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

<html><body>
Retail tenants seeking to capitalise on the potential of Coorparoo Square, Brisbane have committed to 80% of the total available lease area in the mixed-use precinct.
The development, due for completion in the third quarter of 2017, has secured 13 tenants, including cinema group Dendy and supermarket giant ALDI.
The leasing campaign has also attracted a range of innovative food outlets, including two burger retailers, Remy’s and Hello Harry, Mexican specialist Poblano, Saffron Indian, Mission Vietnamese and Kivahan bakery, as well as hairdresser TigerLamb and barber Chop Spot.
Coorparoo Square, a joint-venture project between Frasers Property Australia and Honeycombes Property Group, will deliver a major mixed-use precinct to the heart of Coorparoo, just 4.5 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD.
Coorparoo Square has been developed in line with the Brisbane City Council’s Eastern Corridor Neighbourhood Plan which showcases the principles of high quality urban design with a focus on transit-oriented communities catering to residents and workers. The precinct is a major transit hub within the city’s bus network.
The $252 million development, which comprises 366 residential apartments and 6,700 square metres of retail space is appealing to a broad suite of tenants.
Cameron Taudevin, head of retail leasing Queensland at JLL, said leasing enquiry has been strong for Coorparoo Square, complementing a near sellout of residential apartments in the development. He said Dendy and ALDI have been significant drawcards that have led to strong interest from national and local business operators.
“Coorparoo Square offers a great inner Brisbane location and the retail precinct benefits from the many apartments within the development,” said Taudevin.
“A number of prospective tenants who enquired as early as 2015 have secured leases in Coorparoo Square with the aim to open upon completion of construction in the third quarter of 2017.
Coorparoo Square has 12 tenancies remaining for lease, ranging in size from 53 square metres to 87 square metres at street level, and 200 square metres for a lower ground level tenancy.
“Our current focus is on groups with particular uses that suit the retail amenity, such as an artisan baker, beauty therapist, optometrist and complementary medical uses.”
Retail leasing enquiries at Coorparoo Square are being handled Cameron Taudevin and JLL Leasing Executive Taylor Macri.
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

New Coorparoo Square precinct signs up ALDI among retail tenants

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVER
The tailwind is here. Higher commodity prices are boosting national incomes and the numbers are large.
Export values rose by a strong 32% year-on-year in December which drove the largest trade surplus on record. This is driving a strong rise in mining profits and tax revenues. The debate is about whether the lift in mining profits and taxes will boost wages growth, household spending and domestic inflation, as it has done in the past.
Will households feel the tailwind too? Some observers argue that without another mining investment boom or the government delivering personal tax cuts, both of which, we agree, seem unlikely, a rise in domestic wages and inflation will not happen. In our view, scale is important here. Although we agree that the income effect on households is likely to be less potent than in the past, some of the effect should still get through. Plus, this boost is in addition to the services sector growth story which is still humming along. We think this will keep the RBA from cutting further and expect that these same forces could mean rate hikes in 2018.
As we have been pointing out for some time now, we see the recent lift in commodity prices as having changed the economic story for Australia. For the past five years, Australia has sought to pull off a 'great rebalancing act' and this year with think that the rebalancing act is almost done. This is largely because the significant headwind that Australia has faced over the past five years, as a result of falling commodity prices and mining investment, is now becoming a noticeable tailwind. The resources sector is set to become a contributor, rather than a drag, on growth.
The past couple of weeks have revealed more evidence that the boost to incomes from higher commodity prices has already arrived. Export values rose by a strong 32% year-on-year in December, supported by a 127% rise in the value of coal exports. This drove a significant swing in the trade balance, from a deficit in October to the largest trade surplus in the history of the available numbers (since 1971) in December. Although we do not yet have the Q4 GDP figures, as chart 1 below shows, there is a strong positive correlation between commodity prices and Australia's nominal GDP growth. As a result, the RBA has been confident enough to recently state that higher commodity prices 'are providing a boost to Australia's national income'.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/09/blo%20one.gif" alt="">
As the income has already arrived, the question is not whether there will be a pick-up in incomes, but whether it will flow through to the household sector, to wages and domestic inflation, as it has done in the past? On this, some observers argue that without another mining investment boom or boost to household incomes from personal tax cuts, both of which seem unlikely, a rise in domestic wages and inflation is unlikely.
We agree with some of these arguments, but think it is mostly a question of scale.
First, we agree that the pick-up in commodity prices is unlikely to stoke a substantial upswing in mining investment anytime soon. But we are not as convinced that this means you will not see any flow through to households. Keep in mind that mining investment is already set to stop falling from around mid-2017, as the resources sector shifts from new construction to maintenance and repair, which is now a larger spend than it has been in the past. Mining employment has also already started to stabilise and the timely mining sector job vacancy indicators are lifting. Spending on mineral exploration has also levelled out recently, after years of decline. Given the considerable recent boost to mining profits it seems unlikely, in our view, that mining sector wages growth will continue to fall as much it has in recent years.
Second, we agree that the federal government is unlikely to deliver income tax cuts, as it did between 2003 and 2007 when the commodity price super-cycle was first in its upswing. However, the corporate tax take will be boosted, which should take some pressure off the Federal budget. Some of this is likely to show up in the public sector wage bill. State royalties will also be boosted in Western Australia and Queensland and we expect some of this to trickle into state spending and public sector wages.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/09/blo%20two.gif" alt="">
Overall, our strongest argument is that the significant scale of the ramp up in commodity prices, exports and nominal incomes means that at least some of the pick-up is likely to get through to the household sector, wages growth and domestic inflation. Just a levelling out of mining sector activity and incomes, after five years of decline should be expected to help see wages and domestic inflation stabilise. What we have seen is much more than this, with national income significantly boosted (again, see chart 1). Add to this that the non-mining economy has already been growing solidly, supported by low interest rates, the lower AUD and rising demand for services from Asia's growing middle classes.
Finally, it is worth keeping in mind that recent history supports the view that a lift in commodity prices should drive a pick-up in wages growth and inflation. As chart 2 shows, there is strong positive historical correlation between the terms of trade (think commodity prices) and unit labour costs (think wages). Given the scale of the ramp up in the terms of trade it would be surprising if unit labour costs did not lift at all. In turn, rising unit labour costs should be enough to support a modest lift in domestic inflation. In our view, the RBA only needs to be convinced that underlying inflation is past its trough to keep them from cutting. With this, we expect the RBA to be on hold through 2017 and to lift its cash rate in 2018.
Paul Bloxham is chief economist, Australia, New Zealand of HSBC.
</body></html>

Will households feel the tailwind of rising commodity prices?: Paul Bloxham

<html><body>
The Repco and Cash Converters retail outlets in Ipswich's Goodna has been sold for $4.15 million to a Melbourne investor.
The property, 179 Brisbane Road is fully tenanted on five year terms. It last sold in 2006 at $3.1 million.
It was put up for sale by its New Zealand based vendor in March last year.
Richard Blanch of Colliers International said there were a number of challenges with attracting offers of an acceptable level for the vendor, particularly the stigma around the 2011 flood.
“Everyone is acutely aware of the effect the flood had on Goodna, but what a cursory glance doesn’t show is the faith both tenants have in the location," he said.
“The Goodna store is one of Cash Converters’ strongest performers and both tenants re-signed long term leases post the flood.
“Few sites in Goodna offer the same sort of branding exposure to the Ipswich Motorway. This along with the tenants’ faith in the catchment, it gave the purchaser comfort to transact."
</body></html>

Retail centre in Goodna sold to Melbourne investor

<html><body>
The Junction Club in Moonee Ponds has been sold to the Moonee Valley Racing Club for more than $3 million.
The newly-redevelopment hotel features 80 gaming machines, sports bar, TAB facility, bistro and is near the Puckle Street retail strip.
The Victorian Harness Racing Club will continue to operate from their Melton headquarters.
CBRE’s Scott Callow and Will Connolly negotiated the sale. 
Mr Callow said several high profile clubs competed for the acquisition of the business, which is a rare offering in the current market.
 
</body></html>

Moonee Ponds Junction Club sold

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Stockland has listed a 22,800sqm retail development site in its residential community south of Brisbane, Pallara.
It is part of the Lower Oxley Creek growth area and adjoins the established residential suburbs of Algester, Forest Lake, Heathwood and Acacia Ridge.
Potential developments include a supermarket, child care facility, medical centre, petrol station and fast food outlet. 
The site, on Gooderham Road, has three street frontages and is being marketed for sale by Michael Harcourt and Peter Tyson of Savills.
The residential development features 720 homes slated for the next 5 years as well as an industrial precinct.
Michael Harcourt of Savills Retail Investments said, the site presents a substantial retail land offering at the entrance to the Pallara community, which will be home to many young families.
“We are anticipating strong demand from developers for this high profile site due to its prime location along Gooderham Road, which connects the established suburbs of Heathwood, Willawong and Acacia Ridge, as well as the continued growth in surrounding areas such as Heathwood and Doolandella.”
The property will be offered for sale via Expressions of Interest, closing in March 2017. 
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Stockland lists retail development site in Brisbane's Pallara

<html><body>
Cbus Property will build a W Hotel in Melbourne as part of its $1 billion mixed-use precinct Collins Arch.
The hotel will be completed in 2020. W Melbourne will feature 294 rooms across 15 levels, 40 suites and cocktail bar, restaurant, day spa, pool, gym, conferencing and ballroom facilities.
Melbourne interior design practice Hachem are deisging the hotel’s interiors.
Architects Woods Bagot and New York practice SHoP architects, will also design a sky bridge that links the dual towers.
W Melbourne, Collins Arch will be in the eastern tower of the dual tower project, which will also feature WELL-rated commercial office space, retail, hospitality and luxury residential apartments.
Sean Hunt, area vice president Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Marriott International said the hotel would shake up Melbourne with its bold design, signature amenities and full calendar of events showcasing what’s new and next in fashion, music and design.
"W Melbourne will offer the brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service philosophy and vibrant programming to guests, which fits seamlessly with Melbourne’s offering as an international food, culture and lifestyle destination," he said.
The deal, brokered by Michael Simpson, managing director of Savills Australia and New Zealand, involved the sale of the hotel component of Collins Arch to Daisho Development Melbourne.
”This is a globally significant deal, bringing a world-class hotel brand to Melbourne’s most ambitious architectural project, set to be a world class destination for Melbourne visitors and locals alike,” he said.
Three global law firms King &amp; Wood Mallesons, HWL Ebsworth and Gadens already confirmed as tenants in the office development.
</body></html>

Collins Arch to feature Melbourne’s first W Hotel

<html><body>
A five star boutique hotel complete with its own private aircraft hangar in the western NSW town of Mudgee is on the market through Savills.
The Hangar House hotel, run by Alexey Suarez Gonzalez, is next to the Mudgee airport,
It has a total lettable area of 1102 square metres.
It features six rooms, lounge, dining and kitchen areas, a manager’s residence, a <a href="https://hangarhouse.com.au" target="_blank">private hangar</a> and on-site parking on a 1881 square metre allotment.
Mudgee runway can be used at a cost.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/08/hangar1.jpg" alt="">
Nic Simarro, Savills Senior Hotels executive said the property offered strong cash flow with the potential to continue trading as a flight school or as a prestigious home with a private hangar. 
"This is a one of a kind property which seldom comes to market and for that reason we are expecting a strong response from the market and especially from high net worth national and international investors," he said.
"It will suit buyers looking to retain the current use and or those looking for a high end Australian base with access to airport facilities."
Vendor Observe Air Pty Ltd, has not given a price indication.   
International Expressions of Interest close March 17 at 3pm
</body></html>

Mudgee hotel has its own hangar

<html><body>
Yields on industrial property in Sydney have fallen to record low levels, even lower than pre-GFC boom levels, according to new analysis by BIS Shrapnel.
The contraction in yields has been so extensive in Sydney that it has delivered the highest investment returns of any major non-residential property market since the GFC, with the exception of large format retailing. The performance was even more remarkable given that rental growth has been weak, says BIS Shrapnel.
It has been underpinned by falls in long interest rates, which in turn created the competition for property, and industrial property in particular. Average prime capital values in Sydney’s Outer Western region have risen by nearly 50% since 2009. 
At December, prime yields in the Outer Western region averaged 6.4%, 40 basis points below their pre-GFC financial engineering-induced boom in 2007 and a massive 230 basis points below GFC levels. 
Properties with 12+ years of WALE (Weighted Average Lease Expiry) are being negotiated in the mid 5% range, previously the domain of Australia’s major CBD office markets at their cyclical peaks.
WALE is a way of measuring the average time period in which all leases for a property will expire.
However, signs are emerging of potential change. 
A new study by industry specialists BIS Shrapnel concludes that industrial markets across Australia and, indeed, around the world are facing the prospect of a major disruption as a result of rising interest rates. 
“For the past two years we have been saying that long interest rates are unsustainably low in the longer term. They would eventually have to rise. The question is not if, but when and by how much”, the study’s author, Christian Schilling, says.
“Last November, we witnessed a step-up in bond rates following the US election and investor expectations have started to change.”
“We think there is more to come. Our forecasts are for a 150 to 170 basis point rise in the Australian government 10 year bond rate, most likely late this decade/early next decade.” 
“However, we may see long interest rates more quickly and by more than previously thought.” 
While the timing and magnitude of future rises are not set in stone, they will affect many parts of the industrial market. 
“Industrial property yields and bond rates are highly correlated: it’s not a 1:1 relationship, but when bond rates rise, yields soften and vice versa”, says Schilling. “Rising bond rates translates to lower valuations and investment returns.” 
It means that actual investment returns will be lower than what the market expects. “Investors buying now may struggle to achieve their hurdle rates of return over the next five years”, Schilling says. 
But softer yields also affect construction. Lower end values mean developments will no longer stack up at prevailing rents and costs. 
“Developers will have to pass on the increase in costs in the form of higher rents and/or lower incentives. Depending on how quickly the market adapts, we could see a significant pause in construction. In that case, higher rents will come about via falling vacancies.”
Regardless, rising bond rates will cause a major phase of transition in the industrial market. 
“It’s clear that the honeymoon period with double-digit investment returns from industrial property is coming to an end. The next few years will pose a challenge for everyone in the market.”
</body></html>

Has the honeymoon for industrial property in Sydney ended?

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVER
Owners and tenants are constantly seeking new ways to drive efficiencies and cost savings to future proof these parks and facilities. 
In 2016, Frasers Property Australia completed its first 6 Star Green Star business park facilities in Rhodes Corporate Park (NSW), Horsley Drive Business Park (NSW), Ceva Campus in Truganina (VIC) and Yatala Central Industrial Estate (QLD). These projects demonstrate an unparalleled commitment to environmental and financial outcomes utilising cutting-edge sustainability initiatives.
Adopting the Green Building Council of Australia ratings
The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) is an independent, voluntary sustainability rating system for Australian buildings. Its Green Star rating is Australia's highly respected standard of quality for the design, construction and operation of sustainable buildings, fit outs and communities. Frasers Property has chosen this rating system to monitor its sustainability performance for its facilities as a direct result of the GBCA’s credibility within the property industry.
Further justification is the important role independent certification plays in the validation of sustainability outcomes. There is considerable dialogue about sustainability generally, however this is often not supported by credible third party validation. Green Star is Australia’s leading holistic rating tool for the property industry. 
Improving sustainability ratings
The focus for Frasers Property is to deliver direct and tangible benefits to customers by reducing total occupancy costs and operating expenses, whilst also improving the health and wellbeing of employees. From a business perspective, the ongoing pursuit of improvement in sustainability ratings for facilities demonstrates a commitment to market leadership.
This approach is critical to future proofing facilities so they continue to deliver value and remain competitive. Everyone now lives and operates in a carbon constrained economy and buildings are a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing each building’s carbon footprint assists not just in alleviating further stress on the environment but also to improve the financial bottom line. 
Why is a 6 Green Star rating important? 
In 2015 Frasers Property committed to achieving a 5 Star rating for all of its facilities which has delivered considerable operational savings and health benefits for customers. However, there was a strong aspiration in the business to do more by pushing the boundaries of what a truly sustainable industrial development could be. 
Since the introduction of the Green Star approach, customers have firmly embraced the concept. This approach has also helped Frasers Property further align its values with its customers, with the shared commitment resulting in an even stronger bond between both. Further, the introduction of 6 Star was not only a considerable benefit to the environment but also provided enhanced financial benefits to customers as a direct result of reduced operating costs.
Frasers Property’s approach to improving the sustainability of facilities is driven by a desire to lower ongoing operating costs. Most new institutional grade business park facilities across Australia are rated 4 Star, however very little thought is given to customer benefits.  
A standard 15,000 – 20,000 sqm 4 Star rated facility is expected to deliver annual average savings between $1.50 – $1.75 p/sqm when compared with a standard Building Council of Australia compliant building. By investing in targeted initiatives and technology to achieve a 6 Star rating, these savings could be increased by approximately 165 per cent over a 10 year term. This rating can also deliver a cash flow positive result for the occupant from year one. Frasers Property works with customers in a variety of facilities from ambient warehouses and refrigerated cold stores to automated storage and retrieval systems to find a solution that best suits their long-term needs. 
Drivers sustaining 6 Star excellence
Frasers Property’s unrelenting focus is to be progressive and innovative to benefit both its customers and the communities in which it develops. In the pursuit of industry leading outcomes the intention is to initially educate the industry as to what is possible, and to then be the driver of that change.Beyond the choice it offers customers, this approach allows Frasers Property to benchmark not only what can be achieved but also how to improve. Green Star certification demonstrates that well designed assets can result in lower operating margins and provide future proofing against changes from a regulatory or utility cost perspective. 
In 2016 Frasers Property delivered approximately 280,000 sqm of industrial facilities across Australia. Forty three per cent achieved a 5 Star Green Star rating which recognises Australian Excellence in sustainable design, while the 57 per cent balance achieved 6 Star Green Star ratings. Significantly, this rating acknowledges World Leadership in sustainable design. 
Significant 6 Star benefits and features
The most significant benefits are the energy and water cost savings. Over the years, it has become clear that the way to ensure the longevity of facilities is to structure the outcome to benefit the consumer. The increased productivity of staff working in a space that promotes good design and environmental attributes is also a significant tangible benefit.  
The features of 6 Star facilities are many and varied. A representative selection includes:
•Solar panels as an energysource.
•Rainwater tanks for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation.
•Electric vehicle car charging points.
•Geothermal energy for heating and cooling the office.
•High efficiency LED high bay lighting with sensor technology to improve light quality, control and efficiency.
•Advanced lighting controls that use motion sensors and daylight harvesting.
•Lower toxicity materials and finishes.
•Increased fresh air flow at 50 per cent more than required by the Australian Standard.
•Glare control through blinds and shading devices.
Overall customers benefit by using considerably less energy. The remaining energy required can be purchased as 100 per cent green power.
Green Stars have a bright future
Each year the property industry continues to be one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in Australia. Industry bodies like the Green Building Council of Australia play a crucial role in rating the country’s sustainable buildings. Influential property developers seek to create a legacy in the communities in which they develop. They have a responsibility to seek ways to reduce their carbon footprint, reduce the overall impact of buildings and to improve the health and wellbeing of those who use them. In the pursuit of excellence, intelligent thinking is required.
REINI OTTER is executive general manager at C&amp;I Frasers Property Australia and can be contacted <a href="https://www.frasersproperty.com.au/">here</a>.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Six Star Green Star business parks are the future 

<html><body>
An award-winning restaurant/function centre set on more than 6.88 ha in Olinda, Victoria has sold for $2.5 million through Ray White after a price reduction.
Olinda Tea House, Wedding, Conference Centre and Flower Farm at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-vic-olinda-502134650" target="_blank">86 Olinda Monbulk Road, Olinda, Vic 3788</a> is one of the most iconic venues across the Dandenong Ranges, according to the property’s description.
The property's features include a restaurant/function centre with clear-span dining area, commercial kitchen, guest/staff amenities and office facilities.
Designed by Smith + Tracey Architects this eco-friendly and award winning building is oriented to maximize north solar access and views down the valley. Solar panels run along the rooftop for energy efficiency.
Other features include a four-bedroom residence with its own private driveway and gardens. Around an hour's drive from the CBD in one of Victoria's premier tourist precincts.
The flower farm is leased. 
The property was listed in September 2015 for $3.6 million and spent 523 days on the market, according to RP Data.
<div title="Paul Waterhouse">The selling agents were Paul Waterhouse and Stefanie Taylor.</div>
 
</body></html>

Latest Investing Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Investing Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News