National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

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]

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

Victoria

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Andrew Douglas McClure from Cheltehnham, Victoria, has received a five year ban after submitting falsified documents, including false accountant’s letters, as supporting evidence for home loan applications.
An ASIC investigation discovered that in 2010, McClure was referred applications from Money Choice Pty Ltd, which he processed. Money Choice’s credit licence was <a href="/news/property-investment-smsf-spruiker-matthew-george-director-of-money-choice-banned-by-asic-for-multiple-compliance-failures">banned in 2013, as well as director Matthew George given an eight year ban</a> for home loan related misconduct.
However, McClure was found by ASIC to have submitted false letters and unverified documentation in support of three loans that Money Choice referred to him. He had been a credit representative at RAMS Financial Group Pty Ltd from 1 July 2010 to 8 August 2011.
McClure admitted to creating and then submitting the false letters in relation to non-Money Choice customers as well, on four home loans in 2010 and early-2011, actions which deputy chairman Peter Kell said puts consumers in financial difficulty should they find they cannot afford them in the long run.
“We will act to ensure those who engage in this conduct are removed from the industry,” said Kell.
McClure does have right of appeal.
ASIC has been active in assisting in the conviction and banning of mortgage brokers who fraudulently submit loan documents, including a case in December of <a href="/expert-insights/mortgage-broker-convicted-of-providing-banks-false-info-to-secure-7-5m-of-loans-asic">Dural, New South Wales broker Hee Seng Lee, who secured $7.5 million of loans using falsified documents</a>.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

False accountant letters and loan documents sees ASIC dole out five year ban

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The year-to-date Melbourne wide auction clearance rate is 71%, but many suburbs are recording weak auction results.
Property Observer lists 10 of the weakest suburbs with 20 plus auction offerings so far this year.
<ul>
<li>
<a href="/news">Dandenong</a> 36 offerings 50% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Frankston </a>26 offerings 50% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Mt Eliza</a> 20 offerings 50% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Rye</a> 46 offerings 48% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">St Albans</a> 32 offerings 46% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Dandenong North</a> 31 offerings 45% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Maribyrnong</a> 55 offerings 40% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Portsea</a> 25 offering 36% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Greenvale</a> 20 offerings 30% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">South Morang</a> 21 offerings 28% sold
</li>
</ul>
Source: <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/en/Property-Research/Auctions/Clearance-rates" target="_blank">REIV</a>
It is not to say that auctions don't work as <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/penola-drive-south-morang/Property-Details-sold-residential-6600915" target="_blank">a seven year old South Morang house</a> (pictured above) was snapped up ahead of last weekend's auction. 
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/32-skyline-drive-south-morang/Property-Details-buy-residential-6656905" target="_blank">In May $410,000 plus buyers</a> are being sought for a four bedroom two bathroom house on Skyline Drive.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Melbourne's 10 weakest auction suburbs reveals tepid South Morang auction buyers

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Cunana, the iconic property situated in Merricks, has been relisted but with subdued hopes reflecting the malaise which is the prestige Mornington Peninsula property market.
It came with $12 million plus hopes in late 2011, <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3509-frankston-flinders-road-merricks/Property-Details-buy-residential-5537395" target="_blank">and now relisted through Jock Langley, of Abercromby's</a>, there's $6 million plus expectations for its 18 May auction.
It was completed in 2007, after four years of planning and construction, to a design by architect Alfred de Bruyne of SJB Architects, with SJB Interiors completing the interior design.
<a href="https://www.cunana-merricks.com" target="_blank">It got its own website</a> on its 2011 offering.
There are just the seven listings in Merricks, but RP Data notes 1,400 house listings currently for sale across the peninsula.
The house sits in 11 hectares of land on one of the highest points of the peninsula and includes two hectares of landscaped gardens, orchards and a vegetable garden. There is also croquet lawn and a boule court.
Its deluxe design was no doubt influenced by the vendor, Peter Edwards who held a senior position at a leading luxury hotel and resort group for many years.
Extensive use of glass had created an intimate relationship between the house and its surroundings. The three glass sides offer three different views of the ocean, vineyards and rolling hills.
Rammed earth bricks, which were made on site using Victorian earth and clay, have been juxtaposed with glass to create clean lines and an original design. Grey ironbark has been used throughout the house, including the flooring timber, bookshelves and pool surround.
The highly skilled art of Venetian stucco work has been applied to the internal walls to give the plaster a marble-like sheen. The property sleeps 14 people, including a master suite with dressing room and two self-contained apartments, which would be suitable for families, long-term guests or live-in staff.
Five kitchens and two large terraces offer entertaining opportunities. There’s an indoor pool, gym, and games room complete with arcade machines and a private cinema.
The district's last big sale was last year when <a href="/news/vic/jacks-ridge-the-merricks-north-vineyard-sells">Jacks Ridge</a>, the Merricks North house designed by Robert Boyle, was sold by the Jack family.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-merricks+north-112179975" target="_blank">The 18-hectare Junction Road property </a>has elegant parklands, along with extensive beds of roses and perennials, Manchurian pear avenue, a box-bordered English lavender parterre and croquet lawn and golf green.
The stone-and-timber four-bedroom house with wrap-around veranda overlooks vineyards and Port Phillip Bay in the distance.
There are vineyards of chardonnay on one side of the homestead and pinot noir on the other. The vines were planted around 1996. The Mornington Peninsula property comes with guest accomodation.
<a href="https://www.jacksridge.com.au/" target="_blank">Fletchers Canterbury agent Rob Fletcher </a>had $6 million hopes, with its sale price revealing $4.8 million to insurance broking veteran Brian Austin.
An earlier version of this article incorrectly gave a prior conjunctional agent.
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Cunana, Merricks relisted with subdued hopes given Mornington Peninsula prestige malaise

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No sale yet for Namatjira, former champion surfer Wayne Lynch's Victoria coastal family haven.
The surfing icon Wayne Lynch is selling the Great Ocean Road, which sits about halfway between Anglesea and Airey's Inlet at Urquhart Bluff.
Married to Lindy with two children, Jarrah and Merinda, <a href="https://www.hayden.com.au/view.cfm?OID=6486901&amp;tp=432_view" target="_blank">Namatjira</a>, has been in the family for 35 years. 
But Lynch, who works for surfwear brand Patagonia, is apparently considering a move to the NSW north coast of NSW.
The three-level house with expansive coastal views sits on 4.45 hectares of protected natural bush at 765 Great Ocean Road. There is a three bedroom house plus separate three-bedroom bungalow.
Marius Tekin, of Hayden Real Estate, has had it listed for $3,995,000 since January this year.
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Surfing champion Wayne Lynch lists Angelsea and looks north

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Permanent height restrictions have been introduced for buildings in areas to the west and southwest of Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance.
After introducing interim and discretionary controls for the area, the Victorian government has now permanently installed mandatory planning controls for the South Melbourne precinct.
Maximum heights for buildings will depend on their location, but will reportedly range from six to about 17 storeys, according to the Herald Sun.
The new restrictions introduced by Victorian Planning Minister Matthew Guy were developed in consultation with the Shrine Trustees and the cities of Melbourne, Port Phillip and Stonnington.
 “The Shrine of Remembrance is an incredibly important memorial to the servicemen and women who gave their lives for all of us, and is a special place for all Australians, young and old,” said Guy.
“The Shrine itself has a special location in Melbourne and it is vital to preserve the spectacular and uninterrupted views you get as you look up from Swanston Street or walk through the forecourt.”
One of Guy’s first acts in his role as Planning Minister was an intervention blocking the development of a proposed 88 metre tower on Albert Road.
“These new controls recognise and respect the significance of one of Australia’s most recognisable and lost loved structures and will protect its integrity from the possible impact of external development,” said Guy.
“By mandating limits on the height and location of nearby buildings, we are ensuring that the view and backdrop of the Shrine is preserved forever.”
Shrine Trustees chief executive Denis Baguley has welcomed the new restrictions, announced in time for Anzac Day.
“These new controls recognise and respect the significance of one of Australia’s most recognisable and most loved structures, and will protect its integrity from the possible impact of external development.”
Picture courtesy of Wikipedia/Creative Commons.
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The Shrine of Remembrance to be permanently protected under new planning controls

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Australian investors have a rare opportunity to own their own golf course. 
Two of Australia’s most prominent coastal golf courses - Moonah Links and The Sands Torquay in Victoria - have just hit the market either individually or as a combined package.
Moonah Links, known in international golfing circles as the “Home of Australian Golf”, is less than one and a half hour’s drive from Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula, near Gunnamatta Beach. 
The estate features two 18-hole championship golf courses. Prominent golfer Peter Thomson designed Open course that hosted both the 2003 and 2005 Australian Opens.
The adjoining elite golf academy has world-class training facilities and accommodation villas. The property also benefits from a Peppers-managed hotel with 36 suites and 52 rooms and includes a club house with restaurant and conference facilities. The site also includes additional development land with attendant permits.
Opened in 2004, the Sands Torquay, located on the northern headland of Torquay, features the only Stuart Appleby-designed championship 18-hole golf course, as well as a large modern club house.
An 112-suite Peppers-managed hotel is also on the site and includes restaurant and conference facilities. The property also benefits from a separately operated Health Club business with a 25-metre indoor pool, two tennis courts and gymnasium facilities. Included in the sale is the Englobo development site of about 4,000 square metres.
CBRE's Scott Callow and Rob Cross are marketing the property on behalf of  the Handbury Group. 
“Handbury Group has been approached on numerous occasions by prospective purchasers for both the golf and hotel assets", said Callow.
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Two of the country's most prominent golf courses up for sale

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The Former State Bank of Seddon in Melbourne's Seddon will go under the hammer next month, with price expectations of more than $1 million.
The 30 Pentland Parade property is over 90 years old and is currently used as a meeting space, conference hall and residence. It has been owned by the Grand Lodge of Victoria for the past 25 years.
In the 70s the bank became famous in the national news when the branch was robbed by two armed bandits taking away a sum of $1,375 dollars.
The bank manager at the time was quick on his feet by dropping a dye capsule into the bag of money. The bandits then took a parting shot at the ceiling before fleeing. The original bank vault is still in the property.
The property is set on a large corner block of 470 square metres and includes a large front reception area, eight rooms including four bedrooms, two kitchens, one bathroom and three separate toilets. It also comprises parking for six cars.
The building goes to auction on 24 May through Hayden Kay of Barry Plant Yarraville.
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The Former State Bank of Seddon to go under the hammer next month

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The receivership sale of Heritage Golf and Country Club in the Yarra Valley’s Chirnside Park, north-east of Melbourne, has secured $17.8 million, just over half its over-inflated $30 million book value.
The two golf course, 230 hectare property has been bought by HGC Properties, a company directed by Melbourne accountant Sam Cimino, with its only shareholder being, Fly Group Limited, an entity without any directorial paperwork which is understood to have origins in China.
Scott Callow and Mark Wizel of CBRE Hotels negotiated the sale on behalf of the receivers PKF Lawler in conjunction with Michael Hede of Knight Frank. 
"We are certainly in a different cycle of commercial property when golf courses are quickly selling," Mark Wizel told Property Observer.
"Banks have an increased preparedness to lend on non-core assets.
"There is Chinese buying appetite for leisure property, not just the residential projects that have been the dominant desire to date," Mark Wizel said.
The Jack Nicklaus-designed St John golf course ranks among the best golf courses in Australia. The property is located on the Yarra River near Chirnside Park and has two 18 hole golf courses (the St John Course, south side designed by Jack Nicklaus in 1996) along with the Henley Course, on its north side designed by Tony Cashmore in 2002.
The property included townhouse development land and residential lots (STCA). 
Heritage Golf &amp; Country Club has a strong established membership base with 1,394 members. It hosted the Victorian PGA Tournament in February this year. 
There were about 47,500 golf rounds by played annually.
<a href="https://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-chirnside+park-501095227" target="_blank">Heritage Golf and Country Club</a> was under the control of the Melbourne businessman and property developer Guo Zhao “Sunny” Sun.
Mr Sun acquired the golf estate around 2011 at just short of $15 million. But he subsequently became embroiled in a Victorian Supreme Court dispute with business partner Wang Hua, China’s 790th richest person, over control of the country club, as reported by Fairfax Media.
A court ordered followed that Heritage Golf and Country Club Pty Ltd be wound-up with the creditors owed $13.8 million, according to a News Ltd report which suggested one creditor, the Alter family, through its Austpac Funds Management, unsuccessfully proposed a deed of company arrangement.
Sun had purchased the property from receivers to the Letten Schemes, a series of property investment funds established by Mark Letten that fell apart during the global financial crisis.
Wang Hua and Mr Sun founded residential development company Kingsland Group, which has built small-scale townhouse and apartment developments in Melbourne since around 2003.
Wang Hua, from the Jeshing Group, was <a href="/news/offshore-buyer-secures-16-st-georges-road-toorak-from-peter-devitt-in-circa-20-million-sale">the mystery buyer who spent $18.58 million last year</a> on the Toorak estate of the director of construction company L.U. Simon Peter Devitt through Kay &amp; Burton agent Ross Savas (pictured below), in the name of his wife, Xiao "Kylie" Yan Bao, who received an Australian visa in 2001. She had bought a mansion on Irving Road, Toorak for $3,399,000 in 2003.
<img src="/images/stories/flexicontent/l_toorak-sept-23-breakout.jpg" alt="Offshore buyer secures 16 St Georges Road, Toorak from Peter Devitt in circa $20 million sale">
Private homes overlooking the course have been sold over the years, with Fletchers currently having a three bedroom townhouse offering on Turnberry Lane (pictured below). <a href="https://www.1turnberrylanechirnsidepark.com" target="_blank">It had $1.3 million hopes</a>, after being passed in at $1.05 million at auction last month. Its vendor is not connected to the golf course ownership.
<img src="/images/2014/04/23/chirnside%20april%2023%20one.jpg" alt="">
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Jack Nicklaus-designed St John course at Heritage Golf and Country Club, Chirnside Park sold

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Eight vacant waterfront building blocks at Paynesville were sold at weekend mortgagee auction.
Under instructions from Gippsland Secured Investments Ltd, <a href="https://www.castran.com.au/index.cfm?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2618010" target="_blank">the Driftwood Close properties</a> (pictured above) sold through John Castran at John H Castran. Three sold at undisclosed pre-auction prices, with the five under the hammer selling for between $230,000 and $308,000.  
There was an earlier mortgagee auction in January in the holiday town which attracted strong interest from Melbourne buyers which was tipped to spark a local building boom.
The holdings, about three hours drive from Melbourne, were part of Riviera Properties, which was placed in voluntary administration in September last year after principal lender Gippsland Secured Investments collapsed.
GSI had about $150 million under management and 3,500 investors, many of them from the eastern Victorian locality.   
There was a $517,500 sale at Rye when 57 Bimbiang Crescent sold through Craig Evans at Hockingstuart Blairgowrie. It previously traded at $580,000 in 2010 with the property recently been connected to the sewerage system.
Set a short walk to the Tyrone foreshore safe sandy beach, the elevated three bedroom, two storey beach house was on a 1,169 square metre block. 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+martha-116494971" target="_blank">There was a $1.32 million sale at Mount Martha of a contemporary home</a> (pictured below) through McEwing Partners.
<img src="/images/2014/04/22/mount%20martha%20april%2022%20one.jpg" alt="">
At Ocean Grove a three bedroom house on an 816 square metre Epworth Street block fetched $515,000 through RT Edgar. It had last sold about three decades ago for around $40,000.
There was a $3.5 million vendor bid when the landmark Point Lonsdale cottage, Samarai went to weekend Easter auction.
The Ramsay family's Edwardian home (pictured below) is set on 1,100 square metres, last sold in the mid-1980s when bought from the Wortley's for around $240,000. 
It's been offered <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/149-point-lonsdale-road-point-lonsdale/Property-Details-buy-residential-6827429" target="_blank">through Damian Cayzer at Kerleys Coastal Real Estate</a> who expected $3.5 million plus for the 149 Point Lonsdale Road offering with easterly view.
<img src="/images/2014/04/22/point%20lonsdale%20april%2022%20pne.jpg" alt="">
The 60 Frimmell Way, Portsea offering - marketed as an affordable charming cottage style offering through Little Residential - was passed in at $725,000.
Looking like a mountain hut, <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/31-seaview-street-blairgowrie/Property-Details-sold-residential-6820083" target="_blank">31 Seaview Street, Blairgowrie</a> (pictured below) fetched $502,500 through Hockingstuart Blairgowrie agent Michael Christodoulou. The four-bedroom timber home is spread over three levels on its 766 square metre block.
<img src="/images/2014/04/22/blairgowrie%20april%2022%20opne.jpg" alt="">
Sales were not just on the coast.
At Dinner Plains in the mountains, the<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3-5-burrinjuck-lane-dinner-plain/Property-Details-buy-residential-6849967" target="_blank"> mortgagee auction of a three level three bedroom two bathroom townhouse</a> (pictured below) secured $231,500.
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dinner%20plain%20april%2017.jpg" alt="">
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Paynesville leads Victorian Easter weekend coastal auctions with eight sales 

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Land which was part of bushranger Ned Kelly's family farm has been listed for sale in Avenel, north-east of Melbourne.
Paul Bongiorno, of Mansfield Real Estate, is selling three blocks of land.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-vic-avenel-200850143" target="_blank">They were part of a 40 acre dairy farm rented by the Kellys from 1864 to 1867</a> at £14 a year to the landlady Elisabeth Mutton.
Each of the three 2.02-hectare blocks - located at Lot 2, Lot 3 and Lot 4 Hovell Street - is listed with a $225,000 asking price.
<img src="/images/2014/04/22/avenel-april-22-two.jpg" alt="">
Town water and power is available on sites at the corner of Ewings Road.
Ned was born at his father's farm on the southern slopes of Mount Fraser at Beveridge before going to Avenel. 
<img src="/images/2014/04/22/avenel-april-22-one.jpg" alt="">
One of the strongest links with the Kelly clan is the Avenel pub, near Hughes Creek where the 11-year-old Ned jumped into a deep waterhole to save the life of young Richard Shelton.
Ned's father, John (Red) Kelly, is buried in Avenel cemetery after he was killed by an alcohol  at the age of 46, leaving his wife, Ellen with seven children under 13. His death, in December 1866, meant his widow then moved to Greta to be closer to her family. She married a second time and lived at Greta until when aged over ninety years she died at Wangaratta Hospital in 1923. 
"The deeds of the Kelly gang when they were outlawed in 1878, naturally caused great excitement at Avenel, especially among their old schoolmates and friends of the family.
"No one would hear a word against them, considered that the Kelly’s boys were victims of circumstances which drove them to desperate deeds," <a href="https://maps.bonzle.com/c/a?a=p&amp;p=176&amp;d=stories&amp;story=1967555288" target="_blank">one amateur historian noted</a>.
The former mayor of the Shire of Strathbogie, Robin Steers formerly owned 60 hectares with some of the land near Jessop's Bridge on the town boundary which was where the Kelly house used to stand.
William Henry Mutton and his wife, Elisabeth, were immigrants, who had arrived at Melbourne, in the ship, Lady Loch in 1846 from Cornwall. He was 24 when he arrived in Avenel with his bride Elizabeth Locke, of the Jersey Islands, who was of French descent.
They had initially settled in Seymour, soon after their arrival in the colony, but had suffered losses in disastrous floods, deciding to move further north along the Old Sydney Road to Hughes Creek, on the Avenel  Run, where the government was offering Crown land for sale in 1849.
Mutton also opened a blacksmith’s shop, the first business in the township, and later opened a general store.
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