<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
Who will build Australia’s 5G mobile phone network?
Not Chinese telecommunications infrastructure company Huawei, which was recently excluded from involvement via a statement from then acting Home Affairs Minister Scott Morrison – now prime minister – and Communications Minister Mitch Fifield.
Australia’s 5G is likely to be up and running sometime in the next few years, with some trials already underway.
Nevertheless, widespread rollout needs equipment to be purchased, tested and deployed. It needs sites to be obtained for base stations. It needs software upgrades to billing and management systems. So it’s likely to be a little way off yet.
The nuts and bolts of a network
5G will have the same high level architecture as previous cellular networks, but the intricate details are very different.
In very simple terms, a cellular mobile network consists of three components: mobile devices, a radio access network and a core network.
The mobile device might be a smart phone, tablet, or a computer with a USB dongle, but could also be a low-cost sensor with a simple transmitter.
The radio access network consists mainly of base stations (mobile phone towers), and is connected to the core network. The base station uses radio waves to relay communications between the mobile device and the core network. The area covered by a base station is called a cell.
The core network’s main role is to set up communication with other devices and other networks, user management and record information for billing.
Each generation of cellular networking has introduced radical changes to what the network does and how it does it.
Previous generations have seen communications moving from analogue to digital, have introduced data services, have moved to a simplified architecture, have increased the data speed available to end users and increased bandwidth efficiency.
How is 5G different?
Many of the changes introduced by 5G will be in the base stations and core network. These are less apparent to end users, but very important for the network operators.
5G will make use of much higher frequencies for radio communications than has been used in cellular networks in the past.
Since higher frequencies attenuate (weaken) with distance more rapidly than lower frequencies, 5G will use much smaller cell sizes than previous generations. In urban areas cell sizes might only be a few hundred metres in diameter.
Small cell sizes make available previously unused radio frequencies – but introduce additional complexity in managing interference and handover of mobile stations from one base station to another.
5G will also support very large numbers of devices per cell. One of the working parties developing 5G standards specifies a minimum of one million devices per square kilometre.
Being able to support such large numbers of devices is important for the “Internet of Things” – where household devices and machinery are also connected to the internet.
5G will make use of sophisticated signal processing techniques such as Multi Input, Multi Output (MIMO) antennae – which will improve the efficient use of bandwidth.
Because the frequency is higher, the wavelength is smaller (around one millimetre). Optimal antenna size is related to the wavelength. Small wavelengths mean more antennae can be used per mobile node than has been possible in the past which is the basis of MIMO.
Another significant change for 5G will be to centralise much of the processing that in the past was carried out at the base stations. Dealing with the high density of devices and doing sophisticated processing requires a great deal of computing power. Rather than having each base station doing it, the raw data will be transmitted to a central location and be processed there.
China’s Huawei has taken a leading role in the development of 5G. It has made substantial contributions to the standards development process and has been among the first to carry out substantial trials.
China is expected to be the largest global market for 5G with some predictions of more than 400 million connections by 2025.
Will my phone service improve?
Once it’s up and running, the main change for 5G users will be increased speed and reduced delay.
Plans are for peak data rates of around 20 gigabits per second (Gbps) down to the receiver, and 10 Gbps up to the base station. The delay (the time taken to get a packet from the mobile device to the base station) will for most users be less than 4 milliseconds.
Fixed wireless setups are already operating in Europe that use technologies we know will be used in 5G.
However, even though we know what technologies 5G will use, the detailed standards for mobile cellular networks are still to be formalised. Without them, companies cannot produce networking equipment and handsets.
Telecommunications companies need to find sites for the base stations, install the systems and upgrade their software. Consequently, we are still a few years off widespread deployment.
And we don’t know who will build it in Australia.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/102199/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
Philip Branch, Associate Professor in Telecommunications Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-is-a-mobile-network-anyway-this-is-5g-boiled-down-102199" target="_blank">original article</a>.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

What is a mobile network, anyway? This is 5G, boiled down: Philip Branch

<html><body>
An Encounter Bay colonial style cottage on a 700 square metre block that was listed for $279,000 by mortgagees has gone under contract.
It was offered by John Mowling from LJ Hooker.
It last sold at $240,000 in 2009.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-encounter+bay-128840694" target="_blank">16 Higgins Street, Encounter Bay</a>, the late 1980s South Australian home comes with open plan living room, kitchen with dishwasher, three bedrooms, and rear covered deck.
Other features include single car garage, double colonial doors, and ceiling fans.
The suburb's median house price sits at<a href="/developments/encounter-bay-sa-5211"> $356,000</a>, according to CoreLogic. 
It was a $290 a week rental in 2016.
</body></html>

Colonial-style Encounter Bay cottage sold by mortgagee

<html><body>
Ray White agents across Australasia achieved $3.4 billion in sales during August, which was the same tally as July.
However it was down on last August.
The last month of winter in 2017 saw the headline sales figure for Australia and New Zealand come at $3.67 billion, which was up nine percent compared to 2016.
At the time it was noted August 2017 "had produced a better result than many might have expected."
This week Brian White noted "while well below the result last year, it supports our view that the market may well have now adjusted."
Brian White, chairman of real estate agency Ray White, said the majority of the market correction had already happened.
“There has been an adjustment and I believe that much of that adjustment has been made,” Mr White said.
“The speed of the growth in Sydney and Melbourne was unsustainable.
"We are experiencing a healthier market.”
Markets outside Sydney and Melbourne had been resilient. 
“Only an explosion in interest rates would pull the market down significantly,” he said.
State based figures were not available for August 2018.
But in August 2017 New South Wales sales had lifted 18 per cent year on year to $1.259 billion. Sales volume in Victoria jumped 30 per cent to $647 million.
In August 2017 Queensland’s sales came in at $696 million, just $2 million shy of the same time in 2016. Tasmania booked $10 million, while Western Australia reported $84 million and South Australian sales came in at $117 million.  Its New Zealand network reported $629 million in August 2017, down 13 per cent on the same period in 2016.
 
 
</body></html>

Ray White see August 2018 sales dip

<html><body>
A modern one bedroom apartment has been offered by mortgagees for sale with a price guide of $300,000 to $330,000.
It has been listed by Steven Lee and John Pratt from Dixon Kestles South Melbourne.
The home has been scheduled for auction on September 22.
The 50sqm apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-docklands-129101902" target="_blank">707/815 Bourke Street</a> features spacious lounge and dining, generous bench space, and large balcony. 
It is only one block from the Marina and within walking distance to cafes, convenience stores and famous eateries.
The home last sold for $460,000 in 2010.
The suburb's unit price sits at <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">$575,000</a>, according to CoreLogic. 
 
 
</body></html>

A one bedroom Docklands apartment has been offered by mortgagee

<html><body>
Adelaide rose to the top of the quarterly performance stakes over the three months to the end of August, according to CoreLogic.
It took the mantle from Hobart where values have posted two consecutive months of subtle falls.
Adelaide dwelling values were half a percent higher over the past quarter.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/3/CL%20Dwelling%20Values%20over%20time.JPG" alt="">
CoreLogic found that the median house price in Adelaide was $466,813 and an example of this was the sale of 9 George Court Adelaide (pictured above). 
The two bedroom one bathroom house, located in the Adelaide CBD, sold for $501,500 after less than 100 days on the market.
The holding is set on 91 sqm.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/3/CL%20ADL%202.jpg" alt="">
Another example of this median price being accurate is 58 Corryton Street Adelaide (pictured above).
The one bedroom one bathroom cottage was built in the 1880's and sold for $430,500 in late July.
It was on the market for 161 days and was passed in at auction in February this year.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/3/CL%20ADL%203.jpg" alt="">
The median unit price in Adelaide is over $100,000 less, sitting at $324,477.
The 612/185 Morphett Street Adelaide (pictured above) apartment sold for $290,000 last month after almost two years on the market.
Part of The Gallery this sixth floor 1 bedroom 1 bathroom apartment has 17 sqm of floorspace and was build by Century 21.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/3/CL%20ADL%204.jpg" alt="">
The apartment at 1/128 Gilles Street Adelaide (pictured above) has recently sold.
The one bedroom one bathroom property sold for 335,000 in early August.
It was on the market for over half a year and had $359,000 hopes in it's the most recent listing.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/3/CL%20Dwelling%20Value%20Index.JPG" alt="">
</body></html>

Adelaide becomes the nation's property hotspot

<html><body>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Macquarie Group has quietly brought to an end its six years as an investor in Mark Bouris-led mortgage and wealth group Yellow Brick Road.
Sources said Macquarie had offloaded its remaining YBR holding, which was less than 5 per cent.
It comes at a time the company faces corporate raider Ron Brierley's Mercantile Investment Company.
At the height of its YBR holding Macquarie owned an 18.4 per cent stake.
Its sell-down began in April with a large tranche of YBR shares secured by Mercantile.
The latest Macquarie YBR divestment also throws into question other parts of the strategic partnership, according to the Australian Financial Review, as YBR talked up the company's prospects, with backing from Macquarie, of becoming a fifth pillar to rival the major banks, claims later played down by Macquarie chief executive Nicholas Moore.
</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Mercantile owns almost 20 per cent of YBR.
It pitched its bid at 9 cents cents per share, a 3 per cent discount to where the stock was then trading.
YBR shares are well down from their most recent peak of 17 cents in October last year.
After Bouris rejected the takeover as “grossly inadequate," YBR’s shares rose 10 per cent to 11 cents.
</div>
</body></html>

Macquarie departs YBR

<html><body>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Bank-owned superannuation funds are losing billions to industry funds a response of customers in response to their misbehavior that has been revealed at the banking royal commission.
AustralianSuper says it received more than $1 billion from new customers in each of July and August – double the amount of the same time last year.
Chief investment officer Mark Delaney said the gains were due to transfers out of retail funds.
"We can see where the money is coming from," he told Fairfax Media. "It's money being rolled in and it's coming from retail providers."
</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section">With more than $140 billion in funds under management, AustralianSuper is already the nation's largest super fund.</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
In the June quarter, the value of industry funds surpassed retail funds for the first time; the sectors hold $632 billion and $622 billion respectively.
It appears while industry super executives were called before the royal commission they emerged largely unscathed.
Hostplus was found to have fallen below community standards when it sought to keep low-balance members in the fund.
Hostplus had been riding a wave of popularity generated by author Scott Pape, better known as The Barefoot Investor.
The Hayne royal commission gave industry super funds a surprisingly "cursory" examination, says former union boss Paul Howes.
KPMG wealth chief and former union boss Paul Howes told Fairfax Media he was surprised at "the significant amount of time that was dedicated to retail funds versus quite a cursory amount of time on industry funds."
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Howes said consolidation of industry funds was the most important issue faced by the super sector and yet the commission spent comparatively little time exploring it.
<div id="article-inline-ad" class="adWrapper">"We have 238 APRA-regulated funds in a country of 25 million people," he said.</div>
</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
"It is insane, and it is an indictment on our sector and the regulator that so many exist.
"What also surprised me was the lack of focus on returns," he said.
"I felt they talked a lot about fees ... transparency and disclosures, but ultimately the $2.7 trillion question for the sector is about returns. It was almost like the elephant in the room that was never mentioned."
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

After cursory examination, Hayne royal commission triggers influx of billions into industry super

<html><body>Recent out-of-cycle rate hikes may be cushioned by subdued property prices with experts and economists predicting the downturn in Sydney and Melbourne to last 20 months on average, according to finder.com.au, the site that compares virtually everything.  In this month’s survey, experts and economists were asked to estimate how long the property downturn in Sydney and Melbourne will last, with the average prediction coming in at 20 months, or nearly two years. However, the downturn may last longer in Sydney with a slightly higher proportion of panellists believing the downturn will last 24 months or more in Sydney (9, 56%) compared to Melbourne (8, 50%). This pairs with greater positive sentiment for housing affordability with 43% of economists feeling positive about this metric, up from just 5% in March 2018 according to finder’s Economic Sentiment Tracker. <img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GGNPBSrOscmFBiMdZ0hkTADJdxrkDA8qdhUmnGl-jb2Q59PF0O3aWN7t6t2W3ATgkusIzAEj_jRjyffBE6ZoKNrO57Q01dia01Acx5ubBD1MDWaoFVMpqGVlQP2UOVV9a9mQUQQ" width="552" height="359" data-imagetype="External"> Graham Cooke, Insights Manager at finder.com.au, says falling property prices in some of the capital cities means the outlook for housing affordability has improved. “Only 4% of experts feel negatively about this metric, which represents a huge improvement since March this year. <img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/FL-u8Gtfb1J1w5DfKhbrabHbpi-BaWFrWvsWBYkrv4gHsSuGxzXEhkZ54xJWN2LAQaDRXpxXmuFcXlTbWOwRzSttgq548UE2flgmk0IoVklVNXtcdYGTJUtpnTbhL-eFDJ8G_2s" width="553" height="385" data-imagetype="External"> “While the out-of-cycle rate movements aren’t promising for first home buyers, this may be offset by a cooling market as now could be the time for them to get in while prices are low. “For many would-be home buyers, a lower sales price represents a saving that could outweigh the costs of a higher interest rate, so first time buyers may experience some cushioning against rising rates,” he said. Ahead of the board meeting tomorrow (04/09/2018), all 30 members from the finder.com.au RBA survey share the view that the cash rate will be held for the 25th consecutive month.  Cooke said while it’s likely the Reserve Bank will hold the cash rate, this hasn’t stopped lenders from lifting rates independently.  “The belief that the cash rate won’t budge combined with increased funding pressure from overseas has spurred Westpac, Suncorp and other major banks to hike mortgage rates out-of-cycle.  “We expect this trend to continue, with the remaining of the big four and other lenders likely to follow suit in the coming days. “Mortgage holders should brace themselves for higher interest rates – it’s not a matter of if, but when.   “Switching to a new provider with a lower rate could pocket you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan, so don’t be afraid to refinance if you’re unsatisfied with your existing or updated interest rate,” he said.  To view out-of-cycle rate rises in August 2018, visit this page. Here’s what our experts had to say: Jordan Eliseo, ABC Bullion: "The RBA will hold interest rates at 1.50% at their next meeting, continuing a run of stability that now dates back over 2 years. Consumer confidence has been hit by the recent political chaos in Canberra, and job growth in the economy will likely slow down in the lead up to the next election, but the RBA is still reticent to cut, despite numerous headwinds the economy is facing." Tim Nelson, AGL Energy: "RBA has stated that it continues to expect inflation to be around 2.25% over the next couple of years as above-trend GDP growth reduces spare capacity in the labour market and there is an associated pick-up in wages growth." Shane Oliver, AMP Capital: "While economic growth picked up a notch in the first half of the year its premature to start raising rates as uncertainty remains around the outlook for consumer spending, the housing cycle both in terms of construction and home prices has now turned down, and wages growth and inflation remain low. So remaining on hold makes sense and this is likely to remain the case for some time to come." Alison Booth, ANU: "Fundamentals have not changed sufficiently to warrant changing the cash rate." Richard Robinson, BIS Oxford Economics: "inflation and wages growth is low." Paul Dales, Capital Economics: "The RBA is patiently waiting to see if the unemployment rate falls as it is hoping and inflation rises back to the 2-3% target rate. I suspect it will be waiting for a long time yet." Saul Eslake, Corinna Economic Advisory: "The RBA has made it clear that although it thinks the next move in interest rates will most likely be up, it is in no hurry to act on that inclination. And nothing has happened since the last meeting to have prompted them to change that view." Peter Gilmore, Gateway Bank: "The economic fundamentals remain largely unchanged." Mark Brimble, Griffith Uni: "No reason to move with inherent weakness in the economy exacerbated by political and regulatory uncertainty both domestically and internationally." Peter Haller, Heritage Bank: "There is no reason for the RBA to change rates at the present time." Paul Bloxham, HSBC Bank Australia Limited: "Inflation is still below the target band." Alex Joiner, IFM Investors: "The RBA finds itself between a rock and a hard place, the economy does not as yet justify higher policy rates, but equally it can not foster any better conditions that might see inflation accelerate more quickly because of the financial stability constraints it has, rightly in my view, it has also chosen to focus on." Michael Witts, ING Bank: "Despite the increase in mortgage rates from one of the majors, this is unlikely to alter the RBA stance." Leanne Pilkington, Laing+Simmons: "There’s no compelling reason for the RBA to adjust the official cash rate at this time. Of greater interest is the approach the banks are taking with their lending terms. Some are cutting fixed rates in an attempt to build market share. Honeymoon interest rate deals are in vogue to attract first home buyer attention, but it’s necessary to crunch repayment numbers based on the actual rate you’ll be paying once the honeymoon is over. There’s significant rate movement irrespective of the RBA at the moment." Nicholas Gruen, Lateral Economics: "That's what they keep saying they'll do." Mathew Tiller, LJ Hooker: "No major changes to economic conditions over the past months will see RBA hold the cash rate steady. In addition banks and lenders continue to change their interest rates independently of the RBA." Michael Yardney, Metropole Property Strategists: "There is no reason to alter interest rates. Our weakening housing markets, low inflation rate and soft wages growth suggest no rise in rates is imminent in the medium term. If anything this would dampen already sluggish consumer confidence which has already taken a hit over the last month." Mark Crosby, Monash University: "The RBA has signalled its intent to hold rates for some months yet, though it is good to see some discussion about whether the current inflation target remains appropriate." Dr Andrew Wilson, My Housing Market: "Macro environment relatively unchanged although out of cycle rate rises will be closely monitored by RBA if the level of increases impacts already constrained consumption." Alan Oster, NAB: "The RBA has stated that for the time being, they wish to be a source of stability and confidence in the economy. Rates are low and supporting economic growth which should see employment continue to grow and the unemployment rate decline further. At present there appears to be some degree of spare capacity in the labour market with relatively weak wages growth and inflation only just around the bottom of the RBA’s target band. The RBA is likely to continue this on this track until it is convinced spare capacity has fallen, wages growth is lifting and inflation rising more generally. This is only expected to occur gradually." Jonathan Chancellor, Property Observer: "The central bank doesn't need to make any move." Matthew Peter, QIC: "While the RBA is clearly on hold for the time being, the market is not pricing a rate hike until 2020. But with growth picking up, the labour market tightening and the AUD heading to US70c, the RBA will surprise markets with a rate hike, probably as soon as the June quarter of 2019." Noel Whittaker, QUT: "No reason to move either way." Nerida Conisbee, REA Group: "The next move is still likely to be an increase but for now, the economy is not strong enough to start increasing." Christine Williams, Smarter Property Investing Pty Ltd: "We have had a positive effect re unemployment, now under 6% together with a strong outlook in the job sector, both with full time and part-time positions. I feel this needs to stay on an upward trend [for] least 1 more quarter before the Reserve Bank increases rates." Janu Chan, St.George Bank: "Ongoing low inflation and expectations it will stay low for some time allows the RBA room to leave rates on hold." Brian Parker, Sunsuper: "Still plenty of labour market slack, and wage and price inflation not picking up anywhere near fast enough to prompt higher rates." Richard Holden, UNSW: "They should cut but can't. Labor market is weak. Inflation low." Clement Tisdell, UQ-School of Economics: "The Australian economy is not overheated. Demand pullinflation is not at work. Cost push could become a problem. Private interest rates are liable to increase." </body></html>

Sydney price downturn to last two years: Finder survey

<html><body><div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Macquarie's Paraway Pastoral, which made a $39 million profit last year, is close to securing the biggest farmland deal in Australia since the sale of S. Kidman &amp; Co in 2016 to Gina Rinehart.
It is set to acquire the remaining farm assets of Hassad Australia – owned by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund – for close to $300 million.
The Australian Financial Review has suggested the Qatar Investment Authority will become a part investor in a Macquarie-controlled fund that will own the Hassad assets.
</div>
Macquarie and Hassad have declined to comment on the 100,000 hectare deal.
Hassad recently sold its 47,600-hectare farm Telopea Downs to fifth generation family-owned company A.J. &amp; P.A. McBride, brokered by Elders general manager for real estate, Tom Russo.
Macquarie's mooted buy include Hassad's 22,562-hectare Old Bundemar station at Trangie, NSW; the 8244-hectare Barton Station in Moyston, Victoria and the 14,672-hectare grain-producing property Amarinya in Western Australia's Jerramungup.
</div></body></html>

Macquarie mooted to secure Hassad's remaining Australian farms

<html><body>
Purplebricks has appointed of Neil Tavender to the role of chief operating officer in its struggling Australian outpost.
Tavender is a former sales director at UK-based listings portal Rightmove, before he worked as commercial property director at propertyfinder.com.
“Neil Tavender has been appointed to the new position of group COO of Purplebricks to support the growth of the business," a spokesperson said.
"Neil has a wealth of real estate knowledge, combined with many years of Australian board-level sales, marketing and digital experience."
Mr Tavender was granted share options worth approximately $2.5 million on his appointment.
His appointment followed the recent departure of New South Wales-based Brent May, its national sales director.
May had joined "well positioned to draw on his 25 years of real estate experience."
"There is no doubt in my mind that Purplebricks is the smart way to sell property," May had suggested when he was at the low commission agency.
Leaked documents obtained by the AFR earlier this year showed that <a href="/news/low-commission-model-under-scrutiny-as-purplebricks-defectors-leak-internal-sales-documents">NSW agents were struggling to get vendors to sign up</a> despite the low commission policy.
Industry leader Hayden Groves says Purplebricks <a href="/news/purplebricks-arent-offering-proper-agents-hayden-groves">aren't offering proper real estate agents.</a>
The staff shuffle comes as Purplebricks' struggles continue to capture dreadful headlines from aggrieved former staff.
Its numbers have dipped to 90 from its 105 high late last year with many agents quitting because they could not make a living. Jason van Straalen, a former agent at Purplebricks in Australia, is the latest to have claimed the hybrid model will not work in a declining market.
van Straalen has said that he quit after earning less than half of what he was told he would earn.
He has also accused Purplebricks of a bullying culture, as agents struggled to reach targets.
He says he worked 80-hour weeks and secured 67 listings in 13 months, but only managed to sell 20.
van Straalen talked to the Australian Financial Review, which ran the interview originally under the headline: “Inside the Purplebricks sweatshop: former agent accuses it of toxic culture”.
<div>
He also suggested that share options promised after six months did not materialise.
The UK-based Property Industry EYE website has noted the Purplebricks Australian boss Ryan Dinsdale emailed his team alleging that the recent Financial Review story gave it no opportunity to respond.
It was something that EYE did although Purplebricks did not take them up on the invitation.
“You may have seen that the AFR have published another article today," Dinsdale says in his email.
"Despite having a right to respond to such content we were sadly not given any opportunity by the AFR and the article was printed without any balanced, factual comment from Purplebricks.
"We have asked the AFR what their agenda is and why we were not respectfully given the opportunity to respond to this one-sided story.
“In any event, what is clear to me is this article simply highlights that there are a small number of former agents who don’t share our values as a business.”
An earlier email, dated June, from Dinsdale referring to another Financial Review story told staff that selling more than 3,500 homes in Australia indicate the agents were "excelling – this tells us we have a long term future in this market and we are a popular proposition amongst sellers and agents."
“To suggest that traditional agent models are better suited to a slowing market shows a lack of understanding of how Purplebricks works,” Dinsdale added.
van Straalen has now set up his own fixed-fee agency JVS Real Estate.
</div>
</body></html>

Purplebricks lashes out at negative Australia media reporting as unhappy agents keep departing 

A who's who of Australian surfing, business and entertainment has emerged on title records following the completion of Esprit Rainbow Bay, the latest boutique beachfront apartment development by former professional surfer Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects.

The completed project has attracted an enviable collection of owners, many with long-standing ties to the southern Gold Coast and the surf culture that has helped define Rainbow Bay and neighbouring Kirra for generations.

Given Gedoun's own background in surfing, it perhaps comes as little surprise that some of Australia's most recognisable surfers have chosen to buy into the development overlooking one of the country's most celebrated stretches of coastline.

Pezet Matheson directors Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson launched the project in late 2021, and have managed the sales campaign all the way through to its sell-out and recent completion.

<img alt="Esprit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08fc6261-b84e-4b09-8a44-66d3067fd0d1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-29%20at%208.51.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4AOcb6ETZwNUnMPdTtz1B3pZAIB_jgZ2" />

Former world champion Mick Fanning, who grew up in Coolangatta, secured an apartment in 2023. He paid&nbsp;$2.07 million. Last year he sold his Bilinga home for over $16 million.

Three-time world champion Joel Parkinson also purchased in the development, alongside big wave surfer Mark Mathews. Mathews bought the most expensive apartment in the building, spending just over $4 million.

Joining them is Rip Curl founder Doug Warbrick, whose company helped shape Australia's global surfing industry over the past five decades.

The appeal of Rainbow Bay has extended well beyond the surfing community.

International DJ Paul Fisher purchased an apartment through his investment vehicle, YLB Developments, an abbreviation of his trademark phrase "You Little Beauty".

The purchase comes as Fisher and his wife Chloe are developing their own luxury apartment project further north in Palm Beach. Their boutique beachfront development, Pescado, comprises just seven apartments on Jefferson Lane, which start from just shy of $6 million. The couple intend to retain the two-level penthouse as their Australian base between international touring commitments.

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy and his wife Wendy have also invested in Esprit, purchasing two apartments after spending decades holidaying on the southern Gold Coast. They also have a luxury apartment in Joe Adsett's Rockpool, less than 400m away from Esprit.

<h2>Boutique project draws owner-occupiers</h2>

Esprit launched in 2021 and sold strongly, with buyers drawn to its boutique scale, beachfront position and contemporary design.

The completed development comprises 94 apartments across 11 levels, offering expansive floorplans designed primarily for owner-occupiers rather than the investor market.

Crowning the building is Club Esprit, pitched as being the Gold Coast's first residential rooftop wellness centre. The roof features a&nbsp;25 metre magnesium lap pool, which is surrounded by wet daybeds and poolside cabanas,&nbsp;multiple barbecue areas,&nbsp;a yoga and relaxation play lawn, and a private dining room with a kitchen scullery, bar, lounges, and an outdoor terrace.

The wellness centre is&nbsp;fully equipped with a Technogym, ice bath, infra-red sauna, steam room, thermal room, and treatment room. The roof has views spanning&nbsp;Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks and the Pacific Ocean.

<h2>S&amp;S Projects continues to shape Rainbow Bay</h2>

S&amp;S Projects founder Paul Gedoun has become one of the key figures behind Rainbow Bay's evolution over the past several years.

After establishing S&amp;S Projects, Gedoun has focused on delivering lifestyle-driven apartment developments designed primarily for owner-occupiers seeking a permanent coastal home.

Esprit is Gedoun's third completed project in Rainbow Bay, following Flow and Awaken, both of which achieved record prices for the suburb.

He is now delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, a 38-apartment development on Boundary Street that is currently selling, and has no plans to leave the precinct anytime soon. S&amp;S Projects has also lodged plans for its fifth Rainbow Bay development, an 88-apartment project on Boundary Street featuring a strong wellness focus.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">First look: S&amp;S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Who's who of buyers revealed as Esprit Rainbow Bay settles

Nature Based Cities (NBC), the not-for-profit organisation focused on improving biodiversity and nature outcomes in urban development, has launched its latest industry design guidelines and accreditation framework, this time targeting precinct-scale residential communities.

The move extends NBC’s influence beyond its initial focus on medium and high-density residential developments. Several projects have already achieved NBC accreditation since the launch of its Medium &amp; High-Density Residential Guidelines in early 2025.

The expansion into masterplanned communities and new residential precincts reflects the growing need for stronger nature-positive benchmarks as Australia’s outer suburban growth corridors continue to expand at pace.

Paul Hameister OAM, NBC Founder and the Executive Chairman of Melbourne developer Hamton who itself leans heavily into nature and biodiversity in its developments, says the&nbsp;nature-first approach to mitigate the effects of climate change has become standard in other parts of the world such as the UK, but Australia is lagging.&nbsp;Australia’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) rating tools have no minimum mandatory requirements for living landscapes.

“We’ve always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren’t there,” Hameister says. “In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that’s concrete and glass with not a blade of grass. 
 
“The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn’t been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities.”

He says that having now&nbsp;made good progress in supporting developers of medium and high-density residential projects, NBC is now looking to bolster better nature-based decision-making and recognise developers of greenfield projects in the outer ring and large inner-ring brownfield precincts, who want to champion nature and living landscape as a defining feature.

Since 2022, the not-for-profit has sought to remove the roadblocks preventing developers from incorporating nature and living landscapes into their projects, shifting the conversation from the reduction of emissions and grey infrastructure, toward recognising nature as an essential infrastructure.

The New Communities Design Guidelines and Scorecard arm developers with the tools needed to deliver a nature positive outcome for their new communities. Intended to be adopted at the outset of the planning process, the guidelines are designed to help create communities that are cooler, healthier and more resilient while also enhancing social wellbeing and long-term economic value.&nbsp;

New Communities developers seeking accreditation will be independently assessed across a range of key criteria including ecology, tree canopy, biodiversity, and walkability. Once the masterplan is complete and submitted for approval, the scorecard is formalised based on proposed outcomes. Projects that meet the NBC criteria will receive either Commended or Exemplary accreditation outcomes, creating a clear benchmark for nature-positive new communities in Australia.&nbsp;

Janis Fischer, Director at Tract and NBC Advisory Council member, said the development of new communities in our suburbs can have a substantial impact on nature and biodiversity.

"By incorporating nature-based design principles at the inception of a project, developers and their design teams can achieve nature positive outcomes that are good for both people and the planet.’’&nbsp;

NBC accredited New Community projects will gain access to NBC branding and marketing tools to help communicate their nature-based credentials to purchasers and the broader market.&nbsp;

Nature Based Cities: A new Australian benchmark for developing nature-positive new communities

Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News