<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>’s 640 Bourke Street stands as a testament to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s ability to bridge its storied past with a bold vision for the future.&nbsp;

Rising above the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley building, the development reflects a broader shift toward adaptive reuse in the city, where historical assets are retained and reinterpreted as part of new residential development.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> incorporates the Eliza Tinsley building as its foundation, housing a grand gallery and lobby space that serve as both a functional and symbolic centrepiece. The heritage façade informs the tower’s design, creating a connection between Melbourne’s past and its contemporary skyline.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365684]

Above this historic base, the 68-storey tower will deliver just over 600 residences, a notable reduction from earlier schemes, reflecting a deliberate move toward larger-format apartments and a stronger owner-occupier focus.

Unlike traditional CBD developments that prioritised investor stock, 640 Bourke Street has been repositioned to respond to changing buyer expectations.

"The discussion was all around making 640 Bourke Street the best residence to live in, to be much more focused on the people in the building rather than people looking at the building," Marsland explained.&nbsp;

This shift is evident in the development’s interiors, which emphasise practical luxury with spacious layouts, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.&nbsp;

“What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Lauren Sheldon, Far East Consortium’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365687]

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang added, "We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."&nbsp;

Amenities spanning more than 3,000 sqm across multiple levels further reinforce this focus on resident experience. These include a pool, gym, co-working areas, and a range of hospitality-inspired spaces such as a whisky lounge, library, and private dining rooms, many drawing reference from traditional bathhouses and Melbourne’s laneway culture.

"We wanted to make both the pool and the gym area to be absolutely destinational, and when you traverse across to these spaces, there is a gentle familiarity to the beautiful notions of the hammams and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history," Chang noted.

At street level, the project contributes to the ongoing transformation of the western CBD, with upgrades to Langs Lane and the introduction of retail, hospitality, and gallery spaces designed to activate the precinct and strengthen its connection to the surrounding city fabric.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

The location places residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the Docklands waterfront, positioning the development within a rapidly evolving inner-city neighbourhood.

"We believe it's the best site left in the city of Melbourne," Craig Williams, Executive Director at Far East Consortium, said.&nbsp;

640 Bourke Street is Far East Consortium’s 14th building in Melbourne’s western CBD.

"A very elegant designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

One-bedroom apartments are priced from around $640,000, with 640 Bourke Street targeting completion in 2029.

Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as of May 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Joel Robinson

Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323057]

The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323055]

Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323052]

The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146358]

MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

Apartment developers in the Gold Coast are finding new, creative ways to differentiate themselves from competing projects, as new supply starts to flow through up and down the Coast.

Developer BIG Projects brought in the renowned Sydney-based design studio YSG Studio to craft the interiors for The Frederick, BIG Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG Studio's first move into the multi-residential development space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5346]

It was a strategic move for BIG Projects to bring in a Sydney eye to the development.

“Our role is to give our design partners the space and freedom to explore,” says Matt Barrett, Director of BIG Projects.

“We wanted YSG Studio to capture the essence of Nobby’s, to design a building that embraces life, light and connection, while creating a genuine sense of place.”

There are only 39 apartments in The Frederick, including a striking beach house, just 100 metres from the booming Nobby Beach precinct.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5347]

Yasmine Ghoniem, Director of YSG Studio, says their vision&nbsp;for The Frederick "reinvents coastal living."

“Nobby’s has such an iconic energy, it’s one of those rare pockets of the Gold Coast where the community, the beach, and the streets all feel connected,” Ghoniem says.

"Responding to the neighbouring coastline, soothing curves add a relaxing regional overlay, while unique detailing really sets it apart. It’s a place that feels lived in from the moment you step inside.”

A standout feature of The Frederick is its rooftop terrace, an uncommon inclusion for a boutique, low-rise building, where amenity is typically concentrated at ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5360]

Positioned to capture panoramic views from the hinterland to the ocean, the rooftop has been designed as a series of intimate zones. It includes a pool, sauna, sun decks, workspaces and dedicated entertaining areas.

“The rooftop was conceived as a collection of spaces where residents can unwind and connect, an extension of the Nobby’s lifestyle,” Barrett says.

Architecture for the project was led by Plus Studio, with landscape design by LDG Landscape Architecture.

SRQ Projects Director Nick Clydsdale, who is handling sales at The Frederick, says the majority of enquiry is coming from South East QLD and Victorian buyers who have been actively searching between Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach for some time.

"They’ve reviewed a number of projects, however this one has stood out for its unique detailing and compelling design,"&nbsp;Clydsdale says.

Site demolition is slated for this month, with construction commencing soon after. BIG Projects is targeting a late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110588]

Sydney’s YSG Studio makes Gold Coast multi-residential debut with BIG Projects at The Frederick

Melbourne-based property developer ALTA Property has this week achieved planning approval for the adaptive re-use of a former commercial tower into a $200 million, 169-apartment project at 10 Queens Road, one of the last developable sites along the Albert Park Lake-fronting boulevard.&nbsp;

Set within one of Melbourne’s most sought-after precincts and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser and Partners</a>, the illustrious building will offer unparalleled views across Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

The mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences will be complemented by a ground-floor amenity featuring private dining, a lounge bar, gym and wellness spaces, co-working, outdoor communal gardens, and retail.&nbsp;

The 17-storey building is a masterclass in adaptive re-use, with the existing commercial building’s façade, shell and internal structure to be retained, before high-end residences are built from the ground up in a newly built Albert Park facing addition to the building.&nbsp;

Sitting atop the building will be two 320+sqm penthouses with private rooftop terraces, which are expected to be priced between $9 - $11 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa11211b-5581-43f9-940c-fc84d30a0e61" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/C_04.png?VersionId=Yhf5p_1EgGDu_zOIMFgvA8Ug8j3sTFQs" />

Architecturally, the building will feature a curved, geometric façade that celebrates and elevates the existing structure, with warm, muted tones which were selected to extend the materiality of the existing building rather than contrast it.&nbsp;

Interiors will bring together three metre high ceilings with waffle concrete in some spaces, natural timber, granite and Australian materials, culminating in crafted, generous and considered spaces that are defined by authenticity.&nbsp;

The adaptive re-use means that the Queens Road project will be a sustainability led, high-quality finished product, with a 62% saving in carbon emissions by re-using the existing structure rather than knocking it down and rebuilding.&nbsp;

ALTA Property was launched by Nigel Givoni in 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in multi level residential delivery.&nbsp;

Melbourne’s property market growth is currently led by apartments. According to RPM VIC Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report (April 2026), units are outpacing houses, especially in the middle ring suburbs where median prices hit $757,500 – a four-year high that represents 2.9 percent growth quarter-on-quarter.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="647e13d7-b4bc-433a-9bc9-fe3c3dd4f2ec" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/V_06.png?VersionId=ou4NUCWUgA3NAy.6CQJlEdKX50j3dOk6" />

For ALTA Property Founder Nigel Givoni, this performance speaks to the confidence he has in the Melbourne market.&nbsp;

“Queens Road represents a rare opportunity to continue to shape our presence in the Melbourne market.,"&nbsp;Givoni says.

"With a considered project team and a premier site along one of the city’s most sought-after boulevards, we look forward to contributing to the fabric of this established address.

“Other Australian markets are getting a lot of attention, but I believe the depth of value in Melbourne is being overlooked. The fundamentals are strong, population growth is steady and, based on our preliminary conversations with a leading builder, construction costs are beginning to normalise, creating further opportunity."

Givoni says the project is a&nbsp;highly considered example of adaptive re-use, delivering quality, high-end residences, premium hotel-inspired amenities and an architecturally striking façade, all achieved without the need to remove the existing structure.

"We are really looking forward to the market’s response,” he said.&nbsp;

ALTA Property to deliver $200 million Queens Road apartment tower

Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]

The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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Expressions of interest for a development site opportunity in the heart of Brisbane’s north closed without an immediate sale.    The Kedron properties at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=K0hqbDJ2aytYTTVuOThoM2txbyttK3V3dEJhVE9BcEQ5K3JPRkFqQzNQZVBaSkxOa05aQk9jK3I1bkRoWkR4MkFXcDdqNDd3cHUrYmg4VERRelZyRS9xWHIwbElKay9MWkJoUlhvSENJSHdEdTBjcjBGUm1PaEpzSU1sR1N2R3FRZnZpNWI1WGYreWsxeExwd3I2aVgrVjZ0Z04xQkhReW5MaG1IZlFSKzhBUHhpb0ZnY0JaeU1TY0JMaDZDcjlq&amp;rh=ff0068835071c240aa7c8d491c47b4000d9b0331" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">531-537 Gympie Road,</a> 21 Kate Street and 20-26 Boothby Street came with a substantial 16,724sqm site area.
It also offers a 59m frontage to Gympie Road and a 42m entry to Boothby Street.   The property was being marketed by Ray White Commercial QLD Managing Director and Partner Michael McCullagh and Manager – Brokerage Services Andrew Doyle.   “This really is a fantastic asset that provides an irreplaceable blank canvas development opportunity with a holding income of $413,630 per annum,” Mr McCullagh said.
“Commanding a huge site area in this established and growing suburb, this site lends itself to the design and delivery of a range of development options.   “Long-standing tenants provide significant holding income, some of which have a strong trading history for decades.   The property is also in close proximity to existing retailers such as JB Hi-Fi, Pet Barn, Chemist Warehouse, Coles, Aldi and several car dealerships.   “Gympie Road is a major arterial route which connects the Brisbane CBD to the city’s northern suburbs and services over 23 million cars per annum,” Mr Doyle said.
“As of 2019, the immediate 3km catchment area surrounding the subject properties recorded an estimated resident population of 77,334 people, with an average annual growth rate of 1.92 per cent from 2016-2019.    “The broader catchment area is relatively affluent overall, with average annual income per household exceeding $114,000, or around $15,000 higher than the Queensland average.”   Expressions of interest closed on September 24. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

EOIs close on rare Gympie development site opportunity without immediate sale

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Ray White Commercial Queensland settled around $8.5 million of property deals in the Banyo and Northgate precinct alone in July, over two transactions.    The first transaction at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkcHJaYjJFQWIyQlFJdXc2UFZpK3pmOEtqYXR4VHdvRnBGYTZWM095ZFdSRjlGUnB6WGFVQ01tcm1NQlFzRmdoQ3Z6eWg3MDUwN3hGQUtKY2hKTURLc21QNDNRYnJrSFM5&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 2/71 Raubers Road</a> (above) in Northgate traded for an undisclosed amount, but industry sources revealed the price was in the mid three-million-dollar range.    The offering was a semi-modern industrial facility of 2,294sqm.
The site was purchased by a local owner occupier whose business was going exceptionally well in current market conditions.    The second transaction at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkcHJaYjJFQWIyQlFJdXc2UFZpK3pmOEtqYXR4VHdvRnBtRGdSRkZYaDErUklUM2ZkR05yOUlORW1KWHpQTEVja01hRVRESnJYNWdqWXNHdGN6eDZtVTVHYzNTZ3RNdXFn&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 6/459 Tufnell Road</a> (below) in Banyo settled for $5,300,000. 
The property was sold via a sale and lease-back process.
<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/2020/9/21/Lot%206%20459%20Tufnell%20Road%20Banyo%20-%20%2011%20v2.jpg" alt="">
Moto National Accessories committed to a five plus five-year term, at a commencing rental of $328,125. 
The price achieved equated to an initial yield of 6.19 per cent, or $2,309 per sqm on GFA.   “We’re not surprised by the interest in the Banyo and Northgate precinct. Trains, planes and automobiles drive industrial transactions, and this pocket ticks all those boxes,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Manager Andrew Doyle.   “Further to the sales we’ve settled, we’ve observed another $22,000,000 in transactions through the Northgate and Banyo precinct since COVID-19. This definitely highlights the comfort level buyers have in this area,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Manager Aaron Aleckson.   “In a market like the current one, it’s important as an agent to get a sense of what buyers want,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Director – Brokerage services Paul Anderson.
“We clearly have that read now, and we’re very pleased to be offering a new opportunity in the Banyo and Northgate precinct – which is a brand-new industrial asset leased to Domayne”.    Ray White Commercial Queensland is offering <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkQUdvcXBWT3p0aThVa3RCVWZNbUZzQ3ltb29GRnZRVGtFQzRteU5tbm01UDhoQUY1ODdIdWgrM0ZxUjUwL1N5UnpncXY1bVQ3bUxnODNaNE9rK2Z3WkkyQUZPSWJnbVZXU0dzUWdwQTlFaE09&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lots 16 and 17/62 Crockford Street</a> (above) in Northgate for sale via auction on October 16.   The property is a brand-new facility of 2,358sqm on a 4,000sqm allotment.
<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/2020/9/21/LOTS%2016%20NORTHGATE.jpg" alt="">
It has been leased to Domayne at an annual rental of $330,000 per annum net, with a primary lease term expiry of April 2027.   
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Banyo and Northgate, Queensland see $8.5 million of property deals

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A long-waited development site in the centre of Maryborough has hit the market via expressions of interest.    The substantial 6.8ha land area with dual street frontage is centrally located at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=WDlEeE43WHk4cDU3VXV3SEx6K1g3a0FGK28vMDZVUHBNTmdGelRVTnpGTkhrYzNZMlp2R3gzbm5MZW1BWXhEUmpqQlJQODk3NmE0RVBLQ1J6c2NxUThUM1BUZlV2S3lteXQ1d3ZYN0NZT3VJY2NZYklENWJuNVVmR09hR1hITmo3VVRBZDFMU0l6UCtON3VZenFBdVJmbGY2eE9aRlQxbHhuZ0Z3S0FEWjRlMmI1eVVGb1c3M1NONndFL3JqdVdq&amp;rh=ff006881b6ec913c13708079ee4bb2af5d5ee0de" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 183, Neptune Street</a>.
It benefits from being level with all essential infrastructure directly adjacent.   The property is being marketed by Ray White Special Projects Qld Directors Mark Creevey and Tony Williams, along with Ray White Maryborough Principal Guy Meredith. “The site is designated Community Facilities and Community Hub zone and the existing building is approved for a Community Care Facility,” Mr Creevey said.   “Land parcels of this size with any sort of approval already in place are highly sought-after throughout Queensland and we’re anticipating a lot of interest in this one.”   “A real gem of this site is the potential for alternate residential development (STCA) along with concept plans for major health-based mixed-use development,” Mr Williams said. The property is just 500m to Maryborough Hospital and is opposite PresCare Yaralla Aged Care Facility and is in close proximity to a vast array of facilities and amenities.”   “The parcel of land is minutes from the CBD in a well-regarded part of town and holds enormous potential for both mixed use and/or residential development (STCA),” Mr Meredith said. “Maryborough is just three hours north of Brisbane with a strong manufacturing hub and is the gateway to The Great Sandy Straits and Fraser Island.” 
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Maryborough development site hits the market 

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Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has advised Qube Holdings Limited, Australia’s largest integrated provider of import and export logistics, on the sale of its Minto industrial site to Charter Hall. 
The sale of the 30.6-hectare Minto site was first announced in July 2020 and, with approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board, settled on 15 September for around $207 million, reflecting an initial yield of 4.76 per cent. 
The site is located close to the South Sydney Freight Line, the M5, M7 and Hume Highway in NSW.
It will now form part of Charter Hall’s expanded industrial and logistics property portfolio, the $5.2 billion Prime Industrial Fund.
The site is fully leased to four automotive logistics tenants and is currently used for car import, storage and distribution, and has the potential to be developed as an intermodal rail terminal. 
Real estate partner Deanne Ogilvie acted on all aspects of the sale, including undertaking vendor due diligence, preparing and negotiating the contracts, and attending to exchange and settlement of the sale. 
“We have been acting for Qube for more than a decade and in regards to the Minto site for more than six years and are pleased to have assisted Qube on this sale.
"The site is a strategic property asset – well located, fully leased and with the potential to be developed as an intermodal rail terminal – and is a key addition to Charter Hall’s growing portfolio," Deanne said.  
In addition to the Minto site, Qube Holdings Limited is assessing funding and ownership options for one its most significant real estate sites, the Moorebank Logistics Park. 
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Minto industrial estate of Qube Holdings Limited sold for $207 million

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Premium investment properties remain highly sought after by private, high-net-worth investors, according to Colliers International.
Paul McGlynn and Harry Bui of Colliers have sold McDonald’s Bella Vista (pictured above) to a private Asian investor from Melbourne for $6.65 million on a net yield of 3.1%. 
The acquisition was for a 2,885sqm long-term ground lease. 
McDonalds Australia constructed a brand-new single level restaurant with dine-in and drive-thru take-away facility, open to the public since May 2019.
Mr McGlynn and Mr Bui will be also taking the adjoining Shell Service Centre Bella Vista (pictured below) to the market for sale by international expressions of interest.  
<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/2020/9/21/Norwest_060820_36%20Large.jpg" alt="">
Both properties are located in a gateway position at the entrance of Norwest Business Park within the north-west growth corridor in Sydney’s Hills District.  
On a 2,813sqm site, this new Shell service station with an annexed café is anticipated to receive high levels of interest from both local and international investors.
The opportunity benefits from its premium location in Norwest Business Park, long WALE profile of 10 years by income, strong annual rental escalation, and head lease to Viva Energy Australia with a fully leased net passing income of around $604,544 per annum. 
“Premium investment properties with long leases such as a freestanding petrol station leased to Viva Energy, 7-Eleven, Caltex, BP or freestanding fast food sites like McDonald’s are currently very sought-after,” said Harry Bui, National Director, Investment Services at Colliers International. 
“Private high net worth investors are the most common buyer profile within the sub-$20million investment market, while both property syndicates and consortiums showed increased interest towards premium investment assets with longer WALE’s and company leases to national blue-chip corporate tenants.” 
There have been several significant national portfolio sales for premium investments in the past year.
This includes; 33 7-Eleven petrol stations, which sold for $156 million in October 2019 and February 2020 with an average yield of 4.76% and; 25 Caltex petrol stations sold for $133 million in November 2019 with strong underlying land values for future development.  
Charter Hall also took a 49% stake in a portfolio of 225 BP petrol stations in Australia, worth $1.7 billion with a weighted average lease expiry (WALE) of 20 years which was the biggest deal of 2019. 
Paul McGlynn, National Director, Industrial at Colliers International said that the Norwest area where both properties are located will benefit from major State and Federal Government projects.
“Norwest is in the suburb of Bella Vista which is surrounded by major State and Federal Government infrastructure projects, specifically the North-West Metro which opened in May 2019, North-Connex due to open next month, the re-development of Parramatta CBD (11 kilometres South) and establishment of the new second Western Sydney Airport (43 kilometres West).”
“These infrastructure projects coupled with substantial increases in new residential dwellings and population growth locally will rejuvenate and promote Western Sydney, helping the area to become a major economic powerhouse.”
Colliers International will also be bringing a brand-new, flagship BP in Tighes Hill, Newcastle to market. 
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Two Norwest properties in Sydney indicate premium investments remain sought after

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A development site, currently occupied by the Coorparoo RSL in the affluent Brisbane suburb hits the market.   The property at 20 Harries Road commands a 2,693sq m corner site with 105m street frontage, and is opposite Coorparoo Square.
The $252 million mixed-use development has recently completed by heavyweights Fraser Property Australia and Honeycombes Property Group.   The property is being marketed for sale by Ray White Commercial Qld Director and Head of Investment Sales Tom Barr and Ray White Special Projects Qld Executive Director Matthew Fritzsche.
“The site and location offer fantastic development potential with a code accessible height up to 16 storeys, with upper levels to incorporate panoramic city views,” Mr Barr said.
<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/2020/9/21/Aerial_2.jpg" alt="">   “Potential development opportunities include vertical retirement living/aged care, residential apartments, build-to-rent, student accommodation, medical, commercial, and retail (STCA).”   “A real drawcard is the potential for a short-term leaseback from the Coorparoo RSL post settlement, which would provide some additional holding income for the purchaser (likely a developer), whilst finalising their development scheme, obtaining town planning approval, and de-risking the project.  
"This would also give the Coorparoo RSL time to acquire another property and get their new facility ready for occupation.”
<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/2020/9/21/Image_2_1.jpg" alt="">   “The upcoming Eastern Transitway will also really appeal with the project delivering targeted bus priority measures to improve safety, reliability and capacity along Old Cleveland Road, from Coorparoo to Carindale,” Mr Fritzsche said.   The popular suburb is only 3km to the Brisbane CBD and is within walking distance to public transport.
 Expressions of interest close on October 14. 
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Coorparoo development site hits the market

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A private investor has secured a prime retail investment, leased long-term to national retailer Cheap as Chips for $3.72 million on a yield of 7.4 per cent. 
Located in the heart of Colac Activity Centre at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/173-183-murray-street-colac-vic-3250-2016401443">173-183 Murray Street,</a> Cheap as Chips Colac is a well-established and proven ‘essentials’ retailer.
Its network of 42 stores nationally across SA, NSW and VIC has remained open and trading throughout Victoria’s Stage 4 restrictions.
Occupying a large site area of 2,460sqm with a gross floor area of 1,868sqm and 28 car spaces, the property offers exposure to major thoroughfare Murray Street (Princes Highway) with a street frontage of 30 metres. 
Colac, a lakefront regional centre and the largest township in the Colac-Ottway shire continues to grow in popularity with a strong population of 13,058 and an exceptional range of amenities.
The property was sold by Rick Silberman and Steven Lerche of Savills Australia who said this was the first time the property had been offered in 30 years.  
“It was previously a Coles Supermarket for many years until they outgrew the space and Cheap as Chips took over in 2017 on a new 10 year lease, plus additional options," Mr Silberman said.
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Victoria retail investment sold for $3.72 million despite stage 4 lockdown

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A 600sqm facility in Kunda Park has been leased to Gold Coast company Classic Concrete Pumping on a five-year term.
Jason O’Meara of Savills had the listing. 
The facility at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/leased/property-12-tectonic-crescent-kunda-park-qld-4556-503439554">12 Tectonic Crescent</a> includes office and warehouse and 1,500sqm hardstand security fenced yard.
Savills received solid enquiry though February and into March as there is currently a massive shortage for sheds this size with useable, secure and compacted hardstand. 
“Standalone industrial properties such as this are in demand at present and there are few of them as most buildings account for 50-55% of site coverage, so to get the extra area for hardstand and truck set down areas is challenging” Mr O’Meara said.
Classic Concrete Pumping emerged 17 years ago when company founder and Managing Director Peter Gisinger had a passionate belief that he could build a successful concrete pumping business.
<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/2020/9/21/12%20Tectonic%20Cres%20Kunda%20Park%20-%20Tony%20Douglass%20Classic%20Concrete%20Pumping%20Manager%20-%20Sunshine%20Coast%20Right%20Jason%20OMeara%20of%20Savills.jpg" alt="">
 
Four pre-loved concrete pumps, referred to more often as ‘Jurassic’ than ‘Classic’ and eight hard working crew set out to prove their worth. 
Classic Concrete Pumping have resolutely built a reputation for outstanding service and with that built a loyal customer base and grew their fleet, crew and company HQ to keep up.
“We are strongly committed to the Sunshine Coast and committed to industry-best service and customer satisfaction with 90 employees between our 3 locations on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Kunda Park depot” Peter Gisinger said.
Sunshine Coast Manager Tony Douglass said the business has a very modern fleet in total of 46 units, from line pumps, both low and high pressure, to 3 x 58m booms, and most sizes in between. 
“Our equipment is fully certified, plant registered and periodically independently inspected. These stringent measures guarantee safe, modern equipment to our job GPS tracked means we always know where your machine is”. 
"There has been good industrial leasing traction over recent months in Kunda Park with net absorption of factory/warehouse space on the incline. Industrial leasing activity through Covid to mid-year has been encouraging. 
"We have witnessed some strong lease transactions with Savills leasing 506 Maroochydore Road in Kunda Park to a Brisbane based company Oxworks Pty Ltd.
Other businesses to lease larger facilities in the immediate area recently include Sydney Tools and Express Print and Mail taking up occupancy on Maroochydore Road.
“We are aware of a number of larger tenants looking for suitable space, but with limited options to put to them, and a shortage of land generally mid coast, Savills would be keen to talk to owners with expiring leases or vacant warehouses coming up for lease” said Mr O’Meara.
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Tectonic Crescent, Kinda Park facility leased 

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
The impact of HomeBuilder is now emerging in the ABS Building Approvals Data and there is a significant divergence between the outlook for detached and multi-unit dwellings.
After a number of years of decline, building approvals in Western Australia increased by 32.9 per cent in the month of August. This is consistent with other leading indicators that show that HomeBuilder and the State Government’s Building Bonus have stimulated demand for new homes,” added Ms Lillicrap.
Western Australia also had a very short pipeline of work and these approvals will lead to the commencement of building work on the ground within weeks. This surge lifts the number of approvals to levels last experienced in 2018.
Queensland also saw a 13.4 per cent increase in detached building approvals, confirming that it is also experiencing a surge in new work entering the building pipeline, also from a low base.
Other regions are yet to see the pickup in activity due to HomeBuilder. This reflects a range of factors including, longer processing times with local councils and delays in the finalisation of building plans between the customer and builder, and a stronger pipeline of existing work.
New Home Sales data also suggests that detached house approvals will continue to grow over coming months and across all jurisdictions.
Multi-unit approvals fell by 12.9 per cent in the month to be 14.1 per cent below this time last year.
The small number of multi-unit projects that are gaining approval at this time are likely to have commenced the planning and building approval process years ago.
The multi-unit market has cooled since 2018, after several years of record levels of construction. Activity in this part of the market is likely to remain depressed until there is greater certainty about the pathway for overseas migration to be restored.
In seasonally adjusted terms, the number of detached dwelling approvals during August 2020 compared to June, increased in Western Australia (+32.9 per cent), Queensland (+13.4 per cent) and New South Wales (+0.2 per cent. They declined slightly in Victoria (-0.8 per cent) and South Australia (-0.9 per cent).
The number of multi-unit approvals increased in Western Australia (+43.9 per cent) and Victoria (+6.5 per cent). They declined in Queensland (-3.3 per cent), South Australia (-23.9 per cent) and New South Wales (-31.9 per cent).
Angela Lillicrap is an HIA Economist
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HomeBuilder's impact clearly seen across detached building approvals: HIA's Angela Lillicrap

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Boarding houses have proven to be one of the most resilient investments during COVID-19 with strong buyer demand leading to around $10 million in sales over the past three months.
Two development sites with approval for boarding houses have recently been sold in deals negotiated by Knight Frank, with a third sale of a boutique site sold for build to rent purposes.
A 975.5sq m property at 10 Naree Road in Frenchs Forest with approval for the demolition of an existing residential property and construction of a boutique 28 self-contained studio apartment ‘new generation’ boarding house was sold prior to auction for above $3 million.
The property was sold by Anthony Pirrottina, Demi Carigliano and Arland Domingo of Knight Frank after strong competition from local developers.
Another property at 88 Liverpool Road in Summer Hill, a 319.4sq m site with approval for a mixed-use development comprising one commercial tenancy and eight residential apartments totalling 465sq m, sold for $1.975 million after 111 bids at auction. The deal was negotiated by Anthony Pirrottina and Demi Carigliano of Knight Frank to a purchaser seeking to develop and retain the property as a mini ‘build to rent’ scheme.
A third DA approved boarding house development was transacted in the mid $3 million range offmarket in Ashfield to a local developer seeking to bolster their exposure to the boarding house and Inner West Sydney rental market.
Mr Pirrottina said that while the property market has been challenging in certain sectors since Coronavirus restrictions began in March, boarding houses continue to remain a strong investment class, with strong buyer interest particularly from a development perspective."
Mr Carigliano said as an investment class, boarding houses were a niche sector but buyer appetite had grown over the past three years in New South Wales, when planning laws were amended to allow for greater development of these assets.
“These assets provide buyers – who are often developers – with passive income and yields in the vicinity of 5% to 6.5% compared to a 3% to 4% yields for blocks of residential units,"  “The best performing assets are located in suburban Sydney markets, close to infrastructure including hospitals, public transport and universities. “Boarding houses can also be sold in one line as they are not strata-titled like units, which means investors can trade out of the asset faster if desired.”
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