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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

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

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

Leisure

<html><body>
The Brisbane heritage-listed Princess Theatre in Woolloongabba is up for sale through Knight Frank. 
Built in 1888, the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.knightfrank.co.uk/properties/commercial/for-sale/8-annerley-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102/5301470" target="_blank">Annerley Road property</a>, which was originally built for prominent Brisbane solicitor Phillip Hardgrave, consists of a large two-storey theatre and three retail tenancies on a 1103 sqm block.
The <a href="https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/heritage-listed-brisbane-theatre-up-for-sale-20200224-p543md" target="_blank">132-year-old property</a> has been owned by Lifecity Church for the past 13 years, and has hosted other events, including wedding ceremonies, live music, school productions, private and corporate functions, theatre productions, trivia nights and fundraisers. The Princess Theatre has also recently been extensively refurbished, it has undergone recarpeting, repainting, floor polishing, and a new lighting and sound system. 
With Lifecity Church relocating to a more suitable location, the property is being taken to the market by Adam Willmore and Christian Sandstrom of Knight Frank. The expressions of interest campaign for this property closes March 19, 2020. 
The 500-person theatre was last sold in 2003 for $950,000, and $451,000 in 1992.
Mr Willmore said the Princess Theatre, which has 20 metres of street frontage to the busy street, "will generate significant buyer interest due to the scarcity factor and its stellar location, situated in the heart of Woolloongabba close to the Mater Hospital and less than two kilometres from the CBD.
"Woolloongabba is benefiting from investments in both public and private sector. The recent urban renewal and new development occurring within the suburb is redefining the suburb as a key southern 'gateway' into the city.
"The property adjoins retail amenity with plenty of parking and is occupied by two retail tenancies on the ground floor including a barber and café, along with a small office space." 
The theatre was first named the South Brisbane Public Hall and was designed to provide the rapidly expanding surrounding population with a communal venue that would become the perfect location for theatre, lectures, balls, musical performances and other public gatherings.
Over the years, the site has experiences a number of different incarnations, including being used as a clothing factory, a movie house, and the main site which hosted the rehearsals and administration for the US Entertainment Unit during World War II.
Lifecity Church director and venue manager, Frances Koops said she hoped the theatre would be purchased by someone who would make it available for enjoyment of the community for many years to come.
"The theatre is such a valuable piece of history, with so many drawn in by its old world charm and beauty," she said. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Brisbane's heritage-listed Princess Theatre up for sale

<html><body>
The ZEN beach retreat in Bargara, Queensland has been listed for $4 million.
Occupying 1,315 sqm of beach front property, the holding comprises 11 bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms and a reception area.
Fronting Kelly's Beach at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/%20https:/www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bargara-131731574" target="_blank">54 Miller Street</a>, Violette Sinclair and Joshua Rub of Raine and Horne are marketing the listing.
The retreat won the new "Business Award of the Year" in 2018 and seized the overall prize of  "Auswide Business of the Year 2018". 
It holds uninterrupted views of the ocean and its horizon on one side and a deck overlooking the 10-meter Magnesium therapeutic pool and Bali Hut on the other. 
Comprising a three bedroom main residence plus four two bedroom villas, the main residence comes equipped with a wellness sanctuary and an intense hydrotherapy spa.
Situated on the coastline of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, it is only 13km to Bundaberg and 375km to Brisbane.
A one night stay in the Executive Suite costs $704.
</body></html>

wdavis-8cCN98p7xp

ZEN Beach Retreat in Bargara for sale

<html><body>
Stronghold Investment Management has acquired the Cardinia Club, a freehold investment in Melbourne’s Pakenham. 
Stronghold purchased the property as a trustee for the Stronghold Hospitality Property Trust No.15, a Brisbane based fund manager with several freehold investments in the hospitality industry. 
The Cardinia Club has 105 EGM’s, a large bistro, upmarket sports bar and multiple function rooms. 
The venue was originally part of the Pakenham Racecourse before the Pakenham Racing Club moved its operations to a new racing facility at Tynong North. 
CBRE Hotels negotiated the sale on behalf of the Pakenham Racing Club with a new 13-year lease to Pakenham Racing Club.
Stronghold is projecting an initial cash return of 7.5% per annum for its wholesale investors.
“This gaming investment generated a significant level of interest from the market, but it took an informed investor like Stronghold to recognise the strength of this opportunity with Pakenham Racing Club as its tenant,” Callow said. 
Steve de Nys, Head of Property at Stronghold, commented the club established in 1875, had 160 employees and three venues.
</body></html>

Investment management company Stronghold snaps up $16 million Cardinia Club, Pakenham

<html><body>
Caulfield’s Southern Indoor Bowls Club has been listed for sale with price expectations of around $9 million.
The bowls club at 350 Hawthorn Road was established over five decades ago back in 1968.
In recent years however given the improvement in technology and better management of outdoor bowls surfaces, the once popular-sporting venue has become redundant.
The three-level building has 10 full-sized rinks and a mezzanine bar and lounge.
Savills Australia’s Clinton Baxter, Nick Peden and Glenn Ye have been appointed to market the expansive 2,295 square metre property.
Baxter said its size and development potential will drive the sale of the building which will be sold with vacant possession, except for a rooftop telecommunications lease.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/13/Bowls-Club1.jpg" alt="">
“The property occupies a huge site with a 45-metre frontage to Hawthorn Road, has rear laneway access and is zoned for Commercial 1, providing excellent future development versatility,” Baxter said.
“It represents an outstanding opportunity to develop, owner-occupy or value-add for a wide range of possible uses.”
About two thirds of the land is occupied by a large three-level building comprising two indoor bowling rinks, but Baxter said indoor bowling facilities were being replaced with more versatile outdoor lawns.
“The combination of a dryer climate, far better drainage systems and the use of synthetic grass means that bowlers can now typically play year round on outdoor bowling greens,” he said.
“With membership dwindling, the Southern Indoor Bowls Club has elected to sell up and distribute the significant funds to local lawn bowling clubs.”
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Caulfield’s Southern Indoor Bowls Club listed

<html><body>
Sydney’s Belfield Bowling Club is selling off two bowling greens, allowing it to reinvest in the club to ensure its ongoing appeal to a younger generation of players. 
The Club will retain ownership of one green and the existing clubhouse.
The Belfield property sits 13 kilometres south west of Sydney in the Canterbury-Bankstown area.
CBRE’s Peter Vines, Victor Sheu and Robert Dowdy are marketing the two greends, as well as the car park, which span a total site area of 4,000 sqm.
The site is permissible for residential, aged care, child care, affordable housing developments and place of public worship (STCA). 
Vines said the sale would enable Belfield Bowling Club to invest in the future, while unlocking a unique development opportunity in Sydney’s tightly held inner-west. 
“Bowling clubs have been at the heart of Australian communities for decades, being the focal point for meetings, events, wedding receptions and a host of other community activities," Vines said.
"In more recent years however, closures have become more common, with reduced membership numbers due to an ageing population and demand for space in the city at a premium."  
Over the past decade, there have been 89 bowling club closures across NSW, with 508 clubs still in operation, including 100 clubs in the Sydney metropolitan area. 
Robert Dowdy said in the face of headwinds, clubs were reinventing themselves in order to attract a new generation of players. 
“Many clubs have found new members by embracing barefoot bowls – a more relaxed approach to the game that allows participants to be casually dressed and partake in friendly competition,” Dowdy said.
The Greens of North Sydney transformed itself into a more trendier place for younger people to socialise. 
“Clubs are also freeing up bowling greens for beer gardens alongside restaurants/bistros – or, as evidenced with this Belfield Bowling Club, divesting parts to spark development and attract new clientele.” 
 
 
 
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Sydney's Belfield Bowling Club lists two of its bowling greens

<html><body>
Joel Cann has resigned from Aspen Group to pursue another opportunity.
His resignation will take effect on Friday 12 April 2019.
Clive Appleton, chairman of Aspen Group, has thanked Cann for his efforts over the past two and a half years.
The listed property minnow Aspen Group appointed the property veteran in September 2016.
Cann joined Aspen from AMB Capital Partners, where he was the founding managing director.
Last month Aspen Group announced its financial results for the year ended 31 December 2018 recording a statutory profit of $0.4 million, the significant components of which include:
<ul>
<li>
Operating profit after tax of $1.5 million
Offset by:
</li>
<li>
Revaluation decrement of $0.7 million;
</li>
<li>
Acquisition costs incurred of $0.2 million; and
</li>
<li>
Professional fees of $0.2 million.
</li>
</ul>
Cann said 1H FY19 continued the significant steps taken towards a goal of being a major owner and operator in the Australian affordable accommodation sector.
It acquired its sixth tourism park, Highway 1 in Adelaide SA, which was settled in Q2 FY19.
The acquisition was valued at $23 million.
He noted headwinds at a number of assets including Darwin FreeSpirit where corporate accommodation demand fell in line with reduced major project activity, Adelaide came off of a strong FY18 period that include Ashes and major event activity whilst Tomago reduced available inventory pending the redevelopment work to be undertaken in that business.
Development activity significantly advanced during the half with the majority of civil works completed at Four Lanterns in Leppington NSW.
There are 11 residences on site with sales activity resulting in five confirmed sales.
It has also commenced initial works at Tomago in preparation for stage 1 of the 52-site expansion.
The sale of its final non-core asset at Midland WA was completed during 1H FY19, bringing to a conclusion the restructure of the group to an affordable accommodation provider.
The business finished in a net debt position of $16.3 million at the end of the year, post the Highway 1 acquisition, and has $25 million of capacity to deploy towards future acquisitions and investments.
</body></html>

Joel Cann resigns as listed accommodation firm Aspen Group's chief executive

<html><body>
The Tasmanian Walking Company (TWC) has announced the official opening of Australia’s most environmentally friendly lodges with the unveiling of Three Capes Lodge Walk.
The four-day 46 km walk offers a fully guided experience of the ‘edge of the world’ Three Capes Track, located in the Tasmanian National Park, and is the newest addition to the 'Great Walks of Australia' collection.
Three Capes Lodge Walk is the fourth multi-day walk for TWC.
Brett Godfrey, Co-owner said, "Today marks an important milestone in Australia’s walking landscape and a new era of conservation-based tourism."
Andrew McEvoy, Chairman, Great Walks of Australia said, “Tasmanian Walking Company has set a new benchmark... the lodges are a reflection of the iconic and remarkable landscape and focus on ecological preservation, utilising best practice environmental technologies from around the world." 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/5/Cape%20walks%202.JPG" alt="">
Advancements include Australia’s first recycling showers, they are a Swedish design that filters and recirculates 5 Litres of shower water and requires 80% less energy consumption.
The lodges feature 7 double/optional twin rooms with floor to ceiling windows. The lodge menus have been designed with seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
The Relaxation Pavilion at Cape Pillar Lodge offers a spa therapist available onsite exclusively for walking guests, as well as featuring an outdoor bath.
Three Capes Lodge Walk commences with a private boat trip to Denman’s Cove. Walkers then travel along the coastal woodlands to Surveyors Cove.
Day two walkers climb Arthur’s Peak and skirt the edge of Tornado Ridge.
Day three is a walk through silver gum forest, and out to the highest sea cliffs in Australia at Cape Pillar.
The final day of the walk climbs to 483 metres above sea level to the walk’s highest peak, Mount Fortescue.
</body></html>

Australia's most sustainable lodges open - Three Capes Lodge Walk 

<html><body>
The former Casuarina Ocean Health Retreat, which sold for $4.1 million less than two years ago, is back for sale - asking double its last sale price.
The property at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/770-casuarina-way-casuarina-nsw-2487-2014552878" target="_blank">770 Casuarina Way</a> was also known as the Cabarita Ocean Health Retreat before it was shut down in 2015 by its then Brisbane family owners.
They decided to develop and 18-lot subdivision on 2.5 hectares behind the retreat. The area included the resort's tennis court and swimming pool.
They listed the property for $6.5 million, with Bruce Williams, the listing agent at the time, saying it was being sold "well below replacement cost". It went on to sell for $4.1 million after sitting idly on the market.
<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/2018/8/29/a6d088b2ebeb43ce87bc94f4997e5f6d.jpg" alt="">
Raine &amp; Horne Byron Bay agent Sophie Christou, the listing agent this time round, said its $8 million to $8.8 million guide is still below replacement value.
The resort dates back to the 1970s when developed by Cabarita identity Ken Hansen. It has passed through the hands of several owners and run as a holistic health spa before ending up with the Brisbane family.
Until a few year ago, guests were paying up to $1045 a day to stay there, indulging in detoxifying therapies, massages, consultations with a naturopath and macrobiotic foods.
The retreat with direct access to Casuarina Beach boasts 12 bohemian inspired ensuited bedrooms, a day spa with six treatment rooms, gym, and a yoga room.
There's approval for a restaurant or cafe open to the public, as well as approval for a 25 metre swimming pool and an extra gym.
A rooftop terrace has views to Mount Warning.
</body></html>

Byron Bay's former Casuarina Ocean Health Retreat wants double its 2016 sale 

<html><body>
A Dural function centre has been sold through Cushman &amp; Wakefield.
<div class="prop-details-description__content">
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">The 632 Old Northern Road, Dural property (pictured above) was sold at auction for $5.5 million acting under the instructions of the agent of the mortgagee, Ian Purchas of SV partners.</div>
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }"> </div>
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">It was last sold in 2016 for the same price of $5.5 million.</div>
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }"> </div>
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">The holding currently contains a vacant 5 bedroom house at the rear of the 7551 sqm block. </div>
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }"> </div>
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">The block hold two large function rooms and is zoned RU6 Transition.</div>
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }"> </div>
<div class="text animate" data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">The property has 47 metres of street frontage.</div>
</div>
</body></html>

Dural function centre sold for $5.5 million

<html><body>
Sydney's iconic The Basement, the oldest jazz and blues club in Australia, has been taken over by musical entrepreneur and property developer Albert Dadon.
Dadon, a leading jazz guitarist himself, plans to re-open the club as soon as possible after the doors were closed last month.
It's not Dadons first foray into jazz club ownership. He has been somewhat of a pioneer of keeping Australia's jazz music scene alive over the past two decades.
He rescued the Melbourne International Jazz Festival when its funding was cut. 
In eight years Dadon increased its visitors from 5,000 to 200,000 before stepping down in 2009.
He owns the Jazz Corner Hotel on Williams Street in the Melbourne CBD.
Recently he opened Bird's Basement below, a sister venue of Manhattan's Birdland. 
Speaking on the acquisition, Dadon said he is examining possible Sydney CBD locations for the club. He is appealing to the public and others to suggest a suitable venue. 
<div class="body ng-binding ng-scope">
‘’I was saddened to see The Basement close its doors. It was a loss to the cultural health of the city and Australia," Mr Dadon said. 
“I hope that with the help of those who are committed to retain and reinvigorate Sydney’s music scene we will find an ideal new location of The Basement."
“I would love to provide Sydneysiders with a wonderful 21st century experience, similar to what we created in Melbourne at Bird’s Basement," he says.
"In the meantime we will be looking at broadcasting all our shows live from Melbourne in our soon to be launched app."
In 2002, Dadon, who when performing goes by the stage name Albare, established the annual Australian Jazz Bell Awards.
They were named after Australian legend and patron of the event the late Graeme Bell to celebrate excellence in Australian jazz scene. Today ‘the Bells’ are the most prestigious awards in the Australian jazz calendar. 
As Albare, he often performed at the Sydney Basement.
He has recorded 11 albums.
With his long time pianist companion Phil Turcio, their band, Urbanity, and their album Urban Soul album, this year enjoyed Billboard chart and critical success in the United States. Urban Soul is distributed in Australia by MGM.
</div>
</body></html>

Leisure

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Leisure

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News