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MAB Corporation has sold a state-of-the-art service station and convenience store complex on Melbourne's West Gate Freeway for $22.5 million, the largest sale of a petrol station anywhere in Australia for more than 10 years.
The sale reflects a 5.5 percent yield.
The property was sold by Savills Chris Jones, Clinton Baxter and Ben Hegarty, in conjunction with Dawkins Occhiuto's Andrew Dawkins and Walter Occhiuto.
They said the marketing campaign generated strong international and local interest, with the purchaser a Melbourne based private investor.
 
"In addition to numerous local bids, we also generated multiple offers from Asia and Europe, with purchasers particularly driven by the property’s enviable and unique position on the West Gate Freeway, one of Australia’s busiest roads," Chris said.
"It was an opportunity that rarely comes to market and unlikely to be repeated given the dearth of similar sites and properties offering such strong locational advantages."
Clinton said investor interest was also driven by the state-of-the-art facility and the first rate tenancy profile offering stable long-term cash flow.
"The property offered investors a brand new state-of-the-art facility with maximum depreciation benefits to complement the strong income from A-grade tenants Shell, Hungry Jacks and Red Rooster."
"It really ticked all the boxes of a superb commercial investment,’’ he said.
The property at 62 Cook Street, Port Melbourne was constructed and opened earlier this year.
Walter Occhiuto said the property was sold subject to leases to Viva Energy Australia (Shell/Coles Express), Hungry Jack’s and Red Rooster on 15 year terms, for a total net income of $1.41 million.
The brand new complex comprises nearly 700 sqm of buildings, 1200 sqm of canopy and 57 parking spaces on a large 10,000 sqm site.
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

MAB’s West Gate sells for $22.5 million

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A corner development site of nearly half an acre in Box Hill’s Major Development Precinct will fetch more than $20 million, according to marketing agents Savills.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-box+hill-502057214" target="_blank">843 Whitehorse Road</a> property comprises a 1972 sqm land area, positioned adjacent to Box Hill Institute and close to Box Hill Hospital. 
It is soon to be rezoned to Commercial Zone 1, and will be sold subject to that rezoning process, according to Savills marketing agents Clinton Baxter, Nick Peden, and Jesse Radisich.
"This zoning within the Major Development Precinct provides the potential for a landmark redevelopment - based on the development height precedent of 36 levels in the immediate vicinity - with CBD views," Clinton said.
"Like the majority of other development sites in Box Hill it will also benefit from the best level of suburban amenity, including shopping, transport, education and lifestyle features, available  anywhere in Melbourne, and within comfortable commuting distance of the CBD."
“This is one of the very best sites, in one of the best locations for residential development anywhere in Australia.”
Savills sold the neighbouring 820 Whitehorse road late last year for $18.18 million, which set a new metropolitan development site record.
They also sold <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-box+hill-501972186" target="_blank">826-830 Whitehorse Road</a> for $30.8 million last month, on behalf of both Scope and Navy Health.
Box Hill has risen to national prominence as one of Australia’s leading apartment development destinations.
The property is for sale via expressions of interest closing August 31.
 
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Box Hill site to fetch over $20 million

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Two 7-Eleven service station and convenience store investment properties have sold at auction achieving record low yields for the sector.
The first property at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/154-158-st-kilda-road-cnr-alma-road-st-kilda-vic-3182-2012893166" target="_blank">154-158 St Kilda Road, St Kilda</a> (above) sold for $10.2 million, reflecting an initial net yield of just 2.73 percent.
The other 7-Eleven at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-box+hill-502007094" target="_blank">786 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill</a> sold for $8 million, showing an even lower yield at 2.14 percent. 
Both properties were purchased by off-shore investors and the combined price exceeded the vendor's reserve.
JLL's Directors of Retail Investments Stephen Bolton and Stuart Taylor handled the campaigns 
"We expected the high profile properties to achieve strong results based on the enquiry levels received throughout the campaign," Stephen said.
"Both properties attracted a mix of buyer types, comprising local, interstate and off-shore investors.” 
“The strength and security of the lease covenant to 7-Eleven and continued strong growth of 4 percent per annum helped push investors to these prices. 
The assets featured brand new 15 year leases to 7-Eleven with an option for a further 15 years.
The sub 3 percent yields are a record for the sector and support the ongoing yield compression for prime retail investments in the Melbourne market”, Mr Bolton added.  
These actions follow the recent sale of the Liberty service station at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-fitzroy-501909490" target="_blank">151-159 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy,</a> which sold for $9,600,000 reflecting an initial yield of 1.53 percent.
The 1,684 sqm property, currently operating as a Liberty Petrol station benefited from a long term lease until March 2017  and a one 5 year lease option. 
 
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Record low yields achieved with 7- Eleven service station sales

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Victoria's Del Rios, one of Australia's largest vineyards, has been sold for between $22 million and $25 million.
There was strong interest from a range of local, national and international buyers.
Colliers International's Tim Altschwager and Nick Dean brokered the sale to Melbourne-based GoFarm Australia on behalf of Belvino Investments.
Tim Altschwager said the vineyard, located on the Murray River in Kenley, 77km north of Swan Hill, was one of most significant vineyards in Australia.
“With a vineyard area of nearly 900ha and high security water entitlements of 5,476.2 megalitres, the well-established Del Rios property generated interest from a range of local, national and international groups, before ultimately being acquired by Melbourne-based agricultural developer/manager GoFarm," he said.
“Many parties were interested in the large water entitlement alone.
“The solid enquiry we received is representative of increased interest in Australian wine industry assets, which is largely due to more favourable fundamentals, a lower Australian dollar, free trade agreements and the return of the US and UK to the market. 
He said with bulk wine stocks currently low.
"We are receiving increased levels of enquiry for wine industry assets and, in particular, large scale warm climate vineyards that can produce high volumes of fruit to take advantage of increased overseas demand for fruit and wine.”
Located within the Murray Darling Wine Region, the second largest wine region in Australia, has about 1,300 growers and 23,000 hectares of vineyards producing around 400,000 tonnes annually.
The vineyard was established from 1998 to 2003 and is predominantly planted to Chardonnay (39%), Sauvignon Blanc (20%), Merlot (14%) and Shiraz (8.5%). 
Extensive infrastructure servicing this large scale irrigated vineyard includes office, housing, sheds and staff amenities. 
In last 12 months, four of the five largest vineyards in Australia have changed hands, with Duxton Group acquiring the Littore Vineyards and Macquarie Bank’s Chalmers Vineyard, in addition to the sale of Del Rios and rumours of the Dunvar vineyard at Darlinton Point recently selling. 
 “This vineyard movement has wine companies hungrily seeking grapes for 2017 and investors seeking warm climate vineyards to purchase,” he said.
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Local buyer snaps up one of Australia's largest vineyards in Victoria

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A Seaford industrial site has been sold for $1.825 million at auction, reflecting a sub-7 percent yield.
The property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-showrooms+bulky+goods-vic-seaford-502001378" target="_blank">6 Hartnett Drive</a> comprises two modern corner showroom building sites over one title, on a combined 2490 sqm site.
Improvements comprises two modern high-clearance showroom/warehouse building with a combined building area of 1,292sqm and 21 on site car parks, returning a total of $126,839 per annum plus GST and outgoings across two income streams.
Fitzroy's Dean Alexander and Mark Talbot handled the campaign, which saw in excess of 60 enquiries and four bidders on auction day.
Dean said the vendor was a family which had held the property for a number of years, and the purchaser a well-known powerhouse Melbourne-based family.
Alexander said the strong enquiry receive reflected the property’s modern industrial improvements, corner location with main road exposure and within the established Bayside showroom and industrial precinct, and close proximity to the major Eastlink arterials and Frankston CBD. 
The site was sold with leases to bathrooms and plumbing suppliers Big Hen until August 2017 with a further three-year term, and AWM Electrical and Data Supplies until October 2018.
 
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Seaford industrial sells for $1.825 million

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Kingston Estate Wines has snapped up the New Residence vineyard in South Australia's famous Riverland region.
They've acquired the 252 hectare commercial vineyard for an undisclosed amount through Colliers International’s Tim Altschwager and Nick Dean on behalf of Seven Fields.
Located just outside Loxton, the vineyard is planted with around 36.4 percent red varieties and 63.6 percent planted to white.
It was developed in 2001 and planted to 233 hectares with the balance of the land comprising headlands, formed internal roads and shed curtilage.
Tim said they received significant interest from both domestic and international investors and existing wine industry participants.
New Residence vineyard was one of three large commercial vineyard investment properties managed by Seven Fields that were put to market through Colliers International. 
“The portfolio also included the Conundrum vineyard in the Riverland region and the Howcroft Estate vineyards in the Bordertown wine region,” Tim said.
“The Conundrum vineyard is currently under contract and the Howcroft vineyard was sold to Casella Wines in December 2015."
Nick said the Riverland region was Australia’s largest producer of wine grapes, responsible for approximately 30% of the national grape crush annually.  
“The economic benefit to the Riverland is substantial and in turn sustains the development of the region."
“The Riverland is developing as an entrenched tourist destination, combining proximity to Adelaide with obvious physical charms of the Murray River and its wine and food culture.”
 
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Kingston Estate Wines expands vineyard holdings

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Challenger banks are leading the response to the RBA’s second rate cut this year with Bank Australia and Bank of Sydney to pass on the full 25 basis point rate cut as the Big 4 hold back up to 15 basis points, says Mozo.com.au.
The financial comparison site says the big banks are also delaying interest rate relief to borrowers by up to 3 weeks, while Bank Australia’s generous cut will be passed on this Friday.
“The Big 4 are set to pocket a whopping $1.6 billion by denying loyal borrowers up to 15 basis points in rate relief and delaying passing on their miserly cuts by up to 20 days,” says Mozo Director Kirsty Lamont.
“At the same time, we’ve already seen two challenger banks announce they will pass on the rate cut in full and Bank Australia’s customers will get their rate relief a full week before the first big bank delivers on its stingy rate cut.”
“The third rate cut in under 18 months is great news for Aussie home borrowers and we are hoping to see a race to rock-bottom rates by challenger banks eager to snatch business away from the big banks,” says Lamont. 
All four of the big banks have announced they will cut variable home loan rates, withholding around half of yesterday’s 25 basis point RBA cut.
NAB, ANZ, CBA and Westpac have confirmed they will pass on just 10, 12, 13 and 14 basis points respectively, in August.
Bank Australia announced it would pass on the full 25 basis points, opening the door for big cuts by other smaller lenders.
<a href="https://mozo.com.au/home-loans/variable-rate" target="_blank">Mozo</a> have Mortgage House as having the lowest variable rate. Borrowers can compare 478 home loans online using Mozo’s Home Loan comparison tool.
Data insights director at RateCity.com.au Peter Arnold said variable mortgage holders were carefully watching the banks’ moves.
“The major banks’ decisions are disappointing, and it means that around 80 per cent of all variable home loan customers will miss out on some of the savings,” he said.
“The fact that all of the Big Four banks have decided to pass on just half yesterday’s RBA cut isn’t surprising and proves shareholders are their number one priority now.
“But the good news for borrowers is that there’s a home loan rate war going on and plenty of lenders will be passing on the cut in full and are actively hunting for new customers with low rates.
“There are plenty of lenders already offering rates below 4 per cent for owner-occupiers, so if you’re on a rate above 4.5 per cent, the chances are you’ll still be behind, even if you do get a cut.”
“Not all lenders passed on the full 0.25 percentage point saving after the May rate cut, with just 0.18 percentage points making its way to customers on average, leaving borrowers $183 million out of pocket,” he said.
<a href="/images/2016/08/03/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-03%20at%2012.53.48%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/08/03/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-03%20at%2012.53.48%20PM.png" alt="">
Source: Rate City calculations based on a 30-year home loan at the average SV rate of 4.71 percent.
 
 
 
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RBA rate cut update: Which banks have moved?

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Uncertainty around the housing market has affected the cost of renovating in NSW with costs rising by just 0.8 per cent in the past year.
According to data released by ServiceSeeking.com.au, NSW costs have fallen below the national Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the same time period.
The state average for a tradie has stabilised at $60.25 an hour, 2.3 percent less than the national average of $61.65
It’s a great time to get stuck into your renovation plans, says ServiceSeeking.com.au.
 “If you’ve been dreaming of a new kitchen, bathroom, entertaining area or applying a new coat of paint to your house, then now is the time to take advantage of a slowing down in home renovation prices," said ServiceSeeking.com.au CEO Jeremy Levitt
It is cheaper to renovate in NSW than Western Australia ($67.34 up 1.8 per cent) and Queensland ($63.14 up 4.4 per cent).
Victoria is the cheapest and the only state to record a drop in prices by 2.2 per cent to $57.28.
The trades which bucked the trend in NSW were carpentry (up 11.3 per cent on the national average at $62.83 an hour) and painting (where prices were 10 per cent higher).
Other big price changes affected electricians - who were 9.4 per cent cheaper in NSW than the national average - and plumbing at 4.2 per cent cheaper.
The prices were derived by comparing 52,000 quotes submitted through the online services marketplace during the FY16 Q4.
To view price changes across 10 popular renovation services around the country, including major capital cities, see <a href="https://ib3.bislr.net/m?s=serviceseeking&amp;m=s_4e868d04-e38e-4d68-9756-a7b45fffcc78&amp;u=e1jq4wvfdtfm2e2174w3ee1k5n346ga45mu30ha25mw3ehhj5muk4dhr8cu4ad2568v46&amp;r2=d1u78w1u5wqqexvq5ttpawkpd5hpawv5cnnpjvk75thpyvkd5tgqabvjcnq6yxk1ehmpyvkk&amp;n=1" target="_blank">www.serviceseeking.com.au/renovations</a>
 
<img src="/images/2016/08/03/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-03%20at%209.28.37%20AM.png" alt="">
 
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How much to pay your tradie? NSW cheaper than national average for renovations

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According to SMSF Association CEO and managing director Andrea Slattery, the cut in the official interest rate to a new low of 1.5 percent will hurt SMSF trustees who have large cash balances in retirement phase.
“Although this low interest rate environment is cause for concern for some trustees, the Association is, however, greatly heartened by the fact that a current research report shows that those SMSFs in the transition to retirement or pension phases are typically coping “very well”, she said.
“Research by the SMSF Association and the retirement experts Accurium shows that the medium average return of funds in these two phases of transition to retirement and full retirement is 4.2% – a real return of more than 3% after inflation, an excellent result in this volatile investment environment. 
“Quite clearly such a real return shows SMSF trustees are getting good advice and are making informed decisions to ensure they are both safeguarding their capital and generating an income.” 
Slattery says the research should help dispel the myth that trustees – especially in the retirement phase – are a one-trick pony with their money only in cash or fixed deposits and blue-chip Australian equities.
“The reality is trustees have been able to find ways of diversifying their investment portfolios to generate healthy returns after inflation, especially considering low interest rates and difficult investment markets, highlighting, yet again, the value of sound strategic advice," she said.
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SMSF trustees in retirement phase set to be hurt after official RBA rate cut

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Unlisted property fund manager Quintessential Equity, has secured ACT Health as a new majority tenant at its office building in Canberra.
The recently refurbished building at 2-6 Bowes Street in Woden Town Centre will become the new home of ACT Health and 750 of its workforce.
The ACT Government agency has signed a long term, 15-year deal to occupy nearly 90 percent of the building and lease around 11,000 sqm of office space.
The formerly vacant building is now fully leased with existing tenants, the Commonwealth Government and Employment Plus, making up the rest of the office.
Quintessential Equity COO, Russell Bullen, said the arrival of ACT Health to Woden Town Centre is a huge vote of confidence in the area and firmly establishes its credibility as the epicentre of health administration in the nation’s capital. 
“We are delighted to welcome ACT Health to our Bowes Street property and we are excited at what it will mean for the area as a whole."
"The addition of 750 employees to Woden will be a much needed boost for the local community and we hope this Government agency relocation will pique the interest of other State and Federal Government departments and health related organisations to consider a move to the Woden Town Centre."
Purchased for $14 million in June 2012, the property underwent a nine month regeneration in 2014 designed to achieve a 5-star NABERS Base Building Energy Rating.
“The substantial upgrade of the property in 2014 - which included the installation of new lifts, services and refurbished amenities - completely transformed the building and the offering for potential tenants," Bullen said.
"It’s now fully equipped to provide high quality office accommodation for our tenants.” 
 
 
 
 
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Quintessential Equity secures ACT Health as new majority tenant at Canberra Property

Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

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Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

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Joel Robinson

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

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A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

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The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

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Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Staff reporter

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