Autobiography is the latest builder-developer to take out the sought-after 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy from Resilience Insurance.

Autobiography has locked in the new insurance, that covers off the plan apartment buyers for any structural or waterproofing defects in a building for 10 years post-completion of the development, in their newest apartment project in Wickham, on the fringe of Newcastle.

The development, Autobiography at Wickham, will bring 150 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments to Railway Lane, a stone's throw from the Newcastle Interchange and the Honeysuckle Drive retail and dining precinct.

It is one of just two multi-residential developments on the market in the Newcastle region to have the Latent Defects Insurance policy, the other being Third.i's Dairy Farmers projects.

Unlike traditional warranties, LDI covers apartment owners from day one, protecting against structural defects including cracks, water ingress, and other latent construction issues that may arise over the life of the building.&nbsp;

The policy is taken out by the developer prior to construction and applies across the entire building and its individual units. This ensures owners have direct recourse without needing to initiate costly or lengthy litigation processes.

“When buyers take possession, they have full insurance protection, from day one, for 10 years,” said Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Autobiography @ Wickham" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1f1d77f5-7c8a-47ff-af60-a882f6e1bddf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/67eac37caf8a09978ce70a3a_URBANA%20PLAN%2073-79%20RAILWAY%20LANE%20WICKHAM_HERO%202.jpg?VersionId=Jvam7sJ4VDGHH1A4pK9NRo8REKrLgkrI" />

Designed by Urbanacorp in collaboration with architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/nick-lycenko-architect">Nicholas Lycenko</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/paul-scrivener">Paul Scrivener Landscape Design</a>, Autobiography at Wickham is purpose-built for the inner-city lifestyle.

It will feature a suite of&nbsp;resident-only amenities, including a fully equipped gym, yoga and Pilates studio, wellness centre, in-ground swimming pool, landscaped BBQ areas, a children’s playground, and a series of communal indoor-outdoor spaces. Practical additions such as EV charging stations and extra car parking options further reflect the project’s future-oriented approach.

<img alt="Autobiography @ Wickham" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8f77a069-3f9a-4665-8a3a-e84ce7fe9d48" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/67eac36c08e716d1bbd0be5e_URBANA%20PLAN%2073-79%20RAILWAY%20LANE%20WICKHAM_HERO%201.jpg?VersionId=fZLLVPmOmounYhHL9ZSeDfRo4UKvTit8" />

Autobiography Wickham is one of several projects currently being undertaken by the developer.

They have Autobiography at The Belrose Collection, and Autobiography at Broadmeadow. In 2022 they completed Autobiography at Adamstown, 40 apartments above four commercial spaces.

Joel Robinson

Autobiography makes confident Wickham debut with 10-year LDI-backed apartments

Prolific Gold Coast developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> is expanding its development footprint into Brisbane with a new, affordability-focused collection of apartments.

The developer, well known for its projects in the Gold Coast’s premium beachside suburbs, last year announced its new Flourish brand. The aim is to provide a wide range of apartments at more affordable price points compared to what was otherwise available in the local market.

Now they’re taking that blueprint to Brisbane. Their debut development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/symphony-south-brisbane-21-23-cordelia-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Symphony</a>, is located in the heart of South Brisbane on Cordelia Street, just around the corner from the Fish Lane precinct, the suburb’s main hospitality hub.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7574 project_image_fid=3444]

There will be 138 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, starting from $655,000. First home buyers will pay no stamp duty on a new home under the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-home-buyers-to-pay-no-stamp-duty-on-new-property-in-qld-gov-shakeup">QLD Government's new stamp duty concessions</a>, which began in May.

Founder Christie Leet said the move into Brisbane represents “an incredibly exciting step” for the group, with the South Brisbane market offering “huge potential to deliver something different in a market that really needs it.”

He said the project is about “helping more people live where they want to be, without compromise,” adding that Flourish homes are designed to balance quality, functionality, and price accessibility.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7574 project_image_fid=3770]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hal-architects">HAL Architects</a> and to be built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/lps-group">LPS Group</a>, Symphony will feature more than 1,400 sqm of communal spaces spread across three levels, aimed at fostering community and wellbeing.

A ground floor café or retail space will activate the streetscape, while the lower rooftop will house workspaces, a gym, and private dining areas. The upper rooftop will deliver resort-style amenities, including a heated pool, cabanas, and a dedicated wellness centre.

Situated at the meeting point of South Bank, West End, and Fish Lane, Symphony places residents in one of Brisbane’s most connected and culturally vibrant neighbourhoods. The site is within walking distance of South Bank’s galleries, theatres, and riverside parklands, as well as Brisbane’s CBD.

Brisbane’s ongoing infrastructure pipeline, including Cross River Rail, Queen’s Wharf, and the Brisbane Metro, is set to further enhance the area’s connectivity ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games, strengthening South Brisbane’s appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7574 project_image_fid=5155]

Sherpa plans to officially launch Symphony to market in October 2025, with construction due to commence in December 2025 and completion anticipated in Q3 2028.

The launch follows the strong performance of Sherpa’s first Flourish development, Amargo, in Palm Beach, which is 80 per cent sold.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7574]

Sherpa opens pre-release for debut Brisbane apartment development, Symphony

The small southern Gold Coast suburb of Bilinga rarely sees new apartment developments.

The last launch was Pipis in late 2023 — a boutique project of just 19 half- and full-floor beachfront apartments. Opportunities to buy into a development with more affordable configurations are few and far between.

Enter <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bilinga-house-107-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga House</a> — 47 two- and three-bedroom apartments priced from just under $1.2 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/centa-property-group">Centa Property Group</a>, Bilinga House is located on Golden Four Drive, just 200 metres from Bilinga Beach.

Designed by renowned architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the five-storey building embraces a soft, neutral palette to maximise natural light and capture sea breezes. Floorplans feature generous built-in storage, contemporary kitchens, and master suites with ensuites.

Residents will enjoy access to a pool, gym, and sauna, along with professional onsite management. Each apartment includes at least one secure basement car space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5335]

Location is one of Bilinga House’s biggest drawcards. The fact that it’s not absolute beachfront means pricing is considerably more affordable. Many apartments still offer beach and ocean views, and the sand is just a short 200-metre stroll away.

Another bonus for off the plan buyers is the proposed Stage 4 extension of the Gold Coast Light Rail, which will run along Golden Four Drive to Coolangatta and Kirra — arguably the most transformed pocket of the southern Gold Coast over the past five years. Bilinga House is also just a short walk from the North Kirra Surf Life Saving Club.

The line will also connect to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, and as far north as Helensvale, where there’s a train link to Brisbane.

Construction will be undertaken by renowned builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/greyburn">Greyburn</a>, with completion targeted for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150037]

Bilinga House launches in booming southern Gold Coast pocket

Northland Group’s Central Quarter apartment development, located in the heart of Merrylands, ticks every box that buyers consider when purchasing a brand-new apartment.

CQ, currently under construction on Pitt Street, will comprise 194 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in the heart of the growing suburb.

<h2>Guaranteed Delivery</h2>

First and foremost is the guarantee of delivery. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/northland">Northland</a> has only just launched the development, despite being close to topping out the main structure. They progressed well into construction before bringing the project to market, giving buyers confidence that the development is genuinely moving ahead.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5660 project_image_fid=1674]

<h2>Quality Assurance</h2>

The second — and perhaps most important — consideration for new apartment buyers is not just whether the project will be completed, but whether it will be finished to a high standard. Northland Group is the only developer in Merrylands to take out Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, offering buyers protection from any structural or waterproofing issues for 10 years after completion. Northland also has a vastly experienced construction team, having been building across Sydney for the best part of three decades.&nbsp;

<h2>Prime Location</h2>

The third pillar, which is paramount, is location — and how well the apartment fits into a buyer’s lifestyle. It must be well-connected to both transport and local amenities. <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/central-quarter-merrylands-242-252-pitt-street-merrylands-nsw-2160">Central Quarter</a> occupies a prime site on Pitt Street, right next to the Merrylands Bus Interchange and Merrylands Train Station. This offers direct access to Parramatta, just one stop away, and places the CBD within 35 minutes.

<h2>Amenity-Rich Environment</h2>

While the development is already close to everything Merrylands has to offer, Northland Group is adding further value by delivering 22 new retail tenancies at the base of the building and within the commercial podium. Confirmed tenants include a 24/7 gym operator, a provider for a 111-place childcare centre, and major fast-food retailers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5660 project_image_fid=1613]

Residents will also have private access to a rooftop with several breakout spaces, barbecue areas, and a children's playground.

<h2>Thoughtfully Designed Apartments</h2>

With all the above boxes ticked, attention turns to the apartments themselves. Northland has gone above and beyond, offering large floorplans and premium finishes as standard. Kitchens include stone island benches, integrated Smeg appliances (gas cooktop, oven, rangehood, microwave, and dishwasher), and Villeroy &amp; Boch tapware.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5660 project_image_fid=1607]

Even the small details haven’t been overlooked. The integrated VRF air conditioning system allows for zoned temperature control in each room. Furthermore, each Central Quarter balcony will be built with pedestal tiles allowing for seamless indoor/outdoor living.&nbsp;

<h2>A Decade in the Making</h2>

Central Quarter has been over a decade in the making, with Northland Group securing the site back in 2014. Years of careful planning and design have gone into creating a product that truly suits the area.

With completion expected by early to mid-2026 and interest rates forecast to fall further before then, now is arguably the perfect time to secure a new home at this advanced stage of construction.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5660]

Why Northland Group’s Central Quarter apartment development ticks every box

High-end retailer Cult Design has signed up to take all of the commercial space, and a large section of the retail space, on the street-level of the upcoming new Fitzroy apartment development, Fitzroy Fitzroy.

Cult Design, which offers&nbsp;premium&nbsp;furniture, lighting and objects from iconic international and local brands, will also furnish the communal areas of the project with Cult’s brands, as well as Cultivate — Cult’s in-house sustainability program that provides buyback, refurbishment, and recycling services — a program that aligns with the project’s efforts to restore and preserve the heritage aspects of the building. Current and future residents will also have the option to purchase a turnkey furnished solution curated by Cult.

Cult has taken&nbsp;the entirety of the project's commercial space, and two of the three retail lots, which will form Cult's new HQ and flagship showroom.&nbsp;

In a further commitment to the building, Cult Design Founder Richard Munao has also bought one of the five terrace homes in the project. DKO’s Director of Interiors &amp; Design Lead for the project, Michael Drescher, has also bought an apartment in the building. The sales highlight the deep alignment between the project’s architectural intent and its growing community of discerning owner-occupiers, including the collaborators themselves.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183070]

Dean Lefkos, founder and director of Chapter Group which is developing Fitzroy Fitzroy, said the project is unlike any development he’s seen in terms of its buyer community.

“<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/fitzroy-fitzroy-411-421-smith-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy Fitzroy</a> is a true owner-occupier project; we’ve had best friends, siblings and even cousins purchasing homes, which is truly rare in residential projects these days," Lefkos said.

“The architecture and interiors of Fitzroy Fitzroy genuinely reflect the suburb’s character, with thoughtful design that has clearly resonated with purchasers."

Located on Smith Street and designed by DKO Architecture, Fitzroy Fitzroy sits behind a grand heritage brick facade, once home to MacRobertson’s Garage and Workshop, and reaches nine storeys high, complete with angular rooftops and a chamfered western side to create sunlit internal spaces and generous viewlines.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183066]

Originally launching to market with 56 apartments and six terrace homes, Fitzroy Fitzroy will now be home to 52 apartments and five terrace homes following a number of amalgamations. One such purchaser is Michael Drescher, DKO’s design lead on the project, who purchased a three-bedroom apartment.

“I knew the site well, it’s a pocket of Fitzroy I’ve always admired, but it was through designing the interiors and meeting future residents 
that I knew this was a place we could truly call home,” Drescher said.

“I sensed early on that the building would foster a strong sense of community, and that feeling came to life during one of the purchaser events — everyone had the chance to meet their future neighbours, but it felt more like a gathering of old friends coming together.

“At DKO, we invested considerable time in crafting each floor plan with care. From the outset, we anticipated strong interest from owner-occupiers and particularly those already living in the area. The apartment we purchased was always one of my favourite floor plans in the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=1011]

Buyers will have access to resident-only amenities including the Smith Club, with communal bar and dining, private meeting and work-from-home spaces and an expansive, tranquil rooftop garden on level nine, designed by TCL.

Having met with future residents and purchasers, Drescher has developed an understanding of how the residential amenities and rooftop communal spaces will be used and is working with Cult and Chapter Group on furniture selections to suit.

At ground level, an internal laneway connects Smith Street to the residents’ lobby, inspired by the local arcades in Melbourne’s CBD, with Cult’s future corner showroom to be located behind the existing brick facade, with large windows opening onto both Smith Street and Leicester Street.

Limited apartments remain, ranging from $720,000 to over $4 million. Three yet-to-be-released sub-penthouses will launch to market in spring.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=14394]

Dean Lefkos, founder and director of Chapter Group which is developing Fitzroy Fitzroy, said the project is unlike any development he’s seen in terms of its buyer community

Cult Design takes commercial and retail space at Fitzroy Fitzroy as founder buys into project

Camp Cove

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Steven Lowy, the retailing family scion, has been finally confirmed as the mystery $14.2 million buyer of a rare Camp Cove offering.
The confirmation comes after he and wife Judy lodged plans to add the acquisition into their existing compound where their three land acquisitions have totalled $25.7 million.
They have been on the beach at Watsons Bay since 1991 when they commissioned a contemporary house by Allen Jack Cottier, which won the 1994 Wilkinson Award for outstanding architecture. 
The Lowys bought their original beachfront block from nightclub owner Robbie Griff for $2.5 million, ignoring previously approved Rod Learoyd house plans in favour of a design by Peter Stronach.
It was late last year when the 525 square metre beachfront Victoria Street block with a single level weatherboard cottage sold under the hammer.
It was knocked down the veteran property developer Philip Wolanski, who advised he was representing an undisclosed buyer.
It was quickly mooted they were the neighbours, the Lowy family.
Held for over nine decades, it was sold by the Webb family.
The Valuer General had previously valued the property at $8.5 million.
The neighbours have bolstered the Lowy's approval prospects by writing a letter to "support Steven and Judy Lowy's proposed plans".
The $2.1 million plans lodged by Tim Allison Associates include rebuilding a sea wall and adding a new landscaped beachfront garden for privacy and re-opening the veranda.
They even plan to reinstate chimneys.
The Lowy's three adjoining beachfront properties along the beach total 2,590 square metres. 
The family's prior expansion came in 2009 spending $9 million on another 1,000 square metres bought from Karen Beck, using another mate, Simon Wilkenfeld as the purchasing stalking horse.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph. 
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

Camp Cove

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