A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

Bellevue Hill

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Monica Saunders-Weinberg, one of Australia’s richest women, is planning an amalgamation of her two Bellevue Hill properties.
The heiress to the fortune of her late father John Saunders, co-founder of shopping giant Westfield, has lodged a dual occupancy application for her dress circle Drumalbyn Road holdings.
She also wants a tennis court included in the $2.8 million Luigi Rosselli plans being reviewed at Woollahra Council.
It was in 2016 when Saunders-Weinberg spent $6 million on the Tudor-style residence (above), next door to her $20 million home she has owned since 2010.
She has just arrived back in Sydney after holidaying in Israel, with a stop off in Paris.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph. 
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Shopping centre heiress to amalgamate Bellevue Hill properties

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McGrath chief executive Geoff Lucas has listed in Cremorne after he bought in Bellevue Hill where he secured half a Palladian villa.
It has been listed for August 17 auction through McGrath agent Claudia Portale.
Lucas had previously listed his Wonga Road property (above and below) in early 2018 when its failed to sell when listed by the now departed McGrath agents Adrian Bridges and Michael Coombs.
It was listed with <a href="/news/wonga-road-cremorne-offering-by-former-mcgrath-executive">$6 million to $6.6 million hopes</a> in February 2018.
Lucas paid $3,425,000 for the home in 2005, snapping it up pre-auction after just 12 days.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/25/Geoff%20Lucas%20Wonga%202.jpg" alt="">
He owns 1/100th and wife, Nicola the 99/100ths.
The Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill duplex (below) was bought after being passed in at June auction at $5.825 million.
The four-bedroom, three-bathroom Mediterranean-style mansion (above and below) was built in 1992 on its 725 sqm block with views over Royal Sydney Golf Course to the harbour and the ocean. 
The Briggs family had bought it for $3.525 million in 2002.
The property comes with pool and tennis court, which is shared with the neighbour.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/26/Geoff%20Lucas%20Bellevue%20Hill%203.jpg" alt="">
It was listed for Sothebys auction in April last year with overly ambitious $7 million to $7.5 million price guidance.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/26/Geoff%20Lucas%20Bellevue%20Hill.jpg" alt="">
Lucas returned to McGrath, the ASX listed company in February last year as its chief executive.
Its lower north shore office has been ravaged by agent departures.
The office lists just three agents including William Manning who has been based in Sydney's east.
 
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McGrath chief executive Geoff Lucas lists in Cremorne after buying half a Palladian villa in Bellevue Hill

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McGrath chief executive Geoff Lucas has bought in Bellevue Hill securing half a Palladian villa.
The Victoria Road duplex was bought after being passed in at auction at $5.825 million. There has been no sale price reveal yet among the increasingly-garrulous, but so-called tight lipped eastern suburb agents and buyers' agent.
The four-bedroom, three-bathroom Mediterranean-style mansion (above and below) was built in 1992 on its 725 sqm block with views over Royal Sydney Golf Course to the harbour and the ocean. 
The Briggs family had bought it for $3.525 million in 2002.
The property comes with pool and tennis court, which is shared with the neighbour.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/26/Geoff%20Lucas%20Bellevue%20Hill%203.jpg" alt="">
Not sure what the arrangement is but when ad man Michael Ball and wife Daria owned it in the mid-1990s, they played tennis on odd days of the month, with the plastic surgeon Ted Gibson and wife Barbie playing on the even days when they owned the southern half of the Lucienne de Mestre-designed villa. 
It was offered through Steven Zellner of L&amp;S Double Bay who has been involved in its first sale in 1995 at $2.1 million.
It was listed for Sothebys auction in April last year with overly ambitious $7 million to $7.5 million price guidance.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/26/Geoff%20Lucas%20Bellevue%20Hill.jpg" alt="">
Lucas will relist his Wonga Road, Cremorne property, which he owns with wife Nicola.
It struggled to sell when listed for the now departed McGrath agents Adrian Bridges and Michael Coombs.
It was listed with <a href="/news/wonga-road-cremorne-offering-by-former-mcgrath-executive">$6 million to $6.6 million hopes</a>.
Lucas paid $3,425,000 for the home in 2005, snapping it up pre-auction after just 12 days.
He owns 1/100th and wife, Nicola the 99/100ths.
Lucas returned to the ASX listed company in February last year as its chief executive.
He had left his role as McGrath Ltd chief operating officer in 2016 to briefly take a job at the NSW bread maker and café group, Sonoma after being at the estate agency for almost eight years.
Lucas had a 4.3 percent shareholding in the McGrath Group on his departure, with the 5.7 million shares then sold, according to the 2018 annual report.
On his return the McGrath shareholders were advised Lucas was entitled to a total fixed annual base salary of $500,000 (inclusive of statutory superannuation).
Lucas was also eligible to participate in McGrath's short term incentive plan, up to 50 percent of base salary per annum, subject to the satisfaction of key performance indicators.
Lucas was to be eligible for securities valued at up to 50 percent of base salary per annum pursuant to a new McGrath Equity Incentive Plan being developed by the company, which is likely to include vesting over a three year period and financial targets, subject to Lucas' continuing employment with McGrath during the period.
His employment contract includes a restraint of trade period of 18 months preventing him from competing with McGrath should he leave again.
The board granted 2,500,000 share options to Lucas as part of the CEO LTI Program in May 2018. The options have a grant date fair value of $0.092 per option.
The shares are trading at 24 cents.
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McGrath chief executive Geoff Lucas buys half a Palladian villa in Bellevue Hill

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A luxury $12 million Bellevue Hill trophy home will take a starring role in the next My Kitchen Rules.
Seven has taken a three-month lease on the grand Mediterranean-inspired manor with Sydney Harbour views.
It’s not been revealed just how the six-bedroom home fits into the reality cooking show format, but it is likely to be an elimination house where meals are prepared for hosts Pete Evans and Manu Feildel, among others.
Houses at Kenthurst and Dural were briefly occupied in past series. Channel 7 has applied­ to Woollahra Council for permission to film from July through to September.
Contestant applications for the show closed last month, just after cricketing buddies Matt and Luke won the 10th series.
Seven advised neighbours the majority of filming will be conducted inside, although there is an amazing parterre garden with harbour views.
Neighbours have been assured “there will be no special effects, discharge of firearms or explosives, or the release of smells, fumes, vapour, steam, soot, ash, dust, waste water, grit or oil”.
The property was selected for its space and privacy, with high hedges and a low-profile street frontage.
The property has five bedrooms, plus a library which is likely as a sixth bedroom for the house co-ordinator.
The downstairs living space is focused around its brand new kitchen, which only went in last month. The dining spaces are luxurious too.
Owner Darren Harvey, co-founder of Smarter Money Investments­, paid $12.51 million in 2015 when buying it from Clare Paspaley of the Paspaley Pearl family.
Meanwhile, the Dural home seen on My Kitchen Rules earlier­ this year has been listed for sale through Christie’s International agent Darren Curtis.
It features a custom-designed­ provincial kitchen with a Carrara marble breakfast island and Ilve appliances.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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My Kitchen Rules takes Bellevue Hill mansion for upcoming series

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The Bellevue Hill home that belonged to Lady Sonia McMahon and her husband, former prime minister William McMahon, has been sold again for close to $17 million.
It last traded for $9 million in 2011 when it was bought by Amber Richmond of the HPM Electrical family, and her husband Jamie Schwarz, a Yellow Brick Road executive.
The couple are the buyers of Mark and Anna Pasternak’s Vaucluse home for $15.1 million.
Lady McMahon had paid $123,000 for the home in 1968, the year her son, actor Julian McMahon, was born.
She bought it from turf commission agent Harold Fay.
Julian and his two sisters executed the sale in 2011, a year after their mother's death, having grown up in the home.
The study of Sir William, who died in 1988, was intact until its listing in 2011. 
The sale was through a buyers' agent, The Sunday Telegraph reported.
It follows a Point Piper home owned by South African-born Nandos owner Richard Einthoven and his wife Karen being sold yesterday for $21.8 million.
 
 
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YBR/HPM couple secure sale of former Lady Sonia McMahon's former Bellevue Hill home

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Rothschild Australia chief executive Marshall Baillieu, of the Melbourne establishment Baillieu family, and wife Michelle, have finally sold their Paddington trophy home, Hargrave House.
It fetched $7.5 million to 333 Capital boss Alan Murray in March, with settlement earlier this month. Before joining 333 Capital, Alan led the emerging companies team at Merrill Lynch Australia, and before that was at CIBC markets and Deutsche Bank.
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/news/rothschilds-marshall-baillieu-trades-in-his-paddington-landmark-for-21m-bellevue-hill-home-20181005-h15rzg-769983/"></a>The Murray home at Point Piper home was sold for $6.2 million to Lucy May.
Local agents were surprised at the Hargrave House price since it was not even double the Baillieu's initial outlay 13 years ago.
They had renovated since paying $4.275 million in 2006 when listed by then McGrath agent James Dack.
The listing cames after Baillieu paid around $21.25 million for the landmark Hordern House in Bellevue Hill, which was built as a wedding present for Samuel Hordern and June Baillieu.
The three level Victorian Paddington home, at the Woollahra end of the dress circle Hargrave Street, has five bedrooms, three bathrooms, grand living areas, a home office and a wine cellar.
A decade ago the home was redesigned by architect Michael Robilliard.
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They paid $4,275,000 in 2006 and extended and renovated in 2008 and 2009 with Michael Robilliard oversight.
There's a 10 metre frontage and a Graham Greenhalagh-garden out back on the 310 sqm block.
There was an October 2018 auction scheduled with $8 million to $8.5 million price guidance through The Agency.
 
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Baillieu paid $20 million for Tongy Station in the Upper Hunter Valley to keep it in the family name.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Bellevue Hill-bound Marshall Baillieu finally sells Hargrave House, Paddington

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Bondi Rescue star Harrison Reid has spent $1 million on his upgrade in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
The Christchurch born lifeguard has bought in Rose Bay, having sold for $745,000 in Bellevue Hill where he moved to Sydney four years ago from New Zealand.
Reid had paid $725,000 for what was then a two bedroom Victoria Road apartment in a 1950s tightly held block of 12 on the dress circle Victoria Road.
Reid reconfigured and renovated the apartment himself, turning into a large one bedroom apartment with fresh interiors. 
Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay agent Paula Simoes was marketing the apartment with a $780,000 guide.
His purchase is an 80 square metre two bedroom apartment in the aptly named 1960s Harbour View complex.
This article was first published in the Saturday Telegraph. 
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Bondi Rescue star Harrison Reid finds buyer for Bellevue Hill home

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Newly appointed AMP executive Alex Wade has spent $2.75 million on a three-bedroom apartment in a 1999-built block of six in Bellevue Hill.
Spanning 235 sqm across two levels, it has harbour views from its alfresco terrace. The master retreat occupies the top floor, featuring its own terrace, walk-in dressing area and ensuite. 
Sydney Sotheby’s agents Barry and Mark Goldman sold the apartment.
Wade, who left Credit Suisse after 12 years, paid $2.2 million in 2017 for a four bedroom investment in Woollahra which he promptly leased for $2000 a week.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph. 
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New AMP executive Alex Wade buys at Bellevue Hill

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The Bellevue Hill mansion of fashion designer Camilla Freeman-Topper and husband David Topper, secretly sold off market, has settled at $16.5 million to Melbourne buyers Nick Leos and his wife Emma.
It was sold on Christmas Eve with settlement just coming through registrations this week.
The Toorak-based Leos heads Evolution Precast Systems, which produces architectural precast concrete walls, concentrating on high-quality bespoke projects.
After more than 20 years’ experience within the precast industry in Victoria, the 48-year-old has recognised a growing demand for precast across NSW. 
The couple’s purchase secured a 1930s home with Mediterranean touches on Rupertswood Avenue, which last sold in 2013 for $6 million.
Since then it has been renovated by Luigi Rosselli Architects with Freeman-Topper adding her flair to the interiors. 
Freeman-Topper went on a research trip to Milan during Salon de Mobile with her interior designer, Romaine Alwill of Alwill Interiors, <a href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/camilla-freeman-topper-sydney-home" target="_blank">Architectural Digest noted</a>.
Camilla and Marc recently opened its 11th boutique in Australia. However, given Camilla and Marc’s expansionary US commitments, she is relocating to Los Angeles for a few months.
They sold their home after “accepting an offer they could not refuse”, the pair said in a statement.
“The Topper-Freemans are looking forward to the next exciting chapter of their journey.”
The deal reportedly included the mansion’s furnishings right down to the cutlery.
The five-bedroom, four-bathroom house sits on an 800 square metre cul-de-sac block.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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Fashion designer Camilla Freeman-Topper sells Bellevue Hill mansion 

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The peripatetic stylist Sibella Court has sold her Vogue Living-featured Bellevue Hill apartment.
As she seeks a sea change in Sydney’s southern suburb of Bundeena, the designer’s redundant pad had been offered with $1.7 million hopes through Phillips Pantzer Donnelley.
It was given a makeover after it was bought in 2016 for $1.65 million which had followed the sale of her Victorian-era shopfront home in Paddington for $1.34 million.
The two-bedroom Blaxland Road, Bellevue Hill top-floor space was marketed as a “creative fusion of beautiful natural materials and vintage treasures”.
One of only five in a revived Art Deco block, the house-like residence offered 168 square metres of indoor/outdoor living space.
She had CWF Constructions ­remove a wall dividing the living area and its very little kitchen which then had Winchester Interiors fit out the new kitchen’s joinery,
There was a handmade Moroccan tile splashback along with the Smeg appliances.
It sold for an undisclosed pre-auction price, highlighting a trend that regularly sees more pre-auction sales than actual under the hammer Saturday auction success stories across Sydney this year.
Court snapped up a Bundeena four-bedroom, two-bathroom home with ocean views for just over $2 million through Highland Real Estate.
Court also spends a lot of time in Byron Bay, where partner Ben ­Harper is a director of McTavish Surfboards.
Working at Bergdorf Goodman, Donna Karan, Anthropologie and Saks Fifth Avenue, Court spent about 15 years in New York as a homewares stylist before gaining prominence in the ABC’s Restoration Australia series.
These days Court travels both Australia and the world for inspiration as it fuels her product development and stock for her shop.
It helped create her third book, Nomad: Bringing your travels home.
Her clients have included the Bullo River Station, The Blue Room Bondi, MsG’s and El Loco.
This article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph. 
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