<html><body>
McGrath Estate Agents today announced David Imrie has rejoined the agency, on the company owned sales team.
Imrie will service the key suburbs of Newtown, Chippendale, Redfern, Alexandria and Erskineville.
He brings with him a wealth of experience across many diverse industries including real estate, corporate and not-for-profit.
Imrie began his real estate career in New York more than 20 years ago. He worked at Rowley Banks Real Estate in the late 1990s, then Di Jones for around four years, then joining McGrath until 2007.
He returns to McGrath as a sales agent in its Newtown office having previously worked at the company’s Eastern Suburbs location.
Imrie brings many years of experience as an auctioneer, industry trainer and speaker.
In 2008, he was appointed to Chair of the Board of the Sydney Gay &amp; Lesbian Mardi Gras.
Since then he has served as National Executive Officer of the Australian Veterinary Association, Chief Executive of not-for-profit organisation Keep NSW Beautiful and interim Chief Executive of Keep Australia Beautiful.
Mr Imrie said his decision to return to the real estate industry was a very considered move.
“Real estate is such a dynamic industry, combining people and property. 
“During my real estate career, I formed many important and lifelong friendships and this aspect of the industry has always been a strong attraction for me.
“However, it was important that the timing was right.
“The industry has been through significant change in recent years and I believe now is an exciting time to again be a part of it.”
On his decision to return to McGrath, Mr Imrie said it was an easy choice.
“McGrath is a great company and the support, training and leadership is second to none.
“I believe McGrath is an industry leader and I am excited about returning.”
 
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

David Imrie rejoins McGrath Estate Agency

<html><body>
The eastern suburbs have continued to define the meaning of a hot, hot, hot property market, according to Herron Todd White’s recent report.
The property valuation firm says that although the east has been hot across the board.
It considers the $2 million to $3 million price bracket for houses and $1 million to $1.5 million price bracket for units to be the strongest price points in the current market.
Paddington has been a stand out suburb for houses with a 2016 median price of $2.125 million which is up 21.4% from 2015 (source: PriceFinder).
Paddington is a highly regarded suburb close to Sydney’s CBD and comprises mainly period style terrace homes.
"The high performing Paddington market has recently been driven by high quality renovations of terrace style housing which is popular with the owner-occupier market, mainly professional couples and small families.
An example of such a property is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-paddington-124757578" target="_blank">2 Olive Street</a>, Paddington (above) which sold in March 2017 for $2.46 million.
"This property is a typical Paddington terrace comprising 3-bedroom and 1-bathroom accommodation with no car accommodation and is situated on 101 square metres of land," the report stated.
The home at 2 Olive Street is classified as being architect-redesigned and features a high quality renovation, exactly what the market demands, resulting in a very strong sale price.
"With Paddington being such a highly desirable location and having a limited supply of stock, we expect to see recent strong sales prices sustained and predict continued strong growth in the short to medium term," the report commented.
Within the eastern suburbs unit market, the suburb of Coogee has been a stand out performer, especially in the $1 million to $1.5 million price bracket.
The 2016 median price for Coogee units was $1,037,500 which is up 17.9% from 2015 (source: PriceFinder).
"As an example of what this median unit price will get you, 7/3-7 Kidman Street, Coogee recently sold for $1.125 million.
"This property was a near original 1970s unit comprising 2-bedrooms and 1-bathroom with a 1-car lock-up garage and features restricted ocean views.
"This market is driven by both investors and owner-occupiers which comprise a mixture of singles, couples and down-sizers.
"The desirable beachside location has always been a main driver for the Coogee unit market and with limited new unit development in the area, we expect to see the trend of strong growth continue into the future," the report stated.
The prestige market in the eastern suburbs is continuing to see strong sale results.
"As expected, the main drivers of this prestige market are blue-ribbon suburbs close to the city within popular lifestyle neighbourhoods, close proximity to private schools and with view corridors of the ocean or Sydney Harbour.
"Demand is still extremely strong for high quality renovated homes and units with cashed up and time poor buyers ready to move on the right property, without wanting to do the hard work themselves," the report suggested.
A recent example is 84 Paddington Street, Paddington which recently sold in March 2017 for $7.1 million.
This property comprises a 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom Victorian terrace with parking for three vehicles and situated on 191 square metres of land.
The property was previously sold on 6 March 2013 for $2.8 million prior to renovation.
"This continued strong demand and limited supply of prestige property will keep prices strong in the short to medium term."
</body></html>

Sydney's hot eastern suburbs residential market: HTW

<html><body>
The south east of Queensland has received good but patchy rain with parts having received up to 100 millimetres recently, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that the band of rain has extended as far west as St George and Roma however these areas have only seen grass rain and not the high volume harvesting rain that so many had hoped for.
“Most irrigators in the St George region appear to have come up about one watering short, even on reduced plantings.
"It will therefore be interesting to see what effect this will have on yields.
"Picking is now underway, so all have their fingers crossed that it will stay dry for the next couple of weeks or so in order to allow picking to be completed,” the report stated.
It noted recent months have seen some very solid sales particularly within the Condamine region.
"Three that spring to mind that we feel are consistent with the market are the holdings of No. 4 approximately 75 kilometres to the west of Condamine and the aggregation of Woodlands and Karreel, approximately 40 kilometres south west of Condamine.
"Both comprise mixed farming and grazing holdings with the cultivation on each reflecting in the order of $2,200 to $2,250 per hectare.
"We would view this as broadly consistent with the market today; a market that has seen sound to good quality cultivation strengthen by upwards of $500 per hectare over the past 12 to 18 months,” the report commented.
HTW has also noted the mid to late 2016 sale of Cotswold in the same region.
It sold for $14.1 million including approximately $500,000 worth of plant.
It comprises 7,410 hectares of country including some 640 hectares of centre pivot country underpinned by a 1,600 megalitre storage.
Water rights include two unsupplemented entitlements as well as overland flow.
The sale reflected approximately $6,175 per hectare for the irrigation country and around $1,750 per hectare for the dryland cultivation.
This sale is also viewed to be broadly consistent with the market,” the report stated.
In very recent times, market activity appears to have come right off HTW says.
“We anticipate that this is not because the market is lacking confidence, rather it is more to do with a poor start to the season broadly felt by everyone.
"We feel that many potential vendors are holding off until more favourable weather conditions arrive.
"The cattle market is still strong and it will only take a couple of good falls within the farming belt in the next month or two in order for things to turn around,” the report commented.
</body></html>

South East Queensland rural property sales begin to improve: HTW

<html><body>
The Illawarra residential market prices continue to grow strong, according to Herron Todd White’s recent report.
The property valuation firm says that various factors such as low interest rates, employment and decreasing affordability in Sydney are creating strong demand for the area.
“There has been strong growth in the Illawarra residential market for a number of years in all locations and property types.
The market is particularly driven by what is happening in Sydney.
There is a flow on effect from Sydney to Wollongong to the Shoalhaven.
Low interest rates, stable employment, improving infrastructure and decreasing affordability in Sydney all combine to create strong demand for residential property at all price levels.
There are a number of factors that could cause the market to change.
These include interest rate hikes, an over supply of new properties, an economic downturn in the region or a crash in the Sydney market.
Interest rates are currently at record lows and it appears that both owner occupiers and investors are willing to borrow more and more to fund transactions.
Any interest rate hike may cause investors in particular to hold off buying property until it becomes apparent that interest rates are not going to keep increasing.
Without as many investors in the market, demand will be lower and competition between buyers will be reduced,” the report stated.
Wollongong in particular is in the middle of a construction boom, especially in unit developments according to Herron Todd White.
“Wollongong is in the midst of a construction boom.
In particular new unit developments are at an all time high and the supply of new units are at unprecedented levels.
In addition there are many new land developments of varying sizes with the majority in West Dapto, Calderwood, Shell Cove and South Nowra.
As long as the supply is being met by strong demand the market will continue to be strong.
However all this new supply may exaggerate any downturn in the market if developers cannot offload their new stock,” the report advised.
Herron Todd White says that Illawarra’s economic situation is tied with its property market and therefore influences it.
“The Illawarra property market is strongly linked to the economic fortunes of the region.
The region continues to diversify from its mining and steel roots and has enjoyed good growth in medical and aged care and tourism sectors.
That said, market confidence is still derived from the steel and mining sectors.
Major downturns in these sectors could result in a downturn in the property markets.
With the region being more and more accessible to Sydney through improved infrastructure, the link between the Sydney and Illawarra property markets is closer than ever.
It is likely that the events that would cause a slow down in the Sydney market would also impact the Illawarra and if Sydney buyers were removed from the Illawarra market demand for property would be reduced,” the report stated.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-figtree-125477566" target="_blank">9 Mark Street</a>, Figtree (above) has been listed for between $699,000 to $768,900.
Similarly a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-woonona-125478226" target="_blank">45 Hillcrest Avenue</a>, Woonona (below) has been listed for $600,000.
<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/2017/05/16/45%20Hillcrest%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-north+wollongong-125324826" target="_blank">1/4 Pleasant Avenue</a>, North Wollongong (below) was recently sold for $570,000.
<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/2017/05/16/1_4%20Pleasant%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-horsley-125281798" target="_blank">21 Norman Clark Crescent</a>, Horsley (below) was recently sold for $955,000.
<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/2017/05/16/21%20Norman%20Clark%20Crescent.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Illawarra residential market continues to grow strong: HTW

<html><body>
Franklin is the cheapest ACT locality to purchase a unit, according to a recent Investar report.
The property investment firm says that the median price at Franklin for studio and one bedroom units is $265,000.
This is followed by Harrison with $269,000 and Greenway with $279,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Franklin
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2913
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$265,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Harrison
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2914
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$269,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Greenway
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2900
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$279,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Gungahlin
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2912
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$280,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Mawson
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2607
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$287,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Bruce
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2617
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$299,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Phillip
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2606
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$299,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Belconnen
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2617
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$330,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Griffith
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2603
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$332,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="72">
Watson
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2602
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$335,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-act-franklin-124622838" target="_blank">60/301 Flemington Road</a>, Franklin (above) was recently sold in April this year for $260,000.
Similarly a one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-act-franklin-119832255" target="_blank">50/289 Flemington Road</a>, Franklin (below) has been listed for $260,000 plus.
It was last sold in 2013 for $298,500.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/04/12/50_289%20Flemington%20Road.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Franklin cheapest ACT suburb to buy a unit: Investar

<html><body>
Former Aussie Home Loans CEO Stephen Porges is working with real estate group LJ Hooker.
His appearances has fuelled speculation he could become the group's next chief executive following the recent departure of Grant Harrod.
But a spokeswoman for LJ Hooker only confirmed Porges was there in an advisory role.
"Regarding [our next] CEO, we're working with advisor MitchelLake which is running a comprehensive global search," she told the Australian Financial Review.
He was "doing a few months consulting work" for LJ Hooker advising LJ Hooker on "the next stage" of its growth cycle.
Mr Porges spent around five years as CEO of Aussie between 2008 and 2013 leading the mortgage broker and non-bank lender through the global financial crisis and its virtual takeover by the Commonwealth Bank, which increased its stake in the John Symond-founded business to 80 per cent in December 2012.
Harrod joined LJ Hooker in 2014 and left whhen the float was abandoned because his corporate skills were not going to be utilised.
Formed by Sir Leslie Hooker in 1928 and still part owned by grandson Janusz Hooker, LJ Hooker scrapped its IPO as real estate franchise businesses came under pressure from a deterioration in property listings and the threat of technologies.
Earlier this year LJ Hooker launched DIY home selling start-up Settl as part of its plans to tap into the growing share of vendors who don't want to pay estate agent commissions.
Disruptors like Purplebricks, buyMyplace and forsalebyowner are all growing their share of the market.
</body></html>

LJ Hooker hires ex-Aussie CEO Stephen Porges

<html><body>
Broadbeach has the highest median price growth for Queensland localities for houses, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property firm says that the house price in Broadbeach over the past year has increased by 31 percent.
This is followed by Maroochydore for 30 percent and Bundamba 29 percent.
<table style="width: 456px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="105">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="82">
Current median price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Median price 1 year ago
</td>
<td valign="top" width="68">
1 year price growth
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="105">
Broadbeach
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
4218
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="82">
$499,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$379,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="68">
31%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="105">
Maroochydore
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
4558
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="82">
$372,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$285,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="68">
30%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="105">
Bundamba
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
4304
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="82">
$257,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$199,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="68">
29%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="105">
Wilsonton
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
4350
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="82">
$231,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$180,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="68">
28%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="105">
Upper Caboolture
</td>
<td valign="top" width="56">
4510
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="82">
$499,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
$359,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="68">
25%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-broadbeach-125220822" target="_blank">1/13 Britannia Avenue</a>, Broadbeach (above) has been listed for sale.
Similarly a residential land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-qld-maroochydore-201787970" target="_blank">Lot 35 Claremont Precinct</a>, Maroochydore (below) has been listed for $365,000.
<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/2017/04/26/Lot%2035%20Claremont%20Precinct.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-bundamba-124201018" target="_blank">93 Brisbane Road</a>, Bundamba (below) has been recently sold in March for $200,000.
<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/2017/04/26/93%20Brisbane%20Road.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-maroochydore-124339486" target="_blank">201/1 Diura Street</a>, Maroochydore (below) has been recently sold in March for $160,000.
<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/2017/04/26/201_1%20Diura%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Earlier this year it was noted the Gold Coast market pulled off solid median price gains for both units and houses in 2016, according to research from PRDnationwide.
According to the South East Queensland Property Hotspots: Second Half of 2016 report, Mermaid Beach and Broadbeach Waters fought it out for top place, with the former coming out a whisker ahead with 30% median price growth.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/02/gold-1.jpg" target="_blank"><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/2017/02/02/gold-1.jpg" alt=""></a>
 It was a stunning result for the area's prestige market, with both suburbs among the region's most expensive. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/02/gold-2.jpg" target="_blank"><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/2017/02/02/gold-2.jpg" alt=""></a>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/02/gold-3.jpg"><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/2017/02/02/gold-3.jpg" alt=""></a>
 The price gains were recorded despite a drop in sales over the year.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/02/gold-4.jpg" target="_blank"><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/2017/02/02/gold-4.jpg" alt=""></a>
A four bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-mermaid+beach-122958850" target="_blank">18 Albatross Avenue</a>, Mermaid Beach (above) was sold for $1,570,000.
Similarly a five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-mermaid+beach-122728406" target="_blank">49 Petrel Avenue</a>, Mermaid Beach (below) was sold for $1,275,000.
<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/2017/02/02/49%20Petrel%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Broadbeach, Queensland just surpasses Marrochydore in median house price growth: Investar

<html><body>
Sydney's St George area is continuing in its strong growth, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) report.
The property valuation firm says that the St George area is continuing its strong growth period with the hottest price points for houses generally being $1 million to $2 million and $660,000 to $700,000 for units.
For houses, the suburb of Oatley has been a very strong performer, having a 2016 median house price of $1.602 million, up 14.5% from 2015, according to PriceFinder.
"This strong growth in Oatley is mainly driven by locality, with its village-like feel and well positioned homes on comparatively large blocks of land, many with good water views," the report stated.
"An example of a typical Oatley sale within this strong price point is 3 Gungah Bay Road (above) which sold on 04 January 2017 for $1.7 million.
"This property comprised a dated but well maintained, two storey, 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence with double garage on 765 square metres of land."
Oatley is also within close proximity of Hurstville which provides a high level of amenities and good public transport infrastructure.
The main buyer profiles within the suburb are owner-occupiers, predominantly families, with minimal investor demand.
“With Oatley being relatively affordable compared to some surrounding suburbs and strong owner-occupier demand, we expect to see sustained and continued growth in this market," the report said.
"In generalising the St George area, we recognize that there is still strong demand for the fixer upper, however there is a growing trend towards completed contemporary dwellings.
"Buyers are currently prepared to pay a premium for the privilege of being the first to occupy a residence and will part with their hard earned when they know they are getting the very latest inclusions and high quality finishes."
Generally these houses will provide good levels of accommodation (four to six bedrooms), home automation, high quality finishes and appliances and multi vehicle garaging (four to six cars).
The strongest results for this style of property are being found in the $2.5 million to $5 million range.
This is mainly being driven by overseas buyers, expats and locally based professionals.
"There could be a softening in this end of the market depending on interest rates, lending policies and exchange rates and overseas market conditions," the report advised.
"However this is seen as unlikely in the short to medium term.
"When analysing the unit market, Brighton Le Sands gets a notable mention as a strong performer with a 2016 median unit price of $680,500, up 4.7% from 2015.
"In a running theme, location has been the main driver of this market being within close proximity of the beach, an increasingly popular restaurant and café scene and good bus services.
"With many 1970s, walk-up style unit complexes within the suburb, it attracts investors and owner-occupiers alike."
A recent sale of a typical unit was 10/32-34 Queens Road (above) which sold in February 2017 for $675,000.
This was a mainly original 1970s unit with two bedrooms, one bathroom and one car garage, located on the top floor.
"Potential for new transport links and hubs within the vicinity of Brighton Le Sands is expected to drive strong growth in the short to medium term," the report advised.
</body></html>

St George and Oatley residential market strength continues to grow: HTW

<html><body>
In the past 12 months, $61 million worth of commercial scale Northern Territory freehold has sold - a strong increase on 2015, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) report.
The property valuation firm says that despite the uptick in sales, water allocation and soils rights in the area are very tight.
“We are aware that Indian Sandalwood growers Quintis (formerly TFS) and also local African mahogany growers are finding it difficult to secure any expansion land that fits the bill,” the report stated.
“This tight supply has potential NT farmers (including foreign buyers) looking at pastoral leasehold land and its potential for landing a diversification permit to develop farm land.
“With improving profits from record live cattle export prices, local cattlemen have also been more active in acquiring smaller freehold (depot type) blocks.”
Sales included <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-commercial+farming-nt-douglas+daly-501718973" target="_blank">Early Storms</a> (above) a well established, 629 hectare melon farm in the Douglas Daly (200 kilometres by road south of Darwin).
It made $9,765 per irrigated hectare over 279 hectares with 7.7 megalitres per hectare per annum ground water allocation.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-mixed+farming-nt-katherine-7821686" target="_blank">Phoenix Park</a> (below), on the outskirts of Katherine, was a strategic acquisition by a subsidiary of Hancock as a cattle spelling, feeding and processing facility for the company’s expanding herd in the NT.
<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/2017/04/26/Phoenix%20Park.jpg" alt="">
This property last sold in 2008 for $5.8 million with relatively little improvement in between. It comprises a mix of irrigation land (plus land for irrigation expansion), dry land cropping and a spelling yard registered for 20,000 head of 350 kilogram cattle.
Two Rivers, a 14,120 hectare freehold with Stuart Highway frontage, was sold for $2.4 million to a southern family to develop as a live cattle export depot.
HTW said that in the past 12 months, there has more mango plantations sales throughout the Top End than in the past five combined.
Five commercial scale mango farms sold to locals or Australian based companies with long term experience in the NT.
Value rates are steady, generally between $20,000 to $30,000 per planted hectare for mature, old variety trees, with a premium for Calypso at around $40,000 plus per planted hectare.
The Oolloo Farms aggregation of four farms in Darwin, Katherine and Mataranka, sold for around $18 million.
However, HTW noted that the sale included an onerous lease in place to the sitting tenant for a net return of about 8%.
Northern Territory rural purchasers were concerned with long-term goals, according to Herron Todd White’s December 2016 report.
It noted the first Month in Review for 2016 stated that the year was shaping up to be another active year on the pastoral sales front in the Northern Territory and Kimberley.
"It’s fair to say that the year has not disappointed,” the HTW report stated.
"A lot of the interest has come from the big end of town, both overseas and Australian purchasers.
"Many of these purchasers appear to be more concerned with positioning themselves in terms of long term food security than short term price movements.
"However, they are also no doubt benefiting from buoyant live export prices at present.
"Despite the volume of sales this year, there are still parts of the Territory which have not been sold."
Of special interest is Kalala, 3,760 square kilometres at Daly Waters and Mount McMinn, 809 square kilometres, both being actively marketed at present.
At the time of writing these had not sold but we understand that they have both attracted good interest.
The NT government has recently announced a $4.1 million upgrade of the Berrimah Export Yards (the major marshalling point for live cattle exports).
The upgrade will involve construction of two shelters which will accommodate up to 4,000 head of cattle and assist in the year-round processing of cattle.
It has also been an active year for horticultural properties, especially mango plantations. Larger scale plantations such as Pine Creek Mango Plantation and Jabiru Tropical Orchards have sold.
A major Calypso plantation aggregation at Mataranka, Katherine and Berry Springs is also being marketed.
“For our local office, the highlight of the year was definitely the review of the unimproved capital values for the pastoral estate across the Northern Territory, which we carried out on behalf of the Territory Government.
"This project involved re-assessment of the unimproved carrying capacity of every pastoral lease in the Territory on an individual basis, then assessing their unimproved capital values based on this information.
"It was a big undertaking that required us to call in a variety of expert opinions to assist in providing consistency of approach across a variety of country types from Alice Springs to the Top End,” the report stated.
</body></html>

NT rural market heats up with $61 million of sales: HTW

<html><body>
Registrations of interest are open for the Lighthaven project from Ecco Ripley, developed by Sekisui House.
The $500 million masterplanned community in Ripley Valley, Brisbane, is now entering the second major phase.
Buyers can register their interest on a range of lots sized from 300 sqm to 450 sqm.
Scott Blaney, sales manager, Ecco Ripley sales manager said with the first stage of the Town Centre well under way, Ecco Ripley is becoming increasingly sought-after by homebuyers.
"Lighthaven will be located within a short walk to the future $1.5 billion regional Ripley Town Centre, with the $40 million first stage of the Town Centre scheduled to be completed early 2018," he said.
“Lighthaven will offer the closest housing to the Town Centre within the entire Ecco Ripley masterplanned community, or the entire Ripley Valley for that matter, and it offers the last opportunity to purchase land before the Town Centre opens.
“They are also drawn by diversity in product choice and the sustainability of Ecco Ripley which is the only community in the greater Ipswich area to achieve a 5 Star Green Star."
The total value of sales in the first quarter at Ecco Ripley yielded more than $12.5 million, with nearly 80 percent owner-occupiers.
For more information, <a href="https://eccoripley.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
</body></html>

Registrations of interest open at Lighthaven development

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada Australia</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada Australia's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada Australia as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News