Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Docklands

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Move-in date is approaching for buyers in Melbourne's latest Docklands apartment complex, The Docklands Residences.

The 88 apartments have been built above a 200 room Marriott Hotel, the first built in Australia for over two decades.

It allows apartment buyers access to onsite amenities rarely seen in regular apartment developments across the country.

They will be able to enjoy the use of 5-star hotel amenities including a spectacular infinity pool with views across Melbourne, its adjoining pool bar, a gym, sauna and spa, as well as Marriott’s hotel services such as room service, concierge and housekeeping.

Urban recently spoke to Jesse Lindardi, director at architecture firm DKO, and Mohan Du, founder and chief executive of Capital Alliance, about The Docklands Residences design and why the Docklands area was chosen for the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3205]

JR: What was the brief DKO Architecture were given for the project? 
JL: The brief was to create a sleek and modern hotel that boldly illustrates the evolution of the 5-star Marriott brand while providing integrated residences where owners can experience all of the amenities a premium hotel can provide.

The result is a distinguished design housing 200 first-class hotel rooms as well as 110 contemporary residences across dual towers.

JR: Where was the inspiration from the design drawn from? Any building/experience in particular? JL: To find inspiration for the form of the building, we only had to look at the luxury yachts around Docklands. Our architecture is imbued with a similar elegant, curved design.

A translucent screen wraps around the building, providing winter gardens enclosed in glass, with the curved façade providing multiple and enviable aspects of the water, the city and the Bolte Bridge. Sleek, sculptural, sophisticated - the architecture of Marriott Docklands presents a new landmark of luxury inspired by the timeless style of the city at its door.

<a href="/buildings/the-docklands-residences-3-43-waterfront-way-docklands"><img alt="" height="804" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/docklands_residences_3_0.jpg" width="1200"></a>

JR: What was the most difficult part of the planning process? JL: The most difficult part of the planning process was ensuring the building didn’t negatively affect the street’s pedestrian experience.

The building’s form and orientation were carefully considered to minimize overshadowing to the nearby NewQuay Central Park, while wind studies determined a more curved form to enable wind to flow around the building, rather than deflecting down to the street.

JR: How important are the amenities to a project like this?  JL: Extremely. There’s an aspiration and expectation from a luxury brand like Marriott – and this is experienced as soon as you walk in the door. Melbourne-based artist, Alexander Knox, has created an impressive sensory public art installation within the lobby. The remarkable large-scale, multi-media piece draws reference from the site’s history and reflects the unique character of its location. 
Not only are there ground-floor restaurants, executive facilities and state-of-the-art function spaces, but sitting high at level 15 is a chic bar capitalizing on the building’s spectacular views. And you can’t forget the stunning rooftop infinity pool. The hotel will be a flagship in Australia and a true example of the Marriott brand’s sophisticated style and innovative functionality.

JR: Was the plan always to have an open rooftop infinity pool? 
JL: There was a desire to create something spectacular for the pool. From 15 storeys high, visitors and residents can take in the wonderful 180-degree views of CBD and Yarra River with the vanishing edge giving the impression you could paddle out among the skyscrapers. At night, tiny fibre optic lights at the base of the pool twinkle to spectacular effect – the perfect place to sip a poolside cocktail.

<a href="/buildings/the-docklands-residences-3-43-waterfront-way-docklands"><img alt="" height="899" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/docklands_residences_2.jpg" width="1200"></a>

JR: What was so appealing about the site and/or the Docklands area? MD: Docklands was always touted as the Waterfront City, often compared to areas nearby Darling Harbour. Needless to say, Docklands has had its difficulties and stigmas. However, it's evident Docklands has changed drastically over the last 5 years.

As a new business at the time, this was an opportunity for us to stand behind and create something that would positively contribute to this fantastic suburb. Therefore, the most appealing aspect of the site was that when no one wanted to invest in Docklands, we saw that as an appealing opportunity. We have taken this approach to all our projects.

JR: What are the benefits for buyers/residents in a mixed-use hotel development? MD: All residents living atop 5-star Melbourne Marriott Hotels Docklands will be able to get exclusive Membership access to a range of services and amenities provided by the hotel. This includes the use of the infinity pool, pool bar, gym, spa, and room service - all with strict adherence to conditions.

Having access to all these services and amenities right at your doorstep offers a unique convenient lifestyle, which we have seen become desirable in other metropolis cities like New York, London, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
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The 88 apartments have been built above a 200 room Marriott Hotel, the first built in Australia for over two decades

Why owner-occupiers love The Docklands Residences: Urban chats with architecture firm DKO and Capital Alliance founder Mohan Du

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Connecting central Melbourne with the historic Yarra waterfront, the inner-city suburb Docklands is comprised of eight distinct precincts, covering 200-hectares.

With its vibrant cosmopolitan culture and world-class facilities, Docklands satisfies the appetite of a variety of homebuyer types.

Amongst Melbourne’s laneways, the bustling CBD and nearby retail and entertainment offerings, Docklands has it all.

Urban takes a look at three stylish brand-new developments in this exciting area. 
 

1. Melbourne Quarter, Docklands 
Address: 628 Flinders Street, Docklands VIC 3008 
One-bedroom apartments from $458,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3459]

Offering a collection of 719 one and two-bedroom apartments with an entry price of $458,000, Lendlease’s Melbourne Quarter is the ideal new residence for first home buyers.

Designed by Fender Katsalidis, the project boasts a luxe lobby, concierge and exclusive access to three whole floors of resort-style amenities at Club MQ, such as a multi-use space, pool, theatrette and library.

The homes include contemporary fittings, elegant interiors and panoramic city, river and bay views. 
 

2. Seafarers, Docklands 
Address: 731 Flinders Street, Docklands VIC 3008 
One-bedroom apartments from $825,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728]

Partnering with Australia’s first 1 Hotel, Riverlee’s Seafarers offers a boutique collection of 123 sublimely crafted one, two and three-bedroom residences.

The development heralds a new era in luxury inner-city living in Melbourne’s Yarra River, with exclusive access to luxury hotel amenities, management and services.

Designed by award-winning CARR, each residence is curated to maximise external views, space and natural light, with interiors including reflective surfaces, natural and concealed doors. 
 

3. Voyager, Docklands 
Address: 103 South Wharf Drive, Docklands ViC 3008 
One-bedroom apartments from $601,500

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3494]

Dominating the Docklands skyline with a similar romantic energy to a Manhattan hotel, Mirvac’s latest development is among Melbourne’s most chic high-rise residential towers.

The 43-storey building is thoughtfully designed and luxuriously appointed, boasting 315 contemporary apartments in one, two and three-bedroom configurations.

Voyager offers panoramic city and water views, sleek floor-to-ceiling windows and the precinct’s first-ever rooftop lifestyle space, with skydeck and bar.
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With its vibrant cosmopolitan culture and world-class facilities, Docklands satisfies the appetite of a variety of homebuyer types

max.kwok_55688

3 stylish brand-new homes in Melbourne's Docklands

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A luxury Yarra’s Edge, Melbourne’s Docklands apartment has been sold for $1.75 million.

It previously sold off the plan in March 2002, according to CoreLogic, for $1,581,400, reflecting minimal price growth based on its 2005 settlement,.

The 22nd floor apartment sold off-market through Mia Chen and Kristen Basile of Real Estate Services by Mirvac to an existing client.

The three bedroom, two apartment 2201/90 Lorimer Street, Docklands apartment has 203 sqm space. There is also a study.

The apartment was last advertised as a $1250 a week rental in 2018. Its peak asking rental was $1300 in 2016. It was first listed as a rental in 2007 at $900 a week.

There was a $1.17 million sale in the block last October of a 148 sqm two bedroom apartment on the 24th floor. It had previously sold at $1.04 million in 2016 and $795,000 in 2006.
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It previously sold off the plan in March 2002 for just over $1.5 million

jchancellor

Yarra's Edge, Docklands trophy apartment sold for $1.75 million

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The real estate investor and manager Cromwell Property Group has secured approval for a $350 million mixed-use expansion of its existing Collins Street property in Melbourne’s Docklands Precinct.

The plans are to add a 55-storey mixed-use building to the site at 700 Collins Street which currently homes a 17-level, A-grade office tower which Cromwell have owned since 2004.

The new mixed-use building will comprise 265 apartments, a 4.5 star, 182 room hotel and further 13,000 sqm of office space across 13 levels, as well as a four-storey podium car park with 199 spaces.

The apartments will be a mix of studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments with residents having access to concierge services, a swimming pool and a cafe.

Bobby Binning, Cromwell’s Head of Property, says The Docklands area has come a long way since they purchased 700 Collins Street in 2004.

<blockquote>
"As one of the first commercial towers in the area, we saw the potential early and are now looking forward to investing further in the precinct.”
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
“Overall, Cromwell has line-of-sight to a c$1.1 billion pipeline of new value add development opportunities, and this will be another good example of what we can do in this area.”

“We will consider potential operating partners in the new year,” Mr Binning concluded.
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Cromwell secures $350 million expansion approval of mixed-use Collins St, Melbourne tower

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The combined capital cities are expected to see auction activity ramp up over the week, with a total of 2,593 properties set to go under the hammer, according to CoreLogic data. This week’s scheduled volumes are 24% higher than last week’s final figures which saw 2,085 auctions held. Plus this time last year, a higher 2,804 homes were taken to auction across the combined capitals.

There are over 1,000 homes set to be taken to auction across each of Australia’s two largest auction markets this week. Melbourne is expected to be the busier of the two with 1,153 properties scheduled for auction, an increase of 28% on last week. Sydney isn’t far behind with a total of 1,037 auctions scheduled to take place, an expected rise of almost 20%.

While activity across Melbourne has certainly bounced back from the lows seen throughout most of the second half of the year, volumes are still below 2019 levels with 1,405 homes taken to auction over the same week last year. Meanwhile one year ago in Sydney, volumes were lower at 875.

The remaining smaller markets are all expected to see a rise in activity over the week, with Brisbane set to be the busiest of the smaller cities with 147 auctions scheduled to take place. This is followed by Canberra (115), Adelaide (101), Perth (36) and Tasmania (4).

One example of a property headed to auction in Melbourne this weekend is an apartment at 705/547-551 Flinders Lane. The one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment in Docklands sits on the top floor of Morgan Place. It goes to auction with a guide of between $291,000 and $320,000.

The apartment sits near the Docklands project Melbourne Quarter at 628 Flinders Street, developed by Lendlease. The Fender Katsalidis-designed East Tower has 719 apartments, a mix of one and two bedrooms which are for sale starting from $458,000. 
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There are over 1,000 homes set to be taken to auction across each of Australia’s two largest auction markets this week.

urban.com.au

Auction volumes up 20% or more across Melbourne and Sydney 

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Our first display suite tour of 2020 is <a href="/buildings/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands">Escala NewQuay</a>, located on the ground floor of the Banksia building at Melbourne’s Docklands. Prospective buyers are welcomed into the suite with a series of architectural models, illustrating Escala’s place within MAB Corporation’s master-planned community. While this particular display suite is not a full model home, the impeccable attention to detail within every aspect of the showroom will give buyers a great understanding of how the apartments will look upon completion.

Check out our video tour:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SchiZqyYFt0" width="660"></iframe>

<a href="/buildings/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands">ESCALA NEWQUAY</a> AT A GLANCE

Developer: <a href="/developers/mab-corporation">MAB Corporation</a>

Architect: <a href="/architects/six-degrees-architects">Six Degrees Architects</a>

Location: 2 Glenti Place, NewQuay Docklands

Number of apartments: 173

Construction slated for completion: 2021

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands-edf4f111df3ac55a886989b740788f9e.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sample floor-plan "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="224" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands-edf4f111df3ac55a886989b740788f9e.jpg?itok=omGcygo0" title="Sample floor-plan " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sample floor-plan</figcaption></figure>Escala NewQuay is the highly anticipated addition to Melbourne’s Docklands. The multi-residential development raises the bar for modern city living with innovative design, quality building and a focus on community living.

The development is one of the first projects in Melbourne to take on board the Victorian government’s Better Apartments Design Standards. By meeting the architectural criteria, apartments will have liveability at the forefront of design, meaning more spacious, light-filled interiors.

A staggering 75% of the 173 residences have already sold, with buyers drawn in by the developer’s commitment to quality, and unique residential offering.

<h2>Escala NewQuay lofts, apartments and SOHOs</h2>

Designed by Six Degrees Architects, the development comprises one, two- and three-bedroom configurations, with a range of apartments, lofts and SOHOs (home offices) on offer.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands-2aef623b914f32eb5b4274a4713caf5f.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Escala NewQuay's stunning facade against a city backdrop"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands-2aef623b914f32eb5b4274a4713caf5f.jpg?itok=g7Bt-CfF" title="Escala NewQuay's stunning facade against a city backdrop" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Escala NewQuay's stunning glass facade against a city backdrop</figcaption></figure>Lofts

Lofts are split-level one and two-bedroom homes with mezzanine floors. The lofts feature expansive double-height living areas, for heightened opulence and natural airflow.

Apartments

Apartments are available in spacious two and three-bedroom configurations, providing buyers with the option of spacious inner-city apartment living. These homes have luxurious floor-to-ceiling joinery and offer stunning city views.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands-ddc4114dfdb026d063035a5295dc5a3e.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spacious open-plan living at Escala NewQuay"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands-ddc4114dfdb026d063035a5295dc5a3e.jpg?itok=wQb3jaXs" title="Spacious open-plan living at Escala NewQuay" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spacious open-plan living at Escala NewQuay  </figcaption></figure>​SOHO

SOHO is a ground-floor residence with a street-frontage, giving buyers the flexibility to create the perfect home office in the heart of Melbourne’s thriving NewQuay.

Amenities + Location

Available to residents is a long list of luxury on-site amenities, which include an indoor heated swimming pool and spa surrounded by garden views and bluestone tiles. There is also a fully-equipped gymnasium, open-air piazza, barbecue area, and a light-filled library with double-height windows overlook a garden vista.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands-7449f7d45d81ac5a072d707ae2e810c3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Escala NewQuay's light-filled library featuring the signature spiral staircase (as seen in the display suite tour)"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands-7449f7d45d81ac5a072d707ae2e810c3.jpg?itok=hfJX2s-L" title="Escala NewQuay's light-filled library featuring the signature spiral staircase (as seen in the display suite tour)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Escala NewQuay's light-filled library featuring the signature spiral staircase (as seen in the display suite tour)</figcaption></figure>Escala NewQuay is a stone's throw to the brand-new District Docklands shopping precinct where residents enjoy perusing the open-air shops, catch a movie at the newly established Hoyts cinema, or pick up some fresh produce at The Market. The new Docklands market will feature meat purveyors, bakery treats, a delicatessen, coffee roasters and 25 specialty retailers.

Residents can also access the free City Circle tram and the Capital City Bike Trail, which are right on Escala NewQuay’s doorstep. Within walking distance is Marvel Stadium, Flagstaff Gardens and Library at the Dock.

For those who travel a lot, the trip will be made even more seamless with access to the convenient Skybus Airport Shuttle, which picks up NewQuay residents from its District Docklands stop every half an hour. For families looking to move to NewQuay, a brand new Docklands Primary School with Giraffe Early Learning Centre is scheduled to open soon.

Homes start at $609,000 with an anticipated development completion of 2021. Want to learn more about Escala NewQuay? <a href="/buildings/escala-newquay-381-docklands-drive-docklands">Reach out to the sales agent today</a>.
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Olivia Round

Urban’s tour of the Escala NewQuay display suite

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AFL premiership fancies GWS Giants have taken up a lease for a 77 sqm Docklands suite near the league’s headquarters in the Melbourne CBD. 
Samuel Friend and Stephen Land of Fitzroys negotiated the three-year lease with a two-year option at Suite 101/198 Harbour Esplanade, just moments from AFL House and the adjacent AFL-owned Marvel Stadium.
The Giants agreed to pay $450 per sqm with 3% annual increases for its new Melbourne offices.
Friend said more than 50 enquiries were received during the campaign.
He stated, "the suite offers ample natural light with fantastic views west overlooking the harbour and towards the Bolte Bridge, and as expected attracted tenants from a range of industries including tech companies, law firms, not-for-profits and media agencies."
“For the Giants, the suite presented an excellent opportunity to set up an office conveniently close to AFL House and enhance their communication capabilities with the league.
“Spaces of this type attract a great deal of attention when they become available, as vacancies across Docklands have continued to firm in the first several months of 2019 and are now at the tightest level of any of Melbourne’s central precincts," Friend concluded.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

GWS Giants take up Dockland lease near AFL House

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The Melbourne HQ of ASX-listed Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has been listed for sale, with expectations it could sell for more than $80 million.
The 2005 built Docklands office block at 120 Harbour Esplanade been listed by the Singapore-based owners Wharf Street Investments. 
Its 8,300 sqm of net lettable area is 100% leased to Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, one of Australia's largest retail banks, until 2025.
CBRE’s Kiran Pillai, Mark Coster and Neva Courts and Colliers International’s Trent Preece, Matt Stagg and Anna Cavar are set to market the property through an international expressions of Interest campaign.  
CBRE’s Kiran Pillai said the listing provides one of the first major tests of Melbourne’s office investment market in 2019. 
“The Docklands precinct is one of the strongest performing office markets in the country. Limited future supply of new buildings, significant investment into transport infrastructure and surrounding amenity have heightened demand with vacancy rates tipped to drop below 0.7%,” Pillai said. 
“With rents at the property coming off a low base, the property offers investors the opportunity to secure a high-quality building with an excellent covenant plus strong prospects for short and medium-term rental growth.”
Colliers International’s Trent Preece said he expects the offering to generate a strong level of interest from both offshore and domestic investors, given the quality of the asset and lack of recent major investment opportunities in Melbourne,
"The property is strategically positioned to capitalise on the State Government’s recent $225 million commitment to upgrade the adjoining Marvel Stadium, which will transform the precinct into a truly world class sports and entertainment hub.” 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

$80m expectations as Bendigo Bank‘s Melbourne HQ hits market

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Australian global insurer QBE will join anchor tenant ANZ in Victoria Harbour’s latest commercial building at 839 Collins Street.

QBE will occupy around 6,000sqm across three floors and will move approximately 400 employees from 628 Bourke Street by mid-2019. ANZ has already leased 26,500 sqm of the building.

Designed by award winning architect Denton Corker Marshall, the building’s floorplate designs give clients the flexibility to scale their workplace operations up or down without the need to lease extra space.

All tenants have access to a north-facing outdoor garden and terrace with a multi-purpose sports court, event spaces and BBQ facilities, helping to extend the workplace outdoors.

A vibrant mix of retailers will open at 839 Collins Street throughout the year. This includes the lobby’s restaurant and café, The Other Brother, operated by Melbourne hospitality venture Continental Hospitality Group.

The building, featuring a low-energy underfloor air conditioning system that also improves indoor air quality, is on track to achieve a 6 Star Green Star Design and As Built rating from the Green Building Council of Australia. The Victoria Harbour precinct has already achieved a 6 Star Green Star Communities rating.

The 39,000sqm building is now close to being fully leased and will reach practical completion in March this year.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/839_render_terrace.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="392" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/839_render_terrace.jpg?itok=7LVR9ndT" width="580"></a></figure><blockquote>
 839 Collins Street is a great example of Lendlease developing next generation workplaces where the focus is on innovation and the end customer.

 The Victoria Harbour precinct now has one of the highest concentrations of Green Star rated buildings in Australia and is home to some of the nation’s most recognisable brands. The arrival of large commercial tenants like QBE and ANZ continues to transform the area into a key mixed-use precinct.

- John Burton, Lendlease’s Managing Director, Urban Regeneration
</blockquote>
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Lendlease

Lendlease welcomes QBE to Victoria Harbour

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Developer Lendlease has announced that it has secured International Workplace Group’s (IWG) co-working brand, Spaces at its Melbourne Quarter precinct within Melbourne's Docklands urban regeneration project.

Spaces will occupy approximately 7,000 sqm of space across two buildings comprising, one floor within the recently completed One Melbourne Quarter, and upon completion, more than 4,000 sqm across two floors at Two Melbourne Quarter, currently under construction.

As part of their tenancies, Spaces will also utilise the business lounge facilities in each building’s lobby providing extensions of their workplace with members also having access to the precinct’s wi-fi enabled Sky Park.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/mq_towers.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spaces will be occupying 7000sqm across two buildings at Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter. Images: Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="404" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mq_towers.jpg?itok=bkdniqqz" title="Spaces will be occupying 7000sqm across two buildings at Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter. Images: Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spaces will be occupying 7000sqm across two buildings at Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter. Images: Lendlease</figcaption></figure>Overall, Spaces will provide 700 flexible workstations when it moves into One Melbourne Quarter in May and Two Melbourne Quarter once it is complete in mid-2020. Space will join future Melbourne Quarter tenants AMP and EnergyAustralia,and Arup and Lendlease, who have already taken occupation of their respective workspaces within One Melbourne Quarter.

According to Spaces, its model allows customers to pay only for the space they need, scaling operations up or down to boost employee productivity in their choice of work environments.

Meanwhile, construction is continuing in earnest at Melbourne Quarter with Two Melbourne Quarter's floorplates and core now well above street level and the first panels of facade now installed on East Tower. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/tmq_construction_progress.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction progress at Melbourne Quarter. Images: Urban forum member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="216" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tmq_construction_progress.jpg?itok=4xDRYuIh" title="Construction progress at Melbourne Quarter. Images: Urban forum member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction progress at Melbourne Quarter. Images: Urban forum member redden</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Spaces’ presence at Melbourne Quarter will provide businesses with more adaptable and dynamic places to work. Lendlease is designing precincts with flexible workspaces that provide transport connectivity, outdoor green spaces and retail amenity in one location.

Spaces will introduce a broad range of organisations to Melbourne Quarter, presenting an exciting proposition for the precinct’s existing workforce and retailers.

- John Burton, Lendlease’s Managing Director, Urban Regeneration
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
There is a workspace revolution underway in Australia and businesses of all sizes are waking up to the strategic and financial benefits that flexible office space can provide.

This will be the fourth Spaces co-working centre located in Victoria and we are extremely excited to be located in the new Melbourne Quarter Precinct. This year, the growth of flexible working is predicted to rise across Australia, as more office-based activity is demanding greater choice and flexibility in the workplace, for businesses, organisations and their employees.

- Damien Sheehan, Head of IWG, Spaces parent company in Australia &amp; New Zealand
</blockquote>

 

 
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