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A Tamworth, New South Wales mortgagee home has been sold for $230,000.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-tamworth-132926730" target="_blank">70 Church Street</a>, Bryan Bolitho of Raine and Horne Tamworth were marketing the house.
The weatherboard and iron cottage consists of three bedroom, one bathroom, updated kitchen and study or office.
It also features open fireplace and rear access with room for sheds or garage. 
The home is situated in Central West within walking distance to the CBD.
It was last sold in 2012 for $227,500. 
 
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Tamworth, NSW mortgagee home sold for minor profit

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A Burwood, Victoria unit listed for mortgagee sale after an unsuccessful auction on May 23, is now under offer. 
The two-bedroom two-bathroom apartment, located at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-burwood-133452522"> G14A/399 Burwood Highway</a>, is perfect for downsizers and investors. 
It is seeking $439,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-05-14%20at%202.43.39%20pm.png" alt="">
Within close proximity to the No.75 tram and Deakin University, this property will be ideal for students. 
The large entertaining balcony enjoys a Westerly view and the home features an open plan kitchen. 
Harcourt’s Vasil Metelovski holds the property listing. 
The median unit price for<a href="/news"> Burwood</a> is $752,000, according to data from CoreLogic. 
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Mortgagee unit in Burwood under offer after unsuccessful auction

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A Western Australian mortgagee home in Gosnells has been listed for sale with hopes of $215,000.
The three-bedroom, one-bathroom home includes a study and a stand alone carport.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-duplex+semi-detached-wa-gosnells-133721930">103A Wheatley Street</a>, the property is located close to amenities and was last traded for $128,000 in 2001. 
The listing is held by LJ Hooker's Rick Rispoli. 
The median price for a house in <a href="/news">Gosnells</a> is $275,000, according to CoreLogic data.
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Gosnells, Western Australia mortgagee home listed

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GUEST OBSERVER
 
Over the past week, we’ve seen a spike in the number of COVID-19 infections among health-care workers in Victoria.
This includes a doctor at Melbourne’s <a href="https://amp.theage.com.au/national/victoria/deeply-concerned-doctor-at-melbourne-hospital-tests-positive-to-coronavirus-20200708-p55a2p">St Vincent’s Hospital</a>, one staff member at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-08/melbourne-hospital-and-aged-care-facilities-coronavirus-cases/12435286">Brunswick Private Hospital</a>, <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/more-covid-19-outbreaks-detected-in-hospitals-as-er-chief-isolates-20200709-p55akg">nine staff members</a> from the emergency department at Melbourne’s Northern Hospital, and two nurses at the <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/politics/federal/healthcare-workers-may-have-been-infected-in-staff-training-session-20200707-p559so">Royal Melbourne Hospital</a>.
Staff at several <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/coronavirus-victoria-covid19-clusters-melbourne-aged-care-facilities-altona-meadows/713ece5c-6e87-4eed-8cad-b5c6d4e410d0">aged care facilities</a> have also tested positive.
These cases have meant sending many health-care workers regarded as “close contacts” into home quarantine.
The Northern Hospital emergency department has reportedly had to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-06/melbourne-northern-hospital-staff-contract-coronavirus/12428336">divert patients elsewhere</a>, while Brunswick Private Hospital (where four patients tested positive too) is <a href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/brunswick-private-hospital-shut-as-four-patients-and-staff-member-test-positive-to-coronavirus/news-story/1fcb6e6e0587fe47c496ab7af78b1945">closed to new admissions</a>.
Keeping health-care workers COVID-free is critical to delivering care to those who need it during a pandemic. So as Victoria’s second wave rolls on, we need to consider what more we can do to protect our health workers.
Why might this be happening?
In the absence of a vaccine, subsequent waves of COVID-19 have always been a possibility.
Health-care workers tend not to contract COVID-19 <a href="https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2020/healthcare-workers-covid-19-most-contract-it-away-work">from patients</a>, as appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is used in high risk encounters.
But health-care workers are normal people commuting to work and living and interacting in communities. So it’s more likely <a href="https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2020/healthcare-workers-covid-19-most-contract-it-away-work">they contract it outside work</a>.
Undetected, they can then bring it into the hospital or other health-care setting, putting fellow staff and vulnerable patients at risk.
What are the implications for health care?
At the most basic level, the specialised health-care workforce is core to health-care delivery; without nurses, doctors and allied health staff, there’s no health-care system.
Infections in this group — whether confirmed outbreaks or suspected contamination —will reduce health-care workforce capacity.
High rates of staff off work due to COVID-19 may also increase fatigue and burnout in the remaining workforce, adding to the burden.
The greater the scope of these outbreaks, the greater the strain on the affected hospitals and the health-care system. This will be compounded as they’re faced with increased demand due to COVID-19 cases in the community.
Australia has had time to prepare its workforce with additional skills and capabilities in critical care. But there are always concerns regarding potential <a href="https://www.pwc.com.au/important-problems/coronavirus-covid-19/australian-healthcare-workforce">workforce shortages in the height of a pandemic</a>, particularly in areas of specialised practice such as intensive care.
Especially in “hotspots”, as we weather this second wave, there remains a risk demand could outweigh supply.
What can the health system do to cope?
A number of possible interventions could increase system capacity and help manage demand.
This may include decreasing elective or non-urgent surgery, as we saw during the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-coronavirus-ban-on-elective-surgeries-might-show-us-many-people-can-avoid-going-under-the-knife-135325">first wave</a> of the virus.
Increasing the use of virtual models of care including <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD007228.pub3/full">phone consultations and telehealth</a>, where appropriate, could also help ease the pressure. Quarantined frontline workers could provide virtual care through telephone support, such as helplines or other telehealth services.
Adapting care to minimise the movement and interaction of hospital staff across wards and sites is another important option. For example, some hospitals have shifted from a model where a team of doctors works across multiple wards to a small team of doctors providing care to only one ward.
Most hospitals have also set-up dedicated <a href="https://apps.who.int/iris/rest/bitstreams/1272399/retrieve">COVID wards</a> to screen patients for COVID-19 at the first point of contact with the health system.
What about routine testing for health workers?
To sustain a prolonged response to this crisis we need a healthy, COVID-19 free workforce. Especially given we know many positive cases <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7078829/">don’t experience symptoms</a>, we should be <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)30917-X/fulltext">mass testing health-care workers</a>.
To date, we’ve seen some testing of <a href="https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/major-coronavirus-testing-blitz-targets-100000/">asymptomatic health-care workers</a> in Victoria, but it has not been commonplace.
Increased routine screening of health-care workers, with or without suspected exposure, will increase the number of days away from work while staff wait for results, reducing service capacity. But the pay-off will be greater — it will limit COVID-19 spread.
Keeping our health-care heroes safe and well
From this week, staff at several major Melbourne hospitals have been required to wear masks <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/changing-circumstances-melbourne-hospital-workers-told-to-don-masks-20200707-p559qw">at all times</a> while at work. These precautions have previously been reserved for staff in areas of higher clinical risk such as emergency and intensive care.
This is in addition to a range of <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-for-the-health-and-aged-care-sector/providing-health-care-face-to-face-during-covid-19">guidelines</a> health professionals follow to minimise the spread of COVID-19, including around hand hygiene, cleaning, PPE, and keeping physical distance from patients where possible.
But the responsibility to take precautions and stop the spread falls to all of us.
Hospital patients and visitors are also being encouraged to wear face masks.
In fact, everyone in Melbourne is now advised to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-10/coronavirus-wearing-mask-advice-to-change-on-vic-covid19-threat/12441828">wear a mask</a> in public when social distancing is not possible. Hopefully this will go some way to protecting our health-care workers and the entire community.

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rochelle-wynne-998483">Rochelle Wynne</a>, Director, Western Sydney Nursing &amp; Midwifery Research Centre, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/western-sydney-university-1092">Western Sydney University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/caleb-ferguson-72">Caleb Ferguson</a>, Senior Research Fellow, Western Sydney Nursing &amp; Midwifery Research Centre, Western Sydney Local Health District &amp;, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/western-sydney-university-1092">Western Sydney University</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/rising-coronavirus-cases-among-victorian-health-workers-could-threaten-our-pandemic-response-142375">original article</a>.
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Rising coronavirus cases among Victorian health workers could threaten our pandemic response

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A mortgagee unit in Collie, Western Australia has sold for $195,000.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-wa-collie-131364398" target="_blank">4/60 Venn Street</a>, the home comprises three bedrooms, a single bathroom, and double garage.
The unit features easy vehicle access to the double garage and privacy. 
Situated at the rear of the complex, it comes with user-friendly kitchen, alfresco area and reverse cycle split system.
Val Bronickis, from Elders Collie, listed the property.
 
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Collie, Western Australia mortgagee unit sold 

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Melbourne’s clearance rate dipped to 46 per cent at the weekend after the return to stage three restrictions.
There were 417 scheduled auctions but just 168 results reported to Domain.
Some 149 properties were withdrawn from auction.
It was 57 per cent on the prior weekend.
The Victorian current rules end August 19.
"Melbourne’s weekend auction market tracked sharply backwards at the weekend with predictably significant withdrawals dragging down the clearance rate to its lowest point since early May," Dr Andrew Wilson at My Housing Market said.  "Although the Melbourne market suffered dramatically from the reinstatement of the coronavirus lockdown this week, other capitals continued to perform solidly overall," he noted.
The number of properties selling before auction, rather than under the hammer, is on rise across Sydney.
Sydney’s preliminary clearance rate was 64 per cent, jumping from last week’s 62 per cent, after 452 scheduled auctions and 255 reported results. 
It included 67 auctions withdrawn across the city.
The top sale was the five-bedroom, double-storey home at 3/85 Raglan Street, Mosman (pictured in title) for $4.55 million through Belle Property agent Stefan Bertram.
The dearest in Melbourne was $2,802,500 in Carlton. The 1018 Drummond Street offering was a four bedroom house. 
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Melbourne’s clearance rate dips to 46 per cent after return to stage three restrictions

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Brisbane saw a fall in the incidence of profit-making resales in the March quarter, comprising 87 per cent of these transactions. This is down from 88 per cent in the December quarter, and 88.4 per cent in the March 2019 quarter.
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Source: CoreLogic Pain and Gain March Quarter 2020 report.
The house market continued to show strong returns relative to the unit market. Over the quarter, 94.6 per cent of houses saw a nominal gain compared with 63.8 per cent of units. This is due to the ongoing, divergent capital growth performance between houses and units. In the 5 years to March 2020 annualised growth across Brisbane houses was 2.7 per cent, compared to -0.8 per cent in units.
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These conditions also inform the loss making sales seen across the Brisbane Council Region. In the March quarter, 15.1 per cent of resales saw a loss. Of these loss-making sales, 88.3 per cent were units. It is also noteworthy that across the Brisbane council region, 66.0 per cent of loss making sales had been held by investors.
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Interestingly, the area with the highest portion of loss making sales was the Lockyer Valley Council region. This portion is off a small base, with only 21 sales in the quarter seeing a nominal decline at resale. Most of these were houses, and had a relatively lengthy median hold period of 9.7 years. However, the median loss on these properties was also relatively small, at $20,000.
While dwelling market demand may continue to be impacted by COVID-19, a bright spot for ongoing demand in the Queensland market is interstate migration. Over the past few years, Queensland has been the largest recipient of interstate migrants, who typically come from New South Wales or Victoria. The imposed lock down which has seen many adapt to working from home could create added demand for South East Queensland property from owner occupiers as demand returns to the economy. This is because SEQ offers a far more affordable housing price point compared with those in Sydney and Melbourne, and may have greater lifestyle appeal for some.
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Source: CoreLogic Pain and Gain March Quarter 2020 report.
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Brisbane sees a fall in the profit-making resales: CoreLogic Pain & Gain 

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To echo a similar sentiment to last month’s Month in Review, the Northern Territory is the safest place in the country, according to the June Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
"Our Chief Minister, Michael Gunner, is quotes as saying that the Northern Territory is now 'the envy of the country' and for good reason," the valuation firm sai.d 
"Firstly, only two new COVID-19 cases this month, both of whom were diagnosed while overseas and then returned home to Darwin, taking our total to 30. 
"Apart from the two recent cases who should both make a full recovery very soon, we still have no community transmission anywhere across the Northern Territory (source: Natasha Fyles, Health Minister, Northern Territory Government), a statistic championed to and throughout our community," the valuation firm said. 
On the back of this, the Northern Territory government has implemented its ground-breaking road map to the new normal (source: Secure NT) that was released on 30 April. This road map allows a slow but safe return to some normalcy across the Territory not only from a health and safety but an economic point of view.
Stage 2 was the most recent change on 15 May which saw pubs, clubs, gyms, some indoor gatherings, museums, open homes and inspections and other businesses of the like re-open, with an expected 1,500 people returning to work immediately (source: NT News). This was a welcome relief, not only as people enjoy the social interaction (from a safe distance) but also in getting the economic wheels to start turning.
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"As we start to see the easing of restrictions, how will this factor into the property market?
"In short, we are seeing a reduction in sales volumes, combined with a reduction in listings," the valuation firm said. 
The March 2020 quarter saw volumes fall by 27 per cent (source: REINT magazine), however as this data is captured pre-COVID-19, the June quarter will show a clearer picture as to the full effects of the virus and its impact.
"Commentary in the market is echoing last month’s view of a wait and see approach as we wade through the pandemic.
"With the return of open homes part of the easing of restrictions, hope remains that we may see an increase in transactions in the market," the valuation firm said. 
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One positive that has come from the virus is the rise in renovations and the associated wider reaching benefits of this, the report noted. 
A major factor in the Northern Territory has been the release of the Home Improvement Scheme. This scheme saw an initial $30 million of funding allocated to home and also business improvements where the government will give a voucher worth $4,000 if owners contribute at least $1,000 of their own money, or a voucher worth $6,000 if they contribute at least $2,000 of their own money with the idea being to get screwdriver ready projects out the door.
The scope of possible works that could be done is quite varied and only needs to be completed by someone who is a licenced trade, not related to the recipient of the grant (source: business recovery.nt.gov.au).
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The report suggests the uptake on this was enormous. Funding was pushed out to $100 million by the Northern Territory government with the idea of getting 20,000 applications and work to be undertaken over the next six to nine months, a great incentive for not only home improvements but a kick starter for trades and services.
Another great positive in this scheme is that investors can also benefit, the government making it clear from the onset that investors who own a home and are a resident in the Northern Territory could also benefit.
Speaking with local agents, renovated homes continue to draw good enquiry and with the easing of open home restrictions, this will only improve. 
Uptake of the scheme has also been varied, with homes in all areas and wide ranging price brackets taking up the opportunity to renovate and improve.
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Speaking locally, the preferred established locations are our northern suburbs, the report noted. 
Being in a tropical climate with proximity to the beach, preferences lean towards larger outdoor living areas or the added benefit of a pool.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nt-anula-133034166" target="_blank">23 Yanyula Drive, Anula </a>(pictured below) is an example of a typical three- bedroom, one-bathroom home found in these, the HTW report noted. 
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With the added benefit of a pool and larger entertaining area, this renovated home sold for $585,000.
Compare this with properties without the pool or entertaining area that are currently for sale for anywhere up to $100,000 less in some locations.
There are however some minor drawbacks of the scheme. Any property owned in a trust or company name cannot apply and if a property is owned in joint names, one grant will be applied to both owners. Some works are excluded such as solar panels and works on a do-it-yourself basis.
"While these may frustrate some owners, we see great overall benefits for this scheme, not just for economic restart but the revitalisation of property in the Northern Territory as a whole," the valuation firm said. 
"Where to from here? As said in previous reviews, the matter of COVID-19 is still very much in the wait-and-see position. The Northern Territory has been tremendous in flattening the curve and we are now beginning to see the easing of restrictions as a result of the swift action taken.
"What does that mean for the property market?If we can continue on the current trajectory, with social distancing and also avoiding the second wave, we may see confidence return much sooner than expected with local sentiment already beginning to turn." 
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Darwin property market sees benefits of the Home Improvement Scheme: HTW residential 

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A mortgagee home in Woodroffe, an inner-city Darwin suburb of Palmerston, has come onto the market seeking $389,000
Just 2 months ago the vendors were seeking $399,000. 
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nt-woodroffe-133571298">62 Sibbald Crescent</a>, the single-level residence features three-bedrooms and two-bathrooms. 
Comprising of 898sqm, the home is set on a large block with a sizeable rear lawn and established gardens. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-05-14%20at%201.59.15%20pm.png" alt="">
The property is located close to the Palmerston town centre, schools and shops. 
Ray White’s Korgan Hucent has the listing. 
The median house price for <a href="/news">Woodroffe</a> is $332,500, according to CoreLogic data. 
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Woodroffe home set for mortgagee sale with reduced asking price

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The containment of COVID-19 has allowed the state government to put into action its roadmap for easing COVID-19 restrictions which was met with open arms for those in the property industry, according to the June Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
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At the time of writing, South Australia has registered only one new case of COVID-19 since 23 April and has become the first state to be free of any known COVID-19 cases.
As of 11 May, restrictions were eased on the number of attendees at open inspections and allowing on-site auctions to take place.There is a sense of optimism in the air.
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In terms of the numbers, days on the market for metropolitan Adelaide currently sits at 54 compared to 45 during the same period in 2019 whilst listing volumes nationally have trended lower, the report noted. 
"Interestingly dwelling values have been resilient recording a 0.4 per cent increase over the month of April.Agents are reporting a similar story indicating that stock is hard to find however buyers are still active in the market," the valuation firm said. 
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The motivations of those active in the market must be well tuned when considering a renovation. What motivates one market participant to throw on the overalls and pick up a paint brush can be vastly different to the next.
For owner-occupiers, a lack of space during working from home arrangements may have forced the hand to give a renovation project the green light whilst a minor renovation may make an investor’s rental property stand out from the crowd in a deepening rental market.
When undertaking renovations, owner-occupiers are willing to extend themselves to achieve a level of comfort and amenity required for a long stay. The thought process is spend now for what you want.
In 20 years’ time, the cost becomes negligible and you have benefited in lifestyle from the works undertaken. Conversely, investors seek out properties with good bones that need as little capital outlay as possible.Put simply, owner- occupiers will attempt to fulfil both wants and needs whilst investors look to fulfil needs.
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An example of this differential can be seen in the sales of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-parkside-133257550" target="_blank">10 Dunks Street, Parkside</a> (pictured above) and 42 Stamford Street, Parkside (pictured below).
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Each comprises a character stone dwelling on an approximately 350 square metre allotment. 
Selling in April 2020 for $1.29 million and representing owner-occupiers, 10 Dunks Street, Parkside has been fully renovated and extended comprising high quality fixtures and fittings across three levels of accommodation.
This property provides for the typical needs of a buyer and also the trimmings some in the market may want.
Conversely and representing investors, 42 Stamford Street, Parkside is currently listed for rent asking $520 per week and has had the floors polished, walls painted and the kitchen and bathrooms updated to an appealing standard.
This property has been brought to a standard acceptable in the market providing no more than the needs a potential occupant may seek.
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"Heritage restrictions and planning overlays catering to lower density development make the inner and middle rings ripe for those looking for a renovation project," the valuation firm said. 
The suburbs of Nailsworth, Kensington, Colonel Light Gardens and Mile End are each located within five kilometres of the Adelaide CBD and are characterised by early to mid-century homes on allotments ranging from 150 to 1000 square metres. 
Entry price points in these suburbs range between $450,000 and $850,000 with well-established and renovated homes ranging in price from $650,000 to $1 million plus.
Ripe for a renovation is the current listing of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-kensington-133473982" target="_blank">14 Phillips Street, Kensington</a> (pictured below), which has been advertised to the market with an undisclosed asking price.
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The property comprises a brick bungalow disposed as two bedrooms and one bathroom on a 453 square metre allotment.
This property represents an entry level property in the suburb of Kensington.
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The report suggests renovating does not solely relate to detached dwellings. Strata units are popular with first home buyers and investors given the entry price point they provide.
The restrictive nature of a Strata Title means renovations can only take place within the four walls of the unit. This can be a good starting point for first time renovators as one can get a taste for the process whilst being limited in the extent of work that can be undertaken.
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Strata units are typically found in suburbs established between 1960 and 1970 and are characterised by cream brick walls and terracotta-tiled roofs. The Burnside council area in the metropolitan south-east is heavily populated with strata units.
Entry price points throughout the council area range between $225,000 and $325,000 whilst renovated units become available in the high $200,000s and can push up to the low $400,000s at the top end of the market.
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A representation of an entry level property is the sale of<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-sa-rose+park-132382350" target="_blank"> 10/1A Grant Avenue, Rose Park</a> (pictured below) which achieved a sale price of $263,500.
<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/2020/7/6/rose%20park.jpg" alt="">
This property comprised a first floor unit disposed as two bedrooms and one bathroom providing original fixtures and fittings throughout.
The property is well located being only a short walk to Victoria Race Course and Adelaide Parklands.
The upper end of market parameters is represented by 6/3 Talbot Street, Erindale (pictured below) which achieved a sale price of $430,000.
<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/2020/7/6/erindale.jpg" alt="">
This is a fully renovated, free standing unit comprising two bedrooms and one bathroom. The unit has a double carport and private courtyard.
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When considering a renovation, construction costs and materials can be a topic hotly debated over the dining table. Construction costs appear to have remained stable over the past 12 months.
Costs can fluctuate depending on building size, quality and specification.Tastes in building materials continue to evolve with free-standing baths and glass window kitchen splash backs becoming popular.
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Brick veneer and rendered hebel construction remain most common for extensions whilst vinyl timber flooring and stone bench tops have become standard inclusions.
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"With an uncertain sales market we may in the short term begin to see a trend where home owners renovate what they have instead of seeking something else.
"This coupled with record low interest rates may provide the perfect excuse to get a project moving," the valuation firm said. 
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What motivates market participates to renovate in Adelaide?  HTW residential 

The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yarraville-green-42-stephen-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville Green</a> development in Melbourne's inner west is showing that landscaping can be just as influential as architecture, with buyers responding strongly to the garden-first approach adopted from the outset by developer Excelon Projects and the project's design team.

Excelon appointed Six Degrees Architects and landscape architects SBLA to work collaboratively on the development, with a brief to create "a sustainable, design-led building with a focus on community."

That approach has resonated with buyers. According to Next Chapter Director Tom Hirini, who is leading the sales campaign, the landscaped communal garden has become one of the project's defining features, alongside its boutique scale and European-inspired cluster housing concept.

Local downsizers, right-sizers and established families already living in Yarraville and surrounding suburbs have accounted for the majority of purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297740]

Yarraville Green will comprise 53 homes, including apartments and townhomes, arranged around the shared central garden to maximise connections to the landscaped open space. Parking has been moved underground, allowing the ground plane to be dedicated to greenery, pedestrian movement and communal spaces.

The landscape extends well beyond passive planting. Productive garden beds, a pergola, communal gathering spaces, garden sheds and a pet wash have all been integrated into the masterplan, creating spaces designed to encourage everyday interaction between residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297741]

The interiors continue Excelon's focus on craftsmanship, incorporating bespoke elements by Melbourne artisans including leadlight detailing by Adadaz, hand-turned timber hardware by Auburn Woodturning and blown-glass lighting by Ruth Allen.

Sustainability has also been embedded throughout the project, with Yarraville Green targeting an average 7-star NatHERS energy rating through passive design principles, rooftop solar servicing common areas and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297735]

Construction continues to progress at Yarraville Green, with structural works well underway and framing works approaching completion under builder Balmain &amp; Co. The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027.

Apartments at Yarraville Green are currently priced from $625,000, while townhomes start from $1.4 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144913]

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

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]

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 41-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 41-storey tower, which has 229 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]

Staff reporter

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