The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

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Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

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While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

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The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

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Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

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A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

North Queensland

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The peak body representing Queensland’s 77 councils is urging the Federal Government to establish a national reinsurance pool to help reduce the cost of property owner insurance premiums in North Queensland and across northern Australia.

The Local Government Association of Queensland President and Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said figures contained in the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s inquiry into insurance in Northern Australia, released in December, were stark.

“The ACCC found insurance premiums had risen by up to 178 per cent in Northern Australian over the last decade, compared to 52 per cent elsewhere,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“More than 62,000 properties in North Queensland are currently uninsured, with more than 95 per cent of those uninsured property owners citing cost as a reason, the ACCC found.

“This is just simply unacceptable in a state as highly vulnerable to natural disasters as Queensland.

“Our member councils want a reinsurance pool established to help reduce those costs so their communities are not unfairly burdened, and we support their call.

“We urge the Federal Government to work with the councils as leaders of their communities to ensure an effective scheme is implemented before the next disaster season.” 

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the Commonwealth Government could no longer continue to bury its head in the sand on the issue. 

“The ACCC took three years to complete its investigation into insurance in Northern Australia and over that time the situation has further deteriorated. 

“Homeowners, renters, businesses, body corporates – the prohibitive cost and, in some cases, lack of availability of insurance, is seriously impacting communities.

A reinsurance pool already exists through the Australian Reinsurance Pool Corporation, set up by the Howard Government in 2003 to address a previous instance of market failure for terrorism reinsurance scheme.

“The insurance market in Northern Australia has clearly failed and it’s time for a national reinsurance pool to help reduce the cost of insurance premiums.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox said it was frustrating that the recommendations in the recent ACCC report did not go far enough to protect his community against huge insurance premiums that are double the rest of Australia.

“It is really difficult for the people from the Whitsundays and North Queensland who are paying so much insurance so we are calling on the Commonwealth to help us develop the north.
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jchancellor

Queensland councils urge government to reduce the cost of property owner insurance premiums

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The depth of the horticultural market in far north Queensland will be tested with a large mixed avocado and sugar cane property being offered to the market, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) rural report. 
The report notes the property, located at Arriga (pictured below), comprises 1,576 hectares developed with 31,483 young Hass variety avocado trees and a sugar operation producing around 120,000 tonnes per annum.
<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/2019/11/13/arriga%202.jpg" alt=""> 
The irrigation water allocation of 8,732 megalitres is one of the larger allocations in the region.
Combined with extensive structural improvements and supporting infrastructure, it is expected to generate interest from corporate buyers and local larger family operators.
The market for well-watered Atherton Tableland grass country continues to be strong with numerous recent sales to western graziers and others seeking drought proof fattening country.
The latest is a 120-hectare piece (pictured below) at Moregatta on the southern Tablelands that sold under the hammer for $1.24 million at auction with strong interest.
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The sale analysed to $7,802 per hectare ex-structures.
"What makes it a bullish sale is that it was a deceased estate / administrator’s sale in run down condition requiring repairs, however this is consistent with the recent bullish trend," HTW said. 
The report notes reliable high rainfall is the main driver in this market with rainfall throughout the Atherton Tablelands ranging between 1,500 millimetres and 2,500 millimetres per annum.
Recent wet seasons in north Queensland have been above average and this is consistent with Bureau of Meteorology rainfall statistics borne out in the below illustration.
"If rainfall trends continue, it is likely that Atherton Tableland grass country will be a hot spot for west graziers for many years to come," the valuation firm said. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Reliable high rainfall - the main driver in North Queensland rural property market: HTW rural

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Queensland's North and North Western agricultural property markets are experiencing a wide variety of different trends in 2019, according to property valuation firm Herron Todd White (HTW). 
The valuation firm found that some areas were experiencing strong selling conditions, while others were providing more opportunities for buyers.
In regards to grazing, the national drought is bringing buyers to North and North West Queensland, it noted.
Sale activity continues in the downs country to the south of Richmond/Julia Creek to Kynuna and Corfield. 
Current sale contracts are reflecting similar value rates as the peak period just after the monsoonal event in February. 
These are ranging from $321 per hectare ($130 per acre) to $395 per hectare ($160 per acre) in general with a peak to $432 per hectare ($175 per acre). 
The demand for property with any grass at all is still high, according to the report. Current sales have varying amounts of available grass and varying quality of grass. 
Sales contracts in February/March were at similar levels to the last property market peak in 2008/9, HTW noted. 
"There was a short period after March (when the grass did not grow after the flood) where a few softer priced contracts were struck. 
"These were at prices that were closer to 2018 values. 
"There are very few local buyers in the mix in this area," the October report noted.
Some stakeholders told the valuation firm that they believe that these value levels are ‘where they should be, previous years pricing was when the country was in drought and had no grass’, and ‘there is more in the market yet for value increases’.
Others are sceptical saying that this market is ‘over priced’ and ‘when it rains in other areas of Australia, this market will take a dive’. 
It is a good sign that there are competing thoughts and theories – vendors will sell, buyers will buy, HTW suggested. 
"This keeps the market active."
Around Charters Towers, demand for country is strong with very little country on the market for sale. 
Recent acquisitions have been by local buyers.
The lack of property being offered to the market is forcing the buyers to pay higher prices.
Variation in the respective markets means the locals are active in one market area, while out of district buyers are active in the other. 
The rest of North and North West Queensland is not as busy, there are a few deals on the go and demand is there from a mix of locals and out of district buyers. 
There are a couple of higher priced deals on the go that are reflective of a change in use, or an expectation of a higher and better use (farming). 
"This is a positive dynamic for those market areas. 
"Not all potential property vendors will benefit. 
"This means that they will have to remain realistic as to what their property is worth when offering their property for sale," the report concluded.
 
 
In regards to suger cane however, the firm found that values for suitable farm land have been under pressure due to lower returns.
There has been some degree of value weakening.
As a result of the margin pressure that these farmers are in, they have been forced to either diversify or sharpen their operating costs again. 
Those that are diversifying into break crops of Mung Beans, Beans, Chick Pea and in some cases, Sorghum are reaping the returns on the back of strong pricing. 
The drought in the southern growing areas is benefiting these farmers. 
A winner here is the soil, which is benefiting from a change in crop. 
As a result of the southern growing areas drought, the Burdekin is the winner.
Given the pricing of cane land and the water, the Burdekin is looking affordable at present.
Recent contract prices are from $15,000 to $18,000 per hectare for marginal cane land. 
Of this some of the buyers have intentions of targeting the shorter growing cycles and present high pricing of grain returns. 
The report concludes that "This is an exiting era of rural property market dynamics in North and North West Queensland."
Despite  continuing concerns around drought, there are positive signs in the region. 
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Queensland's North and North Western rural property markets showing mixed signs

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Beef producer, the Australian Agricultural Company, has confirmed heavy rain and severe flooding in North West Queensland has “severely impacted” four of its 21 pastorals properties.
Wondoola is the most affected of the company’s Gulf of Carpentaria properties.
AACo’s earnings and profits are likely to take a significant hit from the flooding, but also drought elsewhere.
The four Gulf stations were subjected to rainfall of 500 millimetres.
Wondoola Station, about 480 kilometres north east of Mount Isa, lies between the Saxby and Flinders river systems on open downs country where AACo runs Brahman breeders.
Canobie, Dalgonally and Carrum stations, which have a total herd of 50,000 head, were expected to sustain “lower but still material losses”.
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"Our immediate focus is on our people, the welfare of our animals and the tight knit communities in which we operate," the AACo boss Hugh Killen said.
"The current conditions are still challenging and a credible assessment of the impact on livestock and infrastructure will only be possible once the flood waters have started to recede."
This is likely to occur over the coming weeks, with Killen noting there is still a possibility of further wet season storms.
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Floods affect beef producer, Australian Agricultural Company

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A timber cabin on five acres is coming up for auction just out of Mackay, in North Queensland.
Hazledean is both the name of a small township and the cabin itself.
The marketing agent Hayley Van de Ven says it’s ‘cute as a button’.
The one-bedroom house has electricity, hot and cold running water, a fire place, a kitchen and bathroom.
<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/2018/5/15/Mackay%20cabin%20extern1.jpg" alt="">
The property is fully fenced, and close to a dam where you can fish or catch yabbies.
Van de Ven describes Hazledean as ‘a cabin straight out of Dr Quinn Medicine Woman’, the American Western drama series set in Colorado Springs in the late 1860s, which went to air in the 1990s.
"It is easy to imagine Jane Seymour as Dr. Quinn knocking on the cabin door to visit a patient!"
The June 2 auction is on behalf of the Wiri Yuwiburra Community Benefits Trust, with the property now surplus to the requirements of the Trust.
Hazledean is a 40 minute drive on bitumen road from Mackay, along the Peak Downs Highway.
Van de Ven says an adjoining property, also on the market, would make an ideal B&amp;B, with two houses already on the site.
Offers of over $375,000 are sought for this 3.5 acre property, which has a running creek and secret garden, sheds and containers onsite.
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Unusual Mackay cabin with frontier touches listed for auction

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Demand is heating up for forest breeding country in the Burdekin River Valley from the Belyando in the south to Mount Garnet, Einasleigh and Georgetown in the north.
There is a shortage of forest breeding country on the market, valuer Herron Todd White's recent rural report suggested.
"There is a market disrupter in the room in the form of the Department of Defence," the firm suggested.
HTW advised as this year progresses, the property clock for this region of North Queensland is likely to rise from the nine o’clock (rising) position towards twelve o’clock (peak).
"Depending on how the Defence negotiations play out, this market may see record values later in the year. 
"There is a distinct possibility of vendors re-entering the market as buyers with significantly enhanced cash and reduced debt to acquire replacement cattle stations for the ones that they may have just sold to Defence.
"It will be interesting to see if any of the deals break the springs of the property clock!"
The valuation firm suggested there  ay be some overflow of demand in neighbouring market areas.
"These may include the Desert Uplands and the Hughenden basalts and the Georgetown, Einasleigh and Mount Garnet areas," it suggested.
The following table provides a run around the ridges of the north and north-west Queensland grazing property market areas:
<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/2018/4/6/north%20qld%201.jpg" alt=""><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/2018/4/6/north%20qld%202.jpg" alt=""><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/2018/4/6/north%20qld%203.jpg" alt="">
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Defence acquisitions could boost North Queensland rural market: HTW

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A Charters Towers City three bedroom house has been sold by mortgagees for $66,500.
It was sold by Kym Whelan from Ceaneys Real Estate earlier this month.
It last traded at $183,000 in 2009, and at $74,000 in 2006 and $56,000 in 2004.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-charters+towers+city-127434326" target="_blank">Located at 3 Regent Street</a>, the northern Queensland home comes with three bedrooms, kitchen, outdoor entertaining area and two bay sheds.
The land size is 941 square metres. It had a $52,000 official land value in 2015.
The suburb's median house price sits on $125,000 according to CoreLogic. 
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Northern Queensland three bedroom house sold by mortgagee

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Banana growers in north Queensland affected by Panama disease are encouraged to contact their bank to access a range of hardship measures on offer. 
Australian Banking Association CEO Anna Bligh said banks understood the challenges facing growers in the region because of the new outbreak of the disease and were on hand to help. 
“This is a challenging time for banana growers in north Queensland who are contending with the effects of the Panama disease or the threat of it,” Ms Bligh said.
“An outbreak, or threat of outbreak, can have a significant impact on income and cashflow, causing heavy financial strain on farmers. 
“We strongly encourage farmers who are concerned about their financial situation to contact their bank as early as possible to access the many forms of assistance available.
“Banks understand that agriculture can be heavily impacted by weather and seasons therefore can be flexible where needed to help customers in need,” she said.
Over the past few months Australia’s major banks have met with representatives from the Queensland Government and the banana industry about the effects of Panama disease.
The type of assistance offered will depend on individual circumstances, but may include a deferral of scheduled loan repayments, waiving fees and charges, interest free periods or no interest rate increases; and debt consolidation to help make repayments more manageable.
Find out the contact details of your bank’s financial hardship team <a id="m_2170294376519089879LPlnk518030" href="https://www.ausbanking.org.au/images/uploads/ArticleDocuments/206/Banks%20hardship%20contacts%20Jan%202016.pdf" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.ausbanking.org.au/images/uploads/ArticleDocuments/206/Banks%2520hardship%2520contacts%2520Jan%25202016.pdf&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1519947570499000&amp;usg=AFQjCNH89cc-F2BIrugqnxfiqrn0N6B11g">here</a>.  
 
 
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Support from banks for Panama disease affected banana growers

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Businessman Peter Bond has let part of his Dunk Island sub-lease lapse, but has told The Australian he is re-tendering for the site.
The Dunk Island Resort in far north Queensland was bought by Bond in 2011.
The resort and island had been devastated when Cyclone Yasi tore through that year.
Dunk Island Resort occupies 150 hectares, the largest in what is known as the “family group of islands”.
The founder of the failed Linc Energy group let the sublease on the Dunk Island Spit lapse.
Bond told The Australian he is retendering for the Spit site, which is adjacent to his luxury resort, which is almost ready for business after the cyclone.
Tenders for the Dunk Island Spit site are due February 28 next year.
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