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A 2,461 sqm freestanding industrial building in Botany has been sold for $5,730,000. 
A private investor purchased the property from Woodsize Pty Ltd.
Located at 36 Chegwyn Street, the freestanding industrial building comprises a 2,461 sqm high clearance warehouse with first floor office and storage space. 
The freestanding building sits on a 1,646 sqm site area and has two street frontages.
The deal was negotiated by Edward Washer and Sam Wallace, Savills Australia who said the sales campaign saw a large amount of interest from owner occupiers and investors. 
According to Mr Washer, “The buyer saw great value long term in the location and the flexible B7 business park zoning and 1.5:1 FSR."
“Previously used as a leather tannery, the new owners will look to bring new life to the building and align it with tenant demand in the area."
 
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Freestanding industrial Botany building sold for $5.73 million

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GUEST OBSERVATION
 
As the coronavirus pandemic spreads around the world, it’s a good time to understand how cleaning can help prevent the spread of disease and what you can do to cut the risk of infection in your home.
Coronavirus is mainly transmitted from person to person via <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19">tiny droplets</a> of saliva or other bodily fluids that float in the air after a cough or sneeze.
Contaminated objects and surfaces can also be important in the transmission of disease. It’s not entirely clear what role they play in transmitting the new coronavirus, but they play an important one for <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195670120300463">related viruses</a> such as SARS and MERS.
However, it makes sense that something contaminated with the virus could pass it on, for example if a person touches it and then touches their nose, mouth or face.
So, if someone at risk of having the virus has been in your home, cleaning to reduce the amount of contamination on surfaces may help cut down your risk of further transmission of coronavirus. (It will also cut the risk of transmitting other pathogens.)
What’s the difference between cleaning and disinfection?
There’s a useful to distinction to make between <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/cleaning-disinfection?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcommunity%2Fhome%2Fcleaning-disinfection.html">cleaning</a> and <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/cleaning-disinfection?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcommunity%2Fhome%2Fcleaning-disinfection.html">disinfection</a>.
Cleaning means physically removing organic matter such as germs and dirt from surfaces. Disinfection means using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces.
Cleaning is very important, because organic matter may inhibit or reduce the disinfectant’s ability to kill germs.
How long will coronavirus survive in my house?
We are not exactly sure how long this coronavirus will survive on surfaces. If it is similar to other coronaviruses, it could survive a few hours – potentially <a href="https://www.journalofhospitalinfection.com/article/S0195-6701(20)30046-3/fulltext">up to several days</a>. How long it survives could depend on temperature, humidity and what the surface is made of.
What could be contaminated in my house?
It’s hard to say exactly. When someone coughs or sneezes, especially if they don’t cover their mouth, it is likely surfaces close to them will be contaminated.
Hands are often responsible for transferring pathogens from one place to another, so items that people often touch are at greatest risk of being contaminated.
Frequently touched items may include TV remotes, fridge doors, kitchen cupboards, kitchen surfaces, taps and door handles. And of course, there are devices such as phones and iPads – but these may not be shared or touched by others frequently.
What should I use to clean and how?
The coronavirus is a delicate structure and it is vulnerable in the environment. Both heat and detergents, including soap, can stop it functioning.
Contaminated surfaces
If a surface becomes contaminated or you think it could be, cleaning it with a common household disinfectant will kill the virus. Remember to wash your hands after cleaning (or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser) and avoid touching your eyes, mouth or nose.
There are many options for what to use to clean, including paper towels, cloths or disposable wipes.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/321221/original/file-20200318-37387-184yl1.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt="">T
he S-shaped pattern for cleaning a surface without re-contaminating parts of it. Brett Mitchell, Author provided
How you clean is important. You don’t want to “recontaminate” surfaces while cleaning. Working from one side of a surface to the other helps with this, using an <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195670118307205">“S” shape to clean</a>.
If you are reusing a cloth, remember to wash it afterwards and let it dry. Laundering cloths in the washing machine with normal washing liquid is also likely to kill the virus, particularly on a hot wash.
Dishes and cutlery
Washing with hot water and detergent is fine for dishes and cutlery. A dishwasher is even better, because it can use hotter water than your hands will tolerate.
Clothing and linen
Use the warmest setting possible to wash contaminated laundry and make sure you allow it to dry completely. You may not want to ruin clothing or other materials, so always look at the manufacturer’s instructions.
Laundry from someone who is sick can be washed with other people’s items. If you are handling contaminated items such as towel or sheets, avoid shaking them before washing, to reduce the risk of contaminating other surfaces.
And remember to wash your hands immediately after touching any contaminated laundry.
Prevention is best
Remember that surfaces play a role in transmitting pathogens, so preventing them from becoming contaminated in the first place is as important as cleaning. There are some things you can do to reduce the amount of contamination of surfaces in your house:
– cover your cough and sneezes, ideally with a tissue but otherwise into your elbow, and wash your hands immediately
– wash your hands often, especially after going to the bathroom and before eating.
What do I do if someone in my home is sick?
It may be wise to think about which room in your home could be used to care for a sick member of your family. If possible, the ideal room is one that that is separate from other parts of your home and has a separate bathroom.
Cleaning this room when someone is sick also requires some thought. Further advice on caring for someone with coronavirus at home is available from the <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/03/coronavirus-covid-19-information-about-home-isolation-when-unwell-suspected-or-confirmed-cases.pdf">Department of Health</a>.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/133912/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brett-mitchell-398392">Brett Mitchell</a>, Professor of Nursing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-newcastle-1060">University of Newcastle</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/how-to-clean-your-house-to-prevent-the-spread-of-coronavirus-and-other-infections-133912">original article</a>.
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How to clean your house to prevent the spread of coronavirus and other infections

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The ACCC has moved quickly to reprioritise its work and direct resources towards delivering on issues stemming from the extraordinary economic disruption caused by COVID-19, which I will touch on today. We continue to deliver on pre-existing priorities or essential work but, like so many organisations, our focus has had to shift.
While we have closed our offices to the public, we are still operating surprisingly well. Our efforts to become a more flexible workforce over the past few years has paid off, with over 97 per cent of our employees now working from home each day. This is an enormous, complex shift and one I am sure many of you have had to navigate yourselves.
The ACCC’s COVID-19 Taskforce is rapidly responding to a large number of issues impacting Australian consumers and businesses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We have received thousands of phone calls, emails and social media reports from consumers and businesses seeking information and are working swiftly to address areas of harm to consumers and advising businesses about their obligations.
The ACCC Taskforce is focusing on early intervention by engaging directly with businesses, relevant state and federal government agencies, and consumer and other representative groups.
Our aim is to address immediate problems being faced by consumers in relation to cancellation of services and failure to obtain refunds and remedies, and working with expert teams across the agency to ensure we can quickly get to the heart of the issues being raised with the ACCC and work to fix them.
Below I will outline a number of successful early interventions by the ACCC Taskforce and other discussions and investigations that are continuing.
Cancelled travel and accommodation services
Various restrictions in place for domestic and international travel have been the main source of consumer complaints. Many consumers are unhappy with the remedies being offered.
<ul>
<li>
Travel services provider: after receiving a high number of complaints around the charging of 'change fees' in circumstances where flights were cancelled, the ACCC contacted the business, which agreed not to charge for changes to existing bookings and agreed to offer a fee free travel credit to consumers. There are however continuing issues in relation to another type of conduct by that same business that the ACCC is working to resolve, along with other state and territory fair trading agencies.
</li>
<li>
The ACCC is also following up several businesses selling package tours that are alleged to have recently changed contract terms and conditions. The companies are assessing customer claims for refunds or credits vouchers on the basis of the new terms, rather than the former contract terms that were in place when the consumer booked the package.
</li>
<li>
A second travel services provider: the ACCC is working to resolve a concerning issue receiving a large number of customer complaints, with allegations that the business is failing to provide refunds in line with its terms and conditions.
</li>
<li>
Council of Travel Operators: the ACCC has met with the Council in an attempt to understand the various issues impacting a number of travel companies and the impact that this is having on consumers.
</li>
<li>
Airline: The Taskforce contacted the airline following reports of incorrect advice being given around refunds. The errors were attributed to issues impacting overseas call centres, unprecedented demand, and new team members rapidly joining teams. Senior staff apologised for the error and have ensured correct advice is being provided to all impacted customers.
</li>
</ul>
Subscription services – gyms, food and pay TV
With the restrictions imposed by governments at all levels in relation to social distancing and businesses being able to remain open, operations of certain businesses, there have been a considerable number of reports of consumers navigating these changes.
<ul>
<li>
A major gym chain: was charging customers a weekly ‘freeze’ fee for the period their gyms will be closed. Following the Taskforce’s intervention, the gym immediately ceased this practice.
</li>
<li>
There are a number of other gyms that continue to deduct these fees and the ACCC is contacting them directly.
</li>
<li>
In the franchising sector there are reports that some franchisors are still trying to collect franchising fees, when the businesses have minimised their operations. This is a matter that the ACCC is following up as a matter of urgency.
</li>
<li>
Foxtel: a number of complaints from consumers unable to contact Foxtel to cancel or suspend subscriptions. It has assured the ACCC Taskforce it was urgently increasing call centre capacity which had been shut down because of COVID-19 lockdown measures overseas.
</li>
<li>
A subscription meals provider was unable to source supply to meet its orders and contractual obligations. The Taskforce contacted the business and the business undertook to provide full refunds to impacted customers.
</li>
</ul>
Payment process providers for the fitness industry
After hearing that payment processors were suspending debits being made on behalf of small business gyms and fitness studios on the basis of 'ACCC advice', the Taskforce contacted them to ensure that their clients were not being unfairly treated.
We were informed that the companies wanted to ensure they were collecting payments from consumers who had signed up for new services. We also obtained assurances that the businesses had the ability to contact these finance companies if there were problems with customers’ accounts.  
COVID-19 product claims
Some business have represented to consumers that they sell a product that prevents COVID-19 or they provide a service that prevents infection by COVID-19.
<ul>
<li>
The ACCC was alerted to an ASX listed company claiming that its hand sanitiser product it had been tested as effective against COVID-19, when it was tested against a recognised surrogate. The company subsequently clarified the statement it made to the ASX.
</li>
<li>
The Taskforce is investigating claims that a company is alleged to be urging consumers to get their plumbing serviced to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
</li>
</ul>
Excessive price increases, also known as price gouging
In relation to COVID-19 there have a large number of complaints regarding excessive pricing around personal protective equipment (face masks and sanitiser) and some other grocery items.
The ACCC cannot prevent or take action to stop excessive pricing, as it has no role in setting prices. But in some circumstances excessive pricing may be unconscionable, for example where the product is critical to the health or safety of vulnerable consumers. If a business makes misleading claims about the reason for price increases, it will be breaching the Australian Consumer Law.
<ul>
<li>
Recently the Australian Federal Police has been given new powers under the Biosecurity Act to prevent price gouging. The prescribed products are disposable gloves, disposable gowns, goggles, glasses, or eye visors used for limiting the transmission of organisms to humans, or of alcohol wipes and hand sanitiser. It is now an offence to resell or offer to resell these products, if they were purchased in a retail transaction, at 20 per cent or higher than the original price paid.
</li>
<li>
Online platforms: the ACCC engaged with Amazon, Facebook, eBay and Gumtree to understand measures the companies have in place to prevent the sale of these products at excessive prices. We received some assurances the platforms have mechanisms in place, but are encouraging increased vigilance and will continue to monitor.
</li>
<li>
Supermarkets: the unprecedented demand for supermarket goods has also created shortages across a range of other product lines, which has impacted supply. We have also heard a number of concerns about the high price of some fresh produce, including fruit, vegetables and meat. Higher fresh produce prices had been predicted as early as January due to the drought and the bushfires, which have contributed to a supply shortage and led to higher prices for some items.
</li>
</ul>
Private health insurance
<ul>
<li>
The ACCC received complaints that consumers were not able to access all services offered under the policies but are still required to pay the premiums.
</li>
<li>
Private health insurers are generally not passing on premium increases by giving consumers a ‘credit’ for the new increase, which means that their premiums remain the same as they were before 1 April 2020.
</li>
<li>
The ACCC recommends that private health insurers provide remedies for consumers for services that can no longer be provided or only provided to a limited extent due to COVID-19 restrictions, such as dental, optical, physio, etc.
</li>
</ul>
The full list of FAQs includes further detail on:
<ul>
<li>
cancellation of flights/travel
</li>
<li>
cancellation of events
</li>
<li>
gymnasium services
</li>
<li>
weddings
</li>
<li>
product price increases
</li>
<li>
material changes to contracted services
</li>
<li>
telecommunication issues
</li>
<li>
country of origin labelling issues.
</li>
</ul>
Interim authorisations
In the past three weeks the ACCC has granted interim authorisation to a number of sectors to ensure the economy is able to function and provide essential goods, services, medicines and medical equipment, and hardship relief during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This has included 14 separate interim authorisations, which allow for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. We still have a number of applications for interim authorisation to be considered by the Commission, which is currently meeting to make statutory decisions a number of times each week to deal with the surge.
The following interim authorisations have been granted to enable firms to cooperate during the COVID-19 pandemic, and can be reviewed at any time. The ACCC will closely monitor the activity being undertaken. Each will now be subject to a consultation period and a final decision made following further investigation and feedback from stakeholders.
The ACCC can decide to grant formal authorisation in circumstances where it is satisfied that the public benefit from the conduct outweighs any public detriment.
<ul>
<li>
Banks have been authorised to cooperate on loan relief package for consumers and small businesses
</li>
<li>
Supermarkets will be able to cooperate on grocery supply when working with manufacturers, suppliers, and transport and logistics providers.
</li>
<li>
Medicine wholesalers will be able to co-operate to facilitate distribution of essential medication and pharmacy products after being granted interim authorisation by the ACCC.
</li>
<li>
Airlines are able to coordinate ­flight schedules on ten regional flight routes, including revenue sharing, with an agreement not to raise fare prices
</li>
<li>
Gas and electricity companies to cooperate on energy supply and ensure integrity of wholesale markets
</li>
<li>
Medical suppliers allowed to work together to expand capacity in order to produce urgently needed equipment.
</li>
<li>
Oil companies allowed to co-operate to secure fuel supply, including crude oil and refined fuels, importers, suppliers of storage facilities and trucking or delivery services and wholesalers.
</li>
<li>
NBN Co and telecommunications providers able to work together to manage on demand surge, wholesale services and capacity challenges
</li>
<li>
Pharmaceutical companies will be able to co-operate to facilitate distribution of essential medication and pharmacy products
</li>
<li>
Insurers are able to coordinate on deferred payments and refunds under small business relief package
</li>
<li>
Shopping centre owners and managers given interim authorisation to discuss and implement rent relief measures for small to medium shopping centre tenants facing hardship
</li>
<li>
Private hospitals in Victoria and in Queensland are able to coordinate between each other and state health agencies and public hospitals
</li>
</ul>
As the ACCC monitors these authorisations it will watch for ways in which smaller players can be disadvantaged. For example, the ACCC has urged state governments that while supermarkets will always remain open during this pandemic, so must smaller local food retailers, like butchers and green grocers. It would be extremely unfortunate if this pandemic were to see a consolidation in the grocery sector as supplies narrow to supermarkets in ways that will be hard to reverse.
ROD SIMS is the Chair of the ACCC
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Managing the impacts of COVID-19 disruption on consumers and business: ACCC's Rod Sims 

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Frasers Property Australia has appointed Tod O’Dwyer as its new General Manager WA Residential.
Mr O’Dwyer has more than 30 years of experience in the residential development sector, focused primarily on the development of masterplanned communities.
Prior to joining Frasers Property a decade ago, he worked with Delfin Lend Lease for 17 years in Queensland and Victoria.
He has relocated to Perth from Melbourne, where he has held the role of General Manager - Development and Design for the past nine years.
Cameron Leggatt, Executive General Manager Residential, Frasers Property Australia says Mr O’Dwyer is one of the company’s most experienced executives with a passion for delivering strong, vibrant communities.
“Frasers Property has operated in Western Australian for more than 50 years. Tod’s move to Perth is a reinforcement of our commitment to Western Australia and our confidence in that market,” says Mr Leggatt.
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Frasers Property Australia appoints new General Manager for WA Residential

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A 5,546sqm development site in Flagstone, Queensland for $1,386,500 plus GST.
A local syndicate has purchased the property from PEET.
Located at Stage 7I, Commercial Circuit, Flagstone is a Peet Masterplan community bringing 12,000 homes and about 30,000 residents to Flagstone over the next 25 years. 
Flagstone will also include a city centre comprising of 126 hectares of retail and office floor space with the proposed passenger rail service running through the middle.
The deal was negotiated by Will Carman and James Stevenson of Savills Australia who said the buyer believed in Flagstone and the future growth of the suburb. 
“The zoning allowed for multiple code assessable uses, they are initially land banking the property and dealing with tenant requirements as they see fit,” said Mr Carman.
The Flagstone catchment has a project population growth rate of 4.1%pa which represents an average increase of 6,633 residents per year
The site is within walking distance to major retailers, including Coles, McDonalds, 7Eleven, IGA, SNAP fitness and Dominos and 35 metres to Commercial Circuit.
 
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Flagstone development site in Queensland sells for $1.4 million

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An architecturally custom built house in Breakfast Point, NSW has been sold for $3.175 million. 
The five bedroom, four bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-breakfast+point-132865774" target="_blank">5 Emily Street</a>. 
Nestled on a 489sqm block, the double brick house comes with three oversized living areas, upper level rumpus, games room, and designer kitchen. 
Other features include double height entry foyer, timber doors, high ceilings and double garage plus storage. 
It comes with country club membership with access to tennis courts, pool and gym.
Its location is close to local shops, cafes, buses and foreshore walks. 
Norman So and Michael Murphy of Belle Property Strathfied sold the property. 
The home was last sold in 2009 for $680,800. 
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Breakfast Point custom built trophy home sold for $3.175 million

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A penthouse apartment in Mooloolaba's beachfront Esplanade residential building has been sold for $3.95 million. 
The three bedroom, three bathroom home is located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-qld-mooloolaba-130168170" target="_blank">87 Mooloolaba Esplanade</a>. 
Located on level 9, the 902 apartment offers office, media room, separate laundry and gourmet kitchen. 
Other features include power room and balcony frontages on the Mooloolaba Esplanade. 
The residential building only has 24 lots.
Simon Guilfoyle of G1 Property Mooloolaba made the listing. 
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Beachfront Mooloolaba apartment sold for $3.95 million

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A Newtown Victorian style villa has been sold for $3.28 million after it failed to sell at its recent online auction.
The Newtown offering attracted a top bid of $3,225,000 which was not enough to secure the four bedroom property which had actually come with a $3 million Ray White price guide.
The four bedroom, three bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-newtown-133182158" target="_blank">40a Brown Street</a>.
Set on a 286sqm allotment, the house comes with formal and casual living, Calacatta marble gas kitchen, and landscaped garden. 
Other features include wide frontage, fireplaces, entertainer's terrace and and attic storage. 
It is located close to station and Hollis Park with double parking on title. 
Shaun Stoker and Ercan Ersan of Ray White sold the property which was last sold in 2013 for $2.125 million. 
 
 
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Newtown Victorian style trophy home sold for $3.28 million

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A wide-fronted Victorian terrace in Crows Nest, NSW has been sold for $3.45 million.
The four bedroom, two bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-crows+nest-133191066" target="_blank">74 Burlington Street</a>. 
It comes with open living zone, entertaining deck, marble crafted kitchen and private level lawn surrounded by landscaped garden. 
Other features include integrated home sound system, hardwood floors, alarm system and double garage. 
It is moments to quality schools, parks and the future Metro station. 
Peter Chauncy and Debbie Chadwick of McGrath Crows Nest sold the property. 
The house was last sold in 2007 for $1 million. 
 
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Crows Nest Victorian terrace sold for $3.45 million

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A beachfront trophy home in Aspendale, Victoria has been sold for $3.45 million.
The eight bedroom, three bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-aspendale-133002470" target="_blank">54 Nepean Highway</a>. 
Sitting on a 1,149 square metre block, it features views of the beach from both levels.
The house is located close to railway stations, cafes, shops and restaurants. 
Garry Donovan and Simon Wendt of Hockingstuart Mentone sold the property. 
The house was last sold in 2016 for $3.5 million. 
 
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Aspendale beachfront trophy home sells 

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

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Staff reporter

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