has been overlooked with a formal lounge room, powder room, sparkling second bathroom and separate laundry,” Gillon says.
“Brad and Lara's magnificent 'Block' home comes with state of the art electronics and a wealth of energy saving and modern conveniences.”
Just as with <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/renovating/hockingstuart-very-quick-out-of-the-block-with-channel-9-reality-show-south-melbourne-marketing/2012052254782" target="_blank">403 Dorcas Street, which hit hockingstuart internet marketing </a>earlier, the marketing for 405 Dorcas Street does not reveal any photos of as yet untelevised room reveals.
<img src="/images/stories/405dorcasad1.jpg">
Buxton requests that none of the inspectees take interior photographs of the property while on their by appointment-only inspections.
“The home has been perfected top to bottom with the greatest of everything and is located in one of the best areas in Melbourne with close proximity to all manner of shops, restaurants, schools and of course the beach close by.
“The stunning home features three double bedrooms, main with en-suite and two with walk-in robes.
“The 'wow factor' third level deck soaks in 180 degree views to the city and surrounds; a must see!
“Putting a value on the perfected home is one thing but putting a value on the expert advice, build quality and resultant interior layout with insightful furniture, colour schemes and accessory choices is quite another,” <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/405-dorcas-street-south-melbourne/Property-Details-buy-residential-4020713" target="_blank">says the marketing on realestateview.com.au.</a>
“Leaving the other 'Block' homes in their wake, Brad and Lara's home is bigger and appointed to a higher level than the other offerings, suffice to say, this is the one you want!”
The open day for viewers to attend the Dorcas Street properties is the 16 June/17 June weekend.
<a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-lessons-from-the-block-and-other-property-reality-television-shows">For lessons property investors can learn from property reality TV, download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Buxton bangs on about having the best in The Block's Dorcas Street, South Melbourne auction offerings 

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Developers David Devine and Ken Woodley have walked away from buying the Couran Cove resort on South Stradbroke Island.
Devine and Woodley, who established Metro Property Group after selling out of Devine Limited, confirmed to the Gold Coast Bulletin they had backed out of the conditional contract.
"After undertaking thorough due diligence on the deal, we have elected not to proceed," Devine said.
News Ltd papers have previously speculated the billionaire American vendor was prepared to sell the resort for less than $20 million.
Ferrier Hodgson will now try to negotiate a new sale for Couran Cove, which closed in June last year after being placed into voluntary liquidation when American philanthropist Chuck Feeney decided to withdraw his financial support for the property.
Records showed Feeney poured $283 million into Couran Cove from 1998 until last year.
Feeney controls the property through InterPacific Group, which is owned by his Bermuda-based charity Atlantic Philanthropies.
The freehold assets of Couran Cove include 158 units and a waterfront building that has a reception area, cafes, conference facilities and function rooms, plus a beachfront surf club that incorporates restaurant function rooms and sports facilities.
The main leasehold assets are 102 marina berths and jetties.
It’s been mooted any new owner may also be able to implement the plans for a further 198 strata-titled cabins, 14 units and a yacht club, which were part of the original proposal.
 
 
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Developers David Devine and Ken Woodley back out of Couran Cove resort purchase

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Another of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/receivers-list-mark-mcivors-former-double-bay-residence-teralla/2012050654572">Mark McIvor</a>’s prestige Gold Coast property holdings has been listed under receiver’s instructions.
It’s a 597-square-metre Palm Beach vacant block.
It’s been listed by Ray White Palm Beach agents Jason Taylor and Danny Fritz for June 2 auction.
“Receivers have been appointed to this prime beachfront property with instructions to sell,” their marketing says.
It comes with 10-metre beach frontage between Fourth and Palm Beach avenues.
It last traded in 1991 at $575,000, seemingly as part of a larger lot at the time.
It unsuccessfully went to auction last August through Ray White Mermaid Beach agent Troy Dowker.
 
 
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Mark McIvor’s Gold Coast Palm Beach vacant block listed by receivers: Title Tattle

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Trevor O’Hoy, the former CEO of brewing giant Foster’s, has returned to the liquor industry by taking the non-executive chairmanship of the privatised pub landlord Redcape Property Fund.

O’Hoy quit Foster’s four years ago when the merger he oversaw with the Southcorp wine group turned problematic.

His 33-year stint in the liquor industry is expected to help the revitalised Redcape, which has undergone a $635 million recapitalisation.

Fairfax Media reported Goldman Sachs (Asia), York Capital and Varde Capital are overhauling the former trust into a pub owner and operator with an acquisitive trail expected through the imminent purchase of 20-plus hotels from collapsed hotel manager NLG.
 
 
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Former Foster’s boss Trevor O’Hoy named non-executive chairman of Redcape Property Fund 

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Hockingstuart has got the jump on the other three South Melbourne auction listings in The Block as the auction date looms for the reality television series. No official marketing is yet underway given the tight rein Channel 9 keep over marketing and publicity.
But hockingstuart has commenced taking buyer interest requests – and uploaded all the so-far revealed photos of the 403 Dorcas Street house interiors of brothers Mike and Andrew.
<img src="/images/stories/hockingstock3.jpg">
There have been four room reveals with nine scheduled, according to hockingstuart.
Four terrace houses situated on the corner of Dorcas Street and Montague Street are the location of this year’s Block hasty renovation challenge.
<img src="/images/stories/hockingstock2.jpg">
The big public open house is scheduled for the 16 June weekend from 10am until 2pm.
About 25,000 fans turned up in Richmond for the first open in last year's series, followed by another 10,000 people on the second day.
Chris Vedelago at The Age’s Private Property has suggested the grand finale auction will be on June 30.
<img src="/images/stories/hockingstock.jpg">
Apparently David Wood of hockingstuart is working for Mike and Andrew. The agency as organised an exclusive inspection competition with Mike and Andrew followed by a $430 dinner at The Point on Albert Park.
Buxton's Karl Gillon is tipped as the agent who will sell the terrace of Brad and Laura. Dani and Dan reputedly picked RT Edgar's Kent Morgan. Kay &amp; Burton's Alex Schiavo is tipped to handle the sale of the terrace of Sophie and Dale.
<a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-lessons-from-the-block-and-other-property-reality-television-shows">For lessons property investors can learn from property reality TV, download our free eBook.</a>
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Hockingstuart very quick out of the block with Channel 9 reality show South Melbourne marketing 

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Drift, the Cronulla apartment development by Sammut Developments, has won the HIA Australian apartment project of the year.
The judges described the apartments as having “house-like proportions, an extremely high level of workmanship and innovative and environmentally sustainable features”.
The Sammuts have 22 awards from both the Housing Industry Association awards and Master Builders Association, including their 2008 development, “Coast”, another prestige apartment development in Cronulla.
The Drift development was completed in early 2010 on Gerrale Street, having sold almost half off the plan by spring 2009. The marketing was undertaken by Beach and Bay Realty agent Kylie Emans and Natalie Vials.
The typical apartment was 300 square metres with triple garaging.
Brothers Allen and John Sammut, well known in the Sutherland and St George areas, had nominated Drift in the category of apartments over $1 million build cost per apartment. Its standard floor sales ranged between $2 million and $3.2 million.
It’s 11 apartments, with two on each level plus penthouse occupying the entire top floor.
<img src="/images/stories/breeze.jpg">
Sammut Developments’ next block, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.theloop.com.au/toast/project/26763">Breeze, is a  nine-storey development </a> and will replace a 1970s apartment block and a commercial building at 19-21 Gerrale Street. 
It’s taking <a href="https://breezeapartments.com.au/">registrations of interest,</a> but there’s only a hint of its appearance amid the preliminary marketing.
 
 
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Sammut Developments’ Cronulla project Drift named apartment project of the year

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Both major capital city auction clearance rates continued to secure sales within the narrow band of recent weeks.
But the more comprehensive the auction results, the lower the clearance rate.
In Melbourne the Real Estate Institute of Victoria reported a weekend clearance rate of 62% on initial results.
It was up on the downwardly revised 60% success rate of the prior weekend, which had been initially reported as 63%.
There were 529 auctions reported to the REIV, with 327 selling and 202 being passed in, 128 of those on a vendor’s bid.
Some 50 results remain unreported across Melbourne.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/auctions/two-bidders-with-deep-pockets-vied-for-magnificent-fitzroy-north-home-in-auction-tipping-competition/2012052054760" target="_blank">highest sale was $4.2 million in Fitzroy North</a>.
Next week the REIV estimates 670 auctions will be conducted followed by 660 in a fortnight.
Sydney's clearance rate was 57.8% according to Australian Property Monitors.
The prior weekend's revised rate was given as 59.4%, which was also revised down on the initial 61.8% Saturday night clearance rate.
 
 
 
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Chased-up unreported results dragging final clearance rates lower than initial highs

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A Victorian pavilion-style house – mostly hand-built from raw materials including recycled spotted gum and blackbutt posts – has won the 2012 HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year in the HIA-CSR Australian housing awards.
<img src="/images/stories/hiahomeofyear1.jpg">
The winner – located at Red Hill South on the Mornington Peninsula – was selected from a list of state-based finalists.
F &amp; J Sanders Builders Pty Ltd took out the top award, winning the 2012 HIA Australian Home of the Year.
It also won the award for the Australian Custom-Built Home of the Year in the $1 million-plus category.
The judges were impressed with the pavilion-style house, noting its mix of energy efficiency and luxury.
Spread over three levels, the home has expansive open plan living, with polished concrete flooring throughout.
<img src="/images/stories/hiahomeofyear21.jpg">
There are four bedrooms with balconies, study, rumpus room, four bathrooms plus a separate powder room, plant/service room, three-car garage and outbuilding.
There is a large undercover barbecue pavilion with in-ground pool.
The judges concluded the design of the home allowed it to feel light and airy, especially as open windows maximised the views.
Its energy and environmental features included state-of-the-art sustainable technologies allowing it to be virtually self-sufficient.
It came with geothermal technology along with LED lighting, a sewage treatment plant, three 86,000-litre concrete water tanks, solar hot water, and 4.7kw solar panels.
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Mostly hand-built Mornington Peninsula home takes out top gong at HIA-CSR awards

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The Breakfree founder tourism entrepreneur Tony Smith – whose global financial crisis share investment tumble prompted a hasty exit from his Mermaid Beach mega-holding – has made a $7 million-plus comeback on the Gold Coast beachfront strip.
Smith, who now runs two luxury resorts in Bali, has bought a 1,220-square-metre holding on Surf Street, which runs off Albatross Avenue.
He told the Gold Coast Bulletin the property would be the family's holiday house when they visited Australia.
"I have no idea if the market is at the bottom but can't imagine that it can go much lower," he said.
"We are now buying at 1998 to 2000 prices (the last boom started in 2001), which was at the end of an eight to 10-year bust."
Smith made national headlines during the property boom for wanting to build the "the world's biggest bloody house" along Hedges Avenue, having consolidated five properties.
But the plans were thwarted when MFS, now known as Octaviar, got caught in the GFC, with Smith  among those hurt by the early 2008 collapse.
With Gold Coast prices remaining surprisingly resilient well into the GFC, his partially half-built Hedges Avenue mega-mansion was sold to the now failed IT tycoon Daniel Tzvetkoff for $27 million.
The depths of the coast's eventual property collapse emerged when <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/the-8-biggest-losses-on-mermaid-beach-s-millionaire-s-row-show-no-post-gfc-recovery-in-sight/2011113052610">Tzvetkoff hit financial strife, and the still unfinished house was sold to Mitchell Drilling founder Peter Mitchell for $17 million</a>.
Smith, who is a non-resident Australian, now lives in Bali and manages properties at Seminyak and Uluwatu, under the Semara Resort and Spa brand.
Agent John Natoli at McGrath negotiated the sale after the property was passed in for $6.9 million. It sold within 24 hours for between  $7 million and $7.5 million.
It is the Smith family's second property purchase along the strip, as his wife Simone spent $3,025,000 on a beachfront unit  in late 2011.
 
 
 
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Breakfree founder Tony Smith makes $7 million-plus Mermaid Beach comeback: Title Tattle

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Every 1% drop in the dollar should increase Australian farming earnings by $190 million, according to National Australia Bank's agribusiness economist Michael Creed.
And while much of the recent currency devaluation was based on concerns about risk in global markets, it had not translated through to reduce demand for agricultural commodities, he told Fairfax Media.
The dollar has fallen more than 7% from its peak of $US1.08 this year.
EL&amp;C Baillieu Stockbroking analyst Simon Dumaresq said falls in the dollar could also fuel a new round of foreign investment in Australian agriculture.
"A lower currency could also promote acquisitions of Australian assets from foreign companies looking to secure supply and meet the growing shortage of many agricultural products in Asia," Dumaresq advised.
Elders chief executive Malcolm Jackman expects the depreciation of the Australian dollar will not only improve the value of exports but put pressure on the prices of food imports which makes local produce more affordable.
But The Stock &amp; Land reported only one financial institution had made any reduction in interest rates for agribusiness customers in the past month based on monitoring of agribusiness loans by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF).
NFF economics committee chairman John McKillop said the lack of movement from the banks was extremely disappointing for agribusiness customers.
 
 
 
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Dollar decreases of 1% boost farm earnings of $190 million: NAB

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

Jonathan Chancellor

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