<html><body>
Glen grove, a lifestyle home situated in a quiet pocket of the Hunter Valley, has been sold for $1.1 million earlier this year. 
Sitting on a 2.6 ha parcel, the Glendon Lane property is surrounded by established gardens, offering privacy.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-08-28%20at%2011.53.54%20am.png" alt="">
The homestead comes with five bedrooms, three bathrooms, several living spaces with views of the Hunter.
A screened Queensland room off the living room also encompasses an entertainers' dream property.
There is another self-contained cottage comprises its own bedroom, ensuite and living quarters.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-08-28%20at%2011.53.48%20am.png" alt="">
 It also features courtyard, fountain, large sheds, two bay garage and dam. 
The property is located within an hour from Newcastle and two hours from Sydney. 
Dan Jurd of Jurd's Real Estate Cessnock sold the property. 
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Glengrove, a lifestyle home in the Hunter Valley, quietly sold for $1.1 million

<html><body>
Six of Australia's largest banking and financial services institutions have paid or offered a total of $1.05 billion in compensation, as at 30 June 2020, to customers who suffered loss or detriment because of fees for no service (FFNS) misconduct or non-compliant advice.
This is an additional $295.9m in compensation payments or offers by the institutions from 1 January to 30 June 2020.
AMP, ANZ, CBA, Macquarie, NAB and Westpac (the institutions) undertook the review and remediation programs to compensate affected customers [i] as a result of two major ASIC reviews. ASIC commenced the reviews in 2015 to look into:
<ul>
<li>the extent of failure by the institutions to deliver ongoing advice services to financial advice customers who were paying fees to receive those services and</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>how effectively the institutions supervised their financial advisers to identify and deal with ‘non-compliant advice’ – i.e. personal advice provided to a retail client by an adviser who did not comply with the relevant conduct obligations in the Corporations Act, such as the obligations to give appropriate advice or to act in the best interests of the clients, at the time the advice was given. </li>
</ul>
The table below provides a breakdown of the compensation payments made or offered by the institution as at 30 June 2020.
<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top" width="99">
Institution
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="top" width="240">
FFNS misconduct
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="top" width="262">
Non-compliant advice <a href="https://asic.gov.au/about-asic/news-centre/find-a-media-release/2020-releases/20-193mr-asic-update-on-compensation-for-financial-advice-related-misconduct/#note-iii">[iii]</a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="120">
Compensation paid or offered
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
No. of customers paid or offered compensation
</td>
<td valign="top" width="118">
Compensation paid
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="144">
No. of customers paid compensation
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="99">
AMP
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$145,719,911
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
199,425
</td>
<td valign="top" width="118">
$28,647,008
</td>
<td valign="top" width="144">
2,043
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="99">
ANZ
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$66,653,885
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
26,461
</td>
<td valign="top" width="118">
$39,182,569
</td>
<td valign="top" width="144">
1,920
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="99">
CBA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$167,131,529
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
54,826
</td>
<td valign="top" width="118">
$9,354,027
</td>
<td valign="top" width="144">
626
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="99">
Macquarie
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$3,970,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
983
</td>
<td valign="top" width="118">
-
</td>
<td valign="top" width="144">
-
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="99">
NAB
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$368,075,052
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
626,863
</td>
<td valign="top" width="118">
$52,185,609
</td>
<td valign="top" width="144">
1,623
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="99">
Westpac
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$130,508,318
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
28,350
</td>
<td valign="top" width="118">
$34,197,446
</td>
<td valign="top" width="144">
1,647
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="99">
Total
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$882,058,695
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
936,908
</td>
<td valign="top" width="118">
$163,566,659
</td>
<td valign="top" width="144">
7,859
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>ASIC released REP 499 in October 2016 describing systemic failures in the advice divisions of AMP, ANZ, CBA and NAB, as well as some of their product issuers. These included the failure to ensure provision of ongoing advice services to customers who paid fees to receive those services, the failure of advisers to provide those services, and the failure of product issuers to switch off advice fees of customers who did not have a financial advise.</h2>
</body></html>

Banks compensate fees for no service misconduct

<html><body>
Andrew Bell’s Ray White Surfers Paradise Group scored another win at this year’s annual Ray White Queensland awards.
The awards, which saw 1,200 Ray White members online, was held over Zoom this year presented by chairman Brian White, Emily Sim, Tim Snell and Dan White.
For the 28th year in a row, Bell’s group was named the top selling office in Queensland.
There had been a strong challenge from the New Farm office.
The Surfers Paradise CEO said he was “surprised” to receive the award after a challenging year that shook the real estate industry.
“I have never been more surprised by this award than I was this year. I was quite shocked because we had the most challenging year for our office on many fronts. But what the award reminds me of is how blessed we are to have the amazing team and the culture that we have created in our business," Bell said. 
Bell’s office also won the community contribution award for their muscular dystrophy fundraiser, a cause that he’s supported for over 25 years.
The Surfers Paradise office was the most successful Queensland office by way of revenue in the residential division, recognising the group as the best property management business of the year.
“There was immense love shown last night from our team. The team felt rewarded for digging deep and doing what we do best every single day”, Bell said.
Ray White Queensland conducted 41 per cent (up from 33 per cent the year before) of all the auctions held in Queensland - including conducting over 66 per cent of all auctions in the Brisbane city area. 
</body></html>

Andrew Bell's Ray White Surfers Paradise Group top selling office in Queensland for 28th year in a row

<html><body>
ANZ has announced the retirement of David Gonski as chair of the group’s board, effective following the release of the banks full-year results on 28 October.
The outgoing chairman will be replaced by Paul O’Sullivan, who joined the board in November 2019.
Mr Gonski has served as chair since 2014 and as a non-executive director for 11 years.
“I feel it’s the right time to hand over the reins,” he said.
"I am delighted Paul O’Sullivan will succeed me as Chairman and he has my absolute confidence. Paul is an outstanding director who has already made a strong contribution to the Board and I look forward to working closely with him on a smooth transition.
I feel it’s the right time to hand over the reins to Paul. We have in place an experienced, diverse and talented management team as well as having made significant progress on our ambitions to simplify and improve our operations. Importantly, we have also taken steps to improve the governance around matters impacting our reputation, including the now well-established Ethics, Environment, Social &amp; Governance Board committee.
Serving as ANZ’s Chairman will always remain a key highlight of my corporate career.
"This is not because of any false sense of prestige, rather the honour that comes with working with so many wonderful people who are doing all they can for our customers, our shareholders and their fellow staff members." 
</body></html>

David Gonski retires from ANZ chairmanship

<html><body>
Fairfields, a four-bedroom, three-bathroom, secluded and private residence in Balhannah was sold for $2,050,000 through Williams estate agent Dee-Anne Hunt in May.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-balhannah-132965418" target="_blank">7 Gilleston Court</a> property in rural South Australia showcases a flexible floor plan and resort luxuries including a heated pool, sauna, wine cellar and vineyard with nine rows of aged Pinot Noir which makes approximately 300 to 400 bottles of wine.
<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/2020/6/26/7_Balhannah%20Pool.jpg" alt="">
The 1.6 acre block is set in a cul-de-sac, and the solid brick home features high 9.5 ft ceilings, French doors, Parquetry flooring, two fireplaces,  three living spaces, a conservatory, granite kitchen with European appliances including Double oven and Hafele storage system, a garden teahouse with ornamental lake and Basket Range stone walling. 
<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/2020/6/26/7_Balhannah%20Flexible%20Plan.jpg" alt="" style="caret-color: #000000; color: #000000;">
The residence is also equipped with Daikon zoned ducted reverse cycle air conditioning, fully automated watering system, a 30-panel solar system, two instant gas hot water systems, aerobic septic system and three phase power. 
According to Realestate.com.au, similar four-bedroom houses recently sold in Balhannah including a 960 sqm four-bathroom, two-bathroom home on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-balhannah-132408518?cid=pdp:recent-sales" target="_blank">Onkaparinga Valley Road</a> which sold for $440,000 on March 13, 2020. 
</body></html>

Luxury secluded and private residence in Balhannah sold for over $2 million

<html><body>
The Real Estate Institute of Australia have provided five key recommendations to the Federal Government in the lead up to the October 6 budget.
REIA President Adrian Kelly said in the mid-COVID19 world, policies to assist first home buyers into the market-place, and providing a boost to the economy through property, were at the forefront of REIA’s considerations.
“Agents, renters, investors and those looking to enter the market for the first time are all facing difficulties,” said Kelly.
The recommendations to the Treasury targeted key areas for the Government to generate economic activity that supports agents and their clients, with a focus on market entry for first home buyers.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-08-28%20at%2010.55.13%20am.png" alt="">
The recommendations are based on industry-led research and proven international models for the use of retirement savings to purchase property come from Canada, the Netherlands and New Zealand.
REIA seeks the expansion of the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme to include all first home buyers and an extension of the First Home Super Saver to allow access to pre-July 2017 voluntary contributions and earnings.
“For home renovators, we continue to support the HomeBuilder initiative by recommending a lowering of the program limits. This will encourage increased uptake of the program across the board for all Australians”, Kelly said.
“Lastly, for renters and property owners, for those working in the property sector and other industries that will take longer to recover, we support the extension of JobKeeper, JobSeeker and the rental support scheme, where needed.”
REIA suggested that the successful implementation of these policies could ensure Australia’s property agents continued support to renters and home buyers, and contribute to Australia’s long-term economic resilience.
 
</body></html>

Home ownership for first home buyers critical to the 2020 budget: REIA

<html><body>
ME is going below 3% p.a. on its variable rate Basic Home Loan with cuts of up to 59 basis points.
ME’s lowest variable rate for new customers will become 2.58% p.a., one of the most competitive comparable rates in the market – and the lowest advertised variable rate the bank has ever offered.
New and refinancing owner occupier customers paying principal and interest with a minimum loan balance of $150,000 are eligible.
ME General Manager, Home Lending Andrew Bartolo said ME’s Basic Home Loan was already very simple, with no frills or fancy features and no ongoing account keeping fees.
"Cutting variable rates below 3% p.a. for this product will make it even simpler and better value for our customers.”
As an example, eligible customers with a 20% deposit can apply for the 2.58% p.a. variable rate (a 59 basis point reduction) and those with a 5% deposit can apply for the 2.99% p.a. variable rate (a 53 point reduction). The headline rate changes are as follows:
 
<table class="x_MsoTableGrid" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="302">
Product
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Previous Rate % (p.a.)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Change % (p.a.)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="132">
New Rate % (p.a.)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="302">
Basic Home Loan variable rate owner occupier – principal and interest (new and refinancing customers)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="76">
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="132">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="302">
LVR 80% or less
</td>
<td width="85">
3.17
</td>
<td width="76">
-0.59
</td>
<td width="132">
2.58
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="302">
LVR more than 80% (LMI applies)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
3.52
</td>
<td valign="top" width="76">
-0.53
</td>
<td valign="top" width="132">
2.99
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 All changes are effective from 28 August 2020. Only applications submitted on or after this date will be eligible for the new rates.
</body></html>

ME offers lowest ever below 3% no-frills variable home loan

<html><body>
Fairview Rise, a luxurious Hampton inspired residence, in Hahndorf, South Australia has been sold for $2,073,860 through Williams estate agent Dee-Anne Hunt. 
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-acreage+semi-rural-sa-hahndorf-133711234" target="_blank">249 Fairview Road </a>property has four bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, two living quarters, and separate studio, two carports and a separate garage or workshop. 
<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/2020/6/26/5_Hahndorf_Studio.jpg" alt="">
The main bedroom has its own walk-in robe and ensuite, while all remaining bedrooms have built-in robes. The bathrooms have under floor heating, floor to ceiling Italian imported tiles, free standing baths, spacious double showers and brushed gold tap ware.
The 5.96 ha parcel of land is also equipped with a bore, dam pumps, 120,000 litre concrete rainwater tank with new pressure pump which supplies the house, 22,000 litre rainwater tank for firefighting and irrigation, a large shed with vehicle access pit of approximately 12m x 12m, three softly undulating paddocks, zoned irrigation for lawns and gardens, a 2.5kw solar system, and new septic system. 
<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/2020/6/26/5_Hahndorf_Land.jpg" alt="">
Built in c. 1978, the solid brick home has been renovated and extended this year. This includes being re-wired and re-plumped throughout, a new kitchen and butler's pantry featuring a Shaker cabinetry, Caesarstone bench tops, and European appliances. 
The residence was last sold for $910,000 in 2019. 
</body></html>

Hahndorf's luxurious Fairview Rise sold this month for $2 million 

<html><body>
The beachfront Queensland market continues to boom despite closed borders. Billionaire developer Bob Ell has emerged as the buyer of a beachfront on Mermaid Beach that was listed for just three days.

He's apparently paid close to $22.5 million for the home and its ocean views.

<img alt="" src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-08-28%20at%2010.09.25%20am.png">

But he and wife Bridget, who have four children under 16, will retain the family’s main residence on the riverfront at Budds Beach property.

Mr Ell told The Gold Coast Bulletin it was a family-motivated decision.

“The kids are all rather sporting-minded and love the beach and the ocean,” Mr Ell said.

“This buy will enable them to burn off a bit of energy whenever they get restless and to perhaps lap up the surfing culture that’s synonymous with the Gold Coast.”

They recently offloaded their holiday home at Noosa for $9.6m to publican John Taylor, the owner of Victoria’s Grovedale Hotel, Barwon Heads Hotel and Torquay Hotel.

The Mermaid Beach home he recently acquired was built for racing industry figure and former realtor David Henderson and family. It was completed in 2012.

Set on the pricey Hedges Ave, the mansion was designed by Paul Uhlmann and is on one of the largest lots in the street at 1,215sq m with a 30-metre ocean frontage.

<img alt="" src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-08-28%20at%2010.08.16%20am.png">

It was sold for $16.5m in 2017 in a deal handled by the agency in which Mr Henderson previously was a principal, The Professionals Mermaid Beach.

The buyer, and the seller to the Ells, was Rosa Raso, wife of Sam Raso, whose Molendinar-based Austworld group makes high-end plumbing products and has six offices across the country.

Nat King and Amir Mian of Amir Prestige sold the home to Ell after the short listing with a $25 million asking price.

<h2>Queensland properties selling now:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24422]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90553]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26730]
</body></html>

Beachfront trophy home in Mermaid Beach sells in three days to Bob Ell

<html><body>
Property Observer has over the years compiled a list of the top renovating tips from many experts, which could shape your plans during the COVID-19 renovation spree.
Top Renovating Tips
1. Chris Gray (Property Empire) Start by choosing the right property, making sure it is an unemotional investment, as opposed to an emotional home purchase.
Are you looking to buy, renovate and sell, or buy, renovate and hold? If you’re selling it’s imperative that there is an immediate and almost guaranteed profit in the deal. If you’re looking to hold, you need to buy the right property that will continue to grow strongly forever. The renovation profit in a hold strategy is more about icing on the cake, maximising your rental return and ensuring you have minimal maintenance to do in the future.
2. Shaynna Blaze (Selling Houses Australia) Assess your lifestyle.
Before working out the design and layout of your home, the first thing for any renovators to ask themselves: how do I like to live? Is your lifestyle casual? Do you like to entertain? Do you hate cleaning or noise? These different lifestyles will not only effect how the layout is but also the surfaces and colours you end up choosing.
3. Andrew Winter (Selling Houses Australia) Put your hard earned cash where it shows.
Make sure you put your hard earned cash where it shows. Quality kitchens and bathrooms will always add value to your home and a smart façade will make your house the envy of your neighbours.
4. Amanda Talbot (Stylist and author) 5% of the value of your house should be in your kitchen
Your kitchen needs a wow factor, including good storage; quality hardware, drawer runners and soft closing draw mechanisms. 5% of the value of your house should be in the kitchen.
5. Cherie Barber (Renovating For Profit) 1% of the value of your house should be spent on your bathroom
Aim to spend between 1% to 1.5% of your current property value on your bathroom renovation. If your property is worth $400,000 you would spend around $4,000 renovating it.
Once you know your budget, allocate your money according to how immediately obvious each component is. If the vanity is the first thing you see when you come through the door, spend more money on a nice vanity, splashback and mirror. Your bathroom is the second most important room in your house, besides your kitchen, in terms of adding real fiscal value.
6. Angus Kell (Archicentre) Go Green
Go green and cash in on the latest change in buying behaviour. Buyers can’t get enough of solar hot water, rainwater tanks and drip-feed irrigation systems
7. Patrick Bright (EPS Property Search) Avoid doing the work yourself to “save money”
A small budget means there is always a temptation to do some or all of the work yourself to save money but DIY renovations can easily backfire. If the quality of workmanship is substandard this will diminish your sale price, possibly eliminating any profit you might have made in much the same way as under-capitalising on a renovation.
8. Lisa Montgomery (Vogue Financial) Landscaping is important
The indoor/outdoor room is now a popular part of the Australian lifestyle, so allow for a percentage of your overall budget to be spent on landscaping so you can complement the work you’ve carried out inside the house. Even if your budget is modest, basic greenery and clean, functional outside areas will only improve a property’s appeal.
9. Nick Tobias (Tobias Partners Architecture) Research your architect.
Establish a shortlist of architects you feel are best equipped in terms of aesthetic and technical prowess. Spend time reviewing the work of different practices, including speaking to past clients. Remember to keep things simple, trends come and go.
10. Carolyn Burns-McCrave (House Rules, Burns-McCrave Design) Work from the inside out
A good floor plan is at the heart of a successful design and that each space should be tailored to the people who live there. Burns-McCrave says to work from the inside out; creating spaces that function and flow before thinking about colours and accessories.
</body></html>

10 DIY renovation tips for home owners

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News