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 Singapore-based Chinese-backed investment vehicle, Bright Ruby has bought the Sydney Hilton Hotel on George Street for $442 million.
Bright Ruby already owns two Sydney office towers, 10 Barrack Street and 231 Elizabeth Street.
Hilton will continue to manage this property, subject to a 50-year management agreement, the company said of the 579-room hotel on George Street. 
Hilton Worldwide chief executive Christopher Nassetta said the company had taken advantage of "attractive pricing".
It was sold at a multiple of 15 times adjusted earnings, before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation, on a yield of about 6% through JLL Hotels &amp; Hospitality Group Australasia chief, Craig Collins.
Bright Ruby’s founding Du family are from the Chinese coastal province Shandong.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sydney Hilton Hotel sells to Singaporean Bright Ruby

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Quest Nowra is scheduled to open this week, in one of NSW’s busiest regional business centres.
It will be followed by Quest’s second Albury property – Quest Albury on Townsend in early May.
Earlier this month there was the new Quest Liverpool.
Quest Liverpool (pictured above) at 39 Scott Street was its first new property for 2015, kicking off a pipeline of new property openings in New South Wales.
Quest CEO Zed Sanjana said Liverpool, Nowra and Albury were three strong economies with major projects underway including the multi-million dollar Kurrajong Road (Liverpool) and Princes Highway (Nowra) upgrades, and the redevelopment of the Albury Art Gallery.
“The City of Liverpool is thriving, home to 13,600 local and national businesses, with 35,000 new jobs projected by 2036," said Sanjana.
"Economic activity in Nowra and the City of Shoalhaven is doing well and we believe significant investment in the region will continue.
"Albury is quickly establishing itself as not only a key business centre, but also a cultural destination.”
Quest, the fastest growing serviced apartment operator in Australasia, now has 150 properties located across Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.
Established in Melbourne, Victoria in 1988, the aim is the accommodation needs of the extended stay business traveller.
"2015 is set to be an exciting year of growth for Quest across Australasia, with 12 new properties opening in Australia and three in New Zealand," he said.
"In addition to Liverpool, Nowra and Albury, this includes Newcastle West, Chatswood and Bella Vista (NSW); Kelvin Grove, Toowoomba and Chermside (QLD); Rockingham and West Perth (WA); Maribyrnong (VIC); and Nelson, Taupo and Whangarei (NZ)."
The franchisee Tom Wang at Quest Liverpool will have 88 studio, one and two bedroom serviced apartments.
Wang noted the proposed Badgerys Creek Airport was just 19 kilometres away.
James Blanchett at Quest Nowra will have 81 studio, one, two and three bedroom serviced apartments at 130 Kinghorne Street.
Noel and Madeleine Wood and Natasha and Jason Callewaert at Quest Albury on Townsend with have 79 studio, one, two and three bedroom serviced apartments at 450 Townsend Street.
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Quest Liverpool hopes to benefit from Badgery Creek airport project

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The historic Sorrento guesthouse Whitehall, near the back beach on the Mornington Peninsula, has been listed for sale.
The 1904 wide-verandaed mansion with iron-lacework has been offered by agent Lloyd Robinson from RT Edgar.
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/237-ocean-beach-road-sorrento/Property-Details-buy-residential-8630238" target="_blank">The limestone Whitehall</a> was built as one of the grand guesthouses of its day in Edwardian grandeur.
The Herald Sun report buyers are being told it will most likely fetch under $5 million.
The Carlton Football Club held three pre-season camps at the guesthouse, until 2011 when the club headed to a high-altitude academy in Doha.
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Whitehall, the 31 bedroom Sorrento guesthouse, listed

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Hotelier Justin Hemmes has added an inner west suburban waterhole, The Queen Victoria Hotel at Enmore to Merivale Group's burgeoning hotel property portfolio.
It cost $11 million for the 167-169 Enmore Road purchase - Merivale's fourth acquisition in the past 18 months.
The Queens sold off market through JLL Hotels and Hospitality director John Musca. The Browne family had bought for $1.15 million in 1989. Its last sale followed a boost in revenue where to June 1986, four pokie machines earned $26,800, rising with five machines to $105,054 the following year.
It currently has 20 machines.
Last month the group around $50 million for the Newport Arms Hotel on Sydney's northern beaches. 
"It is undoubtedly our most exciting year yet," Justin Hemmes suggested as he advised the 1,000 square metre hotel will be renovated and repositioned as a food-oriented venue with a Hong Kong street food inspired restaurant opening in June.
 
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Justin Hemmes buys Queen Victoria Hotel at Enmore

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The emergence of China as a source of hotel property capital has major implications for Australia, according to industry veteran Stephen Burt, the Colliers International Asia Pacific Hotels managing director.
"This phenomenon of a concentrated source of capital is nothing new," said Burt.
"In the mid to late 1980s it was Japanese capital dominating Australian hotel property, and the 1990s post-1992 was dominated by Singaporean investors.
"However, on this occasion the capital flow is larger and more pervasive in terms of property profile.
"During 2015 China based capital (mainland and Hong Kong) may account for over 60% of major hotel transactions throughout Australia.
"This will range from $4 million motels to $400 million plus hotels."
Burt identified four major implications:
<ul>
<li>
"Many Chinese companies buying now are new to hotel investment. They are institutions with minimal or no existing hotel investment exposure or often companies that created wealth through non-hotel industries. Therefore, hotel operators will need to ensure their new owners understand the key terms of the hotel operating agreement; namely the budget approval process, cash flow management, approval process for senior executive appointments, the capital expenditure approval process including owner’s contractual obligations;
</li>
<li>
"The majority of the CEO and chairpersons for the new Chinese investors cannot speak English. This is not a criticism, just a fact, just as most Australian senior executives doing business in China cannot speak a Chinese dialect. However the point is, an important ingredient for successful hotel investment is good communication between the owner and operator. Clearly, there will be bilingual intermediaries but we know what happens when a story is told to one person, who then passes the story to another person. Therefore, make sure key messages (hotel may fail to make budget!) are correctly conveyed to the appropriate operative in China whom will be the person ultimately approving the annual trading and cap ex budget;
</li>
<li>
"The degree of foreign ownership of Australian hotels over the next few years will be extensive. This may lead to calls from certain non-aligned sectors to restrict foreign ownership. I would warn (and conflict acknowledged) this would be a negative outcome for the hotel industry. Hotel investment is like mining investment; it offers the opportunity for good returns but requires significant capital. Our mining industry would not have its current scale if it had to rely too much on domestic capital. It is the same for hotel property; and
</li>
<li>
"Chinese investment in the hard assets will further stimulate Chinese visitation to Australia. The challenge will be not to fall over ourselves to overtly pamper Chinese visitors so that their Australian experience is diluted and becomes an extended China experience. This was a mistake with the Japanese visitor boom of the 1980s which failed to be sustainable. Chinese visitors come to a foreign country to experience local cuisine, and to meet the locals and other international visitors; not to be herded on tours exclusively for Chinese. They like to shop independently and not be forced into specific shops."
</li>
</ul>
The influx of Chinese investors was headlined by the $463 million sale of Sydney's Sheraton on the Park hotel to Chinese insurer Sunrise.
JLL recently noted Chinese outbound capital surged to over US$16.5 billion in 2014 as institutions, as developers and private investors sought to take advantage of the buoyant real estate market across the globe. 
For the first time ever, in 2014 Chinese buyers spent more on commercial real estate outside of China than domestically, a significant milestone and a sign that the domestic market is entering a new phase.
It noted following a slower year for transactional activity in China in 2014, outbound investments made up 52% of all real estate transactions of Chinese investors within the commercial sector.
Office and residential land acquisitions accounted for 85% of all Chinese purchasing activity, although JLL noted strong demand for hotel and hospitality assets. 
While Europe topped the list of favourite investment destinations, attracting over US$5.5 billion, Australia emerged as a new favourite among Chinese investors in 2014 with over US$3 billion flowing into the country. 
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Chinese hotel buying is larger than the Japanese 1980s push: Colliers International

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Unique Estate’s Nicolette van Wijngaarden has listed Karbeethong Lodge on the shores of Mallacoota inlet in Victoria’s East Gippsland.
The coastal guesthouse dates from 1903 but began with guests in the 1920s.
The holding boasts fruit trees, a cottage garden and access to a jetty.
<a href="https://uniqueestates.com.au/listings/residential_sale-278785-mallacoota/" target="_blank">Offers over $1.8 million</a> are being sought. 
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Mallacoota's Karbeethong Lodge listed for sale

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The Melbourne-based Art Series Hotel Group is turning the table on its guests, trialling a program where the hotels scrutinise guests on their behaviour, rather than the other way around.
The novel idea comes as an increasing amount of businesses face negative reviews from online review sites and a dilemma in <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/technology/social-media/43145-would-you-charge-guests-500-for-a-bad-online-review-us-hotel-owner-apologises-for-poor-taste-policy" target="_blank">how to respond to them</a>.
Art Series Hotels, which include Melbourne’s iconic hotels The Cullen and The Olsen, will assess and rank the behaviour and demeanour of its guests using a point system it has called ‘Reverse Reviews’. The reviews will then be published online for everyone to see.
But guests shouldn’t be too concerned: the review system is opt-in only.
Art Series Hotel Group marketing director Ryan Tuckerman said the idea of reverse reviews is to show guests the hotels are aware review sites are out there and are not going away.
“These days everything is reviewed. It’s all online, all in an instant,” says Tuckerman.
“Specifically for hotels, the power of reviews can make or break certain boutique brands. We realise it’s a major part of the hotel industry and it’s not going anywhere.”
“But it’s very important to allow the supplier to have a right of reply,” he says.
Tuckerman admits Art Series Hotels have had their fair share of negative reviews from guests who have found one of the hotels “wasn’t for them”.
“We have had reviews where guests have said we have not met their expectations, but we have handled it in a professional way. We accept that we’re not for everyone and we’re fine with that, ” he says.
Tuckerman believes the campaign is one way Art Series Hotels can engage with its customers while “having a bit of fun”. He says guests have already responded positively to the idea and he anticipates the reviews will be shared on social media channels.
“Knowing the power of digital and social media, having a personalised review really lends itself to sharing,” he says.
Guests with a rating of four or five stars are also offered complimentary stays, upgrades and food and drink as a part of the campaign.
The hotel group recently commissioned a study through Galaxy Research that showed guest behaviour is actually better than what most people expect, which Tuckerman says was another creative way to engage customers.
“The results of the Galaxy poll were amazing. Most of us would think people steal from the mini bar or take a towel, but it showed it’s actually such a small percentage that do that,” he says.
Tuckerman recommends other SMEs consider reviewing their customers.
“The first step is to accept people will review product,” he says.
“<a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/marketing/44762-when-customers-attack-10-tips-to-dealing-with-social-media-outrage">The way you handle reviews</a> and the way you reply, that’s what says a lot about your organisation.”
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Art Series Hotel Group turns the tables on customer reviews

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US-based Vail Resorts has bought James Packer's Perisher ski resort for $176.6 million.
The deal includes Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Blue Cow and Guthega resorts on a lease until 2048 with a 20-year option.
Perisher's ski ticket will now include entry to a range of Vail-owned skifields in the US, including Breckenridge, Beaver Creek and Vail in Colorado, Park City and Canyons in Utah and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the California and Nevada. It has a $US3.6 billion capitalisation. 
The deal was announced to the New York Stock Exchange earlier this morning. The Company indicated that it expects Perisher to generate incremental Resort Reported EBITDA of approximately AU$20 million (approximately US$16 million) during its first twelve months of operation following the acquisition. 
The Company expects Perisher to generate positive Resort Reported EBITDA of approximately AU$38 million (approximately US$30 million) during its ski season, June through September, and negative Resort Reported EBITDA of approximately AU$18 million (approximately US$14 million) during its off-season, October through May. 
The Company expects Perisher to generate approximately US$6 million of free cash flow in its first year of operations, after deducting capital expenditures at the resort, income taxes (both U.S. and Australian) and all interest expense relating to the acquisition. 
These estimates do not include any incremental benefit of increased visitation to the Company's U.S. resorts from Australian guests.
"Perisher season pass holders have an unprecedented opportunity by combining unlimited skiing, from June through October, at the best and largest resort in Australia with season-long skiing, from November through April, at nine of the best mountain resorts in the United States," said chairman Rob Katz.
 "Our Company looks forward to welcoming an even greater number of Australian guests to our domestic resorts to showcase the incredible experience we provide."
Until Kerry Packer bought the Perisher ski fields in 1972 - they came unwanted with the takeover of Murray Magazines -  skiing in Australia was a leisure activity attracting a relatively small number of enthusiasts.
Murray Magazines published Ski Australia, House &amp; Garden, plus other magazines including Man, Man Junior, Flair, Wheels and Superman comics.
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Ski Perisher-Breckenridge ticket after mogul James Packer sells ski resort to US company

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The bathing box 6 on Brighton's Dendy Street Beach sold at weekend auction at a record $276,000.
The beach box is located near the Brighton Lifesaving Club, which reasonated with buyers.
The selling agent John Clarkson of hockingstuart marketed <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/bathing-box-6-dendy-street-beach-brighton/Property-Details-buy-residential-8489600" target="_blank">the very blue and yellow bathing box</a>, with $150,000 plus expectations.
"It was a stunning result," he told Property Observer. 
Last year, he had sold a new Brighton bathing box, 57a, <a href="/news/vic/200-000-plus-hopes-for-bright-new-bathing-box-on-brighton-beach">for $215,000</a> having had a lengthy history being the first to auction one in 1999, for $58,000.
It was his 16th sale of one of the bathing boxes that existed in Brighton as far back as 1862. There were five bidders at yesterday's auction.
The previous highest known price for a Brighton bathing box was set in 2011 at $260,000, brand new, infill box which was bigger than normal. The rising prices come despite new infill bathing boxes being built on an ongoing timetable by the local council, mostly at the other end of the beach.
Although the bathing boxes of Brighton are iconic postcard imagery for Melbourne tourism, there are dearer bathing boxes elsewhere in Victoria.
In Portsea, the record for what they call boat shed dates back to 2011 when $585,000 was paid.
At an <a href="/expert-insights/buying/no-record-as-portsea-boatshed-fetches-553-000-at-australia-day-2015-weekend-auction">Australia Day auction this year</a>, one sold for $553,000.
Some bathing box sales are done privately with the price kept under wraps.
<a href="/news">The weekend result </a>was amid the Brighton sales list which the REIV had as ranging from a $715,000 apartment to a $1,905,000 house.
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Record $276,000 paid for Brighton Beach bathing box

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The striking 1887 Queen Anne-style Queenscliff Hotel building has been sold to a local family.
Abercromby’s sold the property on a walk-in, walk-out basis with expectations at $3.5 million plus. The local News Ltd paper, The Geelong Advertiser, reported it sold for close to $3.5 million.
The hotel is still taking guests, but the restaurant served its last meals on Christmas Day, following the death of owner Johann Schuetz.
John Schuetz and his wife, Theresa bought the property at 16 Gellibrand Street in 2002. It had been made famous again by the late Mietta O’Donnell after she re-opened the dining room in the late 1970s.
The 1887 built Queenscliff Hotel on the western tip of Port Phillip bay was designed by Melbourne architects Reed, Henderson &amp; Smart, the same architects responsible for the State Library of Victoria, Collins Street Baptist Church, Melbourne Trades Hall and a number of Melbourne university buildings.
It was built by NW Frogley in the English Queen Anne style for Martha Nugent and Joseph Goslin, wealthy local citizens at the time.
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