A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’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. 
&nbsp; 
“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.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

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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Developer Stockland will soon start work on the expansion and upgrade of the Stockland Wendouree Shopping Centre in Victoria’s Ballarat. 
The project is expected to cost $37 million, Stockland said in a media release.
The redevelopment work, which starts on July 6, will see the addition of 6,700 sqm of retail floor space, with a focus on fashion, casual dining and everyday convenience. Upon completion, the centre will feature more than 100 retailers, reaffirming its position as the largest enclosed shopping destination in the area. 
Stockland Group CEO of Commercial Property, John Schroder, said the company was responding to customer feedback in undertaking the upgrade.
“Our vision is to create the best retail shopping destination in Victoria’s central west. We’re responding to our customers’ feedback to ensure Stockland Wendouree remains the retail destination of choice with a greater range of specialty fashion, retail services and a vibrant and inviting casual dining experience for our customers to enjoy,” he said.
There will be a new full-line 3,800 square metre Woolworths and an adjoining BWS liquor store. 
There will also be a laneway dining precinct to be added as part of the redevelopment. The new foodie hub will offer indoor and outdoor seating and a variety of casual dining choices including cafes and restaurants. 
<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/2017/05/23/Stockland2.jpg" alt="">
Ballarat has been identified as one of the largest and fastest growing regional cities in Victoria with its population expected to reach 139,650 by 2031.
“Ballarat is a fantastic city steeped in history, with a strong and diversified economy,” said Schroder.
Sustainability at Stockland Wendouree will also be part of its design with plans for a rooftop solar installation to reduce carbon emissions. 
The development at Stockland Wendouree will take approximately 12 months to complete. Stockland expects the project to generate approximately 500 jobs during construction and 250 local retail jobs in perpetuity.
The centre will remain operational during the redevelopment period with most retailers trading as normal. 
Woolworths will temporarily cease trading at the centre from 4 June 2017 to make way for the construction of a new revitalised Woolworths supermarket. 
 
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Stockland to start $37 million upgrade of Ballarat shopping centre

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A bluestone country hotel in NSW’s Goulburn district is set to go under the hammer on June 2 with price expectations of $700,000.
Located at <a href="https://www.eldersrealestate.com.au/residential/buy/property-other-nsw-taralga-684526" target="_blank">24 Orchard Street Taralga</a>, the country hotel was established in 1876.
The listing agent is David Medina at an Elders Real Estate auction. 
According to its description, it is an “excellent repeat business with outstanding further potential”
It sits on a 3,230 sqm site. The two-storey hotel has seven rooms that can accommodate up to 23 guests, and includes a manager’s quarters with two bedrooms.
Owners Brad and Rob Norford bought into the Taralga Hotel just 12 months ago, but ill health has prompted an unplanned early exit, said a post in Domain. 
The rooms have built-in wardrobes and is close to shops.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/23/Taralga1.png" alt="">
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Historic Goulburn district Taralga Hotel up for auction 

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A tenanted industrial site at Stapylton within the Yatala Enterprise Area (YEA) on the northern Gold Coast is set to go under the hammer through Ray White on June 15.
The property at 243 Stapylton-Jacobs Well Road comprises mainly hardstand and two large industrial units.
The YEA is already home to more than 550 small, medium and large businesses and employs more than 10,000 skilled locals, with projections estimating this impressive statistic will grow to more than 16,000 within the next two years.
The listing agent is Debbie Phillips of Ray White Industrial M1 North.
It currently has four tenants and returns gross rental income of $293,105 per annum. Three phase power, natural gas to site, as well as two envirocycle tanks are installed for some tenants.
“There is potential for total gross annual rental income of more than $385,000 per annum,” she said.
The property sits on an area of 35,200 sqm. 
The property is located within a kilometre of the M1 Motorway and is situated between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. 
“The property is zoned for ‘Future Medium Impact Industry’ under the Gold Coast City Council Planning Scheme,” she said.
 
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Industrial site in northern Gold Coast's Stapylton up for auction

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A four storey retail and commercial building with three street frontages in the Sydney northern suburb of Hornsby is on the market.
The 108 George Street property features 4,397 sqm of lettable space and has a ground floor retail showroom, three levels of commercial or office accommodation and three levels of basement parking for 86 vehicles.
Retail and office space is currently 100 percent occupied, with leases to Officeworks, the NSW State Government, United Protestant Association of NSW and Australian Unity. Midas Australia has a10 year lease on neighbouring land.
The property is represented through Matthew Dunn and Tim Grosmann of Savills and Talbot and Dominic Ong of Knight Frank.
Tyler Talbot said the site has been approved for B4 Mixed Use zoning under the Hornsby Local Environmental Plan 2013, and could lend itself to a significant mixed use development. 
“It is feasible to achieve a high quality mixed use development comprising a 12 storey mixed use tower with approximately 100 marketable apartments and 2,500 sqm commercial/retail space,” he said.
108 George Street is being sold via expressions of interest through Savills and Knight Frank, closing Thursday, 1 June.
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Hornsby retail building to hit the market

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In calendar year 2016, metro investment volumes as a proportion of total Sydney CBD and metro sales were 57 percent with $3.9 billion in transaction volumes recorded compared to the CBD’s $2.9 billion, according to Colliers International's latest Metro Office report.
"On a 10 year average, metro sales make up 37 percent of combined CBD and metro sales each year, and for 2017 year to date, metro sales volumes have already reached 43 per cent,” the report stated.
Scarcity of investment supply and strong demand drove down metro yields during 2016 Colliers says.
“We expect A Grade metro yields to compress further as offshore groups continue to seek metro office assets to deploy capital, as investment-grade stock within the CBD remains limited.
"Market fundamentals for vendors continue to strengthen, with the Sydney-wide trend of constrained supply placing upward pressure on net effective rents,” the report advised.
Suburban peripheral markets are especially impacted by residential encroachment, heightening tenant activity as displaced tenants source alternative accommodation according to Colliers.
“Furthermore, investment in infrastructure and amenity has contributed to an uplift in rent and competition for space, especially within core metro markets such as Parramatta and North Sydney.
"Average A Grade yields for Sydney Metro have tightened by 47bps over the past 12 months to average 6.79 percent in March 2017, and the secondary market has experienced a tightening of 56bps to average a current yield of 7.74 percent.
"Taking into consideration market fundamentals and rental outlook, the purchasers of secondary metro assets will most likely be opportunistic, seeking value add opportunities,” the report stated.
Further compression of metro/office property is likely, Colliers says.
“Furthermore, the spread of 5.01 percent over the risk free rate for secondary assets suggests further significant compression is likely," it advised.
Metro office assets is still appealing to investors Colliers states.
"While metro markets have enjoyed above-average yield compression over the last six months, metro office assets still present an appealing case to investors, Coliers suggested, as the yield premium to CBD assets is currently 120bps.
"The recent offering in North Sydney of 116 Miller Street and 173 Pacific Highway (opposite the future Victoria Cross metro station) and Dexus’ Phillip Street development in Parramatta (pre-committed by the Department of Education for a 12 year term) should see the yield spread between CBD and metro assets narrow,” the report advised.
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Scarce supply of Sydney investment despite strong demand driving down metro yields: Colliers

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Queensland’s economic recovery remains on track, recording its fourth consecutive quarter of growth, expanding by 0.9 percent in Q4 2016, the strongest quarterly result in more than four years, according to Cushman &amp; Wakefield's latest report. 
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"Growth in public investment and stronger household consumption underpinned the positive result, offsetting weakness in private investment.
Brisbane’s occupier market continues to be driven primarily by transport, logistics and construction industries.
Tenant demand continues to improve as tenants take advantage of competitive rents and attractive terms in the prime market," the report stated.
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Volvo has recently committed to a long-term lease, of ~10,000 sq m in the Metroplex Westgate industrial park, for their Australian head office and service centre.
Rental values have remained mostly stable over the last six months, with North and Trade Coast at a premium to other markets in Brisbane.
Prime net face rent in these areas are generally $10-$20 more per sq m for assets &lt;4,000 sq m.
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"Infrastructure projects, such as Transurban’s Logan Enhancement Project, are likely to result in increased tenant demand in the South and West markets, potentially leading to greater upward pressure on rents than seen recently.
"Investment volume totalled $88m in Q1 2017, down from $173m in Q4 2016.
"The South led again in terms of total investment volume, underpinned largely by Deutsche Asset Management’s acquisition of 60-80 Southlink Avenue, Parkinson for approximately $37m," the report said.
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"As a result of ongoing investment, prime yields in the South have compressed a further 25 bps over the past six months.
Occupier and investor demand is expected to strengthen in line with Queensland economic and industrial production growth," the report predicts.
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"While we expect investor demand to remain robust, more restrictive financing terms may see potential owner-occupier refocus on leasing assets rather than acquiring them.
This should provide further support for increased leasing activity going forward," the report advised.
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Private investment in Brisbane's industrial market weakens

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A retail investment in South Yarra with a long-term tenant has sold for $843,000 to a local first-time commercial investor.
The 64 square metre building at 5/159A Williams Road was sold on a yield of 4.7 percent.
Ray White Commercial Oakleigh’s George Kelepouris sold the property on behalf of a local owner.
“The tenant initially took out a three-year lease in November, 2014, and has a further 2 x 3 year options,” he said.
“This property is an outstanding Hawksburn Village location and is returning net rental of almost $40,000 per annum.
“It was ideal for a self-managed super fund or as a passive investment.”
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Retail property in Hawksburn Village, South Yarra sold

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Retail investment for Q1 2017 totalled $1.1bn, up 23 percent on the same period last year according to Cushman &amp; Wakefiled's Retail Investment Snapshot for the quarter.
According to the report Queensland accounted for 43 percent ($457m) of the national investment volume. 
"In contrast, New South Wales and Victoria recorded $262m and $221m, both below respective longer- run averages, as limited available stock was on the market," the report said.
"Foreign investment rebounded strongly in Q1 2017 to $533m, up from $297m in Q4 2016.
"Foreign investors were active across different centre types and sizes. This was highlighted by German- based Deka Immobilien’s purchase of the Canberra Outlet Centre for $135.5m, with a further $160m committed to a Redbank Plains sub regional centre by Rockworth Capital Partners, and $87m into two neighbourhood centres.
"With a lack of activity in larger core retail assets, where yields are tighter, average transaction yields remained stable for the quarter at 6.3 percent.
"Many of the trends evident in 2016, such as retail property’s relative value proposition and competition to secure assets, remain in place into 2017.
"However, we expect more stock to come to market as established owners sell non-core assets to recycle capital into existing assets. Equally, active traders are likely to dispose of assets to seek new opportunities.
"Not only will this bring increased liquidity, and support overall transaction volumes, but also provide opportunities for new market entrants all along the risk curve. 
"In December 2016, Moving Annual Turnover (MAT) grew 3.4 percent, though continued the downward trend from a peak of 5.7 percent in late 2014.
"Retail turnover growth has been limited by weak employment and income growth though consumer sentiment has bounced back to 99.6 reflecting a more positive attitude towards national economic growth."
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Retail investment for Q1 2017 totals $1.1b: Cushman & Wakefield

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The outlook for retail markets in Brisbane continues to be generally positive, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that however there is now an increasing perception that yields may finally have reached a low point.
“To put the story of recent years into perspective, we have seen retail yields generally move by between 150 and 200 basis points, which based on a starting yield of say 8 percent, translates to capital growth of upwards of 25 percent over a three year period.
 In some instances, capital growth has been upward of 35 percent,” the report stated.
Sales activity has been moderate for the quarter.
Major transactions include Arana Hills Kmart at $67 million, Everton Plaza at $27.5 million and Caboolture Square at $27.5 million.
These showed yields of between 6 percent and 7.25 percent.
At the convenience end of the spectrum there has been less activity with only two centres selling under $10 million.
Both of these were in the North Lakes region and showed yields of between 6.5 percent and 7 percent, the report stated.
Overall, the volume of sales activity has generally been low, primarily as a result of a shortage of stock and lack of other strong yielding investment options.
“With the perception however that yields will be bottoming out, we anticipate a rise in investment sales activity, particularly if interest rates start to rise and there is any suggestion of capital values starting to fall,” the report predicted.
Retail rentals continue to be reasonably restrained with ongoing difficult trading conditions in many sectors putting the brakes on rental growth.
The weakness is evident across the board as high levels of competition, flat wages, internet retailing and changing consumer shopping patterns all contribute to a very tough retail environment.
Good buying opportunities in the market are limited at present as all reasonable assets are heavily scrutinised by a wide number of investors.
There is potentially some more opportunity to value add with secondary centres but even these are holding their value fairly well making owners reluctant to sell.
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Brisbane's retail market outlook remains positive: HTW

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The retail segment in Darwin in 2017 will experience its greatest shake up for many years when not one but two new regional shopping centres will open their doors for business, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that Gateway is located on the highway on the fringe of Palmerston CBD, 18 kilometres south-east of Darwin.
This is a joint venture project between the Coombes Property Group (with local connections) and Challenger, being constructed by Hutchinsons.
It will offer a Woolworths, Big W, cinema complex and over 100 specialties and is expected to open mid-year.
Also expected to open mid-year is Coolalinga Village, located in the Darwin rural area 25 kilometres south-east of Darwin on the opposite side of the track from a large Woolworths-based complex.
Coolalinga Village is being developed by Gwelo, a long-standing Darwin developer and will be anchored by Coles and K-Mart.
There is already a fast food outlet and a service station on the site, but the main development will accommodate additional specialties with further stages already planned.
“We will therefore move from a situation where Darwin’s main growth corridor to the south-east has been under serviced by retail for many years to a situation where Palmerston and rural area residents will be spoilt for choice.
Not only will these two major centres be an option, but also new smaller centres at Bakewell, Rosebery, Bellamack and Zuccoli which are already trading or, in the case of Zuccoli, will be trading soon.
When you add to this the existing Palmerston Shopping Centre and Oasis Shopping Centre, the options are quite wide,” the report stated.
The effects on the rental market for retail space remain to be seen but the increased competitive tension between all these centres does result in some choices for tenants which have not always been available in the past.
"This may place some downward pressure on rents however if each centre can attract sufficient patronage this may not be the case," the report warned.
Certainly there will be some effect on Casuarina, which is currently Darwin’s dominant retail precinct.
"Casuarina is disadvantaged by its location in the northern suburbs which is close to the hospital and university but somewhat removed from the south-east urban growth corridor.
Casuarina is already re-inventing itself as a destination rather than just a mall retailer, with a new restaurant and entertainment precinct," the report advised.
At present, anecdotal evidence is pointing to population decline across Darwin and unless a major employment driver emerges soon, then this population decline will inevitably result in reduced trading for all retailers and difficulties for each centre attracting sufficient patronage.
“We are seeing weakness across all property segments in Darwin at the moment and the challenge will be to ensure sufficient population growth to ensure the viability of all these new outlets as well as existing facilities,” the report stated.
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