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

Gladstone

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While the Gladstone market has been declining for the past four to five years, it all seemed to come to a head in 2016, according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
But the valuation firm says despite the years of negative publicity regarding the Gladstone market, the past few months have heralded many positives.
“We are no longer all doom and gloom and it is unlikely that values will drop any further,” the report says.
“Yes, it appears we have hit the bottom of the market!”
There have been significantly increased sales and leasing activity especially in the bottom end of the market and rental levels appear to have stabilised for most market sectors, the firms notes.
The affordability of property in the Gladstone region is the key driver at present with value levels at the lowest they have been in over a decade.
“We are seeing more and more transactions that represent very good value for money.
“Most established housing products are worth below replacement cost which has definitely been a factor in the increased activity.
“While this is good news for the established housing sector, the trend in new construction activity is still declining as in most cases it is cheaper to purchase an existing modern home than it is to buy land and build.”
While the Gladstone market has been declining for the past four to five years, it all seemed to come to a head in 2016, according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
But the valuation firm says despite the years of negative publicity regarding the Gladstone market, the past few months have heralded many positives.
“We are no longer all doom and gloom and it is unlikely that values will drop any further,” the report says.
“Yes, it appears we have hit the bottom of the market!”
There have been significantly increased sales and leasing activity especially in the bottom end of the market and rental levels appear to have stabilised for most market sectors, the firms notes.
The affordability of property in the Gladstone region is the key driver at present with value levels at the lowest they have been in over a decade.
“We are seeing more and more transactions that represent very good value for money.
“Most established housing products are worth below replacement cost which has definitely been a factor in the increased activity.
“While this is good news for the established housing sector, the trend in new construction activity is still declining as in most cases it is cheaper to purchase an existing modern home than it is to buy land and build.”
But the firm warns that while Gladstone may be at the bottom of the market, it is likely to take a while for us to see any uplift in values.
“The Gladstone region vacancy rate still sits at approximately 8% indicating there is still an oversupply of product.
“The vacancy rate is slowly dropping however until it is at least halved, there is unlikely to be any pressure put on the rental market and rental levels.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-telina-124533194" target="_blank">59 Witney Street</a>, Telina (above) has been listed for $307,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-new+auckland-117979307" target="_blank">46 Cockatoo Drive</a>, New Auckland (below) has been reduced to $309,000.
<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/2017/02/20/46%20Cockatoo%20Drive.jpg" alt="">
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Gladstone finally at the bottom of the market: HTW

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The somewhat idyllic Turtle Island, one of nine freehold islands off Queensland, has always been on the purchasing radar of celebrities.
No less than Kim Kardashian and Kanye West were supposed keen buyers in 2014.
Actor Julia Roberts was the reputed underbidder on the island almost 20 years ago. 
Lesser lights like Dr Geoffrey Edelsten and former wife Brynne considered buying it a few years back.
It has been owned for the past few years by the lowkey Sydney actor Brendon Lunney who has recently secured its sale.
The $3.45 million buyer has emerged as a Singapore billionaire, according to the now lodged paperwork.
It is the same hotel magnate Koh Wee Meng who hit the headlines just a few months ago when he bought a 287 hectare Tasmanian island for $5.5 million.
Waterhouse Island is just 3 kilometres off Tasmania’s northeast coast, as the mutton bird flies.
Koh is 26th on the Singapore billionaire’s list, with a net worth of $US1.13 billion. 
Koh, the boss of the Fragrance chain of hotels, has been acquiring development sites in Australia, recently unveiling plans for an apartment skyscraper in Melbourne with a Beyoncé-inspired curvy shape.
On its sale, the Coldwell Banker island specialist Richard Vanhoff said then undisclosed buyer purchased the island for personal use. 
The new owner he said had plans to improve the two helipads and build a tennis court.
It was advertised as a tropical island getaway, or a developer's island with a four bedroom house, a swimming pool and pontoon.
It boasts views of the Gladstone harbour. There are 15 water tanks and two dams.
The island was developed by horse racing enthusiasts Bob and Sue Bentley who paid $300,000 in 1994 for the then dormant island.
Believed to have been used as a Chinese market garden in the early 1900s, from 1999 to its $2.1 million sale to Lunney, it was the getaway for Sutherland Shire property developer Steven Christofidellis, his wife, Marcia, and their kids.
The Bronte-based Lunney is an actor best known for his 1970s roles including Rush, I Can Jump Puddle and Division Four.
Hollywood stars who do own islands include Mel Gibson, who bought Mago Island in Fiji 2005.
This article first appeared in The Daily Telegraph.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Billioniare buys Turtle Island off Gladstone, Queensland

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Gladstone market activity shows signs of increased sales activity leading to cheaper property prices, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that values in Gladstone has not been this low in a decade.
"It really doesn’t matter which market sector you pick, most have had increased sales activity over the past couple of months and the main reason is that it is so cheap! Values in Gladstone have not been this low in over a decade," the report states.
The most active market sector is the sub $250,000 sector. Purchasers in this price bracket comprise mostly owner occupiers, many of whom are first home buyers.
One example would be a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-clinton-123663654">11 Hansen Crescent</a> that is for sale for $195,000.
This type of money will get you an older, modest 3-bedroom high or low set home.
The established suburbs of New Auckland, Clinton, South and West Gladstone are where most activity is occurring.
Another active sector is for modern 4-bedroom homes. There has been a new wave of sales for standard 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes in modern estates selling for sub $300,000 however most of the stock is priced above this.
Investors have also re-entered the market. There have been a number of 1980s and 1990s 2-bedroom townhouses sold in and around the central suburbs of South and West Gladstone.
The value level for this stock is mostly sub $100,000.
Property with the lowest amount of activity is and always has been the prestige market. Prestige dwellings are generally tightly held which of course is why there is limited activity.
"We are aware however of two prestige homes currently on the market which have garnered good interest according to selling agents," the report said.
Pricing and buyer feedback on these properties suggests that the prestige market has finally caught up with the rest of the market and is now at a more realistic pricing level.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Lowest property prices in a decade in Gladstone results in increased sales activity: HTW

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Any local will tell you that Gladstone has always been a boom and bust town, according to Herron Todd White.
Investment in the town soars when a new project begins as demonstrated over the past 50 years, the valuation firm advised.
"This is always followed by a bust during which the town re-gathers itself and gets back to normal.
"Presently we are in the fourth year of Gladstone’s latest downward cycle.
"Established housing has declined as much as 50% and units as much as 80% from values achieved in the peak of the market."
It advised in its September report the vacancy rate peaked in the first quarter of 2016 at just over 10% and has been steadily falling since.
"It may indicate we have seen the worst of this bust.
"Only time will tell," HTW advised.
The traditional property types in Gladstone have all been established on the back of major booms in the industrial sector, according to Herron Todd White's latest monthly market indicator.
The property advisory firm says that prior to the 1960s Gladstone remained a relatively small port city serving the local cattle industry.
In 1963 Queensland Alumina Refinery (QAL) was announced, beginning over a decade long boom during which Gladstone’s population doubled.
The first, second and third stages of the refinery were built along with the first stage of the Gladstone Power Station.
Most of Gladstone’s central suburbs including South and West Gladstone and Barney Point were well established.
Homes in these suburbs are popular in today’s market given their close proximity to the CBD and the varying views available from the low and high set style homes. These suburbs also offer good opportunities to renovate older style homes in central locations.
The entry level price point for homes in West Gladstone and South Gladstone is around $200,000 in the current market.
The early 1980s saw the next wave of industrial development with the commencement of the Boyne Aluminium Smelter. Much of the established parts of Boyne Island and adjoining Tannum Sands were developed during this time. Construction ranged between on ground and high set homes.
Price points for this style of housing in Boyne Island and Tannum Sands ranges between $300,000 and $350,000 in the current market. Gladstone suburbs such as Kin Kora, Sun Valley and parts of Clinton and New Auckland were also established during this time. Kin Kora and Sun Valley comprise mostly high set homes and are popular well established suburbs in today’s market. Prices in these suburbs range typically between $250,000 and $350,000.
In the 1990s the coal industry boomed giving Gladstone another boom in property prices and demand. New housing estates in Clinton, New Auckland, Glen Eden and Telina were developed comprising mostly 3-bedroom on ground brick houses. New Auckland and Clinton were further established in the early 2000s when Rio Tinto announced the Yarwun Alumina Refinery was to proceed.
The most recent construction boom (2010 to 2012) commenced when construction started on three LNG plants being built on Curtis Island off the coast of Gladstone.
This boom saw fringe suburbs including Glen Eden, New Auckland and Kirkwood being extensively developed with modern housing.
It noted a transformation also occurred in Gladstone City with multiple high rise apartment buildings going up in the CBD and extensive townhouse developments taking place in the suburbs. Over 1,000 units have been built in the past five years alone.
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Gladstone property values nearly 80 percent down from residential peak: HTW

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Keen fisherman will be interested in snapping up an island in picturesque Graham Creek.
Located at the north end of Gladstone Harbour, the island is one of the best fishing spots up and down the length of the east coast, according to marketing agent Anthony Williams.
The 13.7 hectare island is currently undeveloped, which will allow the buyer to stake a further personal claim.
The island is yet to be named, which will allow the buyer to stake a further personal claim.
The peak, sitting 35 metres above sea level, would be the ideal spot for a large residence.
“This may make it more palatable than another island, which is currently on the market for $4 million and has a private residence built in the early 90’s, for example,” Anthony said.
“The island listing is protected from any prevailing south-easterlies; and Graham Creek and Rawbelle Creek, the small estuary running around the Island's northern shore, are renowned by anglers for excellent fishing and table quality catches.
“It’s not surprising that we’ve had interest from buyers keen to develop fishing lodges or similar ventures.
"In fact, the seller, a US-based company, purchased the island in the 90’s for the purpose of building a company get-away.”
Anthony said the 30 to 40 minutes boat trip from the Gladstone Yacht Club was inside the Harbour and so protected from open sea conditions.
“The property is prime real estate for an ultimate personal getaway, a company retreat location or private reserve,” he said, “and it’s just waiting for a name and to fulfil someone’s dream.”
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Queensland island considered fisherman's paradise up for sale

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The Gladstone residential market - well known for its big boom and bust cycles - has now been falling for a longer period than it was increasing and the end is not really in sight, according to the valuation firm, Herron Todd White.
"A crystal ball would be a really handy object to have at the moment," HTW's latest report proferred.
It advised new job opportunities in Gladstone are very weak and without a major project on the horizon, the Gladstone economy is likely to remain subdued.
"These job losses have had and will continue to have a direct effect on the already oversupplied property market in the Gladstone region."
HTW said all market sectors continue to show declines in value.
"In order to reignite the local property market another major project would need to start construction.
"A number of smaller projects have been spoken about however nothing of substance seems to be on the horizon."
Over the course of 2016 major employers in the region (Rio Tinto, QAL, NRG) have enacted cost cutting measures through their businesses and cut hundreds of jobs. More recently Aurizon has announced that job cuts will take place in the Gladstone depot.
Adding to this, there are still approximately 2,000 local employees working for Bechtel on Curtis Island finalising construction on the LNG plants, most of whom will be without work within 12 months.
"New job opportunities in Gladstone are very weak and without a major project on the horizon, the Gladstone economy is likely to remain subdued.
"These job losses have had and will continue to have a direct effect on the already oversupplied property market in the Gladstone region."
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No end in sight for Gladstone house price fall: HTW

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In Queensland’s Gladstone, half-a-million can fetch you a well appointed, modern home with a pool or shed on an allotment above 800 square metres and located in an established suburb close to all urban amenities, say valuation firm Herron Todd White. 
Their July 2016 residential market report focuses on properties in the sub $500,000 sector.
Properties in the $500,000 to $600,000 price range are thinly traded in the current market, say HTW. 
“Alternatively you could purchase a couple of modern three-bedroom townhouses (roughly $250,000 each) or several older two-bedroom townhouses (sub $100,000 each),” say HTW.
Half a million is also considered near enough for entry-level rural residential property. This market sector has seen some more significant declines in 2015 after having held its value over the past couple of years.
In line with HTW's assessment, Property Observer found a four-bedroom house with a pool at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-gladstone+central-122612414" target="_blank">3 William Street, Gladstone Central, Qld 4680</a> (above) for $330,000.
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Modern home with pool is what $500,000 can buy you in Queensland’s Gladstone: HTW

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Gladstone on Queensland’s Central Coast is set for a rise in investor and owner-occupier activity on the back of a three-fold expansion in its fledgling tourism sector, burgeoning port activities and real estate affordability, according to Raine &amp; Horne.
“Property values in Gladstone are presenting investors and owner occupiers with an opportune time to enter the market in a ‘destination location’ with outstanding potential,” said Mark Patton, principal of Raine &amp; Horne Gladstone.
“Gladstone is on the edge of the Southern Great Barrier Reef and more cruise ships are bringing additional tourism dollars and jobs to the port,” said Patton.
“The extra jobs will benefit the real estate sales market, and we expect to see the current median price of $375,000 to start to head north. There will be some rental pricing pressures too, which savvy investors have noted,” said Patton.
Tourism is a major growth sector in Gladstone with 17 cruise ships booked to dock in its deep water harbour in the next 18 months, according to Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Limited.
“The target is set to increase to around 50 per year in the next five years, with other cruise lines showing amazing interest in visiting our port,” said Darryl Branthwaite, chief executive officer, Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Limited.
“We have a deep-water port where people can walk straight off the boat without needing to tender in on smaller vessels as they do in destinations such as Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island and Cairns.
“There is massive opportunity for the tourism SMEs to evolve and expand with every ship bringing between 2,000 and 6,000 passengers to Gladstone along with between 700 and 2,000 crew.”
“We are at the tip of Southern Great Barrier Reef and being further south in the cooler waters, we have avoided the El Niño warmer currents, which have affected Far North Queensland and the northern reef.
“Scientists have now stated that the northern reef is recovering, the coral is spectacular, the beaches are white, the water is warm and crystal clear, and the fishing is awesome.”
The Gladstone region, which has a growing population of around 73,000, has been regularly written off as a one-trick economic pony by many experts who claim the town is too dependent on mining, according to Patton.
“This is just not true. It is Queensland’s largest multi-commodity port, which handles the export of more than 36 different commodities including coking and thermal coal, aluminum, bauxite, wood chip, cement, calcite, machinery, fuel, and even grain from the Banana Shire, to the Central Highlands,” he said.
“Additionally, Gladstone is home to a number of major industrial giants such as mining explosives specialist, Orica, and two of the world’s largest alumina plants, Queensland Alumina and Yarwun.”
Gladstone is the major Central Queensland fuel bunkering hub, and this service is set to expand, according to Branthwaite.
“There is interest from an oil refinery to be constructed in Gladstone, along with a bio fuels plant and a steel facility,” he said.
“The three LNG plants on Curtis Island, which cost more than $25 billion each to build, could expand especially with Arrow Energy buying up the British Gas (BG) share of QCLNG.
“Moreover, the shipping and tugboat work required with each of the LNG ships is very frequent and will provide hundreds of additional jobs,” said Branthwaite.
“The maintenance programs for each of these LNG plants also will start to have an effect on the Gladstone economy within the next two years.”
Branthwaite is predicting supply chain activities supporting the LNG plants will take up some of the commercial property vacancies left over from the heady days of the construction surge.
“Alternatively, suppliers to the LNG sector may even construct their own commercial premises,” he said.
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Gladstone real estate set to cruise on the back of tourism sector: Raine & Horne

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The city of Gladstone in Queensland was approaching the bottom of market cycle for houses for both April and May but it was one notch better for units, being at the declining market stage, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's latest property clock.
The property clock is a simple broad brush means of suggesting where property prices are and what direction they are headed. 
Calliope is considered a fringe residential suburb in the current market, being located on the Bruce Highway, approximately 20 minutes from Gladstone. During the boom, Calliope expanded rapidly to help ease the accommodation demands on Gladstone. Unfortunately, as with Gladstone, development continued well past the peak of the market and supply in Calliope now heavily outweighs demand. Vacancy rates are high and this has forced rental and capital values down.
Most of the oversupply is of modern housing in new estates and there are also significant vacant land stocks available. New infrastructure is planned for the location with the local shopping centre undergoing an expansion to double the size of the IGA and provide more specialty stores. A new tavern is also planned. While this infrastructure will be good for the township, it is unlikely to curb the downward trend of values in the area. 
The median price of houses in Calliope was $377,000, according to CoreLogic RP Data. Property Observer looked up a few recent sales in the area on www.realestate.com.au:
1. A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-calliope-121201866" target="_blank">4 Elliot Drive Calliope Qld 4680</a> sold for $369,000.
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2. A three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-calliope-121839802" target="_blank">14 Trudy Avenue, Calliope, Qld 4680</a> sold for $335,000.
 
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Oversupply hurting property values in fringes of Queensland's Gladstone: HTW

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The Queensland city of Gladstone is at 'approaching the bottom of the market' position for houses for the third month in a row, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's property clock for May 2016, a simple broad brush means to suggest where property markets are and what direction they're headed.
Gladstone first slipped into this position in March from being a declining market in February, according to the HTW clock.
<a href="/images/2016/05/06/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-06%20at%202.03.00%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/05/06/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-06%20at%202.03.00%20PM.png" alt="" width="1085" height="813">
 
The latest report from HTW also deals with heritage-listed property. There are no residential premises in Gladstone that are heritage listed. In saying this, suburbs closer to the city including Gladstone Central, West Gladstone and South Gladstone contain many older traditional Queenslander style homes. 
Many of these homes have been renovated to high standards and have some form of harbour or district view due to the hilly nature of central Gladstone. These types of homes are also generally on larger size allotments (typically around 1,000 square metres) which also adds to their appeal. Homes of this calibre are tightly held however can attract a fair level of interest when they become available, even in current market conditions.
Previously, HTW had said that Gladstone was not a large enough city to see different suburbs being subjected to gentrification. Most new development occurs in newer suburbs on the city fringe. In years gone by, parts of central suburbs such as South Gladstone and West Gladstone were popular with developers building townhouses on larger allotments closer to the city. Most of this redevelopment has ceased since the market peaked. 
On the commercial side, key areas in Gladstone that attract premium retail rentals are those located in prime positions along major transport routes and within modern centres anchored by a major supermarket. Despite weakened market conditions, these centres appear to be maintaining good occupancy levels with few vacancies. Retail tenancies that have been harder hit by local economic conditions are those within secondary locations, within an older style building, have poor access, have poor on site parking or have a combination of these. Within the Gladstone CBD, there are patches of these secondary tenancies generally within Goodoon Street, Tank Street and Toolooa Street. Demand for these tenancies has weakened significantly throughout the recent downturn, with increased vacancies and reduced rental levels.
For residential property, others in the approaching the bottom of market cycle for houses were Darwin, Alice Springs, Bundaberg, Emerald, Mackay and Rockhampton, the HTW clock shows. Bundaberg in Queensland was the new entrant here, improving from its bottom of market status.
The bottom of the market cycle was completed by Mt Gambier and Townsville.
The peak of market remained more or less the same for houses, with NSW Central Coast, Dubbo, Horsham and Newcastle maintaining their positions, while Coffs Harbour shifted to the starting to decline phase. 
 
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