A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Beachfront

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Starring across television, film and the stage, Wendy Hughes was one of Australia's best recognised acclaimed actresses.
But she was most at home at Wombarra, on the NSW Illawarra escapment, at her <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-wombarra-120639801" target="_blank">850 sqm oceanfront</a> that adjoins a nature reserve.
Offers above $2.1 million for the beachfront retreat are now being sought by her two children following her death in March last year.
"Watch the migrating whales swim by or the waves crashing on the very private beach below through the huge wrap around floor to ceiling picture windows of this special home," listing agent Wayne Bennett said, adding there was a real sense of escape being surrounded by greenery and the ocean.
The architecturally designed beach-house offers floor to ceiling east facing windows and a north east facing sundeck
Hughes had studied at the National Institute of Dramatic Art and in 1983 won the Australian Film Institute's Best Lead actress award for her role in Careful, He Might Hear You.
Her stage work included The Graduate in Sydney in 2001 and in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? in 2007. 
There were Logie awards in 1977 and 1984 in the best supporting actress category for Power Without Glory and Return To Eden respectively.
In 2011 Wombarra was bestowed title of the Illawarra's first million-dollar median suburb.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Wendy Hughes Wombarra beachfront listed

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A Gold Coast beachfront double block has been sold by a Catholic religious order for the first time in half a century.
The 1A Fourth Ave, Palm Beach was sold by the Congregation of the ­Religious Sisters of Charity of Australia.
The Sisters of Charity have been operating since 1838.
<a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-palm-beach-qld-4221/263982/?searchID=54931957" target="_blank">The sale price is undisclosed</a> but understood to be around $3 million.
The five-bedroom cottage was used as a holiday home on an 870sq m block with 22m of beach frontage was sold by McGrath Broadbeach agents John Natoli and James Ledgerwood.
It last was for sale 54 years ago.
Up-market beachfront homes in Palm Beach have fetched as much as $3.3 million this year.
McGrath marketed it has one of only six properties on Palm Beach with double beach frontages.
The median house price for <a href="/news">Palm Beach Queenlsand</a> is $600,000, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
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Double block Palm Beach, Gold Coast sold by Sisters of Charity

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Arts philanthropist Simon Mordant, from Luminis Partners, and his wife Catriona have secured $13.35 million for their beachfront Point Piper apartment through eastern suburbs gun agent Bill Malouf.
It cost $10.8 million in 2011 with the then underbidder, Tudor Investment Corp's Ian Calcraft emerging as the latest buyer of the harbourside Alex Popov-designed apartment.
With the rising US dollar, Calcraft who works for the billionaire Paul Tudor Jones Greenwich, Conn, US headquartered hedge fund, benifited from the currency shift given much of his wealth is derived in US dollars. 
And as Mordant tells friends he snapped up his new Broughton House, Sydney abode from designer Thomas Hamel at around his windfall difference.
This article was first published in The Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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Simon Mordant sells Point Piper apartment to Tudor Investment Corp hedge funder

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Adman John Singleton has yet to sell his little-used Killcare beach house on the NSW Central Coast.
It sits next to the Killcare Surf Life Saving Club, almost on the beach.
It was designed by the local architect Karen Burke with skillion roof-lines and extensive glazing.
The interiors were designed by Chrissie Jeffrey with the master suite comprising a study, dressing room, bathroom and private deck, overlooking a small waterfall and bushland.
Given Singleton's desire to typically stay at his Central Coast Mt White stud farm, the beach property has been instead managed as a luxury holiday house by The Bells Boutique Hotel Group. 
Singleton bought <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/nsw/killcare/?adid=2011889645" target="_blank">the 80 Beach Drive property</a> for a suburb record of $4.25 million in late 2007, pre-global financial crisis. The highest sale since then has been $2.7 million over the past eight years.
It has been listed with Gittoes agents Cathy Baker and Stephen Gittoes who withdrew the property ahead of its scheduled weekend auction with negotiations well advanced.
The initial pre-auction reports of $3.5 million plus hopes were followed by later reports the agents expect $4 million or so, which would equate to a sizeable loss.
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Singo's Killcare beach house remains for sale

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Adman John Singleton is selling his little-used Killcare beach house on the NSW Central Coast.
It was designed next to the Killcare Surf Life Saving Club and almost on the beach by the local architect Karen Burke with skillion roof-lines and extensive glazing.
The interiors were designed by Chrissie Jeffrey with the master suite comprising a study, dressing room, bathroom and private deck, overlooking a small waterfall and bushland.
There is a private observation deck.
Given Singleton's desire to stay at his Central Coast Mt White stud farm, the property has been managed as a luxury holiday house by The Bells Boutique Hotel Group. 
Singleton bought the 80 Beach Drive property for a suburb record of $4.25 million in late 2007. The highest sale since then has been $2.7 million over the past eight years.
It has been listed with Gittoes agents Cathy Baker and Stephen Gittoes.
There have been reports the agents expect bidding to start at $3.5 million at its 9 May auction.
There are about 500 properties and Killcare and 500 at Killcare Heights, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
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Adman John Singleton lists Killcare beach house 

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It's summer time, so longingly looking into estate agent window displays for shacks or palaces for sale or rent up and down the coast has been property pursuit of many.
Recent research puts Portsea and Sorrento on top of the nation’s list when it comes to weekly median holiday rentals.
The holiday homes on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula typically get rented to holiday makers for around $3,150 a week.
But just a few kilometres down Point Nepean Road at Rye, the vacation prices are far less expensive with seven nights for around $1,900. Even cheaper at Rosebud.
Broadbeach's $2,325 rental on the Gold Coast can be halved at Coolangatta at around $1,085, PRDnationwide research analyst Harrison Hall said.
“For those looking at Sorrento you can expect to pay 60% less in nearby Rosebud ($1,260),’’ he told The New Daily.
The research found Sydney's northern beaches have a $2,380 weekly median holiday rental, the much higher prices paid in the often-secretative Palm Beach precinct not included in the survey.
The survey, after combing online holiday house rental portals, reported on the areas across Australia where PRD have previously undertaken its extensive property research. 
<table border="1">
<colgroup>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="s0">State</td>
<td class="s0"> </td>
<td class="s0">$ Median Nightly Rate</td>
<td class="s0">$ Median Weekly Rate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">VIC</td>
<td class="s1">Portsea/Sorrento</td>
<td class="s2">449.5</td>
<td class="s2">$3,146.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s3">NSW</td>
<td class="s3">Northern Beaches</td>
<td class="s4">340</td>
<td class="s4">$2,380.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Broadbeach/Mermaid Beach</td>
<td class="s2">332.5</td>
<td class="s2">$2,327.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Sunshine Beach</td>
<td class="s2">331</td>
<td class="s2">$2,317.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">NSW</td>
<td class="s1">Avoca Beach</td>
<td class="s2">297</td>
<td class="s2">$2,079.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Noosa Heads</td>
<td class="s2">285</td>
<td class="s2">$1,995.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Hope Island/Sanctuary Cove</td>
<td class="s2">280</td>
<td class="s2">$1,960.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">VIC</td>
<td class="s1">Rye</td>
<td class="s2">271</td>
<td class="s2">$1,897.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">VIC</td>
<td class="s1">Lorne</td>
<td class="s2">244</td>
<td class="s2">$1,708.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Coolum</td>
<td class="s2">240</td>
<td class="s2">$1,680.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Byron</td>
<td class="s6">240</td>
<td class="s6">$1,680.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">WA</td>
<td class="s5">Margaret River</td>
<td class="s6">232.5</td>
<td class="s6">$1,627.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Burleigh Heads/Currumbin</td>
<td class="s6">230</td>
<td class="s6">$1,610.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">VIC</td>
<td class="s5">Torquay</td>
<td class="s6">225</td>
<td class="s6">$1,575.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Mooloolaba</td>
<td class="s6">219.5</td>
<td class="s6">$1,536.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">SA</td>
<td class="s5">Aldinga</td>
<td class="s6">214.5</td>
<td class="s6">$1,501.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Jervis Bay</td>
<td class="s6">205</td>
<td class="s6">$1,435.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">VIC</td>
<td class="s5">Anglesea</td>
<td class="s6">200</td>
<td class="s6">$1,400.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Mollymook</td>
<td class="s6">200</td>
<td class="s6">$1,400.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">SA</td>
<td class="s5">Maslins Beach</td>
<td class="s6">200</td>
<td class="s6">$1,400.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">TAS</td>
<td class="s5">Freycinet (Coles Bay)</td>
<td class="s6">195</td>
<td class="s6">$1,365.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Noosaville</td>
<td class="s6">190</td>
<td class="s6">$1,330.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">WA</td>
<td class="s5">Scarborough</td>
<td class="s6">190</td>
<td class="s6">$1,330.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Surfers Paradise</td>
<td class="s6">185</td>
<td class="s6">$1,295.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">SA</td>
<td class="s5">Glenelg</td>
<td class="s6">185</td>
<td class="s6">$1,295.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Peregian Beach</td>
<td class="s6">180</td>
<td class="s6">$1,260.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">VIC</td>
<td class="s5">Rosebud</td>
<td class="s6">180</td>
<td class="s6">$1,260.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Port Stephens</td>
<td class="s6">180</td>
<td class="s6">$1,260.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Coffs Harbour</td>
<td class="s6">177.5</td>
<td class="s6">$1,242.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Bribie Island</td>
<td class="s6">175</td>
<td class="s6">$1,225.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Kingscliff</td>
<td class="s6">170</td>
<td class="s6">$1,190.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">SA</td>
<td class="s7">Robe</td>
<td class="s8">170</td>
<td class="s8">$1,190.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Batemans Bay</td>
<td class="s8">167.5</td>
<td class="s8">$1,172.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">QLD</td>
<td class="s7">Alexandra Headlands</td>
<td class="s8">160</td>
<td class="s8">$1,120.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Eden</td>
<td class="s8">160</td>
<td class="s8">$1,120.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">QLD</td>
<td class="s7">Coolangatta</td>
<td class="s8">155</td>
<td class="s8">$1,085.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Merimbula</td>
<td class="s8">150</td>
<td class="s8">$1,050.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">WA</td>
<td class="s7">Cable Beach</td>
<td class="s8">150</td>
<td class="s8">$1,050.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Port Mac</td>
<td class="s8">140</td>
<td class="s8">$  980.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Yamba</td>
<td class="s8">110</td>
<td class="s8">$  770.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Hawks Nest</td>
<td class="s8">93</td>
<td class="s8">$  651.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Source: PRDnationwide 
Affordable NSW country costal holiday accommodation included Hawks Nest, 225 kilometres from Sydney, with a median seven-night stay costing $650.
<div id="attachment_177959">The PRD research put the weekly holiday rentals at Yamba (670 kilometres north of Sydney) at $770, Port Macquarie (390 kilometres north of Sydney) at $980 and Merimbula (525 kilometres south of Sydney) at $1,050. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
For Canberra residents Batemans Bay will typically cost $1,175.
</div>
In South Australia, a week-long stay in the coastal, Robe will cost about $1,190.
In Western Australia's Margaret River holiday makers face a median weekly rental of $1,625.
At Cable Beach in Broome, the cost is $1,050.
Freycinet (Coles Bay) in Tasmania will cost $1,365.
The research combined pricing of all holiday accommodation including apartments, houses and units.
Last year Pitcher Partners partner David Staples, compiled an analysis, counselling would-be buyers to do their sums.
“It’s generally a lifestyle choice rather than an investment,” he suggests. 
And of course renting out to others at the peak holiday times, is necessary for tax deductability.
For many holiday home owners, it's almost a home-from-home with the eventual savvy sea change shift less stressful than for everyone else.
Many coastal property owners complain that they spend all their time fixing up and maintaining their holiday homes, especially those in close proximity of the sea.
Rental returns in many coastal spots can cover most costs - maybe all up around eight weeks a year with demand then plummeting during winter which is when the owner can enjoy those blustery southerlies.
Typically you'd expect it to provide a net annual yield of no more than 2 per cent, even if commanding weekly rents of $2000 or more in peak periods.
Ofcourse there's always the chance of using the income for a quick ski at Whistler while the tenants are swatting away the beachside blowies.
Beware the expectations of holiday guests has risen in recent times so household items once considered extras such as air-conditioning, a dishwasher and a modern gas barbeque are now viewed as essential.
Maybe even the Nepresso machine given anyone can gets the capsules at the local supermarket..
According to David Staples from the accounting firm Pitcher Partners, the money spent on an average holiday house could pay for more than one week a month – or about 90 days a year – in a quality hotel.
Land tax on a holiday house can be a massive burden, particularly in pricey areas on the Mornington Peninsula and on Sydney’s northern beaches.
In these areas, annual land tax on a holiday home can amount to tens of thousands of dollars.
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Pricey holiday home rentals can be halved staying at nearby affordable alternatives

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Almost 60% of the 99 properties auctioned at the Gold Coast yesterday sold with Ray White The Event attracting 243 registered bidders
A 770 square metre two level penthouse at the Nirvana by the Sea block in Kirra was the top sale at $3,755,000 among the $20 million auction proceeds.
<a href="https://www.rwsp.net/qld/kirra/1241869/" target="_blank">1504/1-3 Douglas St, Coolangatta</a> had previously sold for $2.75 million in 2011, but its $4.4 million hopes held since its early 2014 listing proved overly ambitious.
There had been two earlier higher sales in the prime block of 60 apartments developed by <a href="https://www.nirvanabythesea.com" target="_blank">Niecon</a>.
Its 2007 marketing was promoting Kirra as the "new Noosa" with prices from $950,000 to $2,895,000, replacing 1970s brick blocks of units.
Once known as a casual village popular with surfers, Kirra is at the southern end of the Gold Coast.
<img src="/images/2015/01/27/cobain%20jan%2027%20one.jpg" alt="">
But sellers of a two-bedroom unit in the Soul building at Surfers Paradise secured just $905,000, which was $795,000 less than it fetched in 2012, the Gold Coast Bulletin reported.
The <a href="https://www.rwsp.net/qld/surfers-paradise/1233957/" target="_blank">2502/4-14 The Esplanade, Soul, Surfers Paradise</a> was a 122 square metre offering last sold in June 2012 at $1.7 million to Brisbane buyers.
Onthehouse recently gave a $1.6 million plus guidance.
There were 12 pre-sales among the 58% success rate. There was a 58% initial clearance rate in January 2012. The clearance rate was higher than last year, when around 50% of the homes sold on the day.
The Ray White Surfers Paradise Group chief executive Andrew Bell said the auction was one of the best on record with many properties having four or five bidders.
“Selling close to 60 properties in the space of six hours is a big statement for the state of the local property market,” he told the News Ltd local paper.
The 22nd annual auction showcase, the biggest in Australia, included family homes, investment properties and trophy homes.
28 Lakelands Drive is now under offer. It has four bedrooms, and the listing states that it would comfortably rent for $800 per week.
Bell said investors dominated this year with a strong showing from Melbourne and Sydney buyers.
“The high volume of investors says a lot about market confidence and discretionary spending power,” he said.
Other sales included 50 Falkinder Ave, Paradise Point for $480,000.
The property last sold for $460,000 in 2013.
A one bedroom unit in the Paradise Isles Resort on the Gold Coast was sold for $160,000 to a Sydney investor, with $270 a week plus rental potential,thereby reflecting around a 9% yield. Set on Chevron island, it had first sold back in 1997 for $161,900 at the low rise 40 Burra Street. There was a $189,000 and $167,000 sale in the block last year.
PRD Research recently noted South East Queensland experienced positive property price growth in 2014; despite a soft decline in transaction volume.
<img src="/images/2015/01/27/cobain%20jan%2027%20two.jpg" alt="">
Professional golfer Wayne Grady's riverfront Gold Coast home also went to weekend LJ Hooker auction without success. <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/qld/ashmore/?adid=2011682945" target="_blank">The 1988-built Ashmore house</a> on a 3364 square metre holding had been his home since $850,000 was paid in early 1996. It was listed with $2.79 million hopes in April last year.
It has been a tightly held property having sold at $36,000 in 1978.
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Coolangatta takes the gold but no sales nirvana for all Gold Coast apartment sellers

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Entertainment industry veteran John 'Strop' Cornell and his wife, Delvene Delaney, who were Paul Hogan's sidekicks in their comedic heyday, have listed their Belongil beach retreat.
It was more than three decades ago that they all took a fancy to property around <a href="/news">Byron Bay</a>, and after almost 30 years of ownership the couple are putting the best of their remarkable holdings on the market.
It is a very private 2.3 acre compound, known as lost 4 and 5 Border Street.
The modernised two level home at Belongil has been listed through LJ Hooker agent Glen Irwin. <a href="https://www.ljhooker.com.au/83YF5G/lot-4--5-border-street-belongil-byron-bay" target="_blank">Offers close January 28</a> for the absolute beach-front home with wrap-around timber decks with views of Cape Byron Light-house, Julian Rocks, Mt Warning and Belongil Beach.
Local sales suggest $10 million plus, according to local authoritative property observers.
"We no longer stay in our Belongil beach-house, and therefore wish to allow someone else the pleasure," Delvene Delany advised Property Observer.
It has been a $650 to $1600 per night rental offering too.
Two years ago the neighbouring beach-front holdings were offered for sale. Shannon Bennett, owner of Vue de Monde restaurant, paid $2 million for a five lot 4,588 square metre holding on the Belongil Beach peninsula and Adam Garrinson's Wetherby GPO trust company paid $2.25 million for its acquisition, on 18 month delayed settlement terms with financing from Apaing Woong.
The Cornell's are likely to retain the remaining vacant holding.
The lots were bought in the early 1980s for around $325,000 from the then local abattoir. Title Tattle once calculated the entire holding totalled 's 18,000 square metres or so.
The properties were bought in the name of Delvene Delaney who was a Sale of the Century television hostess and appeared with Paul Hogan and the John Cornell-devised character, the dopey Strop  in Channel 9 comedy shows.Cornell and Hogan went onto make the Crocodile Dundee movies, which earned both of them a fortune. Cornell also developed a close relationship with Kerry Packer, taking the World Series Cricket idea to Australia's richest person.
Much of their money went into buying extensive property around Byron Bay.
Paul Hogan had the most obvious of holdings, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/cedar-springs-the-paul-hogan-built-byron-bay-hinterland-house-listed-for-auction-by-duncan-and-sally-mount/2012073155795" target="_blank">Cedar Springs at Possum Creek in the Byron Bay hinterland estate.</a>
Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski sold it in 2006 to Duncan and Sally Mount.
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John "Strop" Cornell and Delvene Delany list bonza Byron Bay beachfront home

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The Victorian Planning Minister, Matthew Guy, has made a move to ensure that private land owners on beaches covered by Public Conservation and Resource zones will only be able to go ahead with the agreement of the state government.
Before this, there was apparently a loophole allowing private land owners the ability to build permanent structures ‘as of right’. This could be anything from a deck, verandah or shade structure to a fence, sign or significant outdoor furniture.
Now, however, these zones will be kept from private development under amendment VC115.
“The Victorian Coalition government will not allow public accessed beaches to be built  on, where the land is technically held in private ownership,” Guy said in a recent statement.
They are currently further looking at legislative options regarding clarifying title boundaries around Port Phillip Bay.
No use or development will be able to go ahead on the land without a planning permit from now on. To obtain this, an owner must put in an application, which will then look to seek consent from the Secretary of the Department of Environment and Primary Industries. A local planning authority will assess the applications. This is likely to be the local council for many.
“With this change, any permit application to use or develop land within this zone will require consent. This is wide-ranging and includes fences, signs, outdoor furniture, shade sails, flag-poles, sheds, pergolas, verandahs and decks. Until today’s reforms, building these structures on private land in this zone did not require a planning permit.”
Guy expressed his belief that this was an appropriate response, with the government currently working on the process of defining boundaries in areas with a high water mark.
“This change to the PCR zone will ensure proper management of beaches. It will prevent inappropriate development and construction from occurring. Beaches will remain accessible for everyone in this state – as they should be.”
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