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.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"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.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

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

Toorak

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A luxury Toorak mansion designed by architect Christopher Doyle has been listed for sale.
The Georgian style<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-toorak-124959850" target="_blank"> Forrest Court home</a> spans over three levels and sits in gardens landscaped by Paul Bangay.
Set on 693 sqm, the four bedroom, three bathroom home is designed with high ceilings and walls of glass to maximise space and light.
There's an expansive living and dining space that flows to a westerly garden terrace.
Melbourne Sotheby's International Realty agent Phillip French has the listing.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Toorak mansion designed by Christopher Doyle hits market

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A vacant Toorak block of land fetched $850,000 above reserve when four developers fought for the weekend auction offering.
It came with planning permits for the 658 square metre block at 7 Monomeath Avenue.
The approval was for two luxury townhouses.
Bidding opened a $2.8 million, RT Edgar’s Mark Wridgway who announced the lot on the market at $3 million.
It sold for $3.85 million.
It last sold for $3.6 million in 2015 and $2 million in 2010.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Toorak townhouse site sells for $3.85 million

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A four bedroom Toorak trophy home has been sold for $5.5 million, the highest priced result in Melbourne at the weekend auctions.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-toorak-124623202" target="_blank">684 Orrong Road</a>, the property is situated on 877 sqm of land on its Stradbroke Avenue corner lot.
It was marketed with a price guide of $4 million plus.
Built in 1923, the solid brick residence was marketed as available for immediate residency, renovation or development as apartments or townhouses.
It features beamed ceilings and timber floors that are displayed through the reception hall.
The living room has a wood fire heater and dining room opening to the private northwest garden that has a 12 meter solar heated lap pool.
The ground floor main bedroom has an en-suite, built in robes and a private courtyard that features a fish pond.
Toorak Village is within walking distance from the house which has undercover parking for five cars.
The property was offered through Marshall White agents Richard Mackinnon and Fraser Cahill.
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1920s Toorak house sold for $5.5 million

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Veteran Melbourne caterer Peter Rowland and wife Susan have listed their longtime Toorak mansion with $10 million hopes.
They been there for over three decades.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-toorak-124803974" target="_blank">The elegant Parisian style home</a> reflects the scale and symmetry of 18th century Île de France architecture complete with large banquet hall with antique limestone fireplaces.
Its facade was such a hit that a spate of copycat homes followed in the neighbourhood.
There's a private paved northeast garden with heated pool on the 748 sqm parcel.
It's got a hidden underground garage entrance beneath its tree lined driveway, described as 'James Bond-style' by the listing agents.
Inspired by the trapdoor spider, a lid lifts up on the pebbled driveway to reveal a slope down to the basement art gallery with six car garage.
Marshall White Armidale agents Justin Long and Nicholas Brooks have the offering.
The couple paid $1,175,000 in 1991.
Peter Rowland Catering has been a focal point of the Melbourne food culture for over five decades becoming synonymous with catering for the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian's Mansion Australia section.
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Veteran caterer Peter Rowland lists Toorak mansion

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The infrastructure executive, Netflow managing director Phil Dreaver has bought the Towers Road, Toorak mansion from rich listers Daniel and Danielle Besen.

The New Zealand-born Dreaver has been with one of Australia’s most successful infrastructure investors since 2005. Plenary and Cintra have recently combined to create a joint venture business, Netflow to compete in the Australia and New Zealand road infrastructure market.

As the chief investment officer for Plenary Australia, the 2005 founding director of Plenary Group North America relocated to Australia in 2015.

He had previously worked as a director in ABN AMRO Bank's Infrastructure Capital Group in Sydney, Toronto and Vancouver.

The $26.25 million deal, reported by The Australian, set Melbourne’s record residential price, bettering the $24.1 million set in July 2015 when Tony and Jennifer Smorgon sold their Robertson Street, Toorak home.

Daniel and Danielle Besen, who reportedly separated last year, are members of the billionaire family which founded retail chain Sussan.

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="2"><img alt="The Wood Marsh-designed home was marketed as representing the pinnacle of modern residential design." height="366" src="https://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/1f40a3ee60b9c0a40162bfe630a93768" width="650"></div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="2"> </div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="2">The Wood Marsh-designed home, marketed as representing the pinnacle of modern residential design, was never occupied by the Besen’s.</div>

The Besen’s put the Towers Road property on the market in October through Marshall White director Marcus Chiminello.

The property is set on a 2300 square metre block.

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3"><img alt="The home has four bedrooms and five bathrooms." height="366" src="https://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/96d0b8b8157b8aa4afc206876118dc0c" width="650"></div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3"> </div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3">Dreaver recently confirmed that Sydney’s WestConnex was a significant opportunity for the new business and would attract Netflow’s initial focus.</div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3"> </div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3">Plenary Group is an independent, long-term investor, developer and manager of public infrastructure with 41 projects worth more than A$29 billion across Australia, Canada and the US.</div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3"> </div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3">Plenary is currently developing some of Australia’s largest transport projects including the A$1.6 billion Toowoomba Second Range Crossing, the A$3.7 billion Sydney Metro Northwest and the A$2 billion High Capacity Metro Trains project in Melbourne.</div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3"> </div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3">Related Projects:</div>

<div class="story-image secondary-asset landscape zoomable zoom-on" data-pswp-uid="3">[smartcode_project:default project_id=600]</div>

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Toorak record price paid by Plenary's Phil Dreaver

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"Houses are my joy," the late Sydney socialite Lady Susan Renouf once said.
And the final chapter in her voluminous property tome was written after $5 million plus negotiations secured the weekend sale of her Toorak home.
It came an hour after being passed in on the one bid of $4.55 million. It didn't sell to the Chinese highest bidders, but another bidder who did not bid.  
Her Melbourne home, which was bought for $1.85 million from the Grimwade establishment family, reflected her return to family from her heady days in Sydney society.
Her many prior homes especially in Sydney and also across the world, along with various husbands, had catalpulted her into the headlines for many decades.
Foremost was The Nunnery, a 400-year-old mansion on the island tax haven, the Isle of Man, her home with the racehorse tycoon Robert Sangster.
They then bought at Point Piper, an 1930s home which she named Toison d'Or. She had the right to live in the house until she died or remarried.
That saw her next husband, Sir Frank Renouf secure the harbour front property, and he changed the name of the house to Paradis Sur Mer. 
After Frank and Susan divorced in 1988, she had Villa Balena, Whale Beach and then Darling Point. She's also owned the renowned English country garden Kennerton Green at Mittagong, in the Southern Highlands.
She once advised she was going to stay in Sydney "you play quite of lot of bridge and golf in Melbourne, and I'm not much good at either" but relocated back to Melbourne in the late 1990s, returning home to her daughters and grandchildren, who were among the 100 strong Kay &amp; Burton auction crowd.
At one stage she calculated she'd lived in 10 houses since Point Piper, but still thought about that house every day.
Renouf was so synonymous with homes that one year in the late 1980s, the good sport that she was, she opened the Sydney Home Show.
This article first appeared in the Sunday Telegraph.
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Lady Susan Renouf's Toorak trophy home sold post-auction

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The former ANZ boss Mike Smith and wife Maria have reportedly sold their Toorak mansion for close to $13 million.
The sale was $2 million less on the $15 million he was reportedly offered last year.
The Hopetoun Road deal fell through after the Chinese buyer failed to get Foreign Investment Review Board approval. 
It last traded in 2007 when bought from businessman John McMurrick $9.65 million.
There is no formal confirmation of the latest sale.
Smith confirmed to The Australian Financial Review last year that the first deal had fallen through and warned that Chinese nationals "have to understand" Australian laws.
Mike Smith put the five-bedroom house on the market in February last year. 
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Former ANZ boss Mike Smith sells Toorak trophy home

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There's a very strong offer on the table for Sark, the Toorak mansion owned by the retailing guru Mark McInnes and wife Lisa Kelly.
The Premier Investments chief executive only listed the 1930 English style home late last month.
And it was bought for $9.25 million only last May.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-toorak-124583774" target="_blank">Interest from $10 million</a> was quoted by Marshall White agents Marcus Chiminello and Nicole French.
Set on the exclusive Hopetoun Road, the six bedroom, three bathroom home is framed by a deep established garden with pool and spa on its 2023 sqm.
There's also a self-contained two storey cottage.
McInnes still maintains his three apartment North Bondi amalgamation that cost him a combined $7.1 million in 2007.
McInnes was made head of Premier Investments by the Melbourne billionaire Solomon Lew in 2011, having previously run David Jones in Sydney for seven years.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian's Mansions Australia section. 
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Strong offer made for Toorak mansion Sark

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The Toorak home of Melbourne society figure Lady Susan Renouf has hit the market following her death last year.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-toorak-124539974" target="_blank">Struan Street property</a>, which is expected to fetch $5 million, was bought by Renouf in 2005 for $1.85 million.
Following her purchase she renovated extensively, adding a conservatory to the three bedroom home with two living areas and a study.
The conservatory was one of her favourite parts of the home.
Kay &amp; Burton South Yarra agent Andrew Baines and Mark McKenzie have the home scheduled for a February 25 auction.
Andrew told the Herald Sun the property was in keeping with Renouf's famous elegant personality.
“We’ve described it as an elegant residence,” he said.
“We’ve used the word residence rather than home or house as it has a fairly dignified air and ambience.
“She’s decorated it … with a lot of style and quite a bit of individual flair as well.”
Renouf has owned properties as far as the Isle of Man, but she will be most known for owning Toison d'Or at Point Piper.
The Wolseley Crescent home was sold by her ex-banker husband Sir Frank Renouf for $19.2 million in 1988.
There was also her ownership of Villa Balena, the Whale Beach mansion that she sold for $1.85 million in 1993.
She's also once owned the renowned English country garden Kennerton Green at Mittagong, in the NSW Southern Highlands.
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Toorak home of the late Lady Susan Renouf for sale

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Rich listers Daniel and Danielle Besen have set a record Melbourne property market price with the sale of their Towers Road mansion in Toorak for around $26.2 million.
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<a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/9-towers-road-toorak-417854/" target="_blank">The trophy home</a>, designed by architects Wood Marsh, bettered the previous $24.1 million record set in July this year when Tony and Jennifer Smorgon sold on Robertson Street, Toorak.
Daniel and Danielle Besen - members of the family that founded women’s clothing giant Sussan - put 9 Towers Road property up for sale in October through Marshall White agent Marcus Chiminello.
No price reveal, but the $26 million was tipped by The Australian. Offers were due by December 12.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2016/12/20/Toorak-2.jpg" alt="">
Set on a 2300 square metre block, it has four bedrooms, each with ensuites, a library, a media room, a wine lounge which was a six year project.
The Wood Marsh home was marketed as representing the pinnacle of modern residential design and sports a sculpturally striking facade of raw textured concrete, scalloped in sweeping arcs.
Mrs Besen is off to a 1930s Arnauld Wright-designed Power Avenue home.
The previous state record of $26 million was held by Ilyuka, on the Portsea clofftop in 2010.
The year’s biggest single house sale was Point Piper's Altona, which sold for more than $60 million to locally-based Hunters Hill businessman Huang Jiaer, son of Chinese printing magnate Huang Bingwen, founder of Shantou Dongfeng Printing.
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