Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

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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The commercial offering at 10 Bridge Road, Glebe fetched $3.78 million when auctioned this week by AuctionWORKS.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-glebe-501320519" target="_blank">It was offered</a> by Gerard Cole Property Consultants agent Michael Culibrk.
The land size was around 360 square metres with open plan showroom, spacious warehouse with roller door access and executive offices.
It was sold by a Victorian investor as a possible building block.
The tenant is Ruby Star which is set to relocate.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Glebe showroom sells for $3.78 million

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The industrial leasing market in Melbourne is showing green shoots of a recovery, according to Savills Australia’s Melbourne Industrial Spotlight Quarter 3/2014.
An extra 150,000 square metres were reported as leased over the past 12 months compared to the previous corresponding period.
The report recorded 681,520 square metres of industrial space leased over the past 12 months, with a total of 90 deals, in the year to September 2014.
The 12 months previous came in at 524,606 square metres with 60 deals.
The decade average is 594,221 square metres per annum.
<img src="/images/2014/10/29/sav%20oct%2029%20one.jpg" alt="">
Savills’ Victorian head of research, and author of the report, Glenn Lampard, said that it is not a definitive recovery quite yet, but that they are indicators of a possible market upswing.
“One swallow does not a summer make and neither does two, but leasing and land sales are the best indicators we have of a recovery. These figures are not one month, or one quarter but 12 months and more. While it’s certainly not definitive the figures are nonetheless very encouraging and at the very least suggest a new confidence in the market,’’ Lampard said.
Melbourne’s north-west industrial precinct was the recipient of the majority of leasing activity, responsible for 64% of the result, while the south-east took 35% of the total.
City fringe areas were responsible for less than 1% of the result.
This has Savills Victorian industrial director Greg Jensz note that there has been an upswing of the last 12 months.
“In the previous 12 months (2012/2013) there had been fairly good enquiry but that had not resulted in more than a modest outcome. This year we are seeing those enquiries taken that step further and the results are there including a substantial rise in pre-commitment deals and that’s a very good indicator of confidence returning to the market,” he said.
“On the basis of current enquiry we expect to see the current leasing trend continue throughout the remainder of 2014 as firms gear up for the new year.”
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Melbourne’s industrial market showing green shoots, but yet to spring into recovery: Savills

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The former premises of one of Melbourne’s best known outdoor clothing and camping equipment suppliers, Sam Bear’s, is up for lease for the first time in 80 years.
The 225-229 Russell Street, Melbourne CBD premises has been a popular destination for bargain hunters seeking clothing, work wear and outdoor gear.
The business was so popular it ranked No.40 on TripAdvisor among 60 attractions in Melbourne.
According to Savills Australia’s Victorian retail director, Michael Di Carlo, the business closed 18 months ago.
<img src="/images/2014/10/29/1.jpg" alt="">
 
<img src="/images/2014/10/29/2.jpg" alt="">
The shop has since been subdivided to provide two 93 square metre, fully renovated, tenancies ready for a new retail life.
"This store became a Melbourne icon based on its retail offering and the family nature of the business which endeared itself to customers over several generations. 
"What the store also had was a great location and one which has benefitted more recently from relatively new developments nearby.
"Its position near Chinatown, QV and Lonsdale Street attracts strong pedestrian traffic to the many food and beverage operators in the area and that is where we expect most enquiry to come from, while convenience and general retail will also find this location attractive,’’ Di Carlo said.
He said rents were expected to be circa $200,000 per annum.
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Savills seek tenants for former Sam Bear's Russell Street premises

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St Kilda's iconic Prince of Wales Hotel has been listed for sale.
<a href="https://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-vic-st+kilda-501285447" target="_blank">It has been listed</a> by the syndicate headed by the van Haandel family, who revitalised the formerly decrepit Prince of Wales Hotel.
John van Haandel, with his brother, Frank, paid $4.3 million in 1995 for the freehold property before Frank later exited his stake.
The classic corner pub comes with frontages to Fitzroy and Acland streets.
It is a four level freehold building providing 5,802 square metres space, along with a multi-storey car park.
There are leases to seven retailers and venue operators. The net income is $2.3 million.
The agents suggest there is immediate development potential with approved plans and permits for four additional levels of residential accommodation with plans done by architects Woods Marsh.
The sale of the freehold could fetch well over $25 million, according to industry sources cited by The Australian.
The site boasts a permit for a 32-storey apartment development on the adjacent carpark. There is also scope to refurbish and extend the heritage-listed venue to encompass more retail, hospitality and residential development. 
The sale is being handled by CBRE agents Mark Wizel, Justin Dowers and Scott Callow with offers due 26 November.
The site, with its various businesses, including Circa restaurant, has been leased to Melbourne Pub Group (MPG) since 2011. Prince Bandroom is one of Melbourne's most prominent live venues, previously hosting acts such as Lenny Kravitz, Jack Johnson, Scissor Sisters, Pink and Coldplay.
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The Prince of Wales, St Kilda listed by van Haandel syndicate

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The 249 King Street, Newtown retail premises sold at mid-week auction for $4,125,000.
It last sold in 2007 at $2.1 million.
It was sold by <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-newtown-501314587" target="_blank">Laing &amp; Simmons Commercial a</a><a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-newtown-501314587" target="_blank">gent </a><a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-newtown-501314587" target="_blank">Tony Anderson and Lindsay Sturrock</a>.
There was a $2.7 million opening bid with auctionWORKS' David Scholes. 
The fully renovated, two level building is located in the heart of King Street, Newtown.
Pentimento, the specialist book and gift shop, is one its two established tenants with long-term leases.
The net income is $204,741.83 per annum, plus GST.
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Newtown, Sydney retail store sells for $4,125,000

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There was a $1.8 million opening bid when the terrace at 116 Crown Street, Darlinghurst went to mid-week auction.
Laing &amp; Simmons Potts Point agent Nuri Shik had the corner offering, listed for the first time in half a century.
It fetched $2,575,000 when knocked down by <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-darlinghurst-118054451" target="_blank">auctionWORKS auctioneer David Scholes</a>.
It was extensively renovation in 2004.
It came with three suites - 90 square metres, 145 square metres and 101 square metres, all with private entries.
The commercial suite is leased for $601 per week, expiring in January 2015.
 
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Crown Street, Darlinghurst terrace sells for $2,575,000 under the hammer

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The Adelaide CBD office vacancy rate will hit 15% next year with prices and and effective rents in decline until the end of the decade, according to research firm BIS Shrapnel.
The oversupply of office space meant Adelaide office buildings are overvalued, said BIS Shrapnel in its Adelaide Commercial Property 2014 to 2024 report.
“Prospective internal rates of return over a five-year investment horizon are less than 3%.
“Against this backdrop, the current weight of investment funds pushing down yields doesn’t make sense,” the report author Maria Lee said.
The most recent sale by German fund SachsenFonds sale of Adelaide office complex to the Lend Lease-managed Australian Prime Property Fund’s for $175 million last month, came despite the negative forecast backdrop, the Australian Financial Review reported
It also noted 100 Waymouth Street was fully leased, 108 North Terrace (75% leased) and 169 Pirie Street (60% leased) with 70 Franklin Street which was speculatively built by the Kyren Group being 75% committed.
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Falling yields in Adelaide office market "doesn't make sense": BIS Shrapnel

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The Bourbon and the adjoining former Sydney Swans Club in Kings Cross have been listed by C.inc Hotels' managing director, Christopher Cheung.
Cheung told the SMH the new lockout laws in the inner city had influenced his decision to sell and focus on his other assets, including the Coogee Bay Hotel and Cruise Bar, Circular Quay.
No price has been disclosed but more than $30 million is tipped through JLL hotels national director John Musca.
Cheung bought the Potts Point properties that sit on 6,300 square metres from the former ING Real Estate Entertainment Fund in 2010, after a hailstorm caused the roof of the Swans club to collapse. 
Cheung spent about $10 million upgrading the landmark Bourbon hotel, which boasts 30 gaming machines and hotel licence with a separate $4 million realisation value.
The site is being marketed as potentially accommodating apartments, with retail and or a wine bar at street level.
The Bourbon arose from the ashes of the famed Bourbon and Beefsteak in The Cross.
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The Bourbon hotel, Kings Cross site could beef up apartment push

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Name: Chris Knight
<img src="/images/2014/07/23/knight-july-23-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;">Position: Managing director
Company: Opteon Property Group Victoria
Office Location: Melbourne
How long have you been in the industry?
I have been employed with Opteon (Victoria) since 2006 and was appointed to the position of managing director in 2011. I previously held roles including director of residential services, operations manager and senior valuer and have been immersed in the industry for almost 17 years.
What's happening in the area you specialise in?
I've just spent some time in the US to understand other property markets and how they are innovating. Australian companies, especially those in property, are often not strong in areas of innovation and that's a key aspect we're concentrating on.
From a tactical level we are breaking down traditional product silos and focusing more on geography where practical. Training of our people is of key importance to us, and this means our staff can more easily cross product environments and increase their learning and career potential.
Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on.
Opteon have key specialisations in almost all aspects of property and assets, and as such we see an enormous variety of interesting properties and projects.
We are regularly involved in providing advice on multi-level and multi-use residential and commercial development projects, as well as valuing pubs and hotels, petrol stations and most other forms of special use commercial property.
We are involved in landlord and tenant disputes, family law advice regarding the assessment of asset portfolios as well as the advice for the property aspect of land acquisition for public use, including road widenings and other public services.
One of particular interest, however, was the valuation of a WWII Mustang fighter aircraft undertaken by our head of plant and equipment. The assessment of value of this aircraft was quite in-depth and very interesting.
What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?
One of my favourite sayings is "a business that stands still is actually moving backwards". I think the ingredients to being successful in any job or industry is identifying how you can continue to get the most out of yourself and the people around you, and continue to push yourself beyond the 'comfort zone' and shake up the traditional way of thinking.
In essence, be prepared to do things differently.
Being successful in my role is ensuring that those around me are successful also, and to create an environment where I enjoy my work, and where others do too.
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?
I am passionate about creating something different, not just another property company. Setting a positive culture, assisting people to reach their goals and aligning goals of staff to those of a business is really important to me. I enjoy creating highly effective teams, which have a client and delivery focus.
Where would you invest a spare $750,000?
Firstly, I would only invest in something that I understood, which for me is obviously property. The other important aspect is to have a clear strategy (short/medium/long term etc).
However, invariably I would look to an asset class which could attract debt, provide a good yield (preferably covering debt requirements), whilst also having good potential for strong capital growth, whether that be through change in the utilisation of the land component, further development or strong market growth through demand.
But there is one constant in this strategy, and that is land; my opinion is you must have land in the asset, as that is the key component, which will appreciate in value. Asset classes such as residential development or commercial assets with a strong land component would be of interest.
Which football team do you support?
Geelong Football Club.
What is your favourite app or techno gadget?
I confess to having a bent at the moment to Sudoku apps that I use in my downtime, although I do use apps such as UrbanSpoon, Strava and <a href="https://au.linkedin.com/in/knightc" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> on a regular basis.
How do you use social media?
As a business, social media is an invaluable tool that enables us to understand and connect with our target audience. We use this medium on a regular basis to build and differentiate the brand of the company and the individuals within it.
It also permits us to communicate effectively in real time and keep abreast of industry developments.
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In profile: Opteon Property Group Victoria's managing director, Chris Knight  

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Building materials company Hanson is selling off its South Brisbane riverfront site.
The ­market expectations are for as much as $40 million, according to the Australian Financial Review.
The site is located within the draft Kurilpa Riverfront Renewal Master Plan area, which ranks as Brisbane’s largest inner city urban renewal precincts.
The site with a 110-metre frontage to the Brisbane River has been listed through Brendan Hogan and Pat George of Colliers International.
Offers for 14 Nott Street covering 9,878 square metres and 3043 square metre at 19 Nott Street close 3 December.
Under the draft plan, the site may be developed with maximum building heights of up to 20 storeys.
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