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Rag trader Ray Pillion has listed his lavish Darling Point penthouse in the Washingtonia building.
The four bedroom, four bathroom home is one of only two villas in the prestigious boutique block that was built six years ago.
Architecturally designed by Jahn and Associates, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-darling+point-123770602" target="_blank">two storey home offers an expansive 550 sqm</a>.
There are a number of outdoor entertaining areas, one with a swimming pool, the other overlooking the harbour.
There's no price guidance but it was listed last year with $8.5 million hopes.
D'Leanne Lewis at Laing + Simmons Double Bay and Michael Pallier at Sydney Sotheby's have the listing.
Pillion had paid $6.5 million for the home in 2010.
 
 
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Rag trader Ray Pillion lists harbourside Darling Point penthouse

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The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) Victorian Branch is to sell its long time Melbourne headquarters.
The property is tipped to generate wide ranging interest from investors, hoteliers, education groups and student accommodation providers.
CBRE has the offering of the two adjoining buildings at 532 and 540 Elizabeth Street, set between Melbourne’s health, education and Victoria Market Precincts.
Funds raised from the sale will help fund the construction of a new multimillion dollar ANMF head office and education facility, which is being developed directly opposite on the western side of Elizabeth Street.
Due to be completed in September 2017, the new 10-level facility will include an auditorium and educational facility to cater to the federation’s fast expanding member base in Victoria.
ANMF’s Secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick said the Victorian branch had expanded from 27,000 members to more than 76,000 in the past 20 years
There is the larger ANMF House building at 540 Elizabeth Street and a double-storey character building at 532 Elizabeth Street, otherwise known as 29 Leicester Street
The properties will be offered individually or in one line.
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Victorian nurses look to sell Melbourne headquarters

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EG Funds Management has exchanged contracts to sell 223 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst to ST Real Estate Austraila, European based clients of Fidinam Australasia Real Estate.
The property was sold for $33 million, having been purchased by EG in 2014 for $17.45 million denoting an equity IRR of approximately 40 percent.
The asset, with a net lettable area of 4,477sqm, is currently in the process of attaining Development Approval for a staged refurbishment and repositioning of the entire building.
Formerly known as Holdsworth House, the five-level heritage listed building was the seed asset for EG’s Core Plus Fund No. 1 (CPF1).
EG identified the asset’s repositioning potential during the fund raising of CPF1. The eastern city Sydney fringe asset was encumbered with a number of existing leases and unfavourable floor configuration.
“The asset offered an excellent opportunity to add value through a complete refurbishment while providing a robust initial yield at acquisition” says Divisional Director, Daniel Farley.
“Following strong unsolicited interest, EG has capitalised on an extremely strong Sydney office market, with the sales price providing returns consistent with the acquisition’s refurbishment strategy, minus the delivery risk”
CPF1 is a closed-end fund, focused on acquiring assets that can benefit from the active asset management, refurbishment and repositioning capabilities, for which EG is well known.
EG were represented in the sale by Jonathan Vaughan and John Bowie Wilson from Knight Frank, while Craig Stuckey of Fidinam represented the purchaser.
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EG sells Sydney fringe asset for $33 million

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Frasers Property Australia has secured a major land parcel in Wyndham Vale for a $440 million mixed-used community that will deliver around 1,200 residential lots and associated amenity, including over 20,000 sqm of retail facilities focused on local needs.
The 115 hectare sheep farm site at 974 Black Forest Road in Wyndham Vale, in Melbourne’s West, is adjacent to a proposed train station, enabling Frasers Property to integrate the mixed-use community with transport infrastructure to provide convenience and connectivity.
Anthony Boyd, Executive General Manager - Residential, Frasers Property Australia says more than 3,300 people will call it home over the next eight years.
The Residential component covers 69.4 hectares and will yield around 1,200 lots, with 8.3 hectares allocated to Education / Community use, a further 8.3 hectares for Retail and 14.8 hectares dedicated to Mixed-Use Commercial / Employment.
Frasers Property acquired the Wyndham Vale site for an undisclosed sum through Savills agents Julian Heatherich and Clinton Baxter.
But morning paper reports put it at $95 million.
The underbidders were believed to include local developer MAB Corporation, the Chinese giant Country Gardens and another Chinese player New Sky Group.
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Wyndham Vale sheep farm to be home to over 3,300 after Frasers' $95 million purchase

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Mullewa is the cheapest suburb to purchase a house across Australia, according to Investar’s latest market report.
The property investment firm states that the median price for a house in Mullewa is $60,000.
Mullewa is a town in the Mid West region of Western Australia, 450 kilometres north of Perth and 98 kilometres east-northeast of Geraldton.
It is the gateway to Wildflower country.
Its affordable pricing is followed by Norseman in WA at $65,000 and Andamooka at $75,000 in South Australia.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Dwelling type
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Median listing price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Mullewa
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$60,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Norseman
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$65,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Andamooka
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
SA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$75,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Zeehan
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
TAS
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$78,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="85">
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85"> </td>
<td valign="top" width="85"> </td>
<td valign="top" width="85"> </td>
<td valign="top" width="85"> </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Mullewa has a four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-mullewa-120578481" target="_blank">68 Jose St</a> (above) that is for sale for $65,000. It last sold at $69,000 in 2006.
Another example would be a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-mullewa-109081231" target="_blank">8 Main Road</a> (below) that is for sale from $65,000.
The fibro residence, on 849 sqm, is tenanted at $185 per week, an almost 15 percent gross rental yield.
<img src="/images/2016/10/22/8%20Main%20Road.jpg" alt="">
 
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Australia's cheapest houses - Mullewa's $60,000 offerings: Investar

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Stockland has been awarded a position on the Climate A List by CDP, the international not-for-profit that drives sustainable economies.
There are 193 “A Listers” on the list.
Thousands of companies submit annual climate disclosures to CDP for independent assessment against its scoring methodology.
Stockland is among 9 percent of corporations participating in CDP’s climate change program to be awarded a position on the Climate A List, in recognition of its actions to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change in the past reporting year.
Stockland has achieved an unprecedented triple crown.
Stockland is the current S&amp;P Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) Global Real Estate Sector Leader and also achieved Global Sector and Regional Sector Leader status in the 2016 Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) survey in the category Diversified - Retail/Office.
Mark Steinert, Managing Director and CEO at Stockland, said their company purpose was to "create a better way to live." 
The Climate A List is released in CDP’s Out of the starting blocks: Tracking progress on corporate climate action report today.
The report, which establishes the baseline for corporate climate action, reveals that global corporations have started the transition to a low-carbon economy and some are already capitalizing on the opportunities this affords.
Companies’ progress on reducing emissions in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement will be tracked against this baseline in future annual reports.
Stockland’s key achievements and priorities included:
- Commitment to design and technology innovation and access to alternative energy supplies that help us and our customers realise a cost-efficient, low carbon future.
- Focus on incorporating alternative energy, particularly solar photo-voltaic power supply, into commercial premises. Solar installations already in place at Shellharbour, Green Hills and Nowra in NSW. Stockland is currently installing a new solar PV system at Wetherill Park in western Sydney.
- A large portion of Stockland’s retirement village homes have solar PV installations.
- Stockland is currently exploring how solar can be adopted at scale within our Residential business, with the investigation of different network ownership and management models underway.
- Stockland has the largest number of Green Star rated retail properties in Australia, as verified by the GBCA.
- In FY16 alone, Stockland’s investment in energy-efficient measures across various commercial property assets are likely to achieve projected energy savings of approximately 1,718,000kWh, which is the equivalent energy saving of removing 255 passenger vehicles from the road for an entire year.
- Stockland has prioritised the development of Australian and world’s best practice Green Star residential communities across the nation, and the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) has rewarded the company’s leading approach to sustainability and liveability.
- The GBCA has accredited six Stockland communities in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth with either 5 or 6 Star Green Star – Communities ratings. The accreditation assesses and recognises design excellence, innovation, environmental responsibility, potential for future economic prosperity and liveability within each community.
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Stockland secures triple crown recognition for climate change role

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Blacktown narrowly eclipsed the eastern suburbs having the highest auction clearance rate in Sydney, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
There was a 93.8 percent success rate with 16 auctions cleared in Blacktown.
<a href="/images/2016/10/24/Sydney%20sub%20regions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/Sydney%20sub%20regions.jpg" alt="">
This is followed by the Northern Beaches with an auction clearance rate of 90 percent.
The district with the lowest clearance rate was the Central Coast with only 75 percent of its auctions resulting in a successful outcome.
<a href="/images/2016/10/24/Sydney%20weekly%20clearance.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/Sydney%20weekly%20clearance.jpg" alt="">
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Blacktown eclipses the eastern suburbs with highest auction clearance rate: CoreLogic

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Australia’s top property developers represented by the industry association Urban Taskforce Australia have come together with a proposal to the NSW Government to deliver a new form of affordable housing.
It has been suggested it could produce 40,000 new affordable homes in Sydney over the next 10 years.
“Sydney’s housing affordability crisis is clearly getting worse as indicated by calls for action by Federal Treasurer Scott Morrison and by State Planning Minister Rob Stokes’s recent statement about a shortage of 100,000 homes in Sydney,” says Urban Taskforce CEO, Chris Johnson.
“There is a simple answer to providing more homes and to housing affordability in Sydney by modifying slightly the NSW Affordable Rental Housing State Environmental Planning Policy.”
“The NSW government can modify the current Affordable Rental Housing SEPP to create a real incentive to the property industry to provide large numbers of affordable homes across Sydney.
"The current Affordable Rental Housing SEPP 2009 gives little incentive to the property industry to build affordable homes but by changing the formula to give a 20% bonus floor space and height, thousands of new affordable homes could be built each year.
"The effect of the 20% bonus would be that a 5 storey apartment building would become 6 storeys or a 10 storey block would become 12 storeys.”
“The Urban Taskforce estimates that up to 4,000 new affordable homes could be produced each year leading to 40,000 over a ten year period. This would have a massive impact on the current supply of affordable homes across Sydney at a scale we have never seen before.”
“The Urban Taskforce proposal uses the definition of affordable housing from the Federal Government’s National Rental Assistance Scheme (NRAS) where newly built 1,2,3 and 4 bedroom homes are rented at a 20 percent discount to the market rent of each local government area with dwellings remaining in the affordable housing scheme for up to 10 years. At the end of the 10 years the homes are sold back to the general market. This proposal ensures that affordable housing stock is constantly renewed and does not become run down. The developer also has the opportunity to recoup the costs of providing the housing at the end of the ten year period which ensures there is sufficient incentive to encourage developers to provide this form of housing.”
“Some Sydney councils champion inclusionary zoning where the developer must provide a percentage of homes as affordable but this is only another form of taxation on housing production, and will only increase the cost of the remaining houses being sold to mums and dads and first home buyers. We believe that rather than imposing a tax on the developer an incentive approach with bonus floor space is more equitable and more likely to lead to large numbers of affordable homes being built.”
“The scale of housing delivery of up to 4,000 a year along with the guaranteed 10 years rental income is likely to establish a new asset class for institutional investors like superannuation funds who like a low risk long term investment. This type of affordable housing product could potentially inject billions of dollars into affordable housing which currently is not being invested in the sector ensuring there is scale and enough housing for low to moderate income earning households. Attracting this institutional investment will ensure a long-term sustainable supply of affordable housing.”
“In places like the US, Canada and the UK institutional capital has been investing in affordable housing for more than 40 years but for a number of reasons Australia has missed out on this type of institutional investment in housing and as a result has made Sydney home prices one the most expensive in the world”.
“We call on the NSW Government to seriously consider our affordable housing proposal urgently. Our proposal doesn’t put any pressure on the government’s budget nor is it asking for any tax payers handout. It is a simple incentive based system which provides affordability across all of Sydney and across all dwelling sizes. All it needs is for the Planning Minister Rob Stokes to make an amendment to the existing Affordable Rental Housing SEPP,” says Chris Johnson.
“Sydney currently has a housing supply problem despite reaching 30,000 housing completions last financial year this is 6,000 less than the average needed each year for the next 20 years. To increase supply by 4,000 affordable homes a year will certainly help manage population growth.”
The Urban Taskforce established a special affordable housing sub-committee to develop the proposal.
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Bonus floor space sought by Sydney property developers to increase affordable home supply 

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There's been much speculation surrounding the Lindfield home of TV presenter Karl Stefanovic and wife Cassandra Thorburn after the couple separated last month.
Pap photographs show it might be set for a listing as a drone was pictured being flown high above the family home they shared with their three children.
There Domain website even reported there had been a recent bank valuation on the property too.
The couple had bought the classic Federation bungalow for $2.3 million in 2010 after it initially priced at $3 million.
The home is pictured on its 2010 listing.
<img src="/images/2016/10/26/Karl2.jpg" alt="" width="451" height="297">
They sold their St Ives first home the same year for $1,285,000.
Set on 920 sqm, the six bedroom, three bathroom home has been renovated and extended by Karl and Cassandra.
Thorburn took to social media to take some credit for Karl and Lisa Wilkinson's The Today Show, which by one tally has beaten Seven's breakfast show Sunrise in the ratings for the first time in many years.
“Apparently Today show finally won a year,” she wrote on Facebook.
“This took a huge toll on my family and I, and I’m congratulating myself today for all the effort that went into making that happen.
“The suggestions, the story ideas, the constant counselling of questions for years. 
"I’m giving myself a pat on the back tonight, as I know many people will also know how much effort I put into it.”
 
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Drone spotted hovering over Karl Stefanovic's Lindfield home sparks listing speculation

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Bombers midfielder Dyson Heppell has listed his Moonee Ponds period home, Albertus, after only owning it just over a year.
Heppell paid $1.74 million for the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-moonee+ponds-123875750" target="_blank">four bedroom home</a> last September, and now price expectations come in at around $2.5 million to $2.65 million.
He found time to renovate the home extensively since being banned from playing this year following the team's much publicised supplements scandal.
The Edwardian home now comes with a large open plan living area with high ceilings, glass stacker doors and polished concrete floors. There's also now an additional bathroom.
<img src="/images/2016/10/26/HeppelInterior.jpg" alt="" width="510" height="238">
The master suite has a large walk in wardrobe and an ensuite.
Heppell has also added the new heated swimming pool.
 <img src="/images/2016/10/26/Heppel%20Pool.jpg" alt="" width="509" height="283">
A large timber staircase leads to a mezzanine family retreat or home office.
Rebecca Towns and Brad Teal has set a November 19 auction date.
 
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Essendon midfielder Dyson Heppell lists his Moonee Ponds renovation

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Joel Robinson

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Walker doubles down on Maroochydore with 29-storey Celeste apartment tower

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

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