Gold Coast developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/big-projects">Big Projects</a> has secured approval for its second Mermaid Beach project.

The developer, currently selling <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-frederick-mermaid-beach-2265-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Frederick in Nobby Beach</a>, has secured approval for its next project just 1.5 kilomnetres up the road.

The new development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glenelg-residences-2462-2472-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Glenelg Residences</a>, has been designed by BDA Architecture and&nbsp;will have just under 100 apartments across an 11-storey building&nbsp;at 2462–2472 Gold Coast Highway, on the corner of Glenelg Avenue just under 300m from the future Mermaid Beach Light Rail stop.

The apartments, a mix of two- and three-bedrooms, will sit above a retail-focused ground plane and under extensive rooftop resident amenities.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.04%20am.png?VersionId=z6NV4izeuvhBSSVlY6vK6TPO1LxrFeaG" />

BDA said in its planning submission that the project is intended to support the area’s transition toward higher-density, mixed-use living. “This project offers the opportunity to generate appropriate higher-intensity development within the future Light Rail corridor of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a>,” the submission noted.

At ground level, Glenelg Residences will include eight retail tenancies designed to activate the street frontage, complemented by a basement bar offering an additional hospitality element. Above, residents will have access to a rooftop amenity deck featuring an infinity pool, hot and cold plunge spas, day beds, and barbecue facilities.

The architectural approach adopts a restrained material palette of brick, textured concrete, and integrated landscaping, with cantilevered concrete frames and cascading planting intended to soften the built form. BDA described the design as aiming to create “a memorable sculptural mid-rise mixed-use building” that responds to both its coastal setting and urban context.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.45%20am.png?VersionId=cpjIVBqcT_sujmo2UMWkVyLcQ7WGJHaQ" />

The approval comes as the City of Gold Coast continues to plan for significant population growth, with regional targets requiring more than 100,000 new high-density dwellings by 2046.

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Big Projects, led by Matthew and John Barrett, is part of a growing cohort of developers that deliver construction in-house, providing a high level of confidence to prospective purchasers.
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150260]

Joel Robinson

Big Projects secures approval for Glenelg Residences in Mermaid Beach

Sherpa Group is ramping up its investment in the southern Gold Coast by lodging a development application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, a new $350 million project in Coolangatta.

The move comes after the group’s $27 million acquisition of the 2,029 sqm site on the corner of Griffith and Warner Street, last year.

They will develop 194 apartments across a 26-storey tower, which will become Sherpa’s largest project to date.

Viveré will be the next chapter in the Flourish story, following closely behind Amargo, Oasis, and the Avenues in Palm Beach, as well as Symphony in Brisbane, all designed to deliver affordable housing in lifestyle-rich locations, giving locals a real chance to secure a residence close to the beachfront.

The HAL Architect-designed project will offer a diverse range of residences, from one-, two, and three- bedroom apartments to the premium Canopy range to luxury penthouses.

<img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c85f5a7e-a22f-4745-8def-400adb3c0b35" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.43%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=OY.chur3BPExn1exQ2q8clHqWnW_CaBi" />

“The Gold Coast is undergoing a period of immense growth, with more people drawn to the incredible 
lifestyle that’s available, leading to strong growth in property prices,” said Christie Leet, founder of Sherpa 
Group.

“Our goal at Sherpa is to ensure locals are not priced out of the market in prime locations, which is why we 
created the Flourish collection.

“Flourish Vivere will form the next chapter in our portfolio, and we are so excited to be lodging the DA, marking our first project in Coolangatta.”

A signature of the Flourish developments is the communal rooftop. Flourish Vivere will showcase a private resident’s lounge, outdoor dining with barbecues and pizza ovens, heated pool, fully-equipped gym, and a wellness centre with sauna and steam room.

<img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c09372cc-aae6-4458-af2e-f291bd19a5e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Sc_RLXl5jiff.tnadogXjQJ_WIpDjf3p" />

The project is strategically located to offer a walkable lifestyle, with the Strand shopping centre, cafes, restaurants, shops and the beach, all just a short stroll away.

“We have meticulously planned Vivere to build on the Flourish legacy, creating a truly special project,”&nbsp;Leet added.

“Wellness, lifestyle and community are at the forefront of every decision we make, and that has not 
changed for Vivere.”

With the DA now lodged with the Gold Coast City Council, Sherpa has moved quickly to secure LPS Group as the builder, offering buyers a level of certainty that is rarely seen in today’s market.

Sherpa has delivered 16 residential projects over the past seven years with a pipeline of $1 billion, with more under construction.

Sherpa takes Flourish brand to Coolangatta, lays plans for Flourish Vivere 

S&amp;S Projects is boosting its investment at Rainbow Bay to more than $1 billion after the prolific Gold Coast developer acquired a new site for $20.25 million and immediately laid plans for a new luxury apartment project in the sought-after precinct.

The site, which is the company’s fifth acquisition at Rainbow Bay in the past four years, will be home to the company’s largest project to date after delivering 3 sold-out projects and construction progresses on Radia worth a combined $215m. 
S&amp;S Projects is currently finalising plans for its latest strategic acquisition, a 1,518 sqm site located 209-213 Boundary Street in Coolangatta, with a development application expected to be lodged within weeks.

The luxury residential development will build on the company’s highly successful projects at Rainbow Bay, comprising Flow, Awaken, Esprit and Radia, with Radia currently under construction by Hutchinson Builders.

“We have been unflinching in our commitment to Rainbow Bay and the transformation we have helped drive in this incredible part of the Gold Coast, which is among the city’s most desirable residential locations,” said S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun.

“Our fifth project will reflect the best of what we have done so far to create a lifestyle precinct that is second to none.”

The latest development, which has yet to be named, is proposed to accommodate 88 luxury apartments in a design that will immerse residents in a unique wellness lifestyle that expands on the legacy of S&amp;S Project’s earlier developments at Rainbow Bay.

The development will feature an expansive rooftop garden and wellness centre with a resort- style pool, among a host of lifestyle amenities planned for residents.

“Rainbow Bay, with its beautiful, protected beach and alongside one of the world’s best surf breaks at Snapper Rocks, is the natural wellness heartland of the Gold Coast,” said Gedoun.

“We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden.”

The latest acquisition comes as S&amp;S Projects is at the completion of Esprit and construction continues on Radia, which are part of their significant portfolio undertaken by the company at Rainbow Bay since 2022.

The $215 million Radia, which comprises 38 apartments, is currently the flagship development by S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay which is expected to be completed in 2027.

Jayde Pezet, of Pezet Matheson, which has managed sales and marketing for S&amp;S Projects across their Gold Coast portfolio, emphasised the developer’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.

“S&amp;S Projects continue to elevate the benchmark of luxury with each development," Pezet said.

“We have worked with S&amp;amp;S on their 4 other projects in Rainbow Bay and their approach reflects a team that is constantly learning, refining, and pushing the standard higher.

“Their hyper-local knowledge and deep expertise within the luxury property sector are what truly set them apart, allowing them to deliver projects that feel both globally sophisticated and authentically connected to their coastal environment”

S&amp;S Projects plans to officially launch its latest project at Rainbow Bay in the second half of this year.

“As we embark on our largest project yet, we have pulled out all stops to create another landmark development that truly reflects the relaxed southern Gold Coast lifestyle,” Gedoun added.

S&S buys $20m Rainbow Bay site for fifth beachside apartment project

Japandi, an emerging design trend that combines Scandinavian functionality with Japanese rustic minimalism, remains relatively untested in Australia’s residential development market.

As developers look to differentiate their projects and offer something distinct to buyers, Brisbane-based developer Lantona has embraced the hybrid style for its recently launched Toowong apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/koya-residences-6-josling-street-toowong-qld-4066">Koya Residences</a>, with early response to the design proving positive.

Lantona entrusted Red Door Architecture and interiors practice Luma Design Co with delivering the Japandi brief. The approach blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality, emphasising warm, restrained interiors, natural materials and clean lines. Drawing on the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi (beauty in imperfection) and the Scandinavian principle of hygge (comfort and cosiness), it creates serene, uncluttered and sustainable living environments.

These design principles are expressed throughout the Josling Street development, both in its exterior form and across the 40 one-, two- and three-bedroom residences within.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366229]

Koya reflects a deliberately scaled approach, with the five-storey form designed to align with the surrounding residential streetscape rather than dominate it.

“Koya is conceived as a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings. Every decision, from material selection to spatial planning, has been guided by long-term liveability and enduring relevance,” the developer said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366243]

Positioned within an established inner-west neighbourhood, the development sits near riverfront parklands and the Bicentennial Bikeway, while remaining within walking distance of Toowong Village and multiple public transport options connecting to the CBD, St Lucia and West End.

Lantona said the location was central to the project’s conception, pointing to Toowong’s balance of green space, transport access and proximity to major education institutions.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> combines river access, walkability, immediate CBD connection and a strong educational presence. That balance made it the obvious setting for Koya.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]

Communal amenity is concentrated on the rooftop, where a shared retreat will include a pool, dining areas and outdoor spaces oriented towards neighbourhood and city views. The design allows for both private use and small gatherings, extending the living environment beyond individual apartments.

Koya enters the market at a time when smaller-scale developments are becoming less common in established suburbs, with many recent projects in the suburb shooting for the sky.

In a nod of confidence,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/brisbane-builders">Brisbane Builders</a>&nbsp;has already commenced construction on the building, which is slated for completion in early 2027. Keenan &amp; Byrne is marketing Koya.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150787]

Japandi-inspired Koya Residences launch in Toowong

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A completed Castle Hill apartment development is returning to market with an uncommon level of financial backing, positioning it as one of the more secure options for buyers in Sydney’s north-west.

Skyview in Castle Hill, originally developed by Top Place and now overseen by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, is being relaunched following a full remediation process. Central to its repositioning is a substantial financial reserve designed to provide ongoing protection and reduce uncertainty for incoming purchasers.

At the core of this offering is an $11 million bond secured during the project’s remediation phase, negotiated by former NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler. With less than $4 million required to complete the works, approximately $7.2 million remains in reserve, with around 15 years left on the term.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359134]

Rather than a typical insurance-backed structure, the remaining funds are held as cash, creating a readily accessible financial buffer should any future building issues arise. The structure is intended to provide buyers with an added layer of certainty, differentiating the development from more conventional apartment offerings.

Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure provides a level of security not typically seen in apartment developments.

“The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers,” Huxley said.

“Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359135]

The remediation process has now been completed in full, with no active rectification orders or outstanding directives linked to the project on NSW Government registers. This outcome reflects the broader tightening of building oversight across the state, while also highlighting the project’s transition into a completed, compliant asset.

In a market where many buyers remain cautious about apartment quality, initiatives like this are designed to restore confidence, giving purchasers greater certainty and a stronger sense of security in their investment.

Equitifund has since acquired the remaining apartments and is managing their reintroduction to the market. With the works finalised and a significant financial reserve in place, the project now presents with a markedly different risk profile compared to its initial release.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359137]

Beyond the added security, the development is positioned in one of Castle Hill’s more established pockets. The Gay Street address places it within close proximity to Castle Towers, one of the country’s largest retail centres, as well as Castle Hill Metro Station, which now connects directly to the broader Sydney Metro network.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said buyer demand in the area continues to be driven by access to transport and amenity.

“Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre,” Hamblett said.

“There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359145]

The apartments also enter the market at a relatively accessible price point for the area, with two-bedroom configurations starting from $995,000 and rental demand for similar stock reaching around $900 per week. This combination of pricing, connectivity, and completed status is expected to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors seeking lower-risk entry into the Hills District apartment market.

For eligible buyers, a limited 3.50 per cent p.a. two-year fixed interest rate is currently available through Equitifund’s lending partners, providing an additional layer of affordability.

EquitiCredit Pty Ltd ACN 676 363 769 holds ACL 559289 and provides credit assistance. Finance is arranged through EquitiCredit and funded by its lending partners. Interest rates are subject to change and eligibility criteria apply. Terms, conditions, fees and charges may apply. This is not financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Prospective buyers should seek independent financial advice.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]
</section>

Castle Hill apartments offering unmatched buyer protection through dedicated fund

Celebrity Sales

<html><body>
Retired Parramatta Eels star Eric Grothe Jr - who was named winger of the year at the 2005 Dally M Awards - has sold his Sutherland Shire investment for $1.2 million after it failed to find a buyer at its auction last month.
Pulse Property agent Rochelle Mills had issued $1.1 million price guidance for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-caringbah-123713122" target="_blank">the Caringbah property</a> that cost Grothe Jr $565,000 in 2007.
It now comes with a 2009-built four bedroom home on the 525 square metre lot. It was listed in 2011 when the auction bidding reached $980,000.
The property was advertised as "a great opportunity to redevelop and build your dream home".
Grothe, who also offloaded a two bedroom Cronulla apartment in 2012 for $472,000, is splitting his time between Sydney and the Gold Coast, where model, actress and singer girlfriend Sophie Monk has just set up camp.
She's just spent $1.1 million on a five bedroom waterfront in Helensvale, round the corner from her parents' house.
Outside of footy Grothe Jr is a keen musician and continues to showcase his musical talents as a regular member of the band on Channel Nine's The NRL Footy Show.
This article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Eric Grothe Jnr sells in Sutherland Shire

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Australian cricket vice-captain David Warner and his wife, the iron woman, Candice Falzon have quickly listed their South Coogee home up for 2016 auction.
It is their home which cost $6.25 million in early 2014 shortly after the birth of their baby daughter Ivy Mae. 
The three level contemporary home listed by Bethwyn Richards at McGrath Estate Agents comes with 180 degree views across the Pacific Ocean towards Wedding Cake Island from all levels.
The home comes with bespoke cabinetry, American Oak and Travertine flooring. There's a state-of-the-art Calcutta marble kitchen, stone tiled swimming pool, sauna/steam room, and large outdoor BBQ entertaining space.
The March 2016 auction listing follows<a href="/news/david-warner-buys-knockdown-property-in-maroubra"> their recent Lurline Bay purchase</a> when they bought an oceanfront knock-down for just under $4 million through McGrath agent Simon Exleton.
Offered with lapsed Tobias Architect, the couple has instead quickly commissioned architect Rolf Ockert to create their dream home. 
David "The Kaboom Kid" Warner, in unstoppable cricket form, loves his coastal property. "You can't go wrong on bricks and mortar," he told Daily Telegraph columnist Nick Tabakoff recently.
He was not alone in that thinking having outbid four contract holders to secure the 892sqm Mermaid Avenue.
In 2014 Warner secured $1.88 million when his renovated four-bedroom Jenner Street, Little Bay home was listed ahead of the purchase in South Coogee from the property developer and former Secret Millionaire star, Carly Crutchfield.
Warner had an investment property in Maroubra, which cost $562,000 in late 2009. The 1950s Maroubra Road sold in late 2014 at $650,000. His current portfolio includes Matraville investment apartments.
After breaking onto the international cricket scene in the 2008/09 season with a series of explosive batting performances taking his test runs past 4000, Warner is now a key opening batsman in the Australian Test team.
More than $7 million is being sought for the listing.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

$7 million plus sought by cricketer David Warner in South Coogee

<html><body>
The Block contestants Luke and Ebony's sub-penthouse South Yarra apartment will go to auction this weekend with Block agent fixture, Biggin &amp; Scott's Russell Cambridge. 
The three bedroom, three bathroom property is on floor five of the complex offering extensive views of Melbourne.
It features a state of the art white glossed kitchen installed  after early style missteps. 
They were the only couple to knock down major walls to create an enormous open plan living, dining and kitchen enhanced by dark floorboards.
Andrew Crotty joins Cambridge from Biggin and Scott Richmond with the listing of <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/1a-affleck-street-south-yarra/Property-Details-buy-residential-9728465" target="_blank">1A Affleck Street</a>.
They too have decided to leave behind the less desirable Commercial Road address in their marketing.
The complex features a communal roof terrace with a barbecue, cinema and wellness centre.
The WA pair have an edge over the other contestants as Ebony is an interior designer and Luke is an electrician by trade.
The brother and sister pairing said they treated the apartment as if they were designing it for a client.
They went out and researched what was selling around Melbourne, Luke said.
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Vast open plan the key to The Block Luke and Ebony apartment offering

<html><body>
Comedic actor Shane Jacobson has listed his five-bedroom house at Newport in Melbourne.
 The Oxford Street property has been listed through Village Real Estate Seddon agent Anthony Watson.
The home has been scheduled for<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/42-oxford-street-newport/Property-Details-buy-residential-9523848" target="_blank"> October 17 auction</a>. 
It was bought for $1 million in 2007, after the success of his debut film, Kenny.
</body></html>

Actor Shane Jacobsen lists Newport home

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Aniek Baten, the widow of the lesbian legend Dawn O'Donnell, has sold their home in Mosman for a disappointing $6.6 million.
Paying $5.4 million in 2002, O'Donnell, once Abe Saffron's business partner, made her fortune from Sydney's gay saunas, nightclubs and sex shops.
After her 2007 death it was actors and animals, rather than Aniek Baten, her wife of 30 years, who emerged as the major beneficiaries of her $16 million estate.
Baten started legal action having been left $3 million but not their home in Shellbank Avenue.
It has now been quietly sold through Simeon Manners Property having been listed with initial $8 million hopes.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
 
</body></html>

Dawn O'Donnell's Mosman trophy sold for $6.6 million

<html><body>
The intended matrimonial home of celebrity trainer Michelle Bridges and her former husband Bill Moore has been sold.
It achieved its desired $4.5 million plus ambitions ahead of last weekend's <a href="https://www.ch.com.au/100P10126" target="_blank">scheduled Cobden &amp; Hayson auction</a>.
With its two year makeover, the then couple had bought the sandstone home at 10 Wharf Road in Birchgrove for $2.35 million in 2011.
It renovations were said to have cost as much again.
The builders only recently completed the renovation of the three bedroom 1870s home which has been sold to an inner west buyer, though not from the Balmain peninsula.
The Biggest Loser fitness trainers Michelle Bridges and Steve "Commando" Willis are set to stay in their Potts Point apartment following the upcoming birth of their first child.
It was early 2013 when the then Biggest Loser star and her husband, Bill Moore split after nine years of marriage, while keeping their multimillion-dollar fitness empire intact, with Bill retaining his role as business manager.
The couple had met at Moore's Balmain gym and then renovated their Rozelle house, where Moore continues to reside.
Birchgrove's highest non-waterfront was a $4.1 million sale in 2013 on Rose Street.
</body></html>

Michelle Bridges sells Balmain reno 

<html><body>
The Blue Wiggle Anthony Field and his wife Miki withdrew their Gladesville riverfront home from its scheduled weekend auction.
It was purchased for $3.56 million early last year following the <a href="/news/anthony-field-finally-gets-a-wriggle-on-from-drummoyne">sale of their six bedroom Drummoyne harbourfront</a> for $4.85 million.
The four bedroom 1950s home on the Parramatta River came with beach.
Last month Anthony Field, the Blue Wiggle, attended, without bidding, a $3,102,000 Petersham auction.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
</body></html>

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