<html><body>
GDI Property Group has moved to sell 50 Cavill Avenue following its completed refurbishment.
They have secured a 97 percent occupied office tower with lower leasing incentives than other major centres.
Comprising an NLA of 16,625sqm over 22 levels with 446 secure car parks, the tower is the Gold Coast’s largest A-grade office building.
It hosts many groups including but not limited to the Mantra Group, Regus, Nine Network Australia, Ray White Group, Bell Potter, PWC and McCann World Group, as well as CBRE’s Gold Coast headquarters.
Following its purchase of the tower in 2016, GDI Property Group completed several renovations, including new energy efficient air-conditioning, high speed destination control lifts, ground floor retail and end of trip facilities.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/4/Cavs%202.JPG" alt="">
CBRE have an expressions of interest campaign for the corporate tower.
Investors are being told it offers both the benefit of continued rental growth and low future capex requirements given the limited competition of A-grade commercial space in the strengthening Gold Coast market.
CBRE advised there are no new significant projects in the pipeline.
Offers are due November 13.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Gold Coast's largest A-grade office building hits the market

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
China has imposed retaliatory tariffs of between 15% and 25% on US$2.75 billion worth of US imports, including nuts, frozen pork and wine, in response to US import duties on aluminium and steel announced by the Trump administration.
The Australian nut industry, like many other primary industries, has been caught in the middle with collateral damage on this year’s crop as some sellers are no longer able to access this market.
The current trade war between China and the US may provide export opportunities for the Australian industry in the short term, provided that product from overseas is not dumped on the Australian market. In the mid-to longer-term, the industry will continue to develop stronger trade links with China to secure long term markets.
The impact on the US has resulted in additional tariffs of between 15% and 20% for their nut products entering China.
The China Australia Free Trade agreement tariffs of between 10% and 25% on Australian nuts will be completely phased out by January 2019.
China is a major buyer of Australian nuts with over $63 million in sales in 2015-16 (ABS) and solid increases in sales over the past two years.
Tree nuts are the country’s largest horticultural export forming over 50% of horticultural goods sold overseas.
China is the world’s second largest buyer of imported food after the US with over A$130 billion in 2016.
Australia is China’s sixth largest supplier of food with exports of A$5.3 billion and continued solid annual increases in double figures.
The macadamia industry is breaking into China’s growing demand for this nut with demand in 2017 at 50,000 tonnes in shell, or 26% of global demand or more than the entire Australian crop.
By 2020, about 24,000 hectares will be planted to macadamias with kernel production greater than 18,500 tonnes. Export value will exceed $280 million.
The pecan industry in the US is continuing to expand at all time high rates with record planting in southern US. Industry experts are saying plantings are sustainable, and that it will take another 30 years of planting to catch up with global demand.
The Australian industry is also seeing record plantings with new entrants into the market. The export market is chasing large nuts which is limiting the varieties planted. The area under pecans is 1,350 hectares. Production is about 3,000 tonnes in-shell (1,650 tonnes kernel).
The almond industry is forecast to harvest over 82,000 tonnes kernel weight this year which is slightly up on last year’s crop. Late season frosts have been a worry for many growers. Australia is the second largest producer of almonds in the world.
In 2015, the area under production was 31,115 hectares, producing a record crop of 82,509 tonnes.
The walnut industry is expecting a harvest of 13,000 tonnes in line with the previous year. This is a significant increase in production over 2016 of 6,000 tonnes in-shell, with a farm-gate value of $30 million and export value of $15 million.
Approximately 3,600 hectares of mature and developing trees were under cultivation in 2016. This number is expected to rise to more than 4,300 hectares by 2021 as current growers expand their orchards and new growers enter the industry in current and new regions.
Webster Limited is the largest walnut grower, owning or managing more than 3,100 hectares of orchards. When mature, these orchards are expected to produce over 18,000 tonnes in-shell per annum. The pistachio industry is expecting a harvest of 2,300 tonnes which will be a record for the industry. The area under production was 950 hectares in 2015.
Chestnuts have had good growing conditions with a crop of 1,300 tonnes expected which is in line with previous years. In 2016, chestnut production was valued at $8.5 million (LVP). In 2016 there were around 1,300 hectares containing approximately 200,000 chestnut trees. The industry estimates that with more trees planted, production will rise to approximately $9.8 million by 2020. The industry is primarily focused on the domestic market with approximately two% exported, mainly to Asian markets.
Hazelnuts have had a mixed growing season with yields of 210 tonnes expected. In 2016, hazelnut production was valued at $1.7 million (LVP). The industry is set for continued expansion with approximately 200 hectares planted, consisting of around 100,000 trees. The industry estimates hazelnut production in 2021 will be 2,550 tonnes with a value of $22.5 million. The area under production is about 1,400 hectares, including young orchards yet to come into commercial bearing.
New areas of hazelnut plantings have extended into southern New South Wales, eastern Victoria and throughout wider regions of Tasmania.
The Australian nut industry has increased revenue by 250% over the past five years and is predicted to exceed $2 billion by 2030 based on new planting and productivity research investment. The table shown is a summary of the Australian nut industry.
The long-term outlook for the industry is of continued growth with new plantings across all nut types at all-time highs. The increase in research and development dollars from industry and government is assisting in productivity gains and new marketing initiatives are targeting value adding to the raw nut product.
The industry is proactive in improved integrated orchard management techniques which are targeting canopy health, drainage and moisture conservation and plant health.
Established growers are continuing to expand their plantings and new entrants bring scales of economy to the industry.
David Nilon is a Director of Herron Todd White. 
</body></html>

China-US tariff war impacts Australian nut industry: HTW's David Nilon

<html><body>
A new report has identified the New South Wales infrastructure projects that will have the greatest impact on property prices.
The Sydney Light Rail (CBD and South East), the Sydney Metro Northwest and the Sydney Metro City and South West will have the greatest effect on the NSW property market, according to JLL’s new report, NSW economic growth drivers and infrastructure: Assessing the impact on property markets.
JLL’s Head of Research — Australia Andrew Ballantyne said the group looked at the 10 major projects in the NSW infrastructure pipeline.
“Infrastructure changes real estate markets,” he said.
“While all 10 of the major projects will have an impact on the NSW commercial and residential property sectors, these three — and specifically the placement of stations along the routes — will have the greatest effect through reducing travel times and costs, connecting people with job opportunities and connecting products with markets.”
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/28/Picture1.png" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px;">
Source: JLL
 1. Sydney Light Rail (CBD and South East)
Property close to the light rail stations are likely to increase in value, while the route is also likely to change the mix of retail in the region.
JLL’s Managing Director — NSW Daniel Kernaghan said:
“George Street is going to become a more desirable location for retailers in the luxury and food-and-beverage categories. 
“Improved connectivity within the CBD will mean organisations can look beyond the core CBD to secure lower office rental rates.
“Average A-grade rents on Goulburn Street are 31% lower than for comparable A-grade core CBD assets.” 
2. Sydney Metro (Northwest) 
New stations create dfor the project will stimulate further residential development.
“This project is going to deliver a reliable public transport service to the region which has the highest car ownership levels per household in NSW,” Ballantyne said.
3. Sydney Metro (City and South West)
The project will support the continuing development of the North Sydney’s office market, which is expected to increase to 930,000 square metres of space by 2024.
“Additionally, a revitalised Central Station will act as a regenerative magnet for the southern Sydney CBD, creating a vibrant new mixed-use precinct,” Kernaghan said.
</body></html>

The NSW infrastructure projects that will impact property prices the most: JLL

<html><body>
Home owners are always on the lookout for ways to increase the value of their homes, and 2018 has been a big one for the renovation industry, says a new survey.
According to the annual Houzz &amp; Home Australia survey 57% of home owners on the platform are planning to renovate their home.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/renovation%201.jpg" alt="">
In 2017, over 50% of home owners renovated their homes at a median spend of $25,000.
Repeat home buyers invested the most in home renovations at a median spend of $30,000.
More than a quarter of renovating home owners tackling kitchens (26%), the top target for interior renovation, with a median spend of $20,000 for a large kitchen (more than 10 square metres).
Living/family rooms, bedrooms, master bathrooms and laundries (24, 18, 18 and 17% respectively) followed on the priority list.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/renovation%202.jpg" alt="">
Houzz principal economist Nino Sitchinava said the survey results were a strong signal for the industry.
"All of the evidence from our research points to 2018 likely being another robust year for the home improvement industry,” says Sitchinava.
“Recent buyers and long-term homeowners alike are keen on investing in major projects like kitchens and bathrooms and they’re validated by the value these projects have brought to their homes."
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%203.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/renovation%203.jpg" alt="">
The report’s other conclusions include:
<ul>
<li>More Deliberate Planning and Budgeting: Over the past two years, homeowners have become more deliberate in planning and budgeting for renovations and were seven percent more likely to set a budget in 2017 than in 2015 (74 and 67%, respectively).</li>
<li>Plumbing and Electrical Top System Upgrades: Homeowners prioritised plumbing and electrical over any other system during renovations (32 and 31%, respectively). First-time home buyers are twice as likely to upgrade electrical systems during renovations as long-term homeowners (52 versus 25%, respectively).</li>
<li>Home Professionals in High Demand: Over nine in 10 renovating homeowners chose to hire a home professional for renovation needs (92%). Repeat home buyers are the most likely to seek professional assistance (94%), followed by long-term homeowners and first-time home buyers 89 and 88%, respectively). </li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Home owners continue to look for renovation benefits

<html><body>
A shopping centre in the Sunshine Coast town of Yandina has hit the market.
Yandina Shopping Centre, on the corner of Old Gympie Road and Farrell Street, is anchored by a 1,000 square metre IGA supermarket and also has a mix of specialty stores.
A separate adjoining 1.214 hectare title, which is approved for development, is also included.
The centre has a net income of $988,583 and a Weighted Average Lease Expiry (WALE) of 6.34 years.
The property is being marketed by CBRE agents Rem Rafter, Brendan Robins, Michael Hedger and Joe Tynam through an expression of interest campaign.
“It’s a high performing centre with development land, as well as the main trading precinct’s only supermarket,” Rafter said.
“The centre’s future development, which would see it more than double its current size, will only further capitalise on the growing catchment and provide a critical retail centre for decade.”
Expressions of interest close on Wednesday, 31st October 2018 at 4pm.
</body></html>

Yandina Shopping Centre on Sunshine Coast hits the market 

<html><body>
Bundella, a Barwon Heads waterfront home has been scheduled for private auction on October 28.
It has been offered by Emma Pierson and Jock Langley from Abercromby's Real Estate. 
Set on a 797sqm block of land, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-barwon+heads-129404842" target="_blank">2 Riverside Lane</a> comes with three bedrooms, living and dining areas with views over the serene Barwon River estuary, well-designed kitchen, north-facing deck and ample parking.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/25/barwon%20heads%201.jpg" alt="">
Other features of Bundella include sunny lawn and private boat ramp and landing.
Hitchcock Avenue's vibrancy, the village park's 54 acres, the beach and the revered golf course are all within easy reach.
The suburb's median house price sits at $890,000, according to CoreLogic. 
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/25/barwon%20heads%203.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Barwon Heads waterfront trophy home set for private auction

<html><body>
A new list of masterplanned community sales has been released, with Stockland placing three times in the top five.
The National Land Survey by Research4 reports on vacant land sales in new residential communities around Australia.
Stockland’s Aura community on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast claimed first place with 746 sales in the past year.
Stockland Elara in Sydney’s north-west was the second most popular community with 674 sales in the 2017-18 year, while Stockland Highlands in Melbourne’s northern growth corridor ranked fourth with 632 sales.
Andrew Whitson, Group Executive and CEO, Stockland Communities, said it was an outstanding result for the company.
“Our closest competitor achieved a market share of 5 per cent in the June quarter, highlighting our strong national position in the creation of masterplanned communities,” he said.
“We have a long track record for delivering many of Australia’s best new communities and a clear vision for meeting the future housing needs of Australian families.
“These latest national land survey figures confirm that our focus on liveability, affordability and the owner occupier market has made Stockland the first choice for home buyers in masterplanned communities.”
Whitson said is currently sell over 75% of its product to owner occupiers and over 50% to first home buyers.
AT Aura, more than 20,000 new homes will be created on the 24 square kilometre site over the next 30 years. 
Other products in the company’s development pipeline include the Highlands community in Victoria  and the Elara community in Sydney.
</body></html>

Stockland's Aura project records the most masterplanned community sales in Australia 

<html><body>
The final two government-owned Millers Point properties are set to go under the hammer.
The marketing for the properties at 65 and 69 Lower Fort Street has commenced, with an auction date scheduled for November 3.
Split over four levels, the terraces date to circa 189 and are heritage listed.
The last remaining properties in the Millers Point program are expected to attract strong interest due to their size, location and heritage significance.
So far, $513 million worth of properties have been offloaded by McGrath since the Millers Point Sales Program began in 2014. 
The properties are being marketed by McGrath’s Lorraine Crawford and Peter Starr of McGrath Edgecliff.
Crawford said they offered an opportunity to purchase an original home of rich architectural heritage in a unique part of Sydney
“They offer a restoration opportunity that will reward buyers with an enviable lifestyle in a highly sought-after location,” she said.
“Millers Point continues to evolve as a fashionable address, attracting a diverse range of buyers from home owners to investors.
“Previous purchasers have recently completed their renovations and the precinct has developed a real sense of community as owner occupiers appreciate the attractive lifestyle of living in such a special part of the city.” 
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/652.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house/nsw/sydney-cbd/millers-point/387286?preview=24736a35-9c5c-4b73-ba97-1796da0d519d" target="_blank">65 Lower Fort Street</a>, Millers Point, NSW (pictured above)
Guide $2,600,000 - $2,800,000
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/69.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house/nsw/sydney-cbd/millers-point/386259?preview=590aa250-2cdc-4133-8f0e-bf2e33793b22" target="_blank">69 Lower Fort Street</a>, Millers Point, NSW (pictured above)
Guide $2,600,000 - $2,800,000
</body></html>

Final two Millers Point properties on the market 

<html><body>
Austral Bricks has divested two adjoining industrial land parcels in Riverwood in a $41 million sale and leaseback deal. 
The properties at 62 Belmore Road and 111 Bonds Road were sold to a private buyer.
The buildings occupy 90,466 square metres, split across two titles.
Austral has committed to a partial leaseback of 13,263 square meters for a 10-year term with a five-year option.
CBRE’s Ryan Jennings and Jason Edge inked the sale and negotiated the partial leaseback.
Edge said the site held potential for redevelopment and asset repositioning.
“The property is one of the south-west market’s largest infill holdings and, thanks to the size and lexibility of the asset, options for use are many and varied,” Edge said.
Jennings said owner occupiers and tenants had been migrating down the M5 from South Sydney.
“Owners and occupiers are targeting opportunities in Riverwood ahead of the long-awaited Belmore Road motorway ramps,” he said.
“Expected to open in 2019, the two east-facing ramps will offer Riverwood direct access to the M5 South West Motorway – a $32 million project, over 20 years in the making.
“Overall, we have seen more purchasers seeking to invest in the Riverwood area, where they have previously not been looking.
 “The deal was struck following a competitive Expressions of Interest campaign, which had amassed 11 offers at the close of round one – underscoring the increased activity in the area.”
</body></html>

Austral Bricks sells Riverwood property for $41 million with partial leaseback

<html><body>
Metro Property Development has secured development approval from Willoughby Council for its Naremburn site.
Located at 155-161 Willoughby Road in Naremburn, the 1,320 square metre site was procured by Metro in late 2017 and will be released to the market as a boutique collection of nine luxury townhouses known as The Nines.
Designed by architects A+ Design Group, the homes will span three levels.
“We are thrilled to move ahead and develop this prominent site in the tightly held lower north shore,” said Phil Leahy of Metro Property Development.
Population growth, demographic changes and lifestyle trends continue to drive demand for a greater variety of housing and we are excited to deliver to the ‘missing middle’ with The Nines.”
The townhouses will be launched in October through sales and marketing agents Ray White Projects Lower North Shore and will be priced from $2.5 million.
The developer recently launched Sierra Residences in the north-west Sydney suburb of Kellyville in Sydney’s north-west.
It comprises of 51 boutique homes ranging from four to six-bedroom configurations.
In 2017 Metro completed its Eden residential estate in Catherine Field, delivering a total of 150 lots to Sydney’s south-west.
The developer also completed 50 luxury town homes at its Fairway Residences located at 88 Centenary Drive, Strathfield.
</body></html>

Metro secures DA for Naremburn project

An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News