S&amp;S Projects is boosting its investment at Rainbow Bay to more than $1 billion after the prolific Gold Coast developer acquired a new site for $20.25 million and immediately laid plans for a new luxury apartment project in the sought-after precinct.

The site, which is the company’s fifth acquisition at Rainbow Bay in the past four years, will be home to the company’s largest project to date after delivering 3 sold-out projects and construction progresses on Radia worth a combined $215m. 
S&amp;S Projects is currently finalising plans for its latest strategic acquisition, a 1,518 sqm site located 209-213 Boundary Street in Coolangatta, with a development application expected to be lodged within weeks.

The luxury residential development will build on the company’s highly successful projects at Rainbow Bay, comprising Flow, Awaken, Esprit and Radia, with Radia currently under construction by Hutchinson Builders.

“We have been unflinching in our commitment to Rainbow Bay and the transformation we have helped drive in this incredible part of the Gold Coast, which is among the city’s most desirable residential locations,” said S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun.

“Our fifth project will reflect the best of what we have done so far to create a lifestyle precinct that is second to none.”

The latest development, which has yet to be named, is proposed to accommodate 88 luxury apartments in a design that will immerse residents in a unique wellness lifestyle that expands on the legacy of S&amp;S Project’s earlier developments at Rainbow Bay.

The development will feature an expansive rooftop garden and wellness centre with a resort- style pool, among a host of lifestyle amenities planned for residents.

“Rainbow Bay, with its beautiful, protected beach and alongside one of the world’s best surf breaks at Snapper Rocks, is the natural wellness heartland of the Gold Coast,” said Gedoun.

“We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden.”

The latest acquisition comes as S&amp;S Projects is at the completion of Esprit and construction continues on Radia, which are part of their significant portfolio undertaken by the company at Rainbow Bay since 2022.

The $215 million Radia, which comprises 38 apartments, is currently the flagship development by S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay which is expected to be completed in 2027.

Jayde Pezet, of Pezet Matheson, which has managed sales and marketing for S&amp;S Projects across their Gold Coast portfolio, emphasised the developer’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.

“S&amp;S Projects continue to elevate the benchmark of luxury with each development," Pezet said.

“We have worked with S&amp;amp;S on their 4 other projects in Rainbow Bay and their approach reflects a team that is constantly learning, refining, and pushing the standard higher.

“Their hyper-local knowledge and deep expertise within the luxury property sector are what truly set them apart, allowing them to deliver projects that feel both globally sophisticated and authentically connected to their coastal environment”

S&amp;S Projects plans to officially launch its latest project at Rainbow Bay in the second half of this year.

“As we embark on our largest project yet, we have pulled out all stops to create another landmark development that truly reflects the relaxed southern Gold Coast lifestyle,” Gedoun added.

Joel Robinson

S&S buys $20m Rainbow Bay site for fifth beachside apartment project

Japandi, an emerging design trend that combines Scandinavian functionality with Japanese rustic minimalism, remains relatively untested in Australia’s residential development market.

As developers look to differentiate their projects and offer something distinct to buyers, Brisbane-based developer Lantona has embraced the hybrid style for its recently launched Toowong apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/koya-residences-6-josling-street-toowong-qld-4066">Koya Residences</a>, with early response to the design proving positive.

Lantona entrusted Red Door Architecture and interiors practice Luma Design Co with delivering the Japandi brief. The approach blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality, emphasising warm, restrained interiors, natural materials and clean lines. Drawing on the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi (beauty in imperfection) and the Scandinavian principle of hygge (comfort and cosiness), it creates serene, uncluttered and sustainable living environments.

These design principles are expressed throughout the Josling Street development, both in its exterior form and across the 40 one-, two- and three-bedroom residences within.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366229]

Koya reflects a deliberately scaled approach, with the five-storey form designed to align with the surrounding residential streetscape rather than dominate it.

“Koya is conceived as a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings. Every decision, from material selection to spatial planning, has been guided by long-term liveability and enduring relevance,” the developer said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366243]

Positioned within an established inner-west neighbourhood, the development sits near riverfront parklands and the Bicentennial Bikeway, while remaining within walking distance of Toowong Village and multiple public transport options connecting to the CBD, St Lucia and West End.

Lantona said the location was central to the project’s conception, pointing to Toowong’s balance of green space, transport access and proximity to major education institutions.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> combines river access, walkability, immediate CBD connection and a strong educational presence. That balance made it the obvious setting for Koya.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]

Communal amenity is concentrated on the rooftop, where a shared retreat will include a pool, dining areas and outdoor spaces oriented towards neighbourhood and city views. The design allows for both private use and small gatherings, extending the living environment beyond individual apartments.

Koya enters the market at a time when smaller-scale developments are becoming less common in established suburbs, with many recent projects in the suburb shooting for the sky.

In a nod of confidence,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/brisbane-builders">Brisbane Builders</a>&nbsp;has already commenced construction on the building, which is slated for completion in early 2027. Keenan &amp; Byrne is marketing Koya.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150787]

Japandi-inspired Koya Residences launch in Toowong

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:ca872054-bfe3-4cc5-a2c8-b373d4dfeafb-2" dir="auto">
A completed Castle Hill apartment development is returning to market with an uncommon level of financial backing, positioning it as one of the more secure options for buyers in Sydney’s north-west.

Skyview in Castle Hill, originally developed by Top Place and now overseen by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, is being relaunched following a full remediation process. Central to its repositioning is a substantial financial reserve designed to provide ongoing protection and reduce uncertainty for incoming purchasers.

At the core of this offering is an $11 million bond secured during the project’s remediation phase, negotiated by former NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler. With less than $4 million required to complete the works, approximately $7.2 million remains in reserve, with around 15 years left on the term.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359134]

Rather than a typical insurance-backed structure, the remaining funds are held as cash, creating a readily accessible financial buffer should any future building issues arise. The structure is intended to provide buyers with an added layer of certainty, differentiating the development from more conventional apartment offerings.

Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure provides a level of security not typically seen in apartment developments.

“The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers,” Huxley said.

“Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359135]

The remediation process has now been completed in full, with no active rectification orders or outstanding directives linked to the project on NSW Government registers. This outcome reflects the broader tightening of building oversight across the state, while also highlighting the project’s transition into a completed, compliant asset.

In a market where many buyers remain cautious about apartment quality, initiatives like this are designed to restore confidence, giving purchasers greater certainty and a stronger sense of security in their investment.

Equitifund has since acquired the remaining apartments and is managing their reintroduction to the market. With the works finalised and a significant financial reserve in place, the project now presents with a markedly different risk profile compared to its initial release.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359137]

Beyond the added security, the development is positioned in one of Castle Hill’s more established pockets. The Gay Street address places it within close proximity to Castle Towers, one of the country’s largest retail centres, as well as Castle Hill Metro Station, which now connects directly to the broader Sydney Metro network.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said buyer demand in the area continues to be driven by access to transport and amenity.

“Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre,” Hamblett said.

“There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359145]

The apartments also enter the market at a relatively accessible price point for the area, with two-bedroom configurations starting from $995,000 and rental demand for similar stock reaching around $900 per week. This combination of pricing, connectivity, and completed status is expected to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors seeking lower-risk entry into the Hills District apartment market.

For eligible buyers, a limited 3.50 per cent p.a. two-year fixed interest rate is currently available through Equitifund’s lending partners, providing an additional layer of affordability.

EquitiCredit Pty Ltd ACN 676 363 769 holds ACL 559289 and provides credit assistance. Finance is arranged through EquitiCredit and funded by its lending partners. Interest rates are subject to change and eligibility criteria apply. Terms, conditions, fees and charges may apply. This is not financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Prospective buyers should seek independent financial advice.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]
</section>

Castle Hill apartments offering unmatched buyer protection through dedicated fund

A State-Assessed Rezoning Proposal for the Kurnell Peninsula is now on public exhibition, setting out a plan to deliver up to 4,300 homes alongside new retail, tourism and public open space on a 210-hectare coastal site.

The proposal, backed by the Minns Labor Government, would transform a former sand mining area along Captain Cook Drive into a mixed-use precinct delivered over approximately 20 years.

In addition to housing, the plan includes more than 7,000 sqm of retail and commercial space, new community facilities and approximately 116 hectares of open space, equating to more than half the site.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce1c6567-1df0-4de0-9fe5-a76be0367834" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.51%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=dbbTmYaJvROA5fkQbgaxis8cmFwtpB5_" />

<hr data-end="849" data-start="846" />
<h2 data-end="902" data-section-id="ony3l3" data-start="851">Rezoning framework enables mixed-use development</h2>

The rezoning application seeks to amend planning controls under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Precincts—Central River City) and the Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan 2015.

Its primary objective is to enable a broader range of land uses across the site, including residential, employment, tourism and community uses, while also formalising environmental protections and land management outcomes .

The proposal has progressed through the state-led rezoning pathway after being identified as a project of regional significance, supported by several years of technical studies and agency consultation .

Development would occur in stages, aligned with the progressive closure and remediation of the existing sand mine.

<hr data-end="1718" data-start="1715" />
<h2 data-end="1768" data-section-id="krwii9" data-start="1720">Master plan structured around three precincts</h2>

The accompanying urban design report outlines an indicative master plan that divides the site into three primary precincts, anchored by a town centre in the western portion of the site.

The town centre is planned as the first stage of development, located on land that has already been remediated. It is intended to accommodate higher-density housing, retail, and community uses.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bfd5873-4847-4105-b220-0a30c96f5573" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.20.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7aVaSsZLAc6mElSH4g6Ct5bGsNxZcnPL" />

Additional precincts extend toward Bate Bay and Boat Harbour, with built form responding to environmental conditions and proximity to the coastline.

The design framework identifies distinct local character areas, with the master plan structured to reflect “unique natural qualities” across the site.

<hr data-end="2495" data-start="2492" />
<h2 data-end="2544" data-section-id="1vitwqn" data-start="2497">Open space forms core of the design approach</h2>

A key component of the proposal is the allocation of approximately 116 hectares to open space and ecological land.

This includes:

<ul data-end="2846" data-start="2678">
	<li data-end="2702" data-section-id="d96caj" data-start="2678">Three district parks</li>
	<li data-end="2723" data-section-id="17y6uz6" data-start="2703">Nine local parks</li>
	<li data-end="2741" data-section-id="14hui00" data-start="2724">Sports fields</li>
	<li data-end="2778" data-section-id="ts7psx" data-start="2742">Coastal and ecological corridors</li>
	<li data-end="2846" data-section-id="agduax" data-start="2779">Two kilometres of publicly accessible beachfront along Bate Bay</li>
</ul>

The urban design report positions this open space network as central to the structure of the development, rather than ancillary to it.

It is intended to support ecological regeneration, provide recreational amenity and create a connected network across the peninsula.

The plan includes north–south ecological corridors, expanded wetland systems and pedestrian and cycling links designed to connect residential areas to the coastline and open space areas .

<hr data-end="3347" data-start="3344" />
<h2 data-end="3381" data-section-id="ql66rt" data-start="3349">Housing mix and affordability</h2>

The proposal includes approximately 4,300 dwellings across a range of housing types.

This includes high-density apartments, medium-density housing, townhouses and seniors housing.

Affordable housing provision is identified at approximately 240 dwellings, alongside a smaller component of social housing.

The master plan emphasises housing diversity, with the intent of accommodating a range of household types and age groups within the development.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d4baba4d-b5b0-4a86-bcad-5d319b036184" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=udYFz0q8tjEPR3pmKLHRSFRJN4dKakPO" />

<hr data-end="3877" data-start="3874" />
<h2 data-end="3919" data-section-id="rgckdv" data-start="3879">Built form controls and height limits</h2>

Proposed building heights across the site range from three to 12 storeys.

These controls are set out within the rezoning application and are intended to manage visual impact, maintain view corridors and ensure compatibility with the coastal landscape.

Floor space ratios and height limits are applied across different parts of the site to reflect varying environmental conditions and proximity to open space and the coastline .

Higher density is generally concentrated within the town centre, with lower-scale development toward the coastal edge and environmentally sensitive areas.

<hr data-end="4548" data-start="4545" />
<h2 data-end="4588" data-section-id="1minlda" data-start="4550">Retail, tourism and employment uses</h2>

In addition to residential development, the proposal includes retail, commercial and tourism uses.

This includes:

<ul data-end="4896" data-start="4706">
	<li data-end="4775" data-section-id="1jrun76" data-start="4706">Approximately 7,000–9,800sqm of retail and commercial floor space</li>
	<li data-end="4803" data-section-id="10kyifw" data-start="4776">A full-line supermarket</li>
	<li data-end="4830" data-section-id="fz1hdg" data-start="4804">Food and beverage uses</li>
	<li data-end="4896" data-section-id="1aqg2fj" data-start="4831">Tourism accommodation, including hotel and short-stay options</li>
</ul>

The proposal also identifies employment outcomes, with the development expected to support jobs both during construction and in ongoing operations.

These uses are concentrated within the town centre and key activity areas across the site.

<hr data-end="5142" data-start="5139" />
<h2 data-end="5172" data-section-id="162x2kt" data-start="5144">Infrastructure and access</h2>

The proposal includes upgrades to Captain Cook Drive, which provides the primary access to the peninsula.

These upgrades are intended to improve traffic flow and support emergency access.

The transport strategy also incorporates:

<ul data-end="5529" data-start="5407">
	<li data-end="5433" data-section-id="fanquy" data-start="5407">Internal road networks</li>
	<li data-end="5469" data-section-id="o6y80y" data-start="5434">Walking and cycling connections</li>
	<li data-end="5529" data-section-id="jgraft" data-start="5470">Proposed public transport routes and bus stop locations</li>
</ul>

The rezoning report includes detailed analysis of transport, flooding, and infrastructure requirements to support the staged development of the site .

<hr data-end="5723" data-start="5720" />
<h2 data-end="5769" data-section-id="14urh3" data-start="5725">Environmental and cultural considerations</h2>

The site is identified as having environmental and cultural significance, including areas of ecological value and Aboriginal archaeological sensitivity.

The proposal includes measures to protect and enhance these areas, including:

<ul data-end="6230" data-start="6004">
	<li data-end="6056" data-section-id="1pzyouo" data-start="6004">Retention and regeneration of coastal vegetation</li>
	<li data-end="6100" data-section-id="bjn2vz" data-start="6057">Strengthening of biodiversity corridors</li>
	<li data-end="6148" data-section-id="1bpeyoj" data-start="6101">Protection of riparian systems and wetlands</li>
	<li data-end="6230" data-section-id="lg0cka" data-start="6149">Integration of cultural interpretation and recognition of Indigenous heritage</li>
</ul>

The urban design report also outlines opportunities for incorporating Indigenous cultural elements into public spaces and landscape design.

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">Next steps</h2>

The proposal is currently on public exhibition, with submissions open to the community. Feedback received during this period will inform the Department of Planning’s assessment of the rezoning.

If approved, the rezoning would establish the planning framework for future development applications across the site.

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">What the NSW Government says</h2>

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the planned closure of the sand mine and remediation of the Kurnell Peninsula presents an exciting opportunity to transform the area.

“This proposal envisions a vibrant new beachfront community with thousands of new homes, jobs and great open space in the Sutherland Shire. I encourage the community to have their say during the public exhibition period. Feedback from the community will play an important role in the assessment of the proposal.”

Sydney's newest beachfront city: NSW Gov to unlock 4,300 new homes on Kurnell peninsula

A long-awaited transformation of a former industrial site in Holroyd has been given the green light, with the NSW Government approving the $1.2 billion Crescent Parklands masterplan that will deliver more than 1,200 new homes just south of Parramatta.

The State Significant Development approval clears the way for a large-scale mixed-use precinct at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-crescent-street-holroyd-nsw-2142">1 Crescent Street</a>, replacing an underutilised site with a coordinated residential community anchored by new open space, retail, and commercial uses.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> for WA-based developer Tiberius, the approved scheme comprises seven buildings arranged across two precincts. In total, the development will deliver 1,227 apartments, including 201 allocated as affordable housing, alongside approximately 2,500 sqm of retail and 5,000 sqm of commercial space within a mixed-use podium.

<img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cc82dd2-8184-4b86-8665-90653147820d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20buildings.png?VersionId=2ZmVDc_Rfc4AzQ6ShzZJlvdZnACLerVM" />

The project is structured as a masterplanned precinct rather than a standalone tower. Buildings 1 to 4 will rise from a shared podium with shop-top housing, while Buildings 5 to 7 are positioned closer to the northern park interface as residential flat buildings. The built form has been carefully modulated to balance density with amenity, with the design resolving building separation, solar access, and wind impacts at a precinct scale.

A significant focus of the design is the activation of Crescent Street and the integration of public domain. The submission notes that “individual townhouses [were] removed for community based functions to Crescent Street to increase activation and surveillance,” reinforcing a more urban and publicly engaged street edge. Retail, commercial tenancies, and resident amenity spaces are concentrated along this frontage and within the podium to support day-to-day activity.

The landscape strategy underpins the project’s identity, with a network of pedestrian connections, landscaped corridors, and open spaces linking the site internally and to its surroundings. The design prioritises permeability, delivering “increased uninterrupted flow between spaces for pedestrian access” and improved connections through to the adjoining parklands.

<img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19282454-ab2f-4e2c-866f-4b35cf4283d4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20masterplan.png?VersionId=JQdWGYI5B5R1lzmK4omYOp_8KLPkT4Bv" />

Buildings within the western precinct are oriented toward the park, shaping a residential offering defined by proximity to open space. The design describes this approach as creating apartments “immersed in nature with apartments facing the park,” positioning the landscape as a central organising element of the masterplan.

The broader architectural response addresses both infrastructure and context, with taller elements capturing long-range views toward Parramatta while setbacks and separation distances mitigate impacts on surrounding residential areas. Sustainability initiatives, including solar optimisation, cross-ventilation, and integrated landscape systems, are embedded across the scheme.

Located approximately one kilometre south of Parramatta CBD, the 3.6-hectare site is bounded by Crescent Street, Woodville Road, and Holroyd Sportsground. It benefits from strong access to public transport, including nearby bus routes and train stations, and sits within a rapidly evolving corridor earmarked for increased residential density. The design also strengthens connections between surrounding green spaces, including Holroyd Sportsground and Parramatta Parklands.

The approval follows several years of planning, including a rezoning process that enabled significant uplift in height and density across the site. With determination now secured, Crescent Parklands is positioned to play a major role in delivering new housing supply within Greater Parramatta’s growth area.

Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver over 1,200 homes in major Holroyd transformation

Oliver Hume

<html><body>
The real estate sales and marketing company Oliver Hume has appointed Julian Coppini as chief executive officer to its project marketing division. 
Mr Coppini, 41, is currently chief operating officer of project marketing.
he first joined the company as chief financial officer in 2015. 
As chief executive officer – project marketing, Mr Coppini will be responsible for a team of more than 100 employees managing a portfolio of projects across Victoria and South East Queensland valued at more than $5 billion.
Oliver Hume currently manages sales and marketing for 40 projects on behalf of more than 20 developers across the country. 
Corporation group managing director Michael Duster said the appointment recognised Mr Coppini’s contribution to the business over the last five years.
“Julian has done an outstanding job since joining Oliver Hume in February 2015 and will be focused on leading the Project Marketing team as well as driving technology innovation in the company's systems, processes and workflows,” he said. 
“Julian has provided strong leadership over recent months as the business adjusted to the coronavirus crisis and is the right person to lead us into the future.” 
Oliver Hume specialises in the delivery of new residential property developments throughout Australia. For over 65 years, the company has been offering expert services to the development industry including project marketing, project and corporate advisory, property fund syndication, development site sales and acquisitions and property and asset management. 
Mr Coppini was appointed chief financial officer of the Oliver Hume group in early 2015 before being appointed chief operating officer of the company’s real estate agency business (Project Marketing division) in early 2016.
After graduating from RMIT with a bachelor of business, Julian commenced his career with leading accounting firm KPMG, where he spent seven years in the assurance division primarily focusing on the property industry.
He was appointed group financial controller of listed pharma group Sigma Pharmaceuticals in 2007 before being appointed in 2010 as chief financial officer of Australia’s largest privately owned construction development company, Grocon Pty Ltd.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Oliver Hume appoints Julian Coppini as project marketing division boss

<html><body>
The property services group Oliver Hume has added more than $1.5 billion worth of new project land and apartment sales to its pipeline since Christmas.
The company’s developer clients are planning to bring a host of new projects to the market over coming months. 
So far in 2019 the company has been appointed to advise on 10 new projects by eight different developers across Melbourne and South East Queensland. The projects have a total sales value in excess of $1.5 billion.  
Oliver Hume Chief Operating Officer Julian Coppini (pictured below) said the new appointments reflected the company’s proven ability to understand a range of markets and provide developers with research and insights that deliver clear competitive advantage.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/4/26/Julian%20Coppini.jpeg" alt="">
“In tight markets, understanding consumer trends is absolutely critical,” Coppini said.
“With more than 40 projects across the country in our portfolio we can deliver unmatched insights into not just the sales and marketing strategy but underlying project planning.
“Developing the correct product mix for the local market based on the latest demographic research, having an effective display village strategy and access to a large network of builders are just some of the areas where we add value and why more developers are choosing Oliver Hume.”  
In Victoria, the new appointments include 72 apartments at the East Side Village project at Hawthorn East (pictured top), 220 homesites ($55 million) at Maddingley for developer Werribee Vale Developments and an infill project at Greenvale with projected total sales of $9 million.  
The company is also preparing to launch two major new masterplanned communities in 2019 for long term client Villawood at Lara (1,179 lots, $300 million) and Sunbury (2,000 lots, $800 million). 
In Queensland, the company this year has been appointed to sell the balance of Tribeca’s $25 million OTTO project at Coomera; the $135 million, 600-lot Carver’s Reach project at Park Ridge for Golden Gate Property; the Arcadia Park Ridge project for developer Goldengrove; and a soon-to-be-launched project at Ripley. 
The company is also preparing to launch a major marketing campaign for Oliver Hume Property Fund’s The Verge project at Logan Reserve.  
Coppini said that despite recent softer market conditions in Melbourne and Sydney, developers were still bringing new projects to market. 
“The Melbourne and Sydney markets have been under pressure for the last nine months but we are still seeing quality developers, with good product, bring new projects to market,” he said.
“Developers that are able to adapt to the market and compete strongly are still well positioned to attract financeable buyers.
“In Victoria, where prices and volumes have been under the most pressure, there has been a distinct pivot by buyers to focus on small blocks and townhouse product. These more affordable options present less finance and valuation risk and are selling as fast as they can be made available.”
He said townhouses were becoming the preferred option for many buyers across inner, middle and outer Melbourne areas as the provide an affordable alternative to established housing. 
In Queensland, where the market has remained relatively stable over the last 12 months, the company has secured a number of new local developers as clients and extended its relationship with Defence Housing Australia (DHA). 
“With strong interstate migration, a stable economy and plenty of new infrastructure on the way we are quite optimistic about the South East Queensland market and that is manifesting in the number of developers pushing ahead with new projects,” Coppini said.
</body></html>

Property services group Oliver Hume wins $1.5 billion of new projects

<html><body>
Oliver Hume, one of Australia's largest privately owned real estate groups, has listed a major Brisbane project site for sale.
Its listing comes as the company reports a $2.2 million loss in its last financial year.
The loss, which follow the prior years profit of $10 million, came as a result of falling sales and land write-downs, according to Fairfax Media who went onto quote "insiders" as to the cause.
However a spokesperson for Oliver Hume wouldn't be drawn on the allegations of a "dramatic fall in the company's fortunes."
The accounts showed write-downs for its land, redundancies, and $3.2 million in sales commission cancellations.
Offers on 32 Cribb Street, Milton close today through Cushman and Wakefield.
Set on 3,479 sqm the parcel was valued in June last year at $11.5 million.
The holding has three street frontages.
It is currently approved for 260 units and 1,225sqm of retail accommodation.
Situated within access of all forms of public transport, retail amenity, Brisbane River and the CBD the property is code assessable for 20 levels and a variety of outcomes including commercial, retail and residential uses.
"Its current improvements allow holding income during development planning time frames," the agents advise.
The property last sold in 2014 by the Qld government for $13,706,520.
</body></html>

Oliver Hume place Brisbane site on market

<html><body>
Immigrants are underpinning Australia's largest house and land market, Oliver Hume research suggests.
"Any cut to immigration would have a negative momentum in the market," Oliver Hume head of research George Bougias has said.
Oliver Hume's latest national land market report shows that Melbourne's rising prices are encouraging a larger proportion of Indian-born Australians, who have been overwhelmingly based in Melbourne, to go to Queensland.
<div>
"What we're seeing now is that 10 per cent of our buyers in Queensland are Indian-born," Mr Bougias said.
</div>
<div>
"South-east Queensland is becoming more like Melbourne and Sydney in some respects – from employment, whether professional or white-collar workers. Queensland today is very different to what it was 20 years ago."
<div>
The report found more than 65 per cent of second-quarter greenfield land sales in Melbourne to buyers born outside Australia.
The proportion has come back from its peak of 77 per cent last year, Bougias told Fairfax Media, who noted broadening in the type of buyers, including owner-occupier and downsizers, was occurring in the largest trend in greenfields buyers – Indian-born immigrants.
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

Immigrants are underpinning Melbourne's land boom: Oliver Hume

<html><body>
The average time on the market for new land in Melbourne’s growth corridors has dropped below 60 days as the current upswing continues to gather pace, according to research by property group Oliver Hume.
The research, compiled from analysing trends at nearly 200 projects throughout Victoria, shows the average time on market for land in Melbourne in the final quarter (three months to end of December) of 2016 was just 1.9 months, the lowest ever recorded.
Demand for land is also pushing prices higher and making lots smaller, with the average price per sqm of land in the city’s growth corridors now exceeding $570/sqm in the December quarter 2016.
The median price of land reached $239,000 in the final quarter of 2016, up over 8% from $221,000 in the September quarter 2016. 
Over the same period the median lot size declined from 427sqm to 416sqm.
With the exception of the first quarter of 2015, the average time on market has now fallen or remained steady in every quarter since the third quarter of 2013, after peaking in the current cycle at 6.6 at the end of 2012.
The statistic measures the period from when a piece of land is released for sale by a developer until it is contracted by a purchaser.
Oliver Hume Research Manager George Bougias said affordability, record population growth and continued low interest rates remained the key drivers of demand.
“Despite the increases we have seen over recent years Melbourne is still below many other regions in Australia,” he said.
“With buyers having similar access to low interest rates, an improving economic and jobs outlook in Victoria and Melbourne’s relative affordability is ensuring the city keeps coming up the winner.”
Mr Bougias said Victoria’s population growth was a key underlying factor in the demand for land.
Figures recently-released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that Victoria’s population is now larger than ever before and looks set to continue growing strongly.
In the year to 30 June 2016, the state’s population grew by over 123,000 people (2.1%).
Victoria recorded the fastest population growth of all states and territories, adding more people than any other jurisdiction.
This robust population growth is expected to continue with Victoria’s population projected to hit 7 million by 2024.
Mr Bougias said the market had now spent essentially three years below the 3-5 months that Oliver Hume considers ‘equilibrium’, where supply is largely meeting demand.
Oliver Hume Director Paul Ciprian said while competition had kept prices in check from 2012 to 2015, the last 12 months has seen demand impact prices and average size.
“With prices and sizes going in different direction we have seen a sharp kick in the average price per square metre, up over 11% in 12 months and over 23% in the last two years,” he said.
“These price increases may moderate demand in the medium term but we do not see any macro issues that will impact the trend in the short term,” he said.
“So we expect prices to continue rising throughout 2017.”
</body></html>

Melbourne building block land boom gathers pace

<html><body>
Flemington Road is set to receive another substantial apartment tower, adding to the emerging cluster of residential projects that are taking shape along boulevard.

Property syndication and investment manager Oliver Hume Property Funds is driving the development, which will be known as The Principal. Located at 69 Flemington Road, The Principal joins another nearby Oliver Hume project dubbed Nord at 81 Flemington Road which is well into construction.

The Principal will replace a low-rise commercial building currently across the 1,042sqm site, which also fronts Villiers Street.

<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/flemingtonrd01-99f017e00f_1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The approved scheme for 67-73 Flemington Road. Image courtesy David Watson Architect"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flemingtonrd01-99f017e00f_1_0.jpg?itok=YZkfO3CH" title="The approved scheme for 67-73 Flemington Road. Image courtesy David Watson Architect" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The approved scheme for 67-73 Flemington Road. Image courtesy David Watson Architect</figcaption></figure>67-73 Flemington Road was <a href="/news/flemington-roads-apartment-surge-gains-momentum">highlighted by Urban.com.au last year</a> as a project on behalf of Obiter Investments Pty Ltd which was listed as the proponent at the time. Lodged with Melbourne City Council during August 2014, the application gained final approval only last month.

Designed by David Watson Architects, the development carried a nominal value of $40 million and featured 165 apartments (82 x 1BR, 80 x 2BR, and 3 x 3BR) within a 15/16 levels tower reaching 50.29 metres. 115 car parking spaces and 100 bicycle spaces were included over both basement and lower ground levels.

While it is possible that design changes have been made to the initial scheme, The Principal will still contain 162 one, two and three bedroom apartments and two penthouses over 15 levels according to the project website.

<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/image52_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Apartments are making their mark along Flemington Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="321" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image52_0.jpg?itok=VmoOO-zK" title="Apartments are making their mark along Flemington Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Apartments are making their mark along Flemington Road</figcaption></figure>The Principal's 164 dwellings will join a handful of new apartment projects fronting Flemington Road. Currently there is in excess of 700 apartments under construction over three separate developments, namely <a href="/buildings/north-19-flemington-road-north-melbourne">North</a>, <a href="/buildings/nord-melbourne-81-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Nord</a> and <a href="/buildings/helio-91-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Helio</a>.

Incidentally should The Principal remain true to the above render, it will become the fifth apartment project to front Flemington Road with a black glazed exterior, resulting in a decidedly brooding entry point to Carlton and Melbourne's CBD from the North West.

Future apartment projects set to grace Flemington Road include the recently sold <a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">3-5 Bedford Place</a> and an adjoining 1200sqm site on the Haymarket roundabout which is now with Fortius and Melbourne architecture firm Metier3.
</body></html>

Oliver Hume

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Oliver Hume

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News