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The Hodges estate agency has been named winner of the best website award by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV).
Hodges attributed the win to their recent rebranding after a complete rebuild in 2015.
The site’s audience is predominantly mobile, so the design factored in tablets and smartphones. 
The go-digital approach resulted in a significant rise in hits to the website in the past 12 months, with 303,828 views so far in 2015.
“I am incredibly proud to be a part of Hodges leading the industry," Hodges CEO Carmel Baker said. 
In its 21st year, the REIV Awards considered more than 250 submissions, with Hodges in the top three finalists for the Communications Award, Best Website Award, and Residential Property Manager of the Year (Principals).
Under their new CEO Baker, Hodges expects to increase its franchise presence around the bay from Point Nepean to Queenscliff by 50 percent in the next 12 months.
Established in 1856, Hodges is one of Melbourne’s oldest real estate agencies.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Hodges scoops up best website award at REIV event

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The annual Spring selection auction by Ray White Surfers Paradise saw more than $22 million in Gold Coast property change hands.
Thirty properties were auctioned with 141 registered bidders.
RWSP group CEO Andrew Bell, who has more than 14,000 auctions under his belt, said competitive bidding drove many sales well over the reserve.
“Collectively, properties that sold under the hammer achieved more than $1.5 million above their reserve prices,” he said. 
The RWSP Group recorded its third highest sales month in history in September, with $96 million in sales across its Gold Coast offices.
“Month after month we are seeing serious and competitive bidding at our in-room auctions which has allowed us to gain momentum heading into peak selling season.”
Previous highs were in the latter part of 2007, at the peak of the Gold Coast’s last property boom.
Bell said this reflected increased market share, resurgence of the local property market and success of the auction format.
“Auctions represent approximately half our sales, but it is this method of sale where we are seeing the most significant price growth,” he said.
Bell said his agency was also seeing the return of the owner-occupier market on the Gold Coast.
While the very top end of the market was slowly gaining traction, the $1-$2 million sector was seeing much activity, he added.
Ray White Surfers Paradise is the largest office in the Ray White Network and services the residential, prestige, commercial, industrial and marine sectors.
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Buyers snap up properties worth over $22 million at Ray White's Gold Coast auction

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The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) has announced Geoff White as its elected president for 2015-16, his second stint after serving in 2003-04.
White is an REIV veteran. He was director of REIV from 1999–2007 and 2014-2015, and has served on numerous REIV committees and as chairman of the auction chapter committee.
He started his real estate career in 1984 and has since managed and sold residential, commercial and industrial property, owned his own real estate offices and served as CEO of a growing franchise group.
White is currently commercial manager and branch manager for Lucas Real Estate's Yarra Edge office.
“The REIV Board is united in its focus to improve our real estate profession and follow the good work of the previous Board,” he said.
Two new office bearers were also elected to office for 2015-16 – Joseph Walton (Senior Vice President) and Frank Hellier (Vice President).
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REIV elects industry veteran Geoff White president

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The only capital city where rental yields aren’t being compressed is Hobart, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
Weekly rents in Hobart are rising at a faster pace than dwelling values which are down slightly over the past year.
Hobart is now showing the second highest yield profile across the capital cities after Darwin.
"In fact, it may not be long before Hobart overtakes Darwin as the highest yielding capital, considering the pace of rental falls across the Darwin market place," Tim Lawless recently suggested.
Property Observer went looking for rentals in Hobart and found a mix of units and houses in the range $152 to $850 per week.
For units, the lowest came in at $152 per week, while the highest was $850.
1. This neat one-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/49a-emmaline-court-rokeby/Property-Details-rent-residential-9657980" target="_blank">49A Emmaline Court, Rokeby</a> is to be rented out for $152 per week. The listing is by Danica Reeves of Ray White and the unit is available from October 28.
2. This three-bedroom fully furnished apartment at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/5b-117-collins-street-hobart/Property-Details-rent-residential-9687466" target="_blank">5B/117 Collins Street</a> is out for rent for $850 per week. The listing agent is Jan Nielsen of Salamanca Realty.
Among houses, the lowest rental was $250 per week and the highest $650.
1. This three-bedroom home with a garage at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/1-newton-place-bridgewater/Property-Details-rent-residential-9541772" target="_blank">1 Newton Place, Bridgewater</a> is available for $250 per week. Amanda Harvey of LJ Hooker is the listing agent. 
2. At the higher end, this four-bedroom house sitting on the corner of Barrack and Melville Streets at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/2-76-barrack-street-west-hobart/Property-Details-rent-residential-9706860" target="_blank">2/76 Barrack Street, West Hobart</a> has views of the city and River Derwent. It is to be rented out for $650 per week through Carol Bogun of Falls Real Estate.
 
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Hobart house rentals rising faster than any other capital city: What investors will yield

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Ausin Group (Ausin) has opened two new offices in China to cash in on the growing demand from China buyers for new Australian properties.
The offices are based in Dalian and Chengdu, which takes its total number to 15 offices in China.
Ausin employs over 500 staff working across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Auckland and London.
“In the past 12 months, Ausin has witnessed an increasing appetite for new Australian properties from investors in tier two cities which are those considered to have high growth potential," said Joseph Zaja, the group's managing director.
“Ausin is expanding into growing cities which are the engine rooms for development in the future. China’s middle class is growing and much of that progress can be seen in tier two cities.”
Chengdu has the most number of universities and research institutes in southwestern China with 49 colleges and universities. In 2010, over 140,000 students graduated from these institutes.
According to a nationwide appraisal by the National Bureau of Statistics, Dalian ranks eighth among Chinese cities in terms of overall strength. The city’s main industries include machine manufacturing, petrochemicals and oil refining, and electronics.
“Australian property is looking very lucrative to Chinese buyers for several reasons. These include the growing middle class seeking safe havens outside China to invest their money, the clean livability of the cities and world-class universities which are in close proximity to CBD areas. The value of the Australian dollar against the yuan also makes the country a favourable investment destination.”
Ausin sells premium investment properties for Australian property players including Stockland, Mirvac, Lendlease, Intrapac, Cedar Woods and Setia.
This month a new joint-venture was unveiled by Villa World to deliver a residential community in the fast-growing suburb of Rochedale, on Brisbane's southside in partnership with Ausin.
Villa World had previously purchased a number of land parcels in Rochedale to form a 8.7 hectare site which it planned to develop as a land-only offering.
As part of a joint venture arrangement with Ausin Rochedale Pty Ltd ATF Ausin Rochedale Trust, Villa World will build the 148 premium residences planned for the site, to be offered under traditional progress-payment contracts.
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Ausin opens new China offices to sell Australian property

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Frank Lowy has announced he will retire as chairman of the ASX-listed Scentre Group at the company's annual general meeting in May 2016.
The Scentre board has appointed deputy chairman Brian Schwartz to succeed Lowy.
Lowy said it was the right time to announce his retirement from Scentre Group given that it had successfully completed its establishment phase following the restructuring of the Westfield Group in June 2014. 
"The transition to new leadership has been carefully planned and I have the utmost confidence that Brian Schwartz as the incoming chairman, and CEO Peter Allen, will make the most of those opportunities," he said.
“Frank has been one of the outstanding business and community leaders of the past 50 years,” Schwartz said.
Lowy said the Lowy Family Group would continue with its investment in Scentre Group.
He will continue in his role as chairman of Westfield Corporation.
Steven Lowy will continue to be a non-executive director of the Scentre Group.
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Frank Lowy to retire as chairman of Scentre Group

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Melbourne’s spring market bonanza on October 24-25 is on track to challenge an auction record when 1,683 homes go under the hammer.
The majority of the auctions – 1,550 - are on Saturday.
The weekend is expected to go close to, and possibly exceed, the all-time auction record for a Melbourne weekend. The record was set on the corresponding pre-Melbourne Cup weekend last year (October 25-26) when 1,682 auctions were held.
While the number might go close to the all-time weekend auction record, it may fall just shy of the Saturday record - on October 25 last year - when more than 1,600 auctions were held.
“The high auction levels reflect the strength of the local market and continuing buyer demand for homes across the city,” REIV chief executive officer Enzo Raimondo said. 
“This level of auction activity cements the city’s reputation as Australia’s auction capital.” 
Raimondo said the strong spring season began in mid-August this year, several weeks earlier than last year, and has remained high since then.
Scheduled auctions for the Melbourne Cup weekend are the highest on record, up more than 100 over the same period last year.
The following weekend of November 7- 8 is also gearing up to be a Super Saturday.
Raimondo said these solid auction numbers follow last weekend’s strong results which had 1,080 auctions with a clearance rate of 74 per cent.
Auctions are also gaining in popularity in areas traditionally the domain of private sale. In Melbourne’s outer suburbs, numbers are up 19 per cent on the same period last year, while auction sales are up 37 per cent.
“Melbourne has some of the highest auction numbers not only in Australia, but worldwide. In the current buoyant housing market, buyer demand is encouraging more vendors to sell their home under the hammer,” Raimondo said.
 Melbourne Auction Wrap – For 24/25 October 2015 
This weekend: Total number of auctions this weekend: 1,600+ auctions
This year: Total number of auctions (to 18 Oct): 31,679 @ 77% clearance rate
Previous record auction weekend: 1,682 auctions on week ending 25-26 Oct 2015
Top auction suburbs in Melbourne - this weekend:
<table class="t1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Suburb
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Number of Auctions
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
 
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
GLEN WAVERLEY
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
30
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
MOUNT WAVERLEY
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
27
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
GLEN IRIS
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
24
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
RESERVOIR
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
24
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
HAWTHORN
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
22
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
SOUTH YARRA
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
22
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
PRAHRAN
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
22
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
ELWOOD
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
20
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
ST KILDA
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
20
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
BENTLEIGH EAST
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
BALWYN NORTH
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
HAWTHORN EAST
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
CAMBERWELL
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
DONCASTER EAST
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
18
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
PRESTON
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
18
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
ST KILDA EAST
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
17
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
BRIGHTON
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
17
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
NORTHCOTE
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
16
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
KEW
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
16
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
RICHMOND
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
16
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
 
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
 
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Source: <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">REIV</a>
 
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Photo finish in Melbourne's bonanza auction weekend: all time REIV record looms

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Melbourne property developer Mohan Du has won the Australian Property Institute’s Young Achiever of the Year award for Victoria.
The founder and managing director of Capital Alliance Investment Group has a seven-year pipeline of projects worth nearly $1.2 billion.
And Mohan is 28 years old. 
Du's notable achievements last year included the near completion of M Docklands – a 19-level mixed-use tower featuring the Docklands’ first five-star hotel.
“Winning this award puts the icing on the cake on what has been a very enjoyable and successful year for Capital Alliance," Du said.
“As a passionate Melburnian, my vision is to turn the world’s most liveable city into an international beacon for beautifully designed, innovative, supremely liveable and workable landmarks."
API Victoria president Aldo Galante said the judges recognised Mohan Du’s considerable drive, vision, work ethic and commendable community mindedness.
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Mohan Du wins Australian Property Institute achiever award

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Demand for CBD office space nationally grew slightly in the third quarter of 2015, with Melbourne and Adelaide leading the way, according to Colliers International’s Q3 Office Demand Index.
It showed a small increase of one percent in national office enquiry to 534,226 square metres in the third quarter from 527,226 square metres in the previous quarter.
Enquiries for 3,000 square metre-plus office space, however, rose 20% over the previous quarter. 
Melbourne saw its largest demand in one quarter since the beginning of 2009, with a total of 239,594 square metres, 59% more than the same period last year. 
“We are seeing the evolution of the modern workplace, including the growing trend towards flexible and activity-based working, acting as a key driver for tenant demand in Melbourne,” said Simon Hunt, Colliers International managing director of Office Leasing.
He said business confidence was also on the rise. 
Adelaide saw an increase of 25% to 50,704 square metre in the third quarter compared with the second and a 2% rise year-on-year. 
“We expect Q4 this year to bring a significant amount of tenant decision in Adelaide, with the likes of NEC (3,000 square metres), the Department of Social Services (3,500 square metres) and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (1700 square metres) all in the market to relocate."
One of the most active components of the market was the sub-500 square metres sector, he added, with most businesses trying to increase workplace efficiency. The majority of tenants in the current market are working on an employment density of between 10-12 square metre per person.
Enquiries in Sydney, however, fell a sharp 15% in the third quarter to 173,150 square metres from the second. This figure was still well above the average demand for Sydney since 2009.
Simon Crouch, Colliers International national director of Tenant Representation, said IT companies continued to lead the demand for office space.
“We have seen a shift by these companies, in focussing on Sydney CBD A Grade and CBD Fringe assets, driven by the need to attract the best talent, superior public transport and amenity,” Crouch said. 
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Melbourne, Adelaide lead tepid demand for office space in Q3 

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Seacrest, a designer home at 44 Idaline Street in Sydney's Collaroy Plateau is up for grabs at an asking price of $2.25 million plus. 
Built over 324 square metres, Seacrest has three levels and offers ocean <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-collaroy+plateau-121012666" target="_blank">views over Collaroy’s coastline</a>.
The luxury residence has four bedrooms, a Caeserstone gas kitchen flowing to dining and living and an internal lift from the basement garage to all the floors.
It also has a terraced rear garden, suitable for child play and entertaining.
The basement garage can fit four cars. It is currently used as a work space and home gym. 
The abode is owned by Patricia Westall, a conveyancing practitioner and her partner.
The listing agents are Deborah Cullen and Richard Sholl of Unique Estates.
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Designer home Seacrest at Collaroy Plateau for sale 

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

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