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

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The Red Mountain Resort, designed for Festir ehf, in Iceland has been awarded a commendation in the Retail &amp; Leisure category at the recent 2018 MIPIM/Architectural Review Future Project Awards.
<a href="http://johannestorpe.com/projects/the-red-mountain-resort" target="_blank">The Red Mountain Resort resort </a>promises a sensory escape into breathtaking Icelandic nature resort for the modern spiritual traveler, the judging panel noted.
"Its architecture seduces visitors through an exploration of the interplay between nature and visitor.” 
The designer Johannes Torpe Studios markets itself as an advocate for "an unrestrained and fearless approach to design."
The Red Mountain Resort is the studio’s very first large-scale architectural project. 
<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/2018/3/21/ICELAND2.jpg" alt="">
Situated on the Western peninsula of Snæfellsness, at the point where the river mouth runs out to the sea, the resort faces Seæfellsjokull, a majestic glacier covered stratovolcano. The mountain is home to the Icelandic saga about Barður Snæfellsás, who is said to have left the chaotic world of men behind to live in solitude. 
Snæfellsjökull, a 700,000-year-old glacier covered stratovolcano, inspired Jules Verne who made the volcano the passage way to the centre of the earth in his science fiction novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth from 1864.
The studio's lead architect Kit Sand Ottsen explored the tradition of Icelandic turf houses built by the first Norwegian settlers, experimenting with ways of creating a modern interpretation.
"The emerging idea was to turn the construction inside-out," he explained.
<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/2018/3/21/iceland4.jpg" alt="">
Turf houses are wooden structures insulated by a thick wall of turf - in other words, a light structure with a very heavy base.
The studio inverted this structure by creating a heavy concrete structure enclosed by a light base of glass. As a natural extension, the relationship between positive and negative space has been explored, and throughout the building there is a clear contrast between light-weight and more heavy building volumes.
The building itself is an industrial interpretation of the rocky landscape with heavy geometric shapes shooting up from the ground like sculptural rock formations and tall steam-chimneys that are an architectural take on geysers.
Concrete is chosen as the primary material and is treated with a red pigment that mimics the hue of the surrounding landscape.
The concrete is applied to create layers of contrasting rough and smooth textures and form patterns inspired by those found in the layers of the turf houses. Selected parts of the rooftops are covered with grass like the traditional building techniques of the area.
"This both intensifies the notion of a building that is closely related to the history of the site, and adds to the sense of a hidden destination that discreetly rises from the landscape," the project brief advised.
The use of reflecting glass on the building’s exterior creates a mirror effect, evoking the illusion of a building that disappears into the landscape. Portals and tunnels are additionally dispersed throughout the building to enhance this otherworldly and magical atmosphere.
The local geology is made up of caves, craters, peculiar rock formations, volcanic plugs and the moss covered lava fields.
It replicates wind tunnels, fire baths and ice pools that represent the unpredictable extremes of Icelandic weather.
 
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Iceland spa project for the modern spiritual traveller scoops MIPIM 2018 commendation

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An old 1950s Outward Bound property set in the Hawkesbury region has been listed for sale.
It last sold 17 years ago when bought by its next-door neighbour 17 years ago, Ian Gowrie-Smith.
The 3.2-hectare block at Fishermans Point on Berowra Creek has about a dozen buildings in original condition, including a 26-bedroom boarding house capable of sleeping 120 people, and a commercial kitchen and recreational facilities.
It has a price guide of between $4.4 million and $4.8 million through LJ Hooker Terrigal agent Tim Andrews, who expects it to appeal to buyers seeking a resort or health retreat.
The property was run as a Knox Grammar school camp before it was bought by its current owner.
Outward Bound Australia started its camping and adventure activities there in 1956 until 1974.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Former Outward Bound camp in the Hawkesbury region listed

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A 26-year-old from Wollongong is a new man, literally, after having traded his $60,000-a-year accounting job for ownership of a tropical island courtesy which he won in a lottery.
Josh Ptasznyk, 26, now finds himself running a multi-million dollar resort on the tiny Micronesian Island of Kosrae. He won the resort from a $66 lottery ticket in July 2016 off a Gold Coast couple Doug and Sally Beitz, who earned about $4 million in ticket sales, according to a report in goldcoastbulletin.com.au citing the Daily Telegraph.
“My life has completely changed, it is really tough work but it has pushed me out of my comfort zone,” he was quoted in the report as saying.
Ptasznyk is now managing dozens of staff and has taken up paddle-boarding and kayaking.
“I’ve been doing heaps of activities and sports I wouldn’t normally try and to be honest I used to spend most of my time in front of a computer.
“I wake up early, open the restaurant and get to work. It is a lot different to my old job.”
Ptasznyk said he misses his parents and friends but says he made the right choice.
“It has been hard on my parents because they miss me heaps,” he said.
Ptasznyk says the news came while he was at a Trivia night with friends and got a call to be informed that he had won the resort.
“I thought it wasn’t true so I hung up but they kept calling and eventually I realised it was true and packed my bags.”
Ptasznyk’s friends are celebrating too. One of them has planned his 30s birthday on the island and more are planning trips.
The former accountant told the Daily Telegraph he would use his skills scouring the books to turn the resort into a long-term investment.
Currently, the biggest challenge is getting people to the Island.
It has an airstrip but most holiday makers will need to travel to Guam in Micronesia before catching a second flight to Kosrae.
After the airfares, rooms go for as little as US$119 a night or around A$160.
Guests will have access to the entire island and all its activities.
The resort runs diving classes and bushwalking sessions as well as offering fine-dining options along the coastline.
{mijopolls 147}
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Accountant looks to cash in on resort island business he won in a raffle

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After only one week on the market, Lantern Hotels has sold its top gaming hotel, the Five Dock in Sydney's inner-west.
The sale of the Five Dock, by Ray White hotel broker Andrew Jolliffe secured $28.75 million.
It represents a 38 percent premium to the 30 June 2016 book value.
Other notable Lantern Hotels sales - some 12 have been sold - have included Sydney’s El Toro at $24 million and Uncle Bucks in Mt Druitt for $25.3 million.
Jolliffe believes the Five Dock Hotel was brought about because of the quality of the property.
"In effect, the market had been anticipating the sale of this prominent hospitality asset for some time; and the interest generated from the beginning of the sale campaign was commensurately strong" advised Jolliffe.
<img src="/images/2016/11/22/HERO%20Aerial.jpg" alt="">
The Five Dock Hotel has performed very well since the recent introduction by Lantern Hotels of some modest capital, and I wholly expect the successful purchaser to unlock the inherent value so patently available with the benefit of time" Jolliffe added.
The Australian suggested former Wallaby Bill Young, whose family business includes the Hotel Concord, The Wiseman’s Ferry Hotel and The Palace Hotel, Mortlake, purchased the Five Dock ­property.
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Five Dock gaming hotel sold after one week on the market

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The architecture firm The Buchan Group has design and refurbishment projects underway at three world-class resorts in Fiji.
They are due to open during the next 18 months.
The resorts include the existing Sheraton Resort &amp; Spa at Tokoriki Island and the Westin Resort &amp; Spa in Denarau, along with the new Momi Bay Resort.
The Buchan Group’s Brisbane Interiors Team was appointed to the Sheraton Tokoriki and Westin Denarau resort projects in 2013.
Some of this work has needed to be redone following damage caused by Cyclone Winston earlier this year.
<img src="/images/2016/10/31/The%20Buchan%20Group%20-%20Sheraton%20Tokoriki%20Fiji%20dining%20-%20small.jpg" alt="">
Originally owned by Starwood Hotels, both the Sheraton Tokoriki and the Westin Resort &amp; Spa are now part of Marriott International group.
Buchan also undertook the concept design and refurbishment for the Sheraton Resort &amp; Spa at Tokoriki Island’s existing 3,632 square metres of central facilities and pool areas, as well as the conception of the resort’s new honeymoon suites. The resort is due to reopen on 1 February 2017.
<img src="/images/2016/10/31/The%20Buchan%20Group%20-%20Sheraton%20Tokoriki%20Fiji%20reception%20-%20small.jpg" alt="">
“Since Fiji is one of the world’s most well-known honeymoon destinations, we were tasked to undertake the interior design concept for the resort’s new luxury honeymoon suites,” Davis said.
Construction is expected to be completed soon on the new five-star A$70 million Momi Bay Resort, designed by the Gold Coast team at The Buchan Group.
The 250 room resort, to be operated by Marriott, is located at Momi Bay, 45 minutes from Nadi International Airport.
It will become one of Fiji’s main overwater bure resorts and is centred on a 21 hectare lagoon.
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Fijian resorts reinforce Buchan's Pacific presence

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Backpacker accommodation right opposite Bondi Beach, on Campbell Parade has been listed for sale.
It is the <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-nsw-bondi+beach-502144966" target="_blank">Bondi Backpackers property</a>.
Craig Pontey of Ray White Double Bay, who is taking the property to auction, say it has 52 rooms accommodating 138 guests in configurations from single rooms to 6-person dormitory rooms.
There’s additional income from two prime retail tenancies that also front Campbell Parade: Bavarian Bier Café and Backpacker World Travel.
"Total income from the property is currently in the order of $1.364,989 per annum, and as an ideal owner-operator business," he said.
"I believe that there’s considerable potential to increase income," he said.
The site area is 448 sqm with a 12m frontage to Campbell Parade.
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Bondi Backpackers on Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach for auction

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An historic Queensland hotel at Thallon has been listed for sale.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-qld-thallon-502103702" target="_blank">Nindigully Pub</a>, at 2-20 Mayes Street, was established in 1864 and has been marketed as Queensland oldest pub.
It arguably holds the longest continual liquor license in Queensland. The two hectare holding is on the banks of the Moonie River.
The hotel has hosted special events such as pig races and car rallies.
It has appeared on many television shows including Get Away and Sunrise.
It has also made a name for itself by serving up the the 'Roadtrain Burger' that feeds four people and weighs 2kg, as well as the 1kg T-Bone Steaks, although the normal pub menu is popular. 
Offers close November 9 with Rich and Partners agent Tony Rich.
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Iconic Thallon hotel for sale

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The Victorian Dinner Plain alpine retreat and spa has been listed for sale. 
The property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-vic-dinner+plain-502070566" target="_blank">125 Big Muster Drive</a> is currently leased by Merlin Entertainment, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Merlin is Europe's largest entertainment company with 115 attractions in 23 countries across four continents.
The Dinner Plain property has a land area of 2040 square metres with a 1,136 square metre floor area.
It has a long 15 year lease to 2022, with the potential for it to be extended to 2032, and a fixed 4% rent increase plus market reviews.
The tenant pays all of the usual expenses including insurance rates and land tax with substantial income tax saving benefits.
The rent is expected to be $828,936 per annum as of March 2017.
A 12 month settlement term is being offered through Castran Real Estate and Burgess Rawson Melbourne.
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Dinner Plain spa property listed for October auction

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Former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke joins model Jen Hawkins in becoming an ambassador for Johnson Property Group as he announces he has bought into the new development Trinity Point.
<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/2015/11/23/clarke.jpg" alt="" width="567" height="344">
Caption: Johnson Property Group Managing Director, Keith Johnson and former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke
The new $388 million mixed-used marina development is located in Lake Macquarie, 88 minutes drive north of Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle.
The community comprises a mix of five-star resort, hospitality, retail, residential and marina components.
He bought a three storey, four bedroom terrace off the plan. It cost $1,388,888.
"“Trinity Point is going to become an absolute Sydney weekend hotspot – another Palm Beach or daytrip destination but with more of a marina-lifestyle resort focus,” he said.
“We are absolutely delighted to be the first buyers to secure a stunning lakeside home at Trinity Point and are already planning our family holidays and weekend trips away staying in our beautiful three storey terrace house with views out over Lake Macquarie.” 
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Trinity Point will be home to a diverse range of architecturally designed residential properties including a variety of terraces, apartments and waterfront reserve properties.
The announcement comes prior the the launch of land sales at Trinity Point which will take place on November 29 on site. The first release will comprise a total of 32 land lots, priced from $398,888 ranging in size from 450 square metres to 660 square metres, offering the ultimate in lakeside living.
To register for interest in land or apartment sales at Trinity Point, register at trinitypoint.com.au
Once completed, Trinity Point will include 189 residential land lots, 250 residential and short stay apartments and a five star, 65 room Pullman resort.
The new development will also feature a 200-seat restaurant with outdoor dining, a 300 seat function room, a 60-80 seat cafe and resort facilities including a luxury day spa, pool and gym.
Clarke, who retired from all forms of cricket in August, and his wife Kyly currently own in Vaucluse after spending $8.3 million on the five bedroom luxury property last year. 
<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/2015/11/23/700_stroll.jpg" alt="" width="534" height="324">
Last October the former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins was announced as the face of the $388 million Trinity Point marina project at Lake Macquarie. "As a local girl, I think Trinity Point is going to be really special," the brand ambassador Jennifer Hawkins, who grew up at Holmesville, said.
Her parents had bought at Holmesville in 1972 for $2300, and she she had spent time on the shores of Lake Macquarie where her “pop” had kept a house on the lake with jetty in her youth.
"The product is going to be top notch," she said.
Keith Johnson is the developer of Trinity Point, which is accessed via the M1 Morriset motorway turnoff.
The Morriset Park project was first announced in 2006 for the site formerly known as the St John of God holding.
The NSW government approved a concept plan six years ago for the 23 hectare site which is around an hour and a half from Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle.
Upon completion, Trinity Point is planned to include:
<ul>
<li>189 residential land lots and medium-density housing</li>
<li>250 apartments comprising of a mix of residential and short stay units</li>
<li>188-berth marina </li>
<li>5 Star 65-room Pullman Trinity Point Resort</li>
<li>200-seat restaurant with additional outdoor dining</li>
<li>300-seat function room</li>
<li>60-80 seat cafe</li>
<li>5-star resort facilities including a luxury Day Spa, pool, gymnasium</li>
<li>Retail</li>
</ul>
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Michael Clarke buys investment weekender at Trinity Point

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Iris Property Group has bought another Kings Cross development site, next door to the Bourbon Hotel which they only recently bought.
Iris has paid around $18.75 million for the 61 room, 300 backpacker bed, former Kingsview Motel which comes with two retail stores at ground level.
The motel, at 30 Darlinghurst Road, Kings Cross, was first offered formally in the late 1980s with a rental income of $163,000 a year from Neptunes Restaurant, which was then part of the motel next to the former Club Swans. Its current operators have the premises trading as DLux furnished apartments.
<img src="https://res-2.cloudinary.com/cre/image/fetch/w_667,h_500,c_pad,f_auto,d_placeholder_viubzx.png/http%3A%2F%2Fcre.domainstatic.com.au%2Fw800-h600-2009859555_1_pi_150310_091531" alt="30 Darlinghurst Road POTTS POINT POTTS POINT NSW 2011" data-bind="attr: { src: fullSizeUrl, alt: '{0} {1} {2} {3}'.format($parent.displayableAddress(), $parent.suburb(), $parent.state(), $parent.postcode()) }">
It has been long held by Millie Phillips, better known for heading the Milstern Health Care retirement village and nursing home outfit.
Millie Phillips was often cited for many decades as among Australia's richest self-made businesswoman, after buying a small boarding house in Sydney's Ashfield in the early 1960s after she had just separated from her husband and had three children to support.
The space above the Bourbon Hotel is ear-marked for redevelopment into apartments after its recent sale to Iris.
The C.inc hotel group, headed by Christopher Cheung, secured about $28 million for the Kings Cross icon, The Bourbon Hotel earlier this year when bought by the apartment developer and hotel operator Iris Capital's Sam Arnaout.
The Bourbon was marketed last October with having capacity for around 80 apartments (artist's impression below) with bar facilities at street level.
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The Bourbon and the adjoining former Sydney Swans Club in Kings Cross had been listed after Cheung told the SMH the lockout laws in the inner city had influenced his decision to sell and focus on his other assets, including the Coogee Bay Hotel and Cruise Bar, Circular Quay.
They optimistically suggested the buyer would be "part of the area's Covent Garden/Soho transformation."
Cheung bought the Potts Point properties that sit on 6,300 square metres from the former ING Real Estate Entertainment Fund in 2010, after a hailstorm caused the roof of the Swans club to collapse. 
Cheung spent about $10 million upgrading the landmark Bourbon hotel, which boasts 30 gaming machines and hotel licence with a separate $4 million realisation value.
The site was being marketed as potentially accommodating apartments, with retail and or a wine bar at street level.
The Bourbon arose from the ashes of the famed Bourbon and Beefsteak in The Cross.
China’s largest developer Greenland Group has bought the Crest Hotel in Sydney’s Kings Cross from Sam Arnaout’s hospitality and development group Iris Capital.
Colliers International agent Miron Solomons handled the off-market transaction of the property on the Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road corner.
Iris bought The Crest for about $65 million from Australand in 2012. 
The Crest Hotel has development ­approval for 139 apartments.
<img src="https://durbachblockjaggers.com/file/02-crest-hotel_550a6539cd7ae-projectImage.jpg">
Iris had plans to develop the 19-storey tower with an hourglass design by architects Durbach Block Jager.
Following a design competition held by the City of Sydney council, the concept for stage-one plans were approved.
Comparisons have been drawn between New York's Times Square and the new site for DBJ's The Crest.
Image of new Crest from Durbach Block Jaggers.
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