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GUEST OBSERVATION
Farming emits greenhouse gases, but the land can also store them.
We can’t achieve the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement without managing emissions from land use, according to a <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/srccl/" target="_blank">special report released today</a> by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Emissions from land use, largely agriculture, forestry and land clearing, make up some 22% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. Counting the entire food chain (including fertiliser, transport, processing, and sale) takes this contribution up to 29%.
The report, which synthesises information from some 7,000 scientific papers, found there is no way to keep global warming under 2℃ without significant reductions in land sector emissions.
Land puts out emissions – and absorbs them
The land plays a vital role in the carbon cycle, both by absorbing greenhouse gases and by releasing them into the atmosphere. This means our land resources are both part of the climate change problem and potentially part of the solution.
Improving how we manage the land could reduce climate change at the same time as it improves agricultural sustainability, supports biodiversity, and increases food security.
While the food system emits nearly a third of the world’s greenhouse gases – a situation <a href="https://theconversation.com/australia-is-a-global-top-ten-deforester-and-queensland-is-leading-the-way-87259" target="_blank">also reflected in Australia</a> – land-based ecosystems absorb the equivalent of about 22% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This happens through natural processes that store carbon in soil and plants, in both farmed lands and managed forests as well as in natural “<a href="https://theconversation.com/we-desperately-need-to-store-more-carbon-seagrass-could-be-the-answer-105524" target="_blank">carbon sinks</a>” such as forests, seagrass and wetlands.
There are opportunities to reduce the emissions related to land use, especially food production, while at the same time protecting and expanding these greenhouse gas sinks.
But it is also immediately obvious that the land sector cannot achieve these goals by itself. It will require substantial reductions in fossil fuel emissions from our energy, transport, industrial, and infrastructure sectors.
Overburdened land
So, what is the current state of our land resources? <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/srccl/" target="_blank">Not that great</a>.
The report shows there are unprecedented rates of global land and freshwater used to provide food and other products for the record global population levels and consumption rates.
For example, consumption of food calories per person worldwide has increased by about one-third since 1961, and the average person’s consumption of meat and vegetable oils has more than doubled.
The pressure to increase agricultural production has helped push about a quarter of the Earth’s ice-free land area into various states of degradation via loss of soil, nutrients and vegetation.
Simultaneously, biodiversity has declined globally, largely because of deforestation, cropland expansion and unsustainable land-use intensification. Australia has experienced <a href="https://theconversation.com/to-reduce-fire-risk-and-meet-climate-targets-over-300-scientists-call-for-stronger-land-clearing-laws-113172" target="_blank">much the same trends</a>.
Climate change exacerbates land degradation
Climate change is already having a major impact on the land. Temperatures over land are rising at almost twice the rate of global average temperatures.
Linked to this, the frequency and intensity of <a href="https://theconversation.com/climate-change-means-more-extreme-weather-heres-what-the-uk-can-expect-if-emissions-keep-increasing-112745" target="_blank">extreme events</a> such as heatwaves and flooding rainfall has increased. The global area of drylands in drought has increased by over 40% since 1961.
These and other changes have reduced agricultural productivity in many regions – <a href="https://theconversation.com/australian-farmers-are-adapting-to-climate-change-76939" target="_blank">including Australia</a>. Further climate changes will likely spur soil degradation, loss of vegetation, biodiversity and permafrost, and increases in fire damage and coastal degradation.
Water will become more scarce, and our food supply will become less stable. Exactly how these risks will evolve will depend on population growth, consumption patterns and also how the global community responds.
Overall, proactive and informed management of our land (for food, water and biodiversity) will become increasingly important.
Stopping land degradation helps everyone
Tackling the interlinked problems of land degradation, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and food security can deliver win-wins for farmers, communities, governments, and ecosystems.
The report provides many examples of on-ground and policy options that could improve the management of agriculture and forests, to enhance production, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and make these areas more robust to climate change. Leading Australian farmers are already <a href="https://www.aciar.gov.au" target="_blank">heading down these paths</a>, and we have a lot to teach the world about how to do this.
We may also need to reassess what we demand from the land. Farmed animals are a major contributor to these emissions, so plant-based diets are increasingly being <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-vegetarianism-healthier-we-asked-five-experts-112133" target="_blank">adopted</a>.
Similarly, the report found about 25-30% of food globally is lost or wasted. Reducing this can significantly lower emissions, and ease pressure on agricultural systems.
How do we make this happen?
Many people around the world are doing impressive work in addressing some of these problems. But the solutions they generate are not necessarily widely used or applied comprehensively.
To be successful, coordinated policy packages and land management approaches are pivotal. Inevitably, all solutions are highly location-specific and contextual, and it is vital to bring together local communities and industry, as well as governments at all levels.
Given the mounting impacts of climate change on food security and land condition, there is no time to lose.
<hr>
Mark Howden, Director, Climate Change Institute, Australian National University.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/121551/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;">
The author acknowledges the contributions to authorship of this article by Clare de Castella, Communications Manager, ANU Climate Change Institute.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/121551/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/un-climate-change-report-land-clearing-and-farming-contribute-a-third-of-the-worlds-greenhouse-gases-121551" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Land clearing and farming contribute a third of the world’s greenhouse gases: Mark Howden

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The Trinity Vineyard at Lovedale, marketed as the ultimate private vineyard retreat, has been sold for $2.62 million having been listed through Robert Alfeldi. 
The property features an impressive five bedroom, five bathroom colonial style 1998-built homestead along with a three bedroom, two bathroom guest cottage set in landscaped grounds with rolling lawns.
There is a 15-metre pool, poolside games pavillion as well as a separate gym and workout area near the spectacular lake on the 25 hectare holding. 
Thee are four acres of established vines, Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinor Noir that have provided an income in the past.
The property features outbuildings and machinery sheds.
Water supply includes a 100 mega litre lake that is licensed for commercial irrigation, stock and domestic usage.
Supplied by a natural creek, the lake is stocked with mature bass and silver perch. 
It is situated next to the esteemed Tatler Wines Vineyard. 
It last sold at $1.6 million in 2008.
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Trinity Vineyard and Lovedale House in the Hunter Valley sold

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Sydney’s median apartment price has dropped 3.2% since last year, according to key market indicators from JLL Research, the ABS, REIA, and CoreLogic.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/30/JLL%20Sydney%201.JPG" alt=""> 
The downturn has led to a parallel decline in the number of new developments being approved (with a fall of 30.6%), as well as a reduction in the overall number of apartments sold (with a fall of 21.5%).
While the median cost of renting has also dropped (by 0.5% for one bedroom units, and 0.7% for two bedroom units), it has not fallen at the same rate as outright apartment values. Gross rental yields have increased by a tenth of a percent.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/30/JLL%20Sydney%202.JPG" alt="">
Throughout the rest of the country, the Gold Coast and Adelaide both experienced decelerating positive growth in the year’s second quarter, while Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane all saw decelerating negative growth in the same time period. No city in the study kept up with long term average growth.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/30/JLL%20Sydney%203.JPG" alt="">
The significant drop in the number of apartments either completed, or under construction, in 2019 (compared to last year) is exaggerated by the unprecedented number built during 2018, and does not appear to be indicative of a long term falling trend.
This year there are more apartments completed, or under construction, than were built in 2017 or 2016.
Furthermore, the development plans already submitted, approved, or under construction over the next four years indicate a stable supply of new apartments.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/30/JLL%20Sydney%204.JPG" alt="">
When geographically extrapolated, the research demonstrates that the city’s inner south has the most new apartments planned, approved, under construction, or completed between 2019 and 2023 (at 8,297), followed closely by the inner west (7,789).
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Sydney apartment approvals down 30% in one year: JLL

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A home in Hampton sold last weekend following a contested auction with four bidders.
The four bedroom, three bathroom house dubbed the “perfect family oasis” sold for $2.75 million — $25,000 above reserve.
Matthew Pillios Andre O'Brien and Kate Strickland of Marshall White marketed the property.
Situated at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/17-teddington-road-hampton-vic-3188-2015452869?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrKHUr_n54wIVVnZgCh0fFwHTEAAYASAAEgIY1vD_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">17 Teddington Road, Hampton</a>, the listing describes the home as "an unforgettable statement in style and sophistication".
Featuring a north facing outdoor space, it boasts a salt water solar heated swimming pool surrounded by landscaped gardens and a covered deck.
Set on 758 square metres, the 2008 built property contains a double garage with internal access, ducted heating and cooling, underground 22,000L water tank and garden irrigation.
Last sold in 2005, the holding transacted for $620,002.
Its purchase was followed by a DA valued at $500,000 for a house/single dwelling in 2006.
Positioned near the beach, Hampton Street amenities and Hampton Station, it is also located within a short distance of numerous schools.
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Hampton trophy home sells above reserve at weekend auction 

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Business conditions fell 2 pts to +2 index points in July, driven by a decline in the employment sub-index. Trading conditions also edged lower, while reported profitability increased slightly in the month. All three sub-indexes are now again below average, with the decline in business conditions evident across most industries outside of mining over the past year.
Business confidence edged higher in the month to +4 index points, but remains below average. The lift in confidence was broad-based across industries in the month. Overall, in trend terms, business confidence remains highest in mining, as it has for some time. Outside of mining, finance, business &amp; property services remain most optimistic, while confidence is softest in manufacturing and recreation &amp; personal services.
Business conditions declined slightly in the month. As we have noted in previous months, the decline in business conditions since early 2018 has been broad-based and has continued to track at below average levels in recent months. This is concerning, because while conditions remain positive, it points to a significant loss in momentum in the business sector.
Business confidence ticked-up in the month, following an easing last month, but is also below average. While there were some positive signs with a post-election lift in confidence, this bounce now looks to have been short lived with confidence also tracking at below average levels in the two months since the election.
Business confidence in the retail sector saw a reasonable lift, likely related to the government’s tax cuts, but quite worryingly there appears to have been little boost to activity in the sector with conditions weakening further – the sector is currently facing recessionary levels of activity according to our measure.
Forward-looking indicators remain weak. Forward orders edged higher in the month but remain negative and well below average while capacity utilisation unwound its sharp spike last month and is now again just below average.
Looking at the components of the survey that provide an indication of conditions going forward, we see little improvement. With both forward orders weak, and capacity utilisation a bit below average – both capex and employment growth are at risk
With a significant loss of momentum in activity, and inflation indicators remaining weak, the survey points to the need to the need for further stimulus in the economy. Indeed, we expect a further easing in interest rates from the RBA and think that some greater fiscal support will be needed from the government to kickstart growth.
ALAN OSTER is the NAB Group Chief Economist 
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Business confidence and conditions are below average: NAB's Alan Oster

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Data released by SQM Research today has revealed the national residential rental vacancy rate remained steady in July 2019 at 2.3% from June.
The total number of vacancies Australia-wide is now at 76,346 vacant residential properties, a decrease of 2,344 over the month but up 3,888 dwellings over the past 12 months.
Brisbane and Adelaide recorded minor decreases of 0.1% in vacancy rates, whilst Perth, Canberra and Darwin recorded a 0.2% decrease over the month.
Sydney, Melbourne and Hobart’s vacancy rate remained steady over the month.
SQM found that Sydney continues to have the highest vacancy rate in the country at 3.5%, this time last year the rate was lower at 2.8%. Melbourne remained at 2.0% in July, increasing from 1.6% 12 months ago.
Hobart’s vacancy rate was also steady in July and continues to be the lowest in the country at 0.5%.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/13/SQM%20Rental%20Vacancy%20Rates%20July.JPG" alt="">
The Managing Director of SQM Research, Louis Christopher said, “while rental vacancy rate held steady in Sydney and Melbourne, they fell in most other cities over July."
"Perth continues to record a recovery in its rental market which should eventually feed through into a rise in dwelling prices. After a false dawn, Darwin also appears to be recording tentative signs of a rental recovery."
"Going forward, the expectation remains that Sydney and Melbourne will record higher rental vacancy rates in the 2nd half of this year driven by ongoing high levels of dwelling completions from the tail of the last property boom,” he added.
Asking Rents
Capital city asking rents declined 0.5% for houses and 0.7% for units for the week ending 12 August 2019 to record asking rents of $546 per week for houses and $438 per week for units.
In comparison, over the 12 months, asking rents for houses declined 0.4% for houses and a 0.5% decline for units.
Sydney asking rents for houses declined in July by 0.6%, however houses increased by 0.2%. Canberra and Melbourne saw a decline in both houses and units to 12 August, with Melbourne rents dropping 1.9% for houses and 0.3% for units, whilst Canberra rents dropped 2.5% for houses and 0.4% for units.
Brisbane was the only capital city to record increases in weekly rents over the month for both houses and units at 0.1% for both.
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National residential vacancy rates steady in July: SQM Research

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Five Australian cities ranked in the top 32 cities around the world for luxury residential price growth, according to the latest research findings from Knight Frank.
The Knight Frank Prime Global Cities Index – Q2 2019, which tracks the movement in prime residential prices (the top 5% of the housing market in most cities, by value) across 46 cities worldwide, revealed Sydney was ranked 18th for luxury price growth.
Following Sydney is Brisbane ranking 20th, Melbourne 21st, the Gold Coast 27th and Perth 32nd.
Sydney has moved back into the top spot for Australia, while Melbourne has moved up the rankings one spot from the previous quarter.
The Gold Coast has been included in the Prime Global Cities Index for the first time in Q2 2019.
Knight Frank says this reflects stability and depth in the city’s established luxury home market, with a solid pipeline of new projects catered towards affluent local and interstate downsizers.
The Prime Global Cities Index – Q2 2019 found three Australian cities - Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane - all recorded growth in luxury residential prices higher than the overall average annual prime price growth of 1.4% across the 46 global cities in the 12 months leading up to the end of June this year.
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Five Australian cities rank in the top 32 for luxury residential price growth

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The NSW Government has announced it would fund the increase in the emergency services levy for NSW councils this financial year to meet the cost of new workers’ compensation for firefighters.
Acting Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro and the Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said the State’s 128 councils would not have to pay the additional $13.6 million this financial year.
They said the NSW Government was doing this primarily to take the strain off of regional and rural areas badly affected by the drought.
Minister for Emergency Services David Elliott said firefighters risk their lives to keep the people of NSW safe every day and it’s important they receive the full support of the communities they serve.
“The new laws enable eligible firefighters diagnosed with one of 12 cancers to automatically be presumed to have acquired that cancer because of their firefighting work,” Mr Elliott said.
“These changes will ensure current and former firefighters – both volunteer and paid – who need care and support receive their entitlements immediately.”
Mrs Hancock said the Government will continue to support local councils to deliver for their local communities.
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NSW Government to increase funding for council emergency services levy

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Australians are in the dark about the current cash rate according to the latest survey from Finder.com.au, Australia’s most visited comparison site.
The official cash rate plummeted to 1.0% in July after the Reserve Bank announced its decision to cut the rate for a second time in 2019.
However, the survey of 1,002 respondents shows 86% – equivalent to 16.7 million Aussies – are oblivious to the new rate despite household mortgage debt sitting at $1.7 billion.
Bessie Hassan, money expert at Finder, said knowing the cash rate is crucial for anyone wanting to get ahead with their mortgage.
“If borrowers fail to keep tabs on cash rate movements, they could be missing out on a golden opportunity to save big money by either negotiating a better rate, or looking elsewhere,” she added.
The research found that the majority of Aussies (56%) think the cash rate is higher than it is, with 13% assuming it to be between 5% - 10%.
One in three (30%) Aussies believe the cash rate to be lower than it is. Just 10% of women and 18% of men could identify the correct cash rate.
Hassan said that economic ignorance is costing Australians.
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The average Aussie is clueless about the cash rate: Finder

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Allegations from the corporate regulator that Westpac breached its responsible home loan lending obligations almost 260,000 times have been dismissed by the Federal Court.
The Federal Court dismissed ASIC's responsible lending case against Westpac.
ASIC had alleged that Westpac breached responsible lending laws using an automated process that relied on the Household Expenditure Measure benchmark, rather than using each applicant's individually assessed living costs.
Last September Westpac agreed to pay a $35 million settlement to ASIC in admitting breaches.
But the court rejected the settlement after the parties did not agree on what the responsible lending laws required.
Justice Perram dismissed ASIC's case against the bank today, awarding costs against the regulator.
The parties had previously jointly approached the Federal Court seeking orders that Westpac contravened the responsible lending provisions of the National Credit Act because its automated decision system:
<ul>
<li>did not have regard to consumers’ declared living expenses when assessing their capacity to repay home loans, and instead used a benchmark (the Household Expenditure Measure); and</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>for home loans to owner occupiers with an interest-only period, failed to use the higher repayments at the end of the interest-only period when assessing a consumer’s capacity to repay the loan. For example, for a loan of $500,000 at 5.24% with a term of 30 years and a 10-year interest-only period, the assumed repayment using the incorrect method is $2,758 per month, whereas the actual repayment after the expiry of the interest-only period using the correct method is $3,366 per month.</li>
</ul>
The litigation related to Westpac’s home loan assessment process during the period December 2011 and March 2015.
For 50,000 home loans, Westpac received, and did not use, consumers’ actual expense information that was higher than the Household Expenditure Measure.
For 50,000 home loans, Westpac used the incorrect method when assessing a consumer’s capacity to repay a home loan at the end of the interest-only period.
Of these 100,000 loans, Westpac should not have automatically approved approximately 10,500 loans.
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Westpac win responsible home loan case taken by ASIC 

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

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

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

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

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 41-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 41-storey tower, which has 229 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

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

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

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

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