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The manufacturing pain continues. Poolrite, a manufacturer and supplier of pool equipment and supplies has slipped into administration.
The collapse comes just days after a manufacturer of healthcare equipment also went into administration, and also follows news that the Australian manufacturing industry has endured <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/economy/052684-house-price-recovery-stalls-in-october-rp-data-figures-show-midday-roundup">several consecutive months of contraction</a>.
The company, which turned over $20 million in 2012, is now in the hands of SV Partners. The administrators were contacted this morning, but they were unavailable to speak.
The company was contacted this morning, but phone lines appeared to be disconnected.
Poolrite was founded by Peter Wolpert in the western suburbs of Sydney in 1978, and now claims to be one of the country's biggest manufacturers of pool and spa equipment.
The company has experienced some ownership changes in its 34 years – in 1999, the business was purchased by the Palmer Group and subsequently relocated its manufacturing base to Brisbane.
The business claims to have developed some of the industry's leading equipment, including pumps and cleaning equipment. The business developed MagnaPool, which is a patented mineral water system used as an alternative to salt and chlorine systems.
SV Partners is calling for expressions of interest for the business, saying it holds numerous patents and trademarks.
The collapse is yet another sign of the troubled manufacturing industry in Australia, which continues to suffer from the high Australian dollar.
More recently, businesses in the automotive sector have been under pressure, with a few major collapses having already occurred. Furniture companies have also been <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/manufacturing/052707-car-parts-maker-closes-its-doors-with-400-jobs-at-risk-the-five-problems-crushing-the-industry">under a significant amount of stress</a>.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/manufacturing/051275-small-business-applauds-government-manufacturing-report-focus-on-smes">federal government recently released a report</a> into the manufacturing industry, although hasn't specified any measures that will be implemented in practice.
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Pool equipment manufacturer Poolrite collapses

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Yet another business in the construction industry has collapsed, in further confirmation the sector is struggling to get back on its feet even after a slew of positive data.
Building and finance approvals have been improving over the last several weeks, along with auction clearance rates, which have maintained consistent results above 60%.
Trade Fusion, a builder of modular homes based in Griffith, New South Wales, has collapsed into administration. Bruce Gleeson of Jones Partners has been appointed administrator to the company – he was unavailable to comment before publication.
The business itself was also contacted, but its phone line appeared to be disconnected.
Trade Fusion was founded in 2004 based on what the business thought was a need to combine manufacturing and trade components. The business specialises in the construction of modular homes.
In a description of the business available online, Trade Fusion says it has a staff of 20 including apprentices, and that it combines a traditional construction company alongside a factory that produces roof trusses and wall frames, along with glass and aluminium projects.
While there is no information available regarding the background of the collapse, being exposed to two troubled industries would no doubt introduce significant challenges. SmartCompany has <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/construction-and-engineering/053080-construction-business-collapses-after-legal-brawl-with-aldi-supermarket-chain">reported extensively</a> on the pressures facing the manufacturing and construction industries – including several collapses.
Jones Partners is seeking expressions of interest for the company, with assets to be sold including intellectual property, land and buildings.
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NSW builder Trade Fusion in administration

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The Reserve Bank may have kept interest rates on hold at 3.25% yesterday, but economists are still expecting the central bank to adjust the official cash rate downward – borrowers and businesses just may have to wait until next year to see it happen.
The move has been criticised by business groups, especially retailers, which claim the RBA is letting down the economy by refusing to cut rates two months in a row. This is despite the fact the bank itself suggested the world economic outlook is improving.
AMP economist Shane Oliver said this morning the economic situation in Australia warrants a cut – and sooner rather than later.
"I think the case for cutting is really to bolster the economy," he says. "I think they're taking slightly more of a wait-and-see approach, but I'm confident that rates need to go lower for standard mortgage and small business rates."
Oliver says it's "definitely going to happen", and has pencilled in a December rate cut.
But others disagree. CommSec economist Craig James, who previously had expected the RBA to cut rates either this month or next, is now expecting a 25 basis cut early next year.
"Is this the final rate cut? Hopefully, yes – that would indicate a better global and domestic economic climate. But we aren't totally convinced, and are pencilling in the risk of a 25 basis point cut early in 2013."
"The seeds of an economic upturn have been planted, now we have to wait for green shoots to appear. But it all depends on the confidence levels of businesses and consumers."
The disappointment among businesses is curious – a rate cut from the RBA would reinforce the idea the economy is still struggling, even after signs of life have emerged among consumers.
As James points out, rate cuts may not be enough to help the economy, especially when consumers may need to be given some stability when it comes to interest rates. "Confidence and expectations will be all-important on whether further cuts are required," James said.
"The missing ingredient is confidence. Add in the fact that the Aussie dollar remains high, despite an easing in commodity prices, and the Reserve Bank may be forced to consider different strategies."
Commonwealth Bank economist Michael Blythe also said he expects the RBA to wait until after inflation readings are released in January.
This view hasn't taken hold among business groups, which have blasted the RBA for refusing to cut rates two months in a row.
The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry said in a statement the lack of a rate cut was a "disappointment", citing its own survey that shows SMEs are struggling.
"ACCI is firmly of the view that another rate cut is needed, given weakness in the mainstream economy and the flow-on impact of ongoing global uncertainty."
The Australian Retailers' Association took a darker view, with executive director Russell Zimmerman saying the industry could forget about a "bumper" Christmas.
"The decision will be disappointing to retailers at a time when good sales are essential to get through Christmas and given many retailers rely on the festive season and its lead up to make the bulk of their sales."
Zimmerman's harsh assessment comes after retail data showed department stores suffered their biggest quarterly fall in sales in seven years.
This article first appeared on Smart Company. 
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2013 RBA rate cut looms most likely

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Retail Adventures was finally placed in administration over the weekend, but the company will live on through a new entity by shedding unprofitable stores and operating under a licence from administrators.
The developments <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/retail/052330-retail-adventures-in-dire-straits-as-suppliers-receive-ominous-email">follow weeks of rumours about store closures</a> and entrepreneur Jan Cameron's supposed plans to save the company.
Cameron was not successful. Just three years after buying the company for $85 million after an initial collapse, it was placed in the hands of Deloitte restructuring services over the weekend.
Last week, administrator Vaughan Strawbridge from Deloitte said a licence agreement is now in place between Retail Adventures and Discount Superstores Group to manage the Crazy Clark's and Sam's Warehouse stores.
Deloitte was contacted this morning regarding the restructure, but none of the administrators were available before publication to expand on their statement.
"The licence arrangement is designed to allow the Crazy Clark's and Sam's Warehouse stores to continue to trade under a new management structure," he said, adding this was necessary because Retail Adventures could not be restructured.
"We will immediately begin a detailed review of the financial position of the company and, as part of this, will review the performance of the 32 remaining Crazy Clark's, Go-Lo and Chickenfeed stores."
However, these stores are trading at "significant losses", Deloitte said.
There are plenty of questions left unanswered, such as what happens to the current creditors, and the structure in which Discount Superstores will be "licenced" from Deloitte.
What's clear is that hundreds of jobs are likely to go.
For three of the company's biggest mistakes, see page 2.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
 
It's a disappointing outcome for Retail Adventures. But it's not surprising – the company and Jan Cameron have made significant mistakes along the way. Here's just three to be mindful of:
<h3>1. Paid too much for a troubled asset</h3>
Back in 2009 Jan Cameron handed over $85 million for Retail Adventures. The problem was that this was simply too much.
Of course, it's difficult to blame Cameron for paying that much before retail took a turn for the worst. But it was still a premium for a retail company, and at the time it wasn't as if the industry was at its peak.
The problems with Retail Adventures can be traced over the past three years, but paying $85 million for a collapsed retail group wasn't a great way to start.
<h3>2. Pursuing a discount strategy without understanding it</h3>
It would be hard to avoid discounting when your chain is built on the idea of low prices, but Cameron's mistake was in pursuing a discounted offer at a time when retail was already doing badly.
With margins squeezed thin, there wasn't any room to reduce them. Over the past three years, those margins have simply gotten thinner and thinner, with the company forced to offer even lower prices and make money through moving high volumes of stock.
That obviously hasn't worked, and it's a key sign Cameron didn't understand what she was getting into. Discounting is one thing, but pursuing a strategy of discounting during a period of low sales is disastrous.
<h3>3. Staffing problems</h3>
Jan Cameron made some bizarre claims over the weekend about her staff, saying not only that former Harris Scarfe chief Robert Atkins had a "vendetta" against her and claiming he was sacked for sexual harassment, but that other employees had problems as well.
"Some (staff) had a strange desire to run me out of money, thinking the company would get bought by the next sucker and they could continue on with their cruisy ways," she told The Australian.
Staffing problems will always drag a company down. An inability to complete a major review of all staff and then replace those necessary is a key factor in Retail Adventures' turmoil – and a trend that will be crucial to reverse if it is to survive.
 
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany.</a>
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Retail Adventures in administration with plans to close stores

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The auctions market has maintained its strength even though hundreds more listings were added over the weekend, with capitals besting clearance rates from a year ago.
While the spike in listings comes ahead of the Melbourne Cup Day weekend, Australian Property Monitors economist Andrew Wilson says another week with listings above 60% is a testament to the ongoing stability of the property sector – <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/property/052463-modest-house-price-growth-will-underpin-housing-recovery-bis-shrapnel">and its eventual recovery</a>.
"The market was able to absorb a greater rate," he says.
"The higher number of listings is a trend that's been growing. This is the sixth consecutive week with auction clearance rates above 60%"
"You would have expected the market to moderate itself, but to get a result like that even with the high number of listings is an encouraging result."
Melbourne recorded 1,053 auctions over the weekend, with 690 selling and 363 passed in resulting in a clearance rate of 66%. That compares to 60% last weekend, and 50% during the same weekend last year.
REIV chief executive Enzo Raimondo said in a statement the result was "very healthy".
"A further sign of the improving sentiment is the increase in residential transaction volumes this spring, with around 9% more auctions being held than at the same time last year."
In Sydney, the city recorded a clearance rate of 67.9% from 524 listed auctions, compared with 61% last week and 54.9% during the same week last year.
It's an encouraging result for the market, which has already been tipped to continue rising over the next several months. Wilson says while there are some developments affecting each city – like a soft premium market in Sydney and failure of interest rate cuts to affect auctions in Melbourne – there is still hope.
"The market has built its own momentum, and there's a lot of activity happening."
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany</a>.
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Super Saturday records high property auction clearances despite surge in listings

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Mining-rich Western Australia is still dominating the rest of the country when it comes to state-by-state economic health, but Northern Territory is gaining ground quickly according to new research from CommSec.
The organisation's latest State of the States report has confirmed the ongoing trend – Western Australia is still on top in four of the eight criteria, and weaker states such as Tasmania have continued their ongoing struggle.
There are some changes appearing. The Northern Territory has passed the ACT to reach second, with its natural gas projects helping provide momentum, and New South Wales now ranks among Victoria and Queensland.
But overall, says CommSec chief economist Craig James, not much has changed.
"While there has been some modest reshuffling of other positions, in general there hasn't been much change over the past three months."
Western Australia has led on construction work, retail trade, population growth and equipment investment, with the only real weak point in dwelling starts, where it ranked seventh.
The Northern Territory ranked well in economic growth, jobs, and retail, coming second. The ACT ranked third with large growth in dwelling starts and population growth.
New South Wales moved from fifth to fourth along Victoria and Queensland, with relatively low unemployment helping out there. However, Victoria dropped due to higher unemployment, with Queensland also affected by weaker housing finance.
In terms of gross domestic product, the Northern Territory leads, followed by Western Australia and the ACT. But economic activity in Tasmania was up just 5.5% – the island state recorded a growth rate of negative 2.9%.
Western Australia retained its rank for retail trade – although James noted that if monthly retail trade data was assessed, the ACT and South Australia would swap ranks. The Northern Territory and Queensland ranked second and third, followed by Victoria.
Tasmania recorded the weakest result, up just 6.5% on the decade average.
The Northern Territory and Western Australia recorded the strongest job markets, with the former recording a jobless rate of just 3.9%. The weakest market was in Queensland, with the jobless rate at 6.1%, 19% above the decade average.
Housing finance, James said, was a "useful indicator of activity in the financial sector". Victoria had the strongest market, with housing finance commitments 2.4% below the decade average level, while in Western Australia, the number of commitments was 3% below the long-term average.
Tasmania recorded the weakest result with commitments 27% lower than the decade average.
Overall, James said the states have mostly retained their rankings, although Northern Territory has enjoyed some improvement due to the ongoing strength of its natural gas projects. Tasmania is still expected to be the weak point.
"The Tasmanian economy continues to struggle and there are few signs of improvement on the horizon. The economy must exploit the relative advantages of a cheap property market and attractive agricultural export and tourism opportunities."
This article first appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>
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Tasmania must exploit the advantages of its cheap property market: CommSec

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The auctions market has continued to show signs of ongoing strength, with clearance rates remaining above 60% in the major capital cities.
The moves comes after several weeks of positive property data, including price rises recorded by RP Data, Rismark International and the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Clearance rates have also remained above 60% and are up compared to the same time last year.
Analysts also suggest another rate cut will help boost sentiment even further, following on from the Reserve Bank's decision to slash rates by 25 basis points earlier this month.
According to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 62% compared to 60% last week and 53% this same time last year. But chief executive Enzo Raimondo said the main test for the market is yet to come.
"A significant test for the market will occur next weekend when around 1,200 auctions are expected, the highest number for a weekend since December in 2010."
SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher says it's a good sign – and says clearance rates could reach as high as the high 60s or even low 70s by February or March if conditions continue.
"We're really seeing that results are higher than at this time last year, and it's been happening for a large number of consecutive weeks."
"We could see auction clearance rates reach even higher next year, if conditions continue."
Sydney recorded a clearance rate of 56%, down from last week's rate of 60%, but up from last year's 52% result.
A report out today from BIS Shrapnel suggests housing market conditions in the capital cities will continue to improve, but that a small boom in prices wouldn't actually help long-term recovery.
This article first appeared on SmartCompany
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Weekend auctions show continued signs of strengthening

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The property market has delivered yet another weekend of solid results with clearance rates above 60%, adding to hope that a prolonged period of economic stability and interest rate cuts will continue to send prices higher.
The news follows the release of figures from RP Data that showed prices increased 1.2% in September, while the RBA cut interest rates two weeks ago – and is expected to do so again next month.
And in a big sign of confidence, a key indicator in the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/economy/052284-rate-cut-does-little-for-consumer-confidence-westpac-survey-reveals">Westpac consumer sentiment survey</a> found more people are optimistic about buying a house, even though overall consumer confidence is still mild.
According to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 62%. Although that's down from last week's 62%, it still manages to beat last year's corresponding rate of 54%.
There were 578 auctions reported, and a further 690 are expected next weekend. And in Sydney, results were similar, with Sydney recording 58% on 606 auctions, compared to 60% last week and 55% last year.
Australian Property Monitors economist Andrew Wilson says the results are, once again, encouraging – but the industry isn't getting too hopeful too soon.
"Certainly, the market is building on some reasonable momentum," Wilson told SmartCompany this morning.
"But markets remain mixed, and consumer sentiment is still reasonably fragile. There is no doubt confidence is returning, and we're seeing higher listings, but I think it's still going to take time."
"At the very least, it's holding."
Wilson says the market doesn't need a jolt of confidence, but rather a steady rise in optimism which can only be achieved through stability in international financial markets, and possibly another interest rate cut next month.
"The Reserve Bank is certainly on watch with regard to the international economy and concerns over the strength of the resources boom. We're seeing those underlying drivers right now, but it will just take time."
"There's nothing to get too excited about just yet. But it's starting to build momentum."
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany</a>.
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Auction clearance rates up on last year

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Domestic retailers may be fighting back. New figures from the Commonwealth Bank show total online retail spending remains strong, but domestic retailers are getting a bigger slice of the pie – growth is up 40% compared to international retail at just 17%.
The figures show an increasing amount of competition coming from bricks-and-mortar retailers, which have invested <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/entrepreneur-watch/retailers-gst-import-hopes-will-come-to-nothing" target="_blank">millions in their multichannel strategies</a>.
CommSec chief economist Craig James says the figures show purely online players don't have the advantage they once did.
"After a year of explosive growth in 2011, the pure play online retail sales growth is converging with total online sales growth."
"This may be an early sign that the international trend of traditional 'bricks and mortar' retailers dominating the online channel is playing out in Australia."
And with the debate over online GST still raging, the CBA points out imposing GST on purchases above $100 would hit 57% of online transactions, against the current 4%.
"While GST is only one factor in Australia's higher retail prices, imposing GST on a larger proportion of transactions would help even up an otherwise unfair playing field."
The analysis is based on two million transactions taking place on the Commonwealth Bank's own credit and debit network.
They show continued strong growth among online retail, which is up 30% in the year to July 2012 at a total of $14 billion. That represents 5.4% of total online sales, with clothing now the fastest growing category.
Traditional retail trade is growing at just over 3% a year.
And while the statistics mostly confirm what the business community already knows, James says there are some key points to be taken – including that strong growth in online is continuing, with 25% of CBA customers having purchased online in the past 12 months.
And those same people have lifted their transaction amount by 22% on average, resulting in an increase in online transaction volumes of 52%.
The figures also show domestic retail is catching up, taking 60% of sales, from 55% last year, "suggesting that Australian consumers are increasingly able to satisfy their online consumption needs from local retailers".
And while sales growth may be continuing, the introduction of new online customers isn't, the CBA says, with the market now reaching a saturation point.
"We estimate that almost 50% of online spending growth is now coming from existing customers shopping more frequently online. This compares to about 33% last year."
The statistics also reveal key demographics, with the majority of purchases made by those under 45 years of age. However, the growth in transaction frequency was similar across all age groups.
Overall, James says the figures are a warning for pure play online retailers that they cannot rely on being online as a point of difference.
But he also says these <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/retail/051904-harvey-norman-s-katie-page-warns-of-offshore-exodus-over-gst" target="_blank">bricks and mortar retailers moving online</a>, such as Myer and David Jones, "have to work hard to deliver a credible online offer in the short term".
"The online retail channel remains a significant issue for Australia's retailers, but the latest trends suggest the local industry is finally adapting. This should be comforting for the many retailers who now have online as a strategic goal."
"The conservative nature of Aussie consumers and the ongoing shift to online spend will continue to hurt traditional retailers," he says.
"Domestic store retailers will need to continue discounting in the current climate in order to entice customers."
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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Australian retailers securing more of online retail pie: CommBank

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Payless Shoes has become the latest corporate victim to succumb to poor consumer confidence, with the discount footwear chain with more than 220 locations now placed in voluntary administration.
The collapse of the business highlights turmoil not only in the fashion industry and footwear, which have suffered collapses and poor sales during the past year, but also the downturn in retail overall.
WHK principal David Gordon says while there are some categories of footwear that are doing extremely well, others in the discount space are struggling to make an impact.
"One of the other issues is that the stores are a bit old, and because of financial difficulties you haven't seen them put much money into the stores."
"They've just reached a point where problems continue to get worse and worse ... and it all catches up with you."
The move comes after two other significant retail chains, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/darrell-lea-s-27-retail-stores-to-close-as-chocolate-maker-sells-to-queensland-s-quinn-family/2012090356379" target="_blank">Darrell Lea</a> and <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/finance/049900-game-retail-chain-to-shut-60-stores-281-jobs-lost" target="_blank">GAME</a>, were also placed in administration during the past few months. Both companies announced plans to close all stores.
The uncertain Payless Shoes will likely impact on retail landlords, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/retail-landlords-westfield-and-centro-hit-hardest-by-payless-administration/2012092456756">with Centro and Westfield the hardest hit.</a>
Insolvency group Jamieson Louttit &amp; Associates was called in last week, following the resignation of the managing director. Deloitte partners David Lombe and Vaughan Strawbridge were appointed as administrators on Friday.
Both were contacted this morning, but neither was available to comment before publication.
The company is one of the largest footwear businesses in the country, with 230 locations across the country.
Gordon says it isn't necessarily the footwear industry that's suffering, but rather the space of retail Payless Shoes had carved out for itself.
"There are certain categories in footwear that are doing quite well. Those include retailers that are catering for the older market who require more footcare, including people over 45 who need decent shoes, and they're not afraid to spend more."
"The others that are doing well are the fashion types, and that includes even the less expensive fashion stores."
Payless, Gordon says, operated in a "discount no man's land".
"The only real factor they have to offer is that they're offering shoes at a very good price. But if that's all you've got, people aren't going to spend."
Westfield recently reported footwear sales are down 1.8% for the 12 months to June 2012, and were down 2.3% in the second half of that same year. Given shoes can often be a discretionary purchase, many customers will opt to wait for longer than usual when deciding to purchase new shoes.
Payless Shoes faces stiff competition, not only from cheaper players like Kmart and Target, but also specialised retailers like Athlete's Foot – which has been one of the strongest-performing retailers in the past few years.
Gordon says the connection to the customer is simply lost.
"The message was, come to us and we'll give you cheap footwear. But people don't see that as a trigger to purchase shoes anymore."
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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Payless trodden into voluntary administration by poor consumer confidence

Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<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/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

Patrick Stafford

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