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New ‘full line’ Coles and Woolworths supermarkets and a new K-Mart will be features of the $116 million redevelopment and expansion of Stockland’s Baldivis Shopping Centre in Rockingham, south of Perth.
Two new mini-majors and 75 new specialty retailers will take the centre to a total of 95 speciality stores. The redevelopment will also include a new 275 seat indoor and outdoor dining terrace and 1,400 car parking spaces.
Developer Stockland today announced the project to quadruple the size of the shopping centre with work to begin early next year. The centre will expand from 7,000 square metres to create a gross lettable area of about 29,500 square metres.
<img alt="Baldivis-Artist-Impression_Exterior-130827baldiuvis-dec-18-one" src="/images/stories/2013/12/18/Baldivis-Artist-Impression_Exterior-130827baldiuvis-dec-18-one.jpg" height="291" width="470">
Work will be completed in two stages: the first set for completion towards the end of 2014 and the second in mid-2015.
Baldivis is one of the fastest growing regions in Western Australia, with a population growth of 7.6% per annum.
“Redeveloping our most productive shopping centres is a key part of our growth strategy,” Stockland managing director and CEO Mark Steinert said.
“At Stockland Baldivis we’ll create a first class retail destination alongside our Settlers Hill residential community and Affinity retirement living village for the benefit and convenience of our residents and visitors to the region.”
The shopping centre will continue to trade through the expansion. Stockland says it will work closely with the builder to minimise any disruption.
“Baldivis will be the third major shopping centre redevelopment project undertaken in our latest wave of projects,’’ John Schroder, CEO commercial property at Stockland, said.
‘’Earlier this year we began a $115 million project at Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast and a $222 million redevelopment at Wetherill Park in western Sydney.”
Baldivis is forecast to deliver an incremental internal rate of return of 13%. After the redevelopment, the funds from operations economic yield forecast is 8.0%.
“Stockland Baldivis is our most productive centre with current total moving average turnover of $15,697 per square metre,” Schroder said.
In the recent Shopping Centre News Mini Guns 2013 lead table, Baldivis was rated the best performing centre in Australia based on total MAT sales per square metre.
“Over the next 18 months, we’ll transform the neighbourhood centre that exists today into the area’s premier shopping centre destination,” Schroder said. ‘’This project will generate hundreds of new jobs in construction and retail and inject millions of dollars into the local economy.”
The design will incorporate the highest environmental standards and expected to gain a 4 Star Green Star Rating (Retail Centre Design v1 by the Green Building Council of Australia).
Key facts about Stockland Baldivis redevelopment: 
- $116 million redevelopment and expansion
- Construction scheduled to commence in early 2014 and expected to be completed by mid-2015
- The redevelopment will increase the size of the centre from 7,000 square metres to approximately 29,500 square metres
- The redeveloped centre is forecast to deliver an incremental Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 13 per cent. Funds From Operations (FFO) economic yield is forecast to be 8.0 per cent.
- Redevelopment to include a full-line Coles, full-line Woolworths, two mini-majors and a total of 95 speciality stores
- 275 seat indoor and outdoor dining terrace
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:staylor@propertyobserver.com.au">staylor@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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staylor-63KgDrKwoY

Stockland announces $116 million redevelopment in Rockingham

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A Melbourne finance company has acquired one of the last remaining suites in the 140 East development on Bourke Street.
The local owner-occupier bought the 280 square metre site with vacant possession from vendor Drapac for $1.25 million.
The sale comes one week after commercial estate agent Burgess Rawson bought level seven of the building. The tower is now 98% sold, with just one suite remaining.
CBRE’s Tom Tuxworth, who negotiated the sale in conjunction with agents Ed Wright and Chris Pharr, said the property’s location was a key selling factor.
“This suite is ideally situated in the former Hoyts Cinema office tower. It’s at the top end of Melbourne’s East End, which is home to several blue-chip office buildings, luxury international retailers, high-end hotels and renowned restaurants.
“Having the Virgin Active health and fitness club on the ground level was also a drawcard.” 
Tuxworth said the majority of 140 East property owners were buying within their self-managed super funds to take advantage of tax benefits.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:staylor@propertyobserver.com.au">staylor@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Buyers line up for 140 East development 

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The level of residential rental vacancies rose in November to 2.2% or 62,885 nationwide.
 <img alt="sqm_dec_18_one" src="/images/stories/2013/12/17/sqm_dec_18_one.png" height="107" width="470">
SQM Research has revealed that the increase breaks an ongoing trend - being the first rise after four consecutive monthly declines in residential rental vacancies nationally.
The company attributes much of this to seasonality, with large numbers of university students vacating their rental accommodation as the study year comes to a close.
However, looked at year on year, a 0.3% increase in national vacancies signals that the rental market has substantially eased since November last year.
Also of interest is that, when comparing this month’s increase to the same period in 2012 - October to November - the rise is 0.1% greater in 2013, hinting at a potential sales market recovery.
SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher says a city-by-city breakdown reveals that Darwin had the most substantial monthly rise, climbing 0.5 percentage points month-on-month.
He said this could be perceived as a pleasing result for the northern capital which has been suffering tight vacancy rates in the past 12 months. However, the rental market has loosened up lately.
Year-on-year, Perth has recorded a substantial increase - up 1.0%. Ongoing increases in vacancies can be attributed largely to the decline in mining activity.
“The national rental market has recorded a rise in vacancies for November which is normal for this time of year. It is likely as well that the December result will also rise,’’ said Christopher.
‘’Brisbane now appears to be recording a clear upward trend in vacancies. Of particular interest is what is happening with the Brisbane CBD, where, on our numbers, vacancy rates are now 4.7% and rising quickly.
‘’On the other hand, Hobart is recording a clear trend of declining vacancies, with the rate there 1.4% after continuous declines for the past six months. Investors should be fully aware of rental market conditions before making decisions in the housing market.”
SQM’s vacancy calculations are based on online rental listings advertised for three weeks or more, compared to the total number of established rental properties. The company considers this to be a superior methodology compared to using a potentially incomplete sample of agency surveys, or relying on raw online listings advertised. 
Key points
 
<ul>
<li>Nationally, rental vacancies rose in November to 2.2% and to a total of 62,885 nationally. </li>
<li>Melbourne has the highest vacancy rate of the capitals, at 3.0% or 13,132.</li>
<li>Hobart and Adelaide have the tightest vacancy rates of the capital, both at 1.4% and a total of 385 and 2460 respectively.</li>
<li>Perth had the highest yearly increase in vacancies, climbing 1.1% to 2.1% since November 2012 with 3,171 vacancies.</li>
<li>Hobart had the largest yearly decline in vacancies, falling 0.8% to 1.4% since November 2012.</li>
<li>Darwin had the highest monthly vacancy rate rise - up 0.5% this November to 1.5% or 356 vacancies.</li>
<li>Canberra and Hobart were the only capitals to record a monthly decline, both falling 0.1% in November to record rates of 2.0% and 1.4% respectively.</li>
</ul>
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:staylor@propertyobserver.com.au">staylor@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
<ul></ul>
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Vacancies increase across the country: SQM Research

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Three Queensland hotels run by Wesfarmers were the jewel in the crown of a busy investment portfolio auction at Crown casino last week.
Burgess Rawson auctioneer David Scholes put the hotel freeholds – all with new 15-year leases to Coles Liquorland – under the hammer before a large crowd in the casino’s River Room. They were among 14 commercial properties offered on the day.
Scholes said that, under Queensland law, Coles must run the hotels in order to retain the bottle shops – hence the long leases being offered. He said the company operates 92 hotels Australia-wide.
Strong bidding for the hotels – with more than 30 bids for the first offering - reflected investor confidence in the strength of the hotel industry.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ourhotels.com.au/royalenglishhotel/">Royal English Hotel</a>, in Sandgate Road, Nundah, attracted $7.75 million on a yield of 7%. As well as the new 15-year lease it comes with five 10-year options, as do the other two hotels.
Coles has agreed to spend $1.5 million on refurbishments on this busy inner northern suburban hotel which returns $550,000 net annually, with the tenant paying rates, taxes and insurance.
The hotel adjoins the Circa Nundah mixed use precinct with 184 apartments and 1200 square metre office tower. It has a public bar, bistro, function room and gaming room with 40 machines. There are 22 car spaces and three detached bottle shops. Nearby are a Woolworths store and 15 shops, as well as the railway line and freeway.
Bidding began at $6 million and ran quickly through 30 bids to the sale price.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Hotel_Review-g1132645-d2557638-Reviews-Currimundi_Hotel_Motel-Sunshine_Coast_Queensland">Currimundi Hotel</a>, Motor Inn and Liquorland outlet in Buderim Street, Battery Hill, Caloundra, brought $5.8 million reflecting a yield of 6.9%.
Buyers may have been influenced by Scholes’ claim that the district’s 338,000 population was expected to grow almost 50% in the next 50 years, after having doubled in the past 10.
The hotel on 15,698 square metres returns $400,000 per annum net rent. It has a public bar, bistro, gaming room with 40 machines, and drive through bottle shop. The motor inn has 26 three-star motel rooms on two levels, and pool.
The complex is 500 metres from the beach in this popular tourism belt 90km north of Brisbane.
<a target="_blank" href="https://publocation.com.au/pubs/qld/mackay/taylors-hotel">Taylors Hotel</a> and Liquorland in Wood Street, Mackay, went for $3.150 million at a yield of 7.94%. Built in 1936 the hotel on a corner site of 1,287 square metres has 16 rooms and the Liquorland outlet and returns $250,000 per annum net rent.
Features are the extensive bottle shop and public bar, TAB, bistro, beer garden and gaming room with 35 machines.
Scholes said the Mackay region was benefiting from $4.5 million in residential projects. He said Wood Street was set for government funded refurbishments.
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Wesfarmers' Queensland hotels saw strong bids

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The boss of one of Australia’s iconic real estate agencies is stepping down as a member of Family Business Australia’s NSW committee after 13 years.
To commemorate his contribution, Angus Raine, executive chairman and CEO of real estate agents Raine &amp; Horne, was honoured with a special award at an FBA Hall of Fame event in November. His company was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.
The FBA is the peak body of the family business sector, which accounts for around 70% of all Australian businesses and employs 50% of the private workforce.
Raine, the fourth generation of the family to run the 130-year old real estate firm, was part of a group of dedicated family business owners contributing to the growth and development of FBA in NSW, said Philippa Taylor, CEO of Family Business Australia.
In 2012, for example, Raine made a significant contribution to the Senate Inquiry into Family Business in Australia.
“Angus was part of an FBA delegation, which included a number of iconic family businesses, that visited Canberra on National Family Business Day to remind government about the significant contribution family businesses make to the Australian economy,” said Taylor.
“As a result of this delegation, a Senate inquiry was established and Angus was a major contributor to the 21 recommendations handed down by the inquiry.”
Raine was also a regular guest speaker at FBA events – and, reportedly, an entertaining MC.
After 13 years, Raine is satisfied with his contribution to FBA and believes it’s time to pass the baton to the next generation of family business owners.
“I am proud of the achievements of FBA and the contribution we’ve made to the family business sector, which is valued at more than $4 trillion. It represents a figure that governments of all persuasions ignore at their peril.”
The Raine &amp; Horne chief also urges family businesses seeking long-term success, or who are in the process of succession planning, to pursue advice and learning pathways at FBA.
“Along with invaluable peer learning, FBA accredited advisers, who specialise in family business, can provide assistance with generational change issues and succession planning.”
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:staylor@propertyobserver.com.au">staylor@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Raine steps down from family business peak body after 13 years

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An Australian-based, full service real estate investment and asset management partnership has been formed by UBS and Grocon.
UBS Global Asset Management is one of the world’s top five real estate investment managers, and Grocon is one of Australia’s largest private development and construction firms.
The joint venture, based in Sydney, is called UBS Grocon Real Estate. It aims to provide market-leading investment opportunities for investors by combining UBS Global Asset Management's capital raising and real estate investment management capabilities with Grocon's expertise in development and deal origination.
The new entity will support demand from institutional investors for a broad range of fund types and real estate investment products covering core office, residential, and other value add and opportunistic investments.
It will benefit from a first right of refusal over Grocon's development pipeline as well as being able to acquire third party assets in the open market.
John Fraser, CEO and chairman, UBS Global Asset Management, will chair UBS Grocon Real Estate and Daniel Grollo, CEO Grocon, will be a non-executive director. The rest of the board will be appointed in the coming months.
"This partnership forms part of our strategy to strengthen our real estate presence in the APAC region and specifically in the Australian market,’’ Fraser said.
"Securing a partnership with one of Australia’s most prominent developers will allow us to bring the best development opportunities as well as top quality assets to both our domestic and international client base."
Daniel Grollo said: ”This is an exciting opportunity to work with one of the great global brands and one of the world’s largest real estate asset managers. The joint venture will support Grocon’s aim of producing the best investment grade real estate product in Australia."
Thomas Wels, head of global real estate, Global Asset Management, said: "This is an important building block in our global growth strategy. More and more of our growth will stem from partnering with best in class real estate developers to bring the best investment opportunities to our global client base."
UBS Grocon Real Estate is expected to participate in a number of substantial investments over the coming months from within Grocon’s existing $2 billion development pipeline and beyond. This covers significant residential projects, including the next stage of Grocon’s redevelopment of the Carlton Brewery and its redevelopment of 85 Spring Street, both in Melbourne.
UBS Grocon Real Estate is separately exploring potential high quality office investments from Grocon’s development pipeline.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:staylor@propertyobserver.com.au">staylor@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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UBS and Grocon join forces for real estate investment and asset management partnership 

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A 125-place child care centre in Ringwood, 25km east of Melbourne, was the subject of a ferocious bidding war at a busy commercial property auction at Crown Casino last week.
Bidding began at $2.5 million and, 30 bids later, reached $3.145 million on a yield on 6.7%.
The 290 Maroondah Highway centre, on 2,649 square metres, was built in 2006. It is run by an ‘’established and successful’’ operator, according to Burgess Rawson auctioneer David Scholes.
The 918 square metre purpose-built centre, enjoying a 95% occupancy rate, comes with a new 20-year lease with two 10-year options.
Scholes said the government was spending $575 million on refurbishing the nearby shopping centre, and that the centre was ‘’in the perfect position to enjoy expected growth in the area.’’
The child care centre was one of 15 properties auctioned by the commercial estate agent in the casino’s River Room.
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Ringwood childcare centre subject of bidding war

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Australian housing is in a growth phase, according to the Real Estate Institute of Australia.
Pointing to the latest Bendigo Bank/REIA Real Estate Market Facts report, president Peter Bushby said: “The weighted average, capital city, median price increased 3.0% for houses and 2.2% for other dwellings during the September quarter.
“The weighted average, median house price for eight capital cities is now $562,503. Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Hobart contributed to the increase, while Perth recorded the biggest drop, down by 3.8%.
“At $722,718, the Sydney median house price is the highest across the capital cities. Hobart remains the lowest at $352,000 -- 37.4% lower than the national weighted average.”
Bushby said that, compared to the same time last year, the weighted average median house price rose 9.5%.
“The weighted average median price for other dwellings in the eight capital cities was $460,315 over the quarter with Sydney, Melbourne and Darwin recording rises, while Adelaide had the biggest quarterly fall, down by 3.2%.
“There was good news for investors in some centres. Over the September quarter, the median house rent for three-bedroom houses increased in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Darwin. Rents remained unchanged in Adelaide and Canberra while Perth and Hobart fell by 1.0% and 2.1% respectively.
“For the next year we expect interest rates to stay relatively low and continue to assist the market. We expect continued steady improvement in activity in most markets and generally a more positive year ahead provided there are no left-field global issues that emerge.”
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:staylor@propertyobserver.com.au">staylor@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Australian housing in a growth phase: Bendigo Bank/REIA report

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The Queensland residential unit and townhouse market experienced a significant climb in sales over the September quarter, according to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland.
The REIQ Queensland Market Monitor, released on Friday, found that the preliminary numbers of unit sales across the state grew by 14% over the September quarter. The number of unit sales increased by 12% compared to the same period last year.
“During the September quarter last year, we experienced a significant jump in unit sales activity – up 40% compared to the previous quarter - due to favourable stamp duty changes brought in by the State Government,” said REIQ CEO Anton Kardash.
“To again record increased activity this year is a great sign that our unit market is heading in the right direction.
‘’Although we are yet to experience significant price increases, no doubt that will happen over the next six to 12 months as the market strengthens even further.”
Most major regions recorded steady quarterly median unit prices. However, there is always some volatility in quarterly median prices given that the size of unit markets varies greatly across Queensland.
The top performer for median unit price growth over the September quarter was Cairns, which posted a 10% increase to $215,000. “The Cairns unit market has struggled more than most over recent years so this result helps to partly address any price reductions it has experienced of late,” Kardash said.
“The Brisbane market remained steady at $400,000 over the quarter but posted a 13% increase in preliminary unit sales. It also saw a huge jump in the numbers of million-plus sales which is another signal that confidence has returned to the market.”
Across the state, the numbers of million-plus sales jumped 21% over the quarter and 65% over the year. In Brisbane, sales of million-plus units grew by 41% over the quarter and 108% over the year. This can be partly be attributed to the high number of new off-the-plan developments being completed across our capital city, Kardash said.
While the median unit price on the Gold Coast fell by 2.9% over the quarter to $335,000, the numbers of preliminary unit sales rose 13% over the quarter and 30% over the year. There was also a jump in sales below $250,000 – up 28% compared to the previous quarter, which has contributed to the reduced quarterly median price.
On the Sunshine Coast, the median unit and townhouse price fell 2.3% to $320,000 but, again, the numbers of sales were up 9% cent over the quarter and 10% over the year. The region also experienced strengthening demand for units below $250,000 and units priced above $500,000.
<a href="mailto:staylor@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">staylor@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Queensland unit and townhouse market experienced a significant climb: REIQ

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Former federal Health Minister Michael Wooldridge, and ex-Melbourne City councillor and Places Victoria chairman Peter Clarke, are among five former directors of the failed Prime Retirement and Aged Care Property Trust facing charges in the Federal Court of not acting in the best interests of their 8000 unit holders.  
The men – and other former directors William Lionel Lewski, Mark Frederick Butler and Kim Jaques - are fighting possible corporate bans and hefty fines in the case brought by the corporate regulator.  
Prime Trust was a managed investment scheme with retirement villages in Queensland, NSW and Victoria when it collapsed in 2010 owing investors around $550 million.
ASIC alleges the former directors erred when they approved changes to the trust’s constitution in 2006, allowing a $33?million listing fee to be paid out of trust funds to Prime’s founder, Lewski, who controlled its responsible entity.  
Another contentious change to the constitution involved the inclusion of a so-called ‘poison pill’ clause ensuring the trust’s responsible entity to be paid out if it were removed.  
ASIC commissioner Greg Tanzer said Tuesday’s judgement by Justice Murphy was a reminder that ‘’responsible entities have to put the interests of their unit holders first’’.
‘‘This is a significant outcome for investors. Directors are important gatekeepers who must discharge their duties with the appropriate care and diligence. This has not happened here. The conduct of the (Prime) board was unacceptable and today's judgment reflects that.’’
The penalty hearing will begin early next year. ASIC said the court can order maximum fines of up to $200,000 each over the charges.  
Liquidators Lawler Draper Dillon are running separate civil proceedings in the Supreme Court of Victoria over payment of the listing fee and are seeking compensation and damages.  
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Prime Trust property directors found to have breached duties

The Victorian Government has secured the passage of the Building Legislation and Treasury Legislation (Tax Relief) Amendment Bill 2026, introducing a suite of reforms aimed at improving consumer protection and confidence in the apartment market.

Resilience Insurance, Australia’s leading Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) provider, has welcomed the move.

The LDI elements of the Bill passed with bipartisan support and now moves to the Legislative Council where debate and passage are expected later this month. It represents a significant milestone in the national shift toward stronger, longer-term protection for apartment buyers.&nbsp;

The reform would deliver practical benefits across the housing system. Apartment owners will have stronger protection if major defects emerge, developers and builders will have a clearer quality framework to work within, and the State will reduce the risk of serious building failures becoming a long-term financial and social burden for households, communities and government.&nbsp;

LDI helps support apartment delivery while providing stronger protection for buyers and encouraging better construction outcomes.&nbsp;

Resilience LDI provides apartment owners with 10 years of insurance-backed cover for major structural defects from completion, with direct claim access to the insurer. This means owners are not required to first pursue developers or builders through costly legal action before accessing protection.&nbsp;

Resilience Insurance has been operating in Australia since 2022 and has already insured hundreds of development projects covering many thousands of apartments across Australia.&nbsp;

At approximately 1.8 per cent of build cost, it is a cost-competitive alternative to the traditional two per cent Strata Bond, bond while delivering significantly broader and longer protection.&nbsp;

“The Victorian Lower House vote shows that reforms like this succeed when they are practical, evidence-based and supported by industry," says Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

"Victoria is moving quickly on a reform that will make a real difference for apartment buyers, while supporting better building outcomes and greater confidence in apartment delivery.

“This is step one. We look forward to the Bill completing its passage through the Legislative Council and to working with government and industry to implement the framework effectively.”&nbsp;

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI): Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Consumer-first: Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Cost advantage: At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Market leader: Resilience Insurance is the first approved LDI provider in NSW.</li>
</ul>

The Building Legislation and Treasury Legislation (Tax Relief) Amendment Bill 2026 has passed the Victorian Lower House, putting Victoria on track to become the first state to legislate an industry workable LDI framework as a formal alternative to the Strata Building bond. 

Joel Robinson

10-year Latent Defects Insurance for new apartment buyers set to land in Victoria

Just a few months after acquiring a prime Broadbeach site on the corner of First Avenue and Surf Parade, family-run developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/raptis">Raptis</a> has filed fresh plans for a new apartment development.

Raptis is seeking to deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-19-first-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4217">29-storey tower with 73 apartments</a> on the 818 sqm site. It will be the developer's seventh project in the suburb, as they are approaching completion of The Sterling on George Avenue.

There will be a pool, barbecue and outdoor dining area, residents lounge and dining, sauna and steam room, gym, and a Yoga and Pilates studio.

<img alt="Raptis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b554da3f-7344-49aa-b1c9-44cf459af0d7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%2010.41.45%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zzjWu1iO1wnuYv4EV4fyOyf5nSXjGYut" />

Raptis Joint Managing Director, Evan Raptis, says they remain&nbsp;committed to developing quality infill sites across the Gold Coast in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

"This project continues our long track record of delivery in Broadbeach, and we look forward to bringing another premium development to this thriving precinct."

The announcement follows strong delivery momentum for Raptis, with The Sterling Broadbeach nearing completion and construction well underway on the final stage of the Waterpoint community adjacent to Harbour Town. The developer's continued investment in the Gold Coast reflects confidence in the region's apartment market fundamentals, underpinned by sustained Southeast Queensland population growth.&nbsp;

The outlook for the region is further bolstered by infrastructure investment tied to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, which is expected to drive continued economic and population growth across the SEQ corridor.&nbsp;

Subject to a favourable response from Gold Coast City Council, construction on the new First Avenue tower is targeted to commence before the end of 2026.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/it-s-all-in-the-family-four-decades-later-raptis-continues-to-shape-the-gold-coast-skyline">It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline</a>

Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/raptis-secures-prime-surf-parade-site-for-next-broadbeach-apartment-development">Raptis secures prime Surf Parade site for next Broadbeach apartment development</a> 
&nbsp;

Gold Coast developer brings seventh Broadbeach project to market, targeting construction commencement before year end

First look: Raptis lodges plans for new 29-storey Broadbeach tower 

Brisbane development veteran Kevin Seymour's Seymour Group is set to deepen its presence on one of Brisbane's most tightly held riverfront addresses, lodging revised plans for a luxury apartment development on Oxlade, just a few doors down from The Oxlade, which it completed in 2024.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/70-72-oxlade-drive-new-farm-qld-4005">new project at 70-72 Oxlade Drive</a>, directly north of The Oxlade, will have 27 apartments across a seven-storey building&nbsp;overlooking the Brisbane River and Merthyr Park. It's a revision from a 2021-approved design.

Designed by bureau^proberts, the project has evolved from the previously approved 26-apartment scheme, introducing an additional penthouse level while maintaining a low-density, boutique character. The development will comprise 26 three-bedroom apartments and a single four-bedroom penthouse, supported by two basement levels with 86 car spaces and 34 bicycle spaces.

The architectural response is centred around two distinct building forms separated by a landscaped open-air atrium.&nbsp;"This dual composition captures and embraces Brisbane’s subtropical environment whilst breaking down built form and scale," the submission to the Brisbane City Council noted.

<img alt="First look: Seymour Group returns to Oxlade Drive with revised riverfront apartment plans in New Farm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c12d84d0-bc11-4067-b46f-5bd2d786a34d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/new%20farm%20landscape.png?VersionId=YEPc2k5CAdh6aAPlu4uVpgZadh4MEfRd" />

A defining feature of the design is a deep landscaped void running through the centre of the building, creating what bureau^proberts describes as a "natural ravine" that enhances airflow, daylight penetration and resident amenity. The design report notes that the separation of the two building volumes is intended to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and outlook while strengthening connections to the surrounding riverfront setting.

Curved balcony edges, integrated planting and extensive landscaping throughout the façade reinforce the subtropical design approach. The building's façade is softened by elevated gardens and planter beds, creating a green edge that complements the established landscape character of Oxlade Drive and neighbouring Merthyr Park.

New Farm has become one of Brisbane's most sought-after suburbs for developers delivering premium downsizer-focused apartments.

GRAYA has been particularly active in the precinct, completing both Chalk and York in recent years, while construction of Moray House, being delivered for Spyre, is now nearing completion. Architect-turned-developer Joe Adsett recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/arcilla-new-farm-by-joe-adsett-28-maxwell-street-new-farm-qld-4005">Arcilla on Maxwell Street</a>, an exclusive collection of just nine apartments.

First look: Seymour Group returns to New Farm's Oxlade Drive with riverfront apartment plans

A new residential tower will be the first piece of a broader mixed-use precinct set to reshape a prominent Newcastle West site, with local developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> bringing its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cambridge-quarter-newcastle-west-12-denison-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Cambridge Quarter</a> vision to market.

The first release, Tempo, will introduce 87 apartments across a 24-storey tower, marking Stage 1 of the residential component of a larger urban regeneration project planned for the western end of Newcastle's city centre, encompassing the former Cambridge Hotel site.

Positioned on Denison Street, Tempo has been designed as the inaugural building within Cambridge Quarter, a precinct that will ultimately combine apartments, retail activation and revitalised public spaces including the revamping of the Cambridge Hotel.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368853]

The tower will comprise a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including layouts with multipurpose rooms, catering to a broad cross-section of owner-occupiers. Apartment sizes range from around 60 sqm to 192 sqm, with a number of residences oriented to capture views across Newcastle Harbour, the city skyline and coastline.

GWH has emphasised liveability in the design, with open-plan layouts extending to generous balconies and terraces. Residents will have a choice of two interior palettes, while specifications include engineered stone benchtops, SMEG appliances, full-height bathroom tiling and secure building access. Premium upgrade packages will also be available.

Multiple rooftop resident retreats will provide communal outdoor space overlooking the harbour and city, offering an elevated amenity layer above the activity of the precinct below.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368851]

The broader Cambridge Quarter vision extends beyond the residential tower itself. Ground-level retail activation and landscaped public areas are planned throughout the precinct, creating a walkable neighbourhood environment connected to the surrounding renewal of Newcastle West. The Cambridge Hotel is also earmarked for future redevelopment into a family-friendly hospitality venue integrated with the new precinct.

The project is strategically positioned within walking distance of Newcastle Interchange, providing access to light rail, regional rail services and direct connections to Sydney. Residents will also be close to Honeysuckle, Newcastle Harbour and the city's beaches and coastal walkways.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368852]

For GWH, Cambridge Quarter represents one of its most significant Newcastle developments to date. The locally based developer, which has operated in the Hunter region since 1995, describes the project as a new chapter in the ongoing transformation of Newcastle West.

GWH Executive Director Jonathan Craig said the project had been shaped by a focus on creating lasting community connections.

"We take pride in creating places that last. Spaces where people feel connected, comfortable and a genuine sense of belonging," Craig said.

"Cambridge Quarter is something we are truly proud of, a place shaped by local knowledge, built with care and designed to be part of Newcastle's next chapter."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135876]

GWH unveils first release at landmark Cambridge Quarter precinct in Newcastle West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a>,&nbsp;Rainbow Bay's busiest developer,&nbsp;has officially lodged plans for the largest development in its booming local portfolio, seeking approval for a further 88 apartments on Boundary Street.

The proposal&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">209–213 Boundary Street, Coolangatta</a>,&nbsp;marks the next chapter in the developer's transformation of the southern Gold Coast beachside precinct. It will be its fifth in the area, having already delivered Flow, Awaken and Esprit, while construction continues on the 38-apartment Radia. The new project would rise 57 metres above a consolidated 1,518 sqm site, on the same street as Radia and Esprit.

&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, the proposed development comprises 88 two and three-bedroom apartments across a contemporary podium-and-tower form that integrates extensive landscaping from street level through to the rooftop.

The tower would be delivered above a basement and multi-level podium accommodating resident and visitor parking, with the residential component commencing from level three. The design incorporates cascading planting throughout the façade, landscaped podium edges, and deep planting zones along the Boundary Street frontage.

<img alt="First look: S&amp;S Projects lodges plans for 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="677e6615-b5c0-4b6c-b4f9-efb14fcde1a6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ss%20da%20pers.png?VersionId=YOnPKQm7IFXv0M5H326djEpxk80500Hi" />

A key feature of the development is its expansive rooftop wellness and recreation precinct. Plans reveal a resort-style pool deck, gymnasium, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, rooftop terraces, barbecue areas and landscaped relaxation spaces positioned to capture views across the southern Gold Coast coastline.

The rooftop wellness focus builds on the vision S&amp;S Projects first outlined when it acquired the site for $20.25 million last year.

"We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden," S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun said at the time.

The proposal seeks a 57-metre building height, representing a 50 per cent uplift on the site's mapped 38-metre height limit. Planning documents argue the additional height is consistent with recently approved and emerging towers in the immediate Boundary Street and Rainbow Bay precinct.

Urbis, acting as planning consultant, said the development would provide "88 dwellings, comprising a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, contributing to housing choice and supply within an established medium to high-rise coastal urban neighbourhood."

The scheme has undergone extensive pre-lodgement consultation with the City of Gold Coast, with the design refined following feedback relating to architectural expression, landscaping, traffic access and podium treatment.

<img alt="S&amp;S" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a2d70fd-62ac-4b83-97c6-b798fc1243dd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%209.16.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yHmghUwKM3IVGpBktQU1mE.0Lpf3WimG" />

The architectural team is led by Brisbane-based Cottee Parker, one of Australia's most active residential design studios, with landscape architecture by Dunn + Moran. The consultant team also includes ADG Engineers, Windtech and Acoustic Works.

S&amp;S Projects has become one of the most influential private developers operating on the southern Gold Coast. Since entering Rainbow Bay in 2022, the company has assembled a portfolio exceeding $1 billion in end value, establishing itself as a key player in the area's evolution into a premium apartment destination. Pezet Matheson will again handle the sales for S&amp;S.

Coolangatta is entering another wave of apartment development, following the delivery of several prominent residential projects in recent years.

John Kearney's Immerse Projects will launch&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kaiya-kirra-beach-5-haig-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Kaiya on Haig Street</a>&nbsp;soon, meanwhile, Palm Beach-based Sherpa Property Group is preparing to bring its debut Coolangatta development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, to market later this year, subject to approvals.

Stephen Taylor

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