<html><body>
The Flinders home of retired art gallery owners Tony and Rose Osbourne is on the market.
The couple paid $765,000 for the 20 hectares in 1996.
Offering views over the paddocks to the sea, the rural property, complete with main house and guest cottage, is surrounded by old-fashioned country gardens down a privately sealed road.
Designed by architect Jamie Learmonth, the pavilion-style home features timber decks, a large entry hall and courtyard with fish pond.
The main house has three bedrooms with the guest cottage adding another.
Suited to various rural pursuits, the property offers well fenced paddocks with troughs, an Olympic0sized horse arena, stables, tack room, large spring-fed dam, electric fencing, machinery shed and a workshop.
Prue McLaughlin and Rollo Moore have the listing of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-flinders-121659002" target="_blank">185 Meakins Road</a> with an asking price of $5 million plus.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Flinders trophy home on the market

<html><body>
Australia's largest non-bank mortgage lender Firstmac will pass the full cut to its customers following the RBA's 0.25 percent cut to the official cash rate.
Almost half of Australia's lenders are continuing to stall on revealing their response, but Firstmac have announced their cut will be effective from May 23.
The cut will apply to all variable rate loans including owner occupier and investment loans.
Firstmac Managing Director Kim Cannon said Firstmac was pleased to be in the minority of lenders who had promptly committed to pass on the full benefit to borrowers.
“It is disappointing that nearly two thirds of Australian lenders have either failed to pass on last week’s RBA rate cut in full, or have not yet announced their response, leaving mortgage brokers in an awkward situation with their customers,” he said.
“There is plenty of competition in the home loan market, and bank customers can see they could be saving money on interest if they chose another lender as well as getting straight answers about how much they will be paying.”
“Bank customers who switch to a Firstmac home loan can save themselves tens of thousands of dollars, and years off their home loan.”
Comparison site finder.com.au found that 49 percent of the 74 lenders on its database have still not announced their rate changes, a full week after the RBA announcement.
Only 26 lenders have passed on the cut in full, while 12 lenders have kept some of the cut for themselves.
</body></html>

Firstmac to pass on May rate cut in full

<html><body>
A strata titled shop on the Windsor end of Melbourne's popular retail strip Chapel Street has sold to a Melbourne-based investor for $1.315 million, or $18,264 a square metre, in a private sale.
The 43 Chapel Street property attracted enquiries from local and off-shore investors including SMSFs, according to marketing agents, Teska Carson’s George Takis and Larry Takis.
The property comprises the ground floor retail component of a two-level Victorian-style building on a 72-square metre site.
The property was offered subject to a three-year lease with a three-year option to Cheung Shing Pty Ltd, trading as Fish on Chapel, on an annual rental of $61,807 with 5 percent annual increases.
"This location at the Windsor end is exposed to tens of thousands of passing cars per day along with an enormous amount of pedestrian traffic and this has attracted numerous well-known restaurateurs, including Hawker Hall, Saigon Sally, Massina, Tokyo Tina and Mr Miyagi, to what is now a widely recognised destination for connoisseurs of fine food," said George Takis.
</body></html>

Retail shop in Melbourne's Chapel St. fetches $1.31 million

<html><body>
A four bedroom single level Noosa property has been listed with $1.75 million hopes.
Built in 1982 and set on 613 sqm, the open plan living areas and main bedroom adjoin a covered terrace with swimming pool and landscaped grounds. 
Each of the homes four bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms. 
Located on the sought-after Wyuna Drive, the home is a short walk to Noosa's restaurants and beaches.
The owners are Melbourne-based restauranteurs who bought the weekender in 2006 for $1.5 million.
Their main residence is The Mulburnian in Melbourne and they have owned Jack's Satay House in Moonee Ponds for over 26 years.
Roark Walsh of Tom Offerman Real Estates has the listing of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-noosaville-122427194" target="_blank">28 Wyuna Drive</a>.
</body></html>

Single level Noosa trophy home listed

<html><body>
Injured NRL star Billy Slater has sold his redundant Byron Bay hinterland retreat which he had rarely found time to visit let alone renovate.
Some of the Crabbes Creek locals were hoping for a rugby academy, but Slater has instead taken the bullish $1.375 million offer. No buyer's name yet, but apparently a Sydney legal eagle.
Slater told the Telegraph in 2014, he fancied himself settling down on the property to train a few horses as a hobby.
He actually met his wife Nicole - who is a successful artist - riding horses, and their children Jake and Tyla Rose attend riding school once a week.
There was certainly plenty of land to ride on the 36 hectare estate which he paid $1.105 million for in 2011. 
But the Narbour born Queenslander realised he just had too much doing in Melbourne. It is likely the versatile fullback has spent more time flying over his hinterland property to square up against the Broncos, Cowboys and Titans than actually visiting the private estate where they envisaged a new home.
Slater, who has represented the Maroons 27 times in the state of origins, sold in around 75 days, bettering the typical 115 days on market for the popular far North Coast locality.
<a href="https://www.realestateofdistinction.com.au/properties.php?id=14641875" target="_blank">It comes with a five bedroom old style farmhouse</a>, located around 20 minutes from Byron Bay.
Real Estate of Distinction Byron Bay agent Janis Perkins secured the quick sale having set a $1.395 million asking price.
Perkins colourfully added to the listing 'you will kick a goal with this solid gold investment', a hint as to Slater's property ownership.
Positioned at the end of a long private driveway, the property has a half size tennis court and machinery shed.
Melbourne have had a strong start to the season but that's been without the help of their star studded fullback, who is likely to miss the rest of the season with further damage to his shoulder.
He has quashed rumours about retirement in a recent interview with Triple M.
“The day’s gonna come where I have to hang up the boots, I just don’t feel that day is right now."
Slater signed a two year contract at the end of last year as he attempts to become the NRL's greatest try scorer for one club.
He has spent his whole professional career at the Melbourne club and has won three grand finals, the Clive Churchill medal and the Dally M medal.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
</body></html>

Billy Slater sells Byron hinterland retreat

<html><body>
The cheerful co-host of Channel 9's renovation TV series The Block, Shelley Craft and her husband Christian Sergiacomi have sold their Byron Bay hilltop retreat.
There has been no price confirmation from<a href="https://www.byronbaypropertysales.com.au/listing-71481-Owners-Committed-Elsewhere" target="_blank"> Byron Bay Property Sales</a>, however the couple wanted $3.7 million.
According to the recent advertising the owners are "committed elsewhere."
It seems since they listed the home late last year the family have decided to move into the Byron township rather than buy again in the hinterland.
It's becoming a bit of a trend with entreprenuer Tom Lane and his wife Emma also making the shift into town.
The couple, who met when Sergiacomi was a cameraman on the hit renovation show, had an 8,600 metre north facing block at McLeods Shoot.
The four bedroom home takes in 360 degree views from sunrise to sunset. Everything from the iconic lighthouse, Julian Rocks and Mt Warning.
She got some design tips from fellow Block stars Darren Palmer and Shaynna Blaze after the property was bought from the McGettigan pioneering family who who first settled in Byron Bay in 1882.
Craft — who says she’s hooked on renovating homes — and Sergiacomi — who has taken to selling real estate — were married in 2009 at an earlier home in the Byron Bay district.
Craft signed up with Nine in 2008 taking over at Australia's Funniest Home Videos.
She then began as co-host on the lifestyle series, Domestic Blitz alongside Scott Cam in mid 2008. Her time on The Block began in 2011. She is now one of the faces of Channel 9’s fourth channel 9Life, which features lifestyle shows.
</body></html>

The Block co-host Shelley Craft sells Byron hilltop retreat

<html><body>
The newly developed Alta building on Gold Coast's Main Beach was designed by Willemsen Architecture.
Set in a boutique block of just six flats, the apartment is located just 500 metres from the ocean and 200 metres from the Nerang River.
The 323 sqm apartment boasts a generous 249 sqm of internal space and has three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a study.
The open plan living area meets a 40 sqm entertainers terrace.
The kitchen is the focal point of the property, featuring a four metre Carrara marble island bench with waterfall edge, a wine fridge, and integrated appliances.
The <a href="https://www.christiesrealestate.com/eng/sales/detail/170-l-86-f1603221113700002/alta-crafted-with-passion-other-queensland-ql-4217" target="_blank">property is available through</a> Christies International agent Darren Curtis who is asking for $2.4 million.
The other five apartments in the block which features a north-facing saltwater lap pool and residents' gym are also for sale. 
</body></html>

Gold Coast trophy block Alta apartment listed 

<html><body>
There's a restart with the former Australian sprint champ turned television presenter Matthew Shirvington hoping to sell his Mosman home.
Shirvington and wife Jessica listed the home in 2012 but couldn't find a buyer.
They paid a bullish $2.5 million for the late 1880s home in 2008 and renovated it in 2010, the year he joined Sky News Australia as their sports presenter.
Met by a striking entry foyer, the home retained some of its original features, such as its formal banquet dining hall and a sunroom with original tessellated tiles.
Set on an 822 sqm parcel, the family home has four bedrooms and a kids playroom which opens to private courtyard gardens with established vegetable and herb gardens.
The property is listed through Belle Property. 
Shirvington was a five-time 100 metre Australian track champion and represented Australia in the Sydney Olympic Games.
He took part in Dancing with the Stars in 2004 whilst in athletics before retiring completely in 2008.
Since leaving the track Shirvington has featured as a guest on the Biggest Loser and he has been the host of Fox Sports NRL coverage and joined The Back Page as a co-host.
The Olympian stayed in athletics in Australia, working with St George Illawarra Dragons in 2012 pre-season as their sprint training coach.
The second fastest Australian in history.
Author Jessica Shirvington is known for The Violet Eden Chapters.
They have two daughters Sienna and Winter.
The family are now based in Cremorne Point having paid $8.4 million for the manor-style mansion Belvedere last year
</body></html>

Matthew Shirvington relists in Mosman

<html><body>
Eleven suburbs across Melbourne secured 100 percent home clearance rates in April, according to Domain.
Melbourne had a very successful April under the hammer, with the more modest suburbs such as Keilor Downs and Taylors Hill batting above their average.
They lined up alongside the more traditional blue ribbon areas of Prahran and Canterbury who also enjoyed a 100 percent clearance rate in April.
Dingley Village in the city's south east recorded the highest number of auctions and Buxton director Jason Garlick said auctions have always been popular, but competition picked up in the last 12 months.
Garlick suggested the suburb was popular for its good schools such as Mentone Grammar, the new South Road bypass, the revitalisation of Dingley Village Shopping Centre and the introduction of Hawthorn Football Clubs HQ.
Domain chief economist Andrew Wilson said that there is a remarkably even spread in the Melbourne auction market.
<div>“Even though Melbourne is much flatter than it was this time last year, it is clearly still a seller’s market and clearly the best auction market in the country.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Suburbs with 100 percent clearance rates in April for units</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Suburb         Auctions         Clearance rate</div>
<div>
 Armadale                 9              100 percent Toorak                     7              100 percent Croydon                  5              100 percent Elsternwick           5              100 percent Caulfield                 5              100 percent
</div>
Dr. Wilson said many lower-priced suburbs that had been relatively flat for a few years were now playing catch up due to the current low interest rates and an improving economy.
He said buyers had discovered their "almost irresistible affordability".
"Melbourne are also seeing a higher number of auctions in those areas, which is a reflection of that strong competition."
Buyers from suburbs closer to the city have been looking at Keilor Downs and Taylors Hill since the Melbourne market picked up about 18 months ago, according to Barry Plant director James Hatzimoisis.
“They realise they can buy more house for less money,” Mr Hatzimoisis said.
He said young families looking for more space for children were competitive for entry level properties.
Even upgrade buyers fought for higher-end properties because they were cheaper than the eastern suburbs.
The status quo still stands in unit auction clearance rates. Only five suburbs achieved a 100 percent rate across April.
 
Suburbs with 100 percent clearance rates in April for Houses
Suburb                 Auctions         Clearance rate
Dingley Village              14             100 percent
Keilor Downs                  9             100 percent
Parkdale                           9             100 percent
McKinnon                         8             100 percent
Tullamarine                     8             100 percent
Taylors Hill                      7             100 percent
Ashburton                       6             100 percent
Caulfield North               6             100 percent
Canterbury                       6             100 percent
Altona Meadows               6             100 percent
</body></html>

Which 11 Melbourne suburbs are scoring 100 percent auction clearance rates?

<html><body>
Australia's newest bank, Greater Bank, has announced it will reduce interest rates on all variable homes loans by 0.25 percent.
It has also introduced a new special offer home loan at under four percent.
Greater Bank's CEO Scott Morgan said the cut would hit the companies bottom line but it was putting customers first by passing on the cut and ahead of profits.
He said that unlike the major banks and many other lenders, Greater Bank didn't increase variable owner occupied home loan rates for existing customers late last year.
“This customer first approach is one of the reasons DBM’s latest Consumer Atlas study shows Greater Bank is Australia’s most recommended financial institution,” Mr Morgan said.
The cut will be effective for existing customers from May 16.
The banks Standard Variable Home Loan rate will drop to 4.75 percent, the lower rate of comparable loans offered by the big four.
 
<img src="/images/2016/05/05/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-05%20at%2011.53.05%20am.png" alt="" width="358" height="119">
 
Their special variable owner occupied home loan for new customers borrowing more than $150,000 will have a comparison rate of 3.99 percent.
The cut in rates will save a Greater Bank customer with a $300,000 loan around $44 a month.
Greater Bank is customer-owned and provides home loans and other banking services to around 250,000 in New South Wales and South East Queensland. 
 
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

Australia's newest bank passes on RBA rate cut

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374394]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

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

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News