Melbourne’s City Circle tram loops past a dense matrix of culture, education and commerce, but few intersections offer as much access in so little walking distance as the northern end of King Street.

Here, Aspire Melbourne rises 64 storeys from the edge of Flagstaff Gardens, with immediate connectivity to tram and train networks, and pedestrian access to Queen Victoria Market, Marvel Stadium and Melbourne’s major university precincts.

Developed by ICD Property with design by Fraser &amp; Partners, Aspire Melbourne brings 570 apartments to one of the CBD’s most spatially balanced positions, directly between civic green space and key employment infrastructure.

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Everything from retail and dining to sporting events, art, theatre, and festivals, or the serenity of the city’s gardens, is within walking distance of Aspire.

Melbourne's thriving coffee culture is showcased in the CBD's cobblestoned laneways, with popular cafes such as Brother Baba Budan, Krimper, Stagger Lee's, Higher Ground, and Manchester Press all nearby.

For culinary enthusiasts, Melbourne offers a variety of dining experiences. Highly recommended establishments include Maha, Farmer's Daughter, Coda, and MoVida Next Door, offering everything from Middle Eastern dinners to a night out.

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Getting around Melbourne is as effortless as finding a great cup of coffee, thanks to the city’s clean, reliable and extensive public transport network. Aspire’s curved tower is a short walk from Melbourne Central Station, Southern Cross Station and the Free Tram Zone, offering seamless connections across the CBD and out to suburban precincts.

This inner-city accessibility is complemented by Aspire’s rare proximity to green space. The tower directly overlooks Flagstaff Gardens, the city’s oldest park, with Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens also nearby, framing the CBD in natural beauty.

Just 11 minutes on foot, Queen Victoria Market adds another layer of amenity. A longstanding hub of culture and commerce, it offers fresh produce, gourmet foods, artisanal goods and vibrant multicultural fare, all woven into the daily rhythm of city life.

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To the west, the CBD’s entertainment quarter features Marvel Stadium, just 750 metres from Aspire, ideal for sports fans and major events.

To the south, Crown Casino along the Yarra River offers entertainment, dining and family-friendly activities, accessible in under 10 minutes by tram.

The Arts Centre Melbourne, a hub for visual art, theatre, music and performance, is also within easy reach by public transport or car.

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For families looking to set up roots in the CBD, education options abound within a one-kilometre radius of Aspire.

The prestigious Haileybury opened its Melbourne CBD campus in January 2017 offering Melbourne's first Early Learning Centre to Year 12 private school campus in the CBD.&nbsp;

<a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North Melbourne</a> Primary School, South Melbourne Primary School, Ozford College, and Simonds Catholic College are among the other choices, while universities like Victoria University, La Trobe University, and Monash University are less than 600 metres away.

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A limited selection of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments remain for sale, with pricing starting from $647,000.

“The Melbourne CBD apartment market has evolved in response to both the strong growth of the overall city as well as the increasing attraction of the CBD which offers unique lifestyle appeal, especially to the fast-growing cohorts of young professionals and university students,” <a href="/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>&nbsp;Managing Director Residential Tim Storey said.

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Joel Robinson

On the fringe of Flagstaff Gardens: Aspire Melbourne's prime location

The onset of the pandemic was a tough time for developers across the country.

In Western Australia, development came to a grinding halt.

“There had been little to no increase in the cost to build for about 12 to 13 years before the pandemic,” Gavin Hawkins, Executive Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth’s premier developers, told Apartments.com.au.

“Everything then went up overnight. Costs escalated, and so did the prices buyers had to pay. Pair the cost increase with the lack of available builders, and any project worth upwards of $100 million had to be paused because it wasn’t feasible to deliver.”

There were also a series of builder insolvencies, while many tier-one firms shifted their focus away from residential towers. “A lot of the large builders had taken on major government contracts for hospitals, schools and transport infrastructure, which offered lower risk and steadier returns. That left very few willing or able to deliver large-scale apartment projects in WA,” Hawkins said.

As a solution-driven business, Edge decided they would bring construction in-house.

“The builder-developer model is a more common model in the eastern states, but it hasn’t really been done in WA before,” Hawkins says. In the middle of 2023, they established Edge Construction, hiring senior staff members from reputable tier-one builders.

“We showed them our pipeline of projects, which de-risked the process somewhat, and now we have a 45-strong construction team working across our six projects currently under construction.”

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Edge’s portfolio is arguably one of the most enviable in the state, with a diverse spread both geographically and in terms of density.

In Crawley, the team is approaching completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/broadway-on-the-bay-crawley-168-broadway-crawley-wa-6009">Broadway on the Bay</a>, just 21 riverfront apartments in an eight-level building. North of Crawley, Edge is also soon to complete <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/claytons-mindarie-beachfront-mindarie-50-alexandria-view-mindarie-wa-6030">Claytons Mindarie Beachfront</a>, an 89-residence community comprising apartments, penthouses, and two-storey townhouses.

One of Edge’s most notable developments is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-dunes-beachfront-residences-scarborough-1-reserve-street-scarborough-wa-6019">The Dunes</a>, a landmark project on the iconic Scarborough beachfront. Its 223 residences are spread across two buildings that will also feature a lagoon pool, wine cellar, and a series of formal and informal dining and lounge areas, reinforcing its positioning as one of the suburb’s most ambitious residential undertakings.

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Edge’s Fremantle project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/muse-at-artisan-place-fremantle-19-burt-street-fremantle-wa-6160">Muse at Artisan Place</a>, is also breaking new ground as the first, and most premium stage, of a new residential precinct in the city’s east end. They have two of the four buildings, Muse West and Muse East, under construction, which will deliver 153 of the broader Artisan Place precinct that will eventually comprise 277 residences.&nbsp;

Not forgetting the CBD fringe, Edge has also commenced the build of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumiere-south-perth-35-mends-street-south-perth-wa-6151">Lumiere</a>, a mix of 115 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments in a striking curved building by Hilliam Architects in South Perth. Lumiere also leans heavily on resident amenity, with an infinity heated pool with cabanas, a gym with a sauna and yoga deck, billiards room and cocktail bar, a residents’ lounge with fireplace and dining area, and a street-level café and wine bar.

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Edge is doubling down in South Perth, having recently acquired a site on Harper Terrace, the last privately held riverfront block in South Perth’s Mends Street precinct. Hawkins says the team had been working for years to secure the adjoining block, which had four separate owners in an original apartment building. Then the neighbouring cleared block came up for sale, allowing them to create a prized and unrepeatable 4,000 sqm-plus site.

The plan is to launch Harper on Swan, an 11-level building with around 71 apartments, mostly three-bedroom residences, to the market soon. Hawkins says the downsizer market in particular continues to be resilient in WA. “Now their homes are up to double what they were four years ago, and they are ready to take advantage of that and move into a new apartment,” Hawkins says.

“With strong population growth, full employment, and limited supply in the new apartment space, WA is well positioned heading into 2026.”

Edge’s portfolio is arguably one of the most enviable in the state, with a diverse spread both geographically and in terms of density.

How EDGE Visionary Living navigated the pandemic, and came out stronger: Five minutes with Gavin Hawkins

Construction has officially commenced at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/botanical-turner-2-forbes-street-turner-act-2612">Botanical Turner</a>, one of Canberra’s most anticipated new residential communities, with site works well underway in preparation for the piling rig to arrive in November. &nbsp;

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/amalgamated-property-group">Amalgamated Property Group</a> in partnership with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/base-developments">Base Developments</a>, Botanical Turner builds on the team’s proven track record of delivering landmark projects across Canberra and beyond. It is being brought to life by the highly respected team at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/milin-builders">Milin Builders</a>, known for delivering a number of award-winning projects across the ACT.&nbsp;

Almost 50 per cent of the residences have already sold during Stage 1, signalling both the strength of &nbsp;buyer confidence and the rarity of Botanical’s offering.

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Graham Potts, Principal and Founding Director of Amalgamated Property Group, said the market response affirms the vision for Botanical.&nbsp;

“To see construction now underway is a milestone for both our team and our buyers. Nearly half &nbsp;of the residences have been secured in this first stage, which validates our approach of creating &nbsp;homes that are both distinctive in design and generous in scale. Botanical is more than a &nbsp;residential project, it’s a contribution to the future of Canberra’s inner north, designed to hold its &nbsp;value for generations to come.”&nbsp;

Proving popular with owner-occupiers, Botanical Turner offers a broad range of floorplans with one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences designed for flexibility. The project has drawn the attention of downsizers in particular, who value the low upkeep, leafy inner-north location, and forward-thinking considerations for storage and functionality.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Designed by award-winning <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a> (2023 International Interior of the Year at World &nbsp;Architecture Festival and 2024 Premiers Prize at NSW Architecture Awards), Botanical Turner &nbsp;makes a statement in both presence and liveability. The building’s bold geometric form is layered in a palette of red brick, terracotta and crisp white.

Carefully integrated communal spaces, including a landscaped courtyard, arched walkways &nbsp;and open thoroughfares, give residents a sense of connection and ease, while the abundant &nbsp;amenities reflect the expectations of a discerning market backed by Amalgamated’s lifestyle-led approach. These include a concierge, indoor lap pool set among greenery, spa, sauna, &nbsp;steam room and a fully equipped gym.

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Keenan Veraar, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/lj-hooker-project-marketing-act-0">LJ Hooker</a>, said Botanical Turner has exceeded expectations in terms of demand.&nbsp;

“Botanical Turner has attracted strong early interest and I believe that is because of three key factors; its beautiful build form, the generous apartment sizes, and buyers know they are purchasing into a project backed by one of Canberra’s most respected development partnerships,"&nbsp;Veraar said.

"Amalgamated and Base have delivered time and again, and that consistency gives people confidence. SJB Architects has created outstanding projects interstate using similar &nbsp;tones and materials, all of which have been incredibly well received. That pedigree reassures &nbsp;our buyers that Botanical will set a new benchmark for Canberra.”&nbsp;

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Dennis Milin, Principal of Base Developments and Milin Builders, said construction progress is advancing on schedule.&nbsp;

“Off-site works and site servicing are nearing completion, with excavation and preparation for &nbsp;piling equipment in progress to allow for the commencement of basement earthworks," Milin says.

"With decades of delivery experience and a longstanding partnership with Amalgamated, we’re &nbsp;committed to bringing SJB’s vision for Botanical Turner to life. The project will be defined by the &nbsp;same uncompromising standards and attention to detail that underpin every one of our developments.”&nbsp;

Apartments at Botanical start from $600,000.

&nbsp;

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Construction commences at Botanical Turner as stage one reaches 50 per cent sold

Design-led property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/orchard-piper">Orchard Piper</a> has achieved $125 million in sales prior to publicly launching its latest Toorak Village development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-toorak-place-7-19-carters-avenue-toorak-vic-3142">One Toorak Place</a>, to market.

The milestone was reached with the sale of a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom apartment to a Toorak local for $13.75 million, achieving per square metre rates of $37,000.

Another notable recent transaction is the sale of a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom residence to Toorak local Paul Rosen for $12.65 million in July representing a square meter rate of $43,174.&nbsp;

In May, the development made history with the record-breaking penthouse sale of more than $20 million, to Group CEO at Accent Group Limited Daniel Agostinelli and his wife Lynette.&nbsp;

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Orchard Piper Director Luke McKie said the record breaking achievement and sales success reflects the demand for thoughtfully designed, luxury residences and the unique lifestyle proposition of a serviced residential building that offers the scale of a home, but with added lifestyle benefits, high security and amenity.

“The early purchasers of this project are very familiar faces to Orchard Piper. Many of them are Toorak locals who have waited years for the right project to buy into. They understand how rare this offering is, and trust us to deliver them an outstanding property.”&nbsp;

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Developed in collaboration with joint venture partner NPACT (a partnership between James Packer’s family office and Todd Nisbet), One Toorak Place introduces a new model of hotel-style residential living to the suburb.&nbsp;

Located at 7-11A and 17-19 Carters Avenue, the development includes a collection of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences and penthouses, boutique commercial suites, curated retail and an integrated hospitality precinct by acclaimed restaurateur Chris Lucas.

Delivered in his signature style, the precinct will be curated to reflect the spirit of the neighbourhood and the lifestyle of its residents. Lucas will also design a suite of bespoke services for residents of the building, including in-residence private dining, cellar concierge services and priority access to all Chris Lucas restaurants.&nbsp;

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/kerry-hill-architects">KHA (Kerry Hill Architects)</a>, residents will enjoy access to hotel-style five-star services and amenities, including concierge, a 25-metre lap pool, full-service gym, sauna, steam room, and hot and cold therapies. Also included are a dedicated resident lounge, resident meeting room, a golf simulator, and practical facilities such as dog-wash and car-wash bays.&nbsp;

One Toorak Place is Toorak’s largest planning approval to date, occupying the 3,589 sqm former Mercedes-Benz Toorak site. With a total of 5,000 sqm of premium land under development across two projects in Toorak Village, Orchard Piper’s contribution to the precinct is set to surpass $550 million in value, reinforcing its long-term commitment to design-led renewal in the area.&nbsp;

Construction on One Toorak Place is expected to commence towards the end of 2025.&nbsp;

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The development is now over 30 per cent sold by value in under three months, with significant sales including a record-breaking $20 million penthouse, and two four-bedroom apartments for $13.75 million and $12.65 million. 

Orchard Piper achieves $125 million in pre-launch sales at Packer-backed Toorak Village development

The first large-scale residential community built on the Gold Coast’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Isle of Capri</a> in more than 30 years is nearing sell-out, with limited villas now available in the exclusive island enclave.

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/monaco-property-group">Monaco Property Group</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/greyburn">Greyburn</a>, Capri Villas brings 48 architect-designed homes to one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after addresses. The gated community combines privacy, security and premium design in a central location.

Michael Kollosche, Managing Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/kollosche-new-projects">Kollosche</a>, said security and lifestyle are front of mind for today’s buyers.

“Capri Villas offers the comfort of a home, the convenience of a central location, and the confidence that comes with a gated community.”

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With only a handful of villas remaining, the sales momentum reflects both strong buyer demand for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Capri Villas</a> and a broader shortage of new, move-in-ready boutique homes on the Gold Coast.

The villas span two levels, each with three bedrooms, generous living areas and high-end finishes such as marble kitchens with Gaggenau appliances. Solid concrete construction underpins the design, while landscaped courtyards extend living spaces outdoors. Practical inclusions like secure garaging, ducted climate control and ample storage enhance everyday comfort.

Residents also have access to resort-style facilities within the gated grounds, including a swimming pool with cabanas and day beds, landscaped outdoor entertaining areas with barbecues, and a residents’ lounge.

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“Opportunities like this don’t come up often,” Kollosche added.

“Capri Villas combines security, design and location in a way that is rare on the Gold Coast and the level of interest we’re seeing reflects that.”

Isle of Capri is an island community tucked in behind Surfers Paradise, offering residents a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to the action. Linked to the beachfront by bridge, the suburb is favoured for its walkability, with Capri on Via Roma (including Harris Farm Markets) providing dining, cafes and essentials just 800 metres away. Beaches, restaurants and entertainment are close at hand, while transport connections add to the suburb’s appeal.

Capri Villas are located at 81 Salerno Street, Isle of Capri. Two-level, three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.4 million.

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Capri Villas approach sell-out following recent completion

Apartment Development

Buying a home is likely the biggest purchase one will make in their lifetime.

And while the off the plan property market is quickly tarnished in the media, the truth is less than one percent of developments across Australia will face extensive defects, and the chances of those coming from a reputable developer are slim to none.

But now prospective buyers will be able to buy with full confidence and transparency of who they are buying from. Data analytics house Equifax, backed by the NSW Government, have created an independent construction industry ratings tool, or iCIRT,&nbsp;a star rating outcome on a firm&rsquo;s capability and willingness to deliver reliable and trustworthy built assets.

Equifax do a full sweep of the developer or builder with a fine tooth comb, analyzing their&nbsp;full&nbsp;financial and development history,&nbsp;before they are given the accreditation.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias says it&#39;s great to have a list that allows consumers a way of verifying developers past just the marketing.

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&quot;Unfortunately, the industry has been plagued with bad press from a few bad players which has concerned buyers. It is important for the development industry as a whole to give confidence back to consumers so that off the plan sales can start to gain momentum. More importantly it gives consumers a choice when looking to purchase.&quot;

Elias acted swiftly to secure the status as soon as it was announced.

&quot;By becoming an early adopter, we believe it really demonstrates the confidence we have in our business and brand.&quot;

One of Sydney&#39;s most prominent developers, Deicorp, were another among the first to apply and secure their rating.

Deicorp Chief Financial Officer Bruce Rayner said the list is an incredibly valuable tool for purchasers.

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&quot;It&#39;s a simple, ready reckoner of which builders and developers have the confidence to submit their business for assessment,&quot; Rayner says.

Deicorp have developed and delivered over 8,000 apartments since 1999, and Rayner says they understand&nbsp;how important purchaser confidence is in the buying decision.

&quot;Anything that helps buyers have confidence in their choice is very positive,&quot; Rayner added.

Rayner says that already&nbsp;some buyers are looking for rated developers when buying off the plan.

&quot;Over time, it will commonplace for buyers to seek out developers who have achieved a positive rating.&quot;

Another who moved quickly was the North Sydney-based Made Property Group, who have been creating high-end, multi-residential developments across Sydney for over two decades.&nbsp;One of their most recent was Crenelle, the luxury Neutral Bay collection of just 11 house-sized apartments.

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Made also applied for the iCIRT rating&nbsp;soon as the accreditation was available.

&quot;We always had every intention of seeking to gain a rating as we see it as the most important new initiative in our industry in a long time,&quot; Made&#39;s Managing Director Davin Finn said.

&quot;Whilst the assessment was rigorous, time-consuming and thorough, if you have all the information, systems and processes ingrained in your business already and the performance history in place, it is a reasonably simple process. If you don&rsquo;t however, there is no hiding.&quot;

Finn said consumers deserve to have a high level of confidence and trust in their decision to purchase an off the plan property.

&quot;Purchasing a home is most likely the single biggest purchase anyone makes in their lifetime and to make the decision to purchase off the plan from a glossy brochure or display suite can seem a real leap of faith and can often feel like a gamble. It shouldn&rsquo;t ever be that way.&nbsp;It should be a time of excitement not trepidation or simply hoping for some luck.

&quot;The companies that achieve an iCIRT rating are the ones that have been proven to deliver on the marketing material promised at time of purchase.&quot;

<div>
Finn thinks it&#39;s crucial the industry promotes the existence of the rating system and advocates for consumers to deal with developers and builders from the list.&nbsp;

&quot;Whilst most purchasers will do their own due diligence, nothing can replace a rigorous and independent rating system which requires the industry to fully participate and engage and be marked on past performance, current and future capabilities, and open their financial books and businesses processes to a third party for assessment.

&quot;The independent rating system now provides a very useful tool for consumers to enable them to make informed decisions about who and what they choose to purchase and enable them to have confidence in that decision&quot;

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</div>

TOGA are currently working through the process. Their&nbsp;General Manager of Sales Anthony Falas says there will come a point in the future where people will only purchase off developers on the rating system, and everyone else will carry a risk having not been independently verified.

Dasco has been given a rating&nbsp;for its building arm, and is working through the process to get their developer status added. Platino Properties, who primarily develop in the lower north shore, also made the list.

Dasco&nbsp;General Manager, Martin Vaughan said the status&nbsp;is an important part of the group&#39;s future planning to be well-recognised not only by its industry peers, but also by the broader community.

&quot;DASCO has been an active participant in the industry since 1993. To be able to participate in the assessment process and be accredited by an independent body is important in maintaining our reputation for quality and security. To have been awarded a 4.5 Star rating is a significant achievement,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

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Vaughan&nbsp;outlined the assessment process as extremely rigorous, with&nbsp;an in-depth examination of all elements of Dasco&#39;s operation.

&quot;The Company was judged for its building quality and practices as well as its financial stability to provide an overall picture of the Company&rsquo;s recent and long-term performance,&quot; he added.&nbsp;

&quot;Dasco&#39;s Executive Directors&nbsp;saw this as an intrinsic step in demonstrating DASCO&rsquo;s credibility but also supporting the changes currently underway in the industry.&quot;

Vaughan said there were obvious benefits for the company to be highly rated by independent review, forming a significant part of the evaluation process for a potential buyer.&nbsp;

&quot;As more and more buyers become familiar with the rating system and understand it&rsquo;s reliability, it could become a significant list of reference to buyers seeking to by off-the-plan.&quot;

&quot;As the media and the NSW Building Commissioner continue to uncover more and more projects with structural issues, buyers will continue to feel apprehensive about buying off-the-plan unless a builder/developer has been deemed &lsquo;trustworthy&rsquo; by accredited parties,&quot; Vaughan said.&nbsp;

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Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias says it's great to have a list that allows consumers a way of verifying developers past just the marketing

How iCIRT is changing the off the plan industry for the better: The Sydney developers to first secure the accreditation

Plus Architecture has won the design competition for a $100 million two-tower development on the site of a former big-format retailer in Newcastle.

The redevelopment of the 4726 sqm site at 711 Hunter Street will comprise 267 apartments across two towers rising to 90 metres, as well as 1,400 sqm of commercial space.

Along with the City of Newcastle, prominent Newcastle developers St&nbsp;Hilliers&nbsp;Property and Spotlight Group partnered to run the design competition, which St&nbsp;Hilliers&nbsp;Property project director Paul Smith said had unearthed the best architectural talent and ideas for the prominent West End site.

&ldquo;The quality of architectural design presented by Plus Architecture is really impressive and we look forward to further refining the design by incorporating the jury&rsquo;s recommendations before proceeding to the next phase,&rdquo; Smith said.

&ldquo;With a development of this significance, we will work closely with Plus Architecture to set sustainability targets and quality design outcomes during the more detailed development application phase, including a focus on thermal comfort, energy, waste and water.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="897" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-17_at_9.45.00_am.png" width="1145" />

Unanimously selected, Plus Architecture&rsquo;s design included a &lsquo;meeting place&rsquo; concept, with a public domain to facilitate and encourage socialisation.

Plus Architecture Director Sumedh Kataria said that the news was a testament to Plus Architecture&#39;s vision, deep appreciation for community needs and team talent.

&ldquo;Projects that have the potential to change the face of a city, and its skyline into a new era, require an elevated element of design with beauty, form and end-use at the fore,&rdquo; Kataria said.

&ldquo;Our vision for this project is about creating a place that reflects the heart and soul of the city - past, future.

&ldquo;Plus Architecture&rsquo;s winning design concept is intended to deliver a development that celebrates its connection with place and country, adds to the richness of the urban fabric within which it sits and embraces its role as a key contributor to the city&rsquo;s future identity.&quot;

<a href="/new-apartments/711-hunter-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302"><img alt="" height="764" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-16_at_11.33.54_am.png" width="775" /></a>

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the architectural design competition had delivered design excellence for the redevelopment of 711 Hunter Street which will lead to positive outcomes for the city and a transformation of the city&rsquo;s skyline.

&ldquo;City of Newcastle congratulates Plus Architecture on their winning design and commends the joint venture partners, St&nbsp;Hilliers&nbsp;and The Spotlight Group, for their commitment to the ongoing revitalisation of Newcastle&#39;s West End,&rdquo;&nbsp;Nelmes&nbsp;said.

&ldquo;The construction associated with a redevelopment of this size will generate jobs and help buoy Newcastle&rsquo;s economy which is a positive as we come up against the ongoing impacts of&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;and look to the future.&rdquo;

Manager Regulatory, Planning and Assessment, Michelle Bisson said the competition will raise the benchmark of architectural design excellence in Newcastle.

&ldquo;Ongoing revitalisation and development is continuing to transform Newcastle particularly in the West End, and 2022 is shaping up to be another exciting and busy year for our city,&quot;&nbsp;Bisson&nbsp;said.

<img alt="" height="923" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-17_at_9.44.54_am.png" width="1442" />

&ldquo;Once constructed, 711 Hunter Street will boast a hallmark building that will stand the test of time for future generations to admire.&quot;

The architectural design competition was run by an independent jury process under the governance of City of Newcastle and the NSW Government Architect&#39;s Office. Consultants&nbsp;Urbis&nbsp;administered the design competition on behalf of property developers St&nbsp;Hilliers&nbsp;and The Spotlight Group.&nbsp;

The developers are expected to lodge a detailed development application for the site in the first half of this year.

The redevelopment of the 4726 sqm site at 711 Hunter Street will comprise 267 apartments across two towers rising to 90 metres, as well as 1,400 sqm of commercial space.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Plus Architecture take out Newcastle apartment development design competition 

The Brisbane billionaire John Van Lieshout has paid $5.7 million for a Newstead apartment development site.

The 1821sq m site at 14 Maud Street has approval for a nine storey residential tower with 52 apartments.&nbsp;

It will be integrated with the old Federal Boot Factory on its heritage 1012 sqm lot, with the retention and adaptive reuse of the Goldsworthy and Perkins Boot Factory heritage building into ground floor retail.

Known as Federal Residences, the development was designed by Joe Adsett Architects.

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The plans for Federal Residences. Source: Joe Adsett Architecture

The development approval was for an upmarket boutique 2 and 3 bedroom residential apartments in a precinct popular with both young professional and downsizer markets.

The split was aroound 30 &times; two (2) bedroom apartments and 22 &times; three (3) bedroom apartments.

The application sought 89 car spaces &ndash; 79 resident spaces and 10 residential visitor spaces in four basement levels

There was bicycle parking for 77 bicycle spaces.

The application sought a residents&#39; rooftop recreation deck with a pool, lounge area, outdoor dining, lawn area, cinema projection wall and decked auditorium seating.

&quot;It was an excellent opportunity to capitalise on a market with diminishing forecast unit supply and located in one of Brisbane&#39;s most exciting precincts underpinned by strong fundamentals and demographics,&quot; the marketing advised.

<img alt="" height="846" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/federal_3.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The plans for Federal Residences. Source: Joe Adsett Architecture

The Ray White marketing campaign generated 70 buyer inquiries from local and interstate developers and investors.

The site was previously sold for $4.18 million in July 2017 by Aspire HP which then secured the development approval.

It had been tightly held having sold at $135,000 in 1981.

Currently in the market in Newstead is Bide, the luxury owner-occupier development from Dibcorp.

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The Newstead residential development site has approval for a nine storey residential tower

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John Van Lieshout buys Newstead Federal Boot Factory apartment development site

Formerly a rugged industrial area, Melbourne’s inner-northwest has emerged into a cultural precinct, conveniently located on the edge of the CBD.

It has&nbsp;embraced the modern apartment movement with the&nbsp;neighbourhood's renovated warehouses and former factories&nbsp;reimagined to create a village atmosphere.&nbsp;

One of the area's newest development's is Volaire, the Cbus Property-developed block of 152 apartments across 10 levels.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2407 project_image_fid=77658]

Designed by Hayball, an award winning Australasian architectural practice,&nbsp;Volaire&nbsp;offers smartly-designed one and two-bedroom apartments with neutral interior tones and light-filled living spaces.

Situated at 9 Dryburgh Street, Volaire is a sleek and slender mid-rise that expertly utilizes space to provide residents with the ultimate in comfort and convenience.

With trendy coffee shops and wine bars nearby, Volaire caters to every Melbournians’ love for food, coffee and craft beer.

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Located in close proximity to the University of Melbourne campus and amongst renovated warehouses and former factories, the local surrounds boast a university-town vibe.

Sitting atop ground-floor retail and café spaces, this development stands out for its connectivity, located 100 metres from the entrance to the busy North Melbourne Station and one stop from the state’s principal transport hub.

It's&nbsp;a 20-minute walk from the Melbourne CBD or Docklands.

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Delivering seamless integration of the indoor and outdoor areas of each residence, generous private balconies feature floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and offer views of the bay, city and distant-ranges.

Boasting a stunning communal garden that offers breathtaking views situated on level six and dubbed “Sky Podium”, the outdoor space features both barbecue and lounge areas.

Formerly a rugged industrial area, Melbourne’s inner-northwest has emerged into a cultural precinct, conveniently located on the edge of the CBD

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Discover bustling West Melbourne in comfort from Volaire

Located in one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most established and culturally rich neighbourhoods, Lumi&eacute;re introduces elevated apartment living to the leafy locale of Carnegie.

Designed by T-A&nbsp;Square Architects,&nbsp;the expansive apartments perfectly reflect this atmosphere with the combination of abundant natural light and neutral colours evokes a warm inviting sensation&nbsp;

It is the latest from Asia One Pty Ltd,&nbsp;a boutique property development business based in Melbourne, another recent project of theirs Easton Residences in Mentone has sold out.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6690 project_image_fid=27323]

Lumi&eacute;re has a lot to offer with a multitude of options for transport, shopping, food, drink, education and well serviced amenities.

Carnegie station;&nbsp;just&nbsp;a few minutes walk away will get you to the city in 30 minutes plus&nbsp;Chadstone Shopping Centre is only a short drive down Dandenong Road.

From casual cafes serving breakfast, lunch and dinner to sophisticated; fine dining restaurants showcasing cuisines and wines from around the world at your doorstep on Koornang Road.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6690 project_image_fid=27325]

The kitchens are cleverly designed, equipped with an array of considered features from quality European appliances, large stone bench areas as well as effective integrated storage. Perfect for the home entertainer.

Equally impressive and just as luxurious; is the utilization of the natural Terrazzo flooring in both bathrooms and en-suites; elevating a detail more commonly overlooked.

Comprising just 19 units, the two bedrooms apartment are priced at&nbsp;$590,000.

Carnegie has a lot to offer with a multitude of options for transport, shopping, food, drink, education and well serviced amenities

Carnegie's Lumiére designed to take advantage of the leafy surrounds

The Brisbane-based Consolidated Properties Group chief executive and chairman Don O&rsquo;Rorke says his &ldquo;formula for apartments has changed pretty significantly&rdquo; following the pandemic.

The shift was especially in terms of offering more space.

O&#39;Rorke noted it was being implemented in its Yeerongpilly, Cornerstone Living project at Coopers Plains.

And also will be implmented at its Toowong project at 600 Coronation Drive on the former ABC riverside site.

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&ldquo;The simple fact of it is &mdash; convenience and accessibility is an important factor for almost all purchasers,&rdquo; Mr O&rsquo;Rorke told The Australian.

He recently noted supply concerns.

&quot;We are seeing new enquiries and I think there is recognition that the supply won&rsquo;t be there in the medium to long term.

&quot;So there&rsquo;s certainly no chance of an oversupply, and probably an undersupply across all sectors of the apartment market including both investors as well as owner occupiers,&quot; he told UDIA Queensland CEO Kirsty Chessher-Brown in a recent forum.

&quot;We are looking to be optimistic about things,&quot; O&#39;Rorke noted

He also noted that the HomeBuilder stimulus packages seemed to be targeted towards house and land, rather than apartments, adding &quot;house and land is very much a here and now experience, whereas apartments is a commitment to an acquisition in two years&rsquo; time, so there&rsquo;s a different sentiment running through that product.&quot;

The Queensland developer Don O’Rorke says the “formula" for post pandemic apartments needed to change pretty significantly

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Don O’Rorke says the “formula" for post pandemic apartments needed to change significantly

One of Australia’s most successful residential property developers, Meriton, has continued to make a significant impact on the property landscape in 2021.

Since its formation in 1963, Meriton has grown to become the nation’s largest apartment developer.

Founded by billionaire property entrepreneur Harry Triguboff, the developer is known for its sophisticated designs and high-quality apartments.

With developments all across NSW to choose from, Urban&nbsp;selected just four of the newest on offer across inner-city Sydney.

1.&nbsp;Orchid,&nbsp;Eastgardens 
Address: 9 Oscar Place,&nbsp;Eastgardens&nbsp;NSW 2036 
Two-bedroom apartments from $835,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29389 project_image_fid=85679]

Orchid is the final stage in Meriton's&nbsp;Pagewood Green, delivering 256 residences in various configurations.

Designed by PTW, the stunning interiors flow seamlessly from the indoor living area to outdoor entertaining balconies and terraces.

Rooftop garden retreats on Level 17 boast elevated dining pavilions, lush gardens and panoramic views.

Pagewood Green&nbsp;will boast its very own 6,000sqm retail precinct anchored by a major national supermarket and an array of supporting retailers including food, medical and leisure.&nbsp;

2.&nbsp;Polo Collection, Rosebery 
Address: 55 Rothschild Avenue, Rosebery NSW 2018 
Two-bedroom apartments from $710,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7588 project_image_fid=72298]

Set amongst tree-lined streets and only minutes from the CBD, Polo Collection pays homage to Rosebery’s industrial past while providing residents with a home&nbsp;of the future.

Polo Collection comprises 275 luxury apartments with grand proportions across four striking buildings.

Developed by&nbsp;Meriton, the project connects residents to the Sydney CBD, Green Square and the harbour as one of the city’s most connected inner-city suburbs.

Designed by&nbsp;SJB, the homes boast a modern and distinctive style, with floor-to-ceiling glass, expansive floorplans and views over Sweetacres Park. &nbsp;

3. Spectrum, Mascot 
Address: 42&nbsp;Church Avenue, Mascot NSW 2020 
Two-bedroom apartments from $1,025,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5873 project_image_fid=72323]

Secluded from busy roads on a prime corner position, Spectrum presents four boutique residential towers in Mascot.

Delivering 367 spacious apartments,&nbsp;Meriton’s new Bayside development features inspired design, ample storage and premium finishes.

Spectrum enjoys&nbsp;Due North&nbsp;and east views towards the Sydney city skyline, as well as resort-style amenities, including a gym and sauna.

The site is located in close proximity to beautiful parks and podium gardens.

4. Viola, Eastgardens 
Address: 3 Finch Drive, Eastgardens NSW 2036 
Two-bedroom apartments from $995,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29390 project_image_fid=85686]

Viola is the third stage in&nbsp;the Pagewood Green master-planned community described by Meriton's Harry Triguboff as his most ambitious project in 50 years.

Designed by&nbsp;Fox Johnston, it combines&nbsp;luxurious oversized apartments with never-to-be-built-out views of the city and championship golf courses offering buyers a rare opportunity to purchase their dream property in the affluent eastern suburbs of Sydney.

Offering a superb collection of 175 apartments over 16 levels designed for a lifetime of quality and comfort, resort style facilities include an indoor pool, spa and sauna, fully equipped gymnasium, onsite childcare centres and onsite supermarket, retail shops and cafes.

Urban takes a closer look at what is on offer across the Meriton range in Sydney's inner circle.

The best of Meriton's inner-city Sydney apartments

One Coburg Quarter is set to be the newest sought-after address in the north Melbourne suburb when it is completed next month.

The project, developed by Future Estate and designed by architecture firm Rothelowman, only has a very limited number of its one and two bedroom apartments left, with residents moving next month after a three and a half year build.

Here are 7 things we love about the&nbsp;soon to be completed&nbsp;One Coburg Quarter:

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=28885]

<h2>1. Delivered by a forward thinking&nbsp;developer</h2>

Future Estate&nbsp;is a Melbourne based property development firm with a forward thinking mindset.

With over $1billion worth of projects under development and a portfolio spanning the eastern seaboard of Australia, Future Estate is one of the country’s most progressive privately-owned developers.

They are currently focusing on Parc Vue with the recently completed Parc Vue at Bundoora and Botanic At Parc Vue underway.

<h2>2. Designed by&nbsp;award winning&nbsp;Architecture firm Rothelowan</h2>

With an&nbsp;intelligence-driven approach has recognised for creating high-quality, innovative designs across a range of sectors and project types, Rothelowman has done a stellar job at One Coburg Quarter.

Managing not only a stunning facade that incorporates the bluestone walls which were once part of the Pentridge Prison that was on the site but also creating a village feel in an urban context.

Other works the award winning firm is involved in at the moment include, Canvas, Hawthorn Park and Port Lane.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=147461]

<h2>3. Historical Significance</h2>

One of the most unique elements of One&nbsp;Coburg Quarter&nbsp;is that it incorporates the bluestone walls which were once part of the Pentridge Prison which once sat on the site.

Her Majesty's Prison Pentridge&nbsp;was an&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;prison that was first established in 1851 and was closed in&nbsp;1997. One&nbsp;Coburg Quarter&nbsp;developer&nbsp;Future Estate&nbsp;bought&nbsp;site for $4 million in 2014 and sold it for $12.8 million in 2017.&nbsp;Future Estate&nbsp;retain a further 4.2 hectares which is part of their masterplan mixed-use community hub.

<h2>4. Location Location Location</h2>

Ideally placed to take advantage of both the&nbsp;city just a short commute away as well as more local secrets.

One&nbsp;Coburg Quarter&nbsp;has a 9/10 walk score, with a fantastic selection of shops, cafes, parks and public transport at your doorstep.

Rising on&nbsp;Urquhart Street, Coburg is surrounded by the old Pentridge Prison site, Coburg Town Hall, the farmers market and a multitude of eclectic cafes and restaurants.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=144843]

<h2>5. Amenities on offer</h2>

Some of the luxuries on offer in the development include&nbsp;access to&nbsp;a residents’ bar and lounge with a stone wall built-in fireplace, a kitchen and a library, as well as&nbsp;a sky garden with a barbecue, seating and city views on the top level.

Supermarkets, cafes, schools, medical clinics and multiple public transport options are just a few short steps from your front doorstep.

Plus just a couple hundred metres away are a choice selection of primary and secondary schools.

<h2>6. Timeless Design</h2>

On offer are a selection of one and two-bedroom floorplans, each with state-of-the-art kitchens. Mirrored splashbacks, integrated appliances and 4-burner gas hobs can be found in all kitchens. Matte black tapware and minimalist sinks, add a sense of timeless modernity.

The living areas feature pale timber flooring and are filled with plenty of natural light. The open plan layout gives you the flexibility to customise the space to your liking and entertain with ease.

The bathrooms also exude style – with matte black fittings, integrated vanity storage and LED lighting.

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<h2>7. Affordable Priced&nbsp;</h2>

There are 148 one and two bedroom apartments across the eight-level tower, starting from $351,000 for a 50 sqm one bedder with a storage cage.

The bigger one bedroom apartments, closer to 60 sqm, start from $469,000 with their own parking spots.

The project, developed by Future Estate and designed by architecture firm Rothelowman, only has a very limited number of its one and two bedroom apartments left, so don't miss out

Seven things Urban love about One Coburg Quarter

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A block of 12 two bedroom units has been listed in one line in South Yarra.

The complex is being marketed for April auction as having a potential annual income of $265,000.

The Darling Street offering has been listed through Bill Cook at Williams Batters with a $6 million to $6.6 million price guide. 

The land holding is 624 sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=600]

South Yarra has a $620,000 median price for apartments, according to realestate.com.au, with a compound growth rate of 0.7% for units over the past five years.

The typical South Yarra units rents for $410 a week with a rental yield of 3.4%. 
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The block of 12 apartments is marketed as having a potential annual income of $265,000

South Yarra block of 12 apartment listed with $6 million plus hopes

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With Melbourne’s best beaches at Half Moon Bay just two kilometres away, Blueprint Projects’ Sandy Hill Penthouse provides the ideal coastal getaway from busy city living.

Sandy Hill Penthouse is located in Melbourne's bayside area of Sandringham, offering residents unparalleled access to world-class amenities and timeless design by Watson Young Architects. 

With so much to love about Sandringham, overlook it all from wrap-around terrace that boasts stunning views out to the bay, city and Dandenong Ranges. 

Here are Urban's five favorite things about Sandringham:

[smartcode_project:default project_id=324]

<h2>1. Location ideal for work-life balance</h2>

Just 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD via Nepean Highway, and an hour to Mornington Peninsula, Sandy Hill could offer the perfect work-life balance, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy being on the water or amongst nature on the weekends.

Sandy Hill Penthouse in Melbourne's bayside suburb of Sandringham offers some of the most varied amenities within just two kilometres from its sought-after Bay Road location.

The residences are located in the sought after bayside area of Sandringham, with world-class amenities within walking distance from the property. 

<h2>2. Lavish Interiors</h2>

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The attention to detail of these properties is meticulous. Kitchens feature exquisite marble benchtops and splashbacks with five-burner gas hobs and lavish island breakfast bars.

Plus parquetry flooring can be found throughout the home, with built-in fireplaces creating a cosy atmosphere to sit back, relax and enjoy the panoramic views through the expansive stacker slider doors which also extend to a private balcony.

Bathrooms feature dual vanities, with stylish oval vanity mirrors and timber joinery. The walk-in shower is fully tiled, with a built-in shower nook and rainfall showerhead. 

<h2>3. Luxurious amenities inside and out</h2>

Residents will have exclusive access to a range of shared amenities, including dining facilities, a full gymnasium with state-of-the-art equipment and a stunning resort-style swimming pool.

The amenities start immediately without leaving the building, with an IGA conveniently located on the ground level of the block.

Heading east, or right, out of the front doors down Bay Road, immediately next door is the lush Bay Road Reserve and Bay Road Heathland Sanctuary, the latter protected by the City of Sandringham council as it is one of the last remaining areas of the iconic "Sandringham Flora" that once covered Melbourne's south east.

Just over 500 metres away is Fitness First, although there's a resident's only fully-equipped gym and infinity pool in the block. 

<h2>4. Enjoy the view from every room</h2>

<a href="/buildings/sandy-hill-penthouse-222-bay-road-sandringham" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sandy_hill_balcony.jpg"></a>

Luxury living has been redefined, with sensational panoramic vistas from every room, and large open plan living areas providing ample space for entertaining. 

Overlook the beautiful bay from your wrap-around terrace that boasts stunning views out to the city and Dandenong Ranges. 

<h2>5. Everything else on offer nearby</h2>

Exit to the east and on Bay Road is Bad Shepherd Brewing Co., on the corner of Bay and Reserve Road, which is just 1.3 kilometres away.

At the end of Bay Road is Westfield Southland which homes around 400 retailers.

Coming out of Sandy Hill Penthouse and turning left to the west there's a 7-eleven on the way to a short two-kilometre trip to Sandringham Station, which from there is less than a 30-minute commute into the city centre.

That's located at the south end of Sandringham Beach where there's a string of near beachside restaurants and cafe's including The Sandy, Port of Call and Black Squirrel Cafe.

Just one street behind Sandy Hill Penthouse is Sandringham College, more greenery with Merindah Park which is a few minutes away you'll find a mini golf course and a golf driving range.
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Just 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD via Nepean Highway, and an hour to Mornington Peninsula, Sandy Hill could offer the perfect work-life balance for you and yours

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