Brunswick’s civic heart continues to consolidate around the Merri-bek Arts and Culture Precinct, where a growing cluster of cultural institutions, recreation facilities, and public infrastructure has created one of the inner north’s most defined community hubs.&nbsp;

Within this evolving precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/saxon-street-by-milieu-brunswick-31-saxon-street-brunswick-vic-3056">Saxon Street by Milieu</a> introduces new housing directly alongside the civic anchors that shape daily life in the suburb.

At 31 Saxon Street, the project sits immediately beside Brunswick Baths and within moments of Brunswick Library and Town Hall, longstanding institutions that support both community services and everyday amenity.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136434 project_image_fid=348840]

Next door, the newly delivered Balam Balam Place arts precinct has emerged as a central piece of Merri-bek Council’s cultural strategy, bringing together creative studios, exhibition spaces, maternal and child health services, and community programming in a purpose-built civic facility. Together, these destinations have reinforced the surrounding blocks as a focal point for public life in Brunswick.

This part of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> forms a key pocket within the suburb’s designated Major Activity Centre, where long-term planning has prioritised walkability, civic investment, and increased housing supply close to transport and services. The surrounding street network reflects that strategy, with compact blocks, established retail corridors and active transport links supporting a lifestyle that is largely navigable on foot.

Within a few minutes’ walk, Sydney Road delivers one of Melbourne’s most recognisable streets, known for its long-running mix of independent retailers, international dining venues and everyday convenience. Tram routes along Sydney Road provide frequent connections south toward the CBD and north through Brunswick and Coburg, while Jewell Station on the Upfield line sits within roughly a ten-minute walk, offering direct train access into the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136434 project_image_fid=348839]

Active transport also plays a significant role locally. The nearby Upfield Bike Path forms a key north–south cycling corridor linking Brunswick through Parkville and into the central city, reinforcing the area’s reputation as one of Melbourne’s most accessible inner-urban neighbourhoods for cyclists and pedestrians alike.

The surrounding civic cluster extends beyond cultural infrastructure. Siteworks, a nearby creative hub supporting artists and community organisations, adds to the concentration of cultural activity in the immediate area. Educational institutions such as Brunswick North Primary School, Brunswick Secondary College and RMIT’s Brunswick campus are also within easy reach, contributing to the suburb’s diverse resident base spanning families, students and professionals.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136434 project_image_fid=348841]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-clements-burrows-architects">Jackson Clements Burrows Architects</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> and landscape architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/oculus">OCULUS</a>, the nine-level building has been shaped to respond to the surrounding streetscape, with lower levels aligning to the street and upper storeys stepping back to soften its scale and improve solar access.&nbsp;

Curved balcony forms reference nearby heritage architecture, while the development’s public realm improvements include a widened footpath along Saxon Street to strengthen pedestrian connections between the precinct’s civic sites.

Sustainability also underpins the project’s approach. The building is designed to operate entirely on electric infrastructure supported by rooftop solar, with an average 7.5-star NatHERS energy rating and EV-charging readiness across the development. Shared resident amenities will include a landscaped rooftop terrace with barbecue and covered dining areas intended to encourage informal interaction between residents.

Saxon Street marks developer Milieu's fifth project in Brunswick and continues its focus on design-led infill housing across Melbourne’s inner suburbs.&nbsp;

Construction has commenced through reputable builder Manresa, who will complete the project in 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136434]

Joel Robinson

Saxon Street by Milieu connects residents to Brunswick’s cultural and civic core

Within <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>&nbsp;takes a different approach to larger residences, moving away from the constraints of a single level.

In Grand Residence 3.05, known as the Lustre, plays out across two levels, with a mezzanine configuration that is uncommon in apartment living.

Lustre is a four-bathroom residence where the layout creates a clear distinction between shared and private zones, with uninterrupted views toward the Dandenong Ranges extending the sense of openness from the main living areas.

Entry is to the primary living level, where the kitchen, dining, and living areas are arranged as one continuous space. Timber flooring runs throughout, with a fireplace set within the living zone. Full-height glazing brings in natural light, supported by double glazing that improves thermal performance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357506]

The kitchen is configured as both a working and social space. A large island bench provides seating, while a walk-in pantry extends storage beyond typical apartment expectations.

Gaggenau appliances, including a 900mm gas cooktop and 600mm oven, are integrated into a layout that connects directly to the adjacent dining and living areas, and outward to the terrace. This balcony includes a built-in BBQ, reinforcing the apartment’s capacity to accommodate larger gatherings without compromising internal space.

A dedicated laundry room, powder room, and a wine cellar area sit discreetly off the main living zone, ensuring that functional requirements are resolved without encroaching on primary living areas. The master suite is also located on this level, designed as a retreat with a walk-through wardrobe and an ensuite that includes double vanities, a bath, and a dedicated dressing table.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357508]

The mezzanine level introduces a second layer of living, rather than simply additional bedrooms. Two large bedrooms with built-in robes are positioned alongside a central bathroom, while a secondary lounge and study area create a self-contained zone suited to children, guests, or extended family. A large storage room further supports long-term usability, addressing a common shortfall in apartment design.

This separation of levels is central to how the residence functions day-to-day. It allows the lower level to operate as the primary entertaining and living space, while the upper level provides privacy and flexibility. The result is closer in feel to a townhouse or standalone home, but with the benefits of apartment living, security, and low maintenance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=364553]

Candela is close to 80 per cent complete, with Ironside delivering construction ahead of its expected October 2026 completion. The development comprises 58 residences, with a strong owner-occupier profile and a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments and loft-style townhouses.

Candela has exclusive access to private amenities, including a residential lounge and rooftop terrace. A charming café and a lifestyle wellness centre are located on the ground level, designed to foster community connection and extend the living experience beyond individual apartments without competing with the scale of homes like Lustre.

Candela, positioned in the heart of Ivanhoe Village, reinforces the practicality of the address. With a Walk Score of 90, residents are within immediate reach of cafés, retail, parklands, and Ivanhoe Station, while also benefiting from proximity to established schools and healthcare services.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Inside Lustre: Grand Residence 3.05 at Candela Ivanhoe

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a> is being shaped around a simple but increasingly rare premise in apartment development: that the built environment should actively support residents’ wellbeing.&nbsp;

Located on the former ABC Studios site on Gordon Street in Melbourne’s south-east, the new neighbourhood sits on an expansive 11,740 sqm site neighbouring the heritage-listed Rippon Lea Estate, whose gardens date back more than 140 years.

Rather than positioning wellness as an add-on amenity, the development integrates it into the physical planning of the site. Architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> is arranged across six low-rise buildings set within extensive landscaping designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/oculus">OCULUS</a>, with more than 40 per cent of the land dedicated to gardens and green space. Walking trails, pocket gardens, and mature trees are threaded between buildings, creating a network of green corridors that encourage residents to move through the precinct on foot and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136535 project_image_fid=288420]

Milieu has intentionally framed these gardens as an extension of the neighbouring Rippon Lea Estate. More than 16,000 new plants will be introduced across the site, with species carefully selected to protect and complement the area’s ecological significance. The approach focuses on strengthening existing environmental conditions while establishing new habitats that support native wildlife, reinforcing the role of the landscape as both an active ecosystem and a defining element of daily life.

A private resident gate will provide direct access to the historic grounds during opening hours, allowing residents to move seamlessly between the development’s landscaped gardens and the estate’s expansive lawns, lakes, and mature trees. The project’s gardens will also be maintained by the same gardeners responsible for Rippon Lea, reinforcing the visual and ecological continuity between the two landscapes.

Complementing the landscape is a dedicated wellness hub designed to support everyday health and recovery. Residents will have access to a gym alongside yoga and Pilates studios, while mineral pools and infrared saunas provide spaces for relaxation and restorative wellbeing. Shared lounges, workshop spaces, and pet care facilities expand the concept of wellness beyond fitness, creating opportunities for social connection and community interaction within the precinct.

Environmental performance is another key component of the project’s wellbeing focus. Elsternwick Gardens will be entirely fossil-fuel-free, with homes designed to operate on renewable electricity rather than gas. Passive design strategies, including cross-flow ventilation, high-performance insulation, and thermally broken double glazing, are intended to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while reducing energy demand. Solar photovoltaic systems will power common building services, while rainwater harvesting will help irrigate the extensive landscaping across the site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136535 project_image_fid=361030]

Milieu Founder and Managing Director Michael McCormack says the scale and setting of the project allowed the team to take a different approach to urban apartment living.

“This site represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build something truly special,” McCormack says.

“Through that process, we arrived at a design that centres on a fully realised natural landscape – a series of private, interconnected gardens that encircle the homes and extend seamlessly from Rippon Lea Estate.”

Elsternwick Gardens will comprise three residential offerings, Gordon Place, Ripponlea Terrace, and The Garden Pavilion, each designed for owner-occupiers and shaped around high-quality interior design by Woods Bagot, K.P.D.O., and Flack Studio. The first stage, Gordon Place, includes one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments designed with a strong focus on indoor-outdoor living and sustainability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136535 project_image_fid=288412]

Milieu recently appointed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/brady-constructions">Brady Constructions</a> to deliver the project, marking a key milestone for the development. The appointment follows the demolition of the former studio buildings on the Gordon Street site, with construction progressing toward the delivery of the nature-led community.

Situated between the established villages of Elsternwick and Ripponlea, the development balances its garden setting with strong urban connectivity. Residents will be within walking distance of cafés, restaurants, and local retail, while nearby train and tram connections provide quick access to Melbourne’s CBD and the beaches of Elwood and St Kilda.

With construction underway and the first residents expected to move in by early 2027, Elsternwick Gardens represents a growing shift in apartment development toward environments that prioritise wellbeing as much as density or location. By placing landscape, sustainability, and shared spaces at the centre of the design, Milieu is positioning the project as a residential neighbourhood where wellness is not just promoted, but built into the structure of everyday life.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136535]

Elsternwick Gardens' wellness-first design strategy

Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a> has made a striking debut on the Gold Coast, officially unveiling its $250 million COMO development in Varsity Lakes, a lifestyle-driven residential project anchored by an extensive rooftop wellness and activity precinct.

Having recently launched to market, construction has already been fast-tracked by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/5point-projects">5Point Projects</a>, ensuring momentum continues on what is set to become a landmark residential address for the growing Varsity Lakes community.

Located at 22 Lake Street, Varsity Lakes, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO</a> will comprise 156 apartments across 16 levels, comprising one-, two- and three-bedroom residences designed for modern living. However, it is the project’s rooftop amenity offering that sets COMO apart.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363510]

Designed as a dedicated wellness and recreation hub, the rooftop will feature a 25-metre lap pool, fully equipped gymnasium, and multiple pickleball and paddleball courts - amenities rarely seen in boutique apartment projects.

Residents will also have access to a sauna and plunge baths, while landscaped gardens and relaxation zones will provide tranquil spaces overlooking sweeping panoramic views across the Gold Coast skyline.

The rooftop precinct has been designed to function as the social and wellness heart of the development, encouraging residents to embrace an active, balanced lifestyle within their own building.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363512]

Red &amp; Co director David Laverty said the amenity offering was central to the project’s design from the outset.

“Amenities were at the forefront of our decisions,” Laverty said.

“Buyers today are looking for more than just an apartment - they want a lifestyle that promotes health, connection and balance.

“The rooftop at COMO has been designed to be the epicentre of that lifestyle, with a suite of wellness and recreation facilities that are quite unique for a boutique development of this scale.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363514]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the residences prioritise liveability, featuring spacious layouts, 2.7-metre ceilings and high-quality finishes throughout.

The development sits beside Bond University, placing residents within walking distance of education, retail and dining options within the vibrant Varsity Lakes precinct, including Robina Town Centre, Varsity Lakes Train Station and a range of leading schools.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]

Laverty said the location was a key driver behind Red &amp; Co’s decision to bring the project to the Gold Coast.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/varsity-lakes-qld-4227">Varsity Lakes</a> was a clear choice for us to invest in as it’s a lifestyle hub that seamlessly blends lakeside living with urbanity,” he said.&nbsp;

“Como will capitalize on this great location, delivering a project that not only creates premium homes, but a lifestyle defined by community, wellbeing, and connectivity.”

Red &amp; Co has delivered more than 500 apartments and townhouses across 26 projects in Brisbane in recent years, with COMO marking the company’s first major Gold Coast development.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Red & Co unveils amenity-rich Como development in Varsity Lakes

Gold Coast developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/big-projects">Big Projects</a> has secured approval for its second Mermaid Beach project.

The developer, currently selling <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-frederick-mermaid-beach-2265-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Frederick in Nobby Beach</a>, has secured approval for its next project just 1.5 kilomnetres up the road.

The new development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glenelg-residences-2462-2472-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Glenelg Residences</a>, has been designed by BDA Architecture and&nbsp;will have just under 100 apartments across an 11-storey building&nbsp;at 2462–2472 Gold Coast Highway, on the corner of Glenelg Avenue just under 300m from the future Mermaid Beach Light Rail stop.

The apartments, a mix of two- and three-bedrooms, will sit above a retail-focused ground plane and under extensive rooftop resident amenities.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.04%20am.png?VersionId=z6NV4izeuvhBSSVlY6vK6TPO1LxrFeaG" />

BDA said in its planning submission that the project is intended to support the area’s transition toward higher-density, mixed-use living. “This project offers the opportunity to generate appropriate higher-intensity development within the future Light Rail corridor of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a>,” the submission noted.

At ground level, Glenelg Residences will include eight retail tenancies designed to activate the street frontage, complemented by a basement bar offering an additional hospitality element. Above, residents will have access to a rooftop amenity deck featuring an infinity pool, hot and cold plunge spas, day beds, and barbecue facilities.

The architectural approach adopts a restrained material palette of brick, textured concrete, and integrated landscaping, with cantilevered concrete frames and cascading planting intended to soften the built form. BDA described the design as aiming to create “a memorable sculptural mid-rise mixed-use building” that responds to both its coastal setting and urban context.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.45%20am.png?VersionId=cpjIVBqcT_sujmo2UMWkVyLcQ7WGJHaQ" />

The approval comes as the City of Gold Coast continues to plan for significant population growth, with regional targets requiring more than 100,000 new high-density dwellings by 2046.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-36" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:55d7c6ac-8e6d-4881-ad49-0ed9bf66d1cc-17" dir="auto">
Big Projects, led by Matthew and John Barrett, is part of a growing cohort of developers that deliver construction in-house, providing a high level of confidence to prospective purchasers.
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150260]

Big Projects secures approval for Glenelg Residences in Mermaid Beach

Reality Tv

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Last night's episode of Location Location Location Australia showed buyer's agents Veronica Morgan and Bryce Holdaway helping out two relocating couples.
Though one couple was upsizing and the other downsizing, they were both forced to negotiate the tricky realities of moving far from home.
Veronica was working with retirees Sue and Barney. After living in Port Macquarie for 16 years, they wanted to relocate to Wagga Wagga, where their son and his young family lived.
The couple, who have been married for 47 years, raised their own family in Wagga Wagga before moving northward to the beach.
For their return to Wagga, they wanted a three bedroom house with a double garage and a shed, which was close to the grandkids.
Their move, which they think might be their final one, had to be done on a tight budget of $350,000.
With limited stock on market in Wagga, Veronica was tasked with finding them the perfect final home among very few options.
She started by taking the couple to their preferred area of <a href="/news">Turvey Park</a>, in the heart of Wagga and only minutes from their son Ben. The three bedroom house, on the market for $329,000, had three bedrooms, a shed and a backyard.
The recently renovated home was a lot smaller than what Sue and Barney were used to, and the couple believed it would take a lot of hard work to make it worthwhile. It was immediately struck from the list despite its great location and the search continued.
The second house they inspected was in <a href="/news">Kooringal</a>, south of Turvey Park but only four kilometres from their son's home. The bigger house, with three bedrooms, only had a single car garage and the shed was on the small size.
While Sue loved the brick bungalow with an open plan kitchen, Barney was pretty skeptical. At $339,000, the house fell under their budget - but only just.
The third home they inspected was in <a href="/news">Bourkelands</a>, four kilometres from Central Wagga. The former site of a military base, developers have recently taken a liking to the area, with new builds popping up.
The house, which also had a $339,000, had a double garage, an open plan kitchen and living room layout. The master bedroom came with a walk in robe and ensuite, which also appealed.
With somewhat shabby bathrooms, the house (pictured below) would require a little bit of work. It <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bourkelands-116920539" target="_blank">remains on the market</a>, with its asking price now at $332,500. 
<img src="/images/2014/09/24/1.jpg" alt="">
After visiting three homes, none of which ticked all the boxes and all a step down from their dream home in Port Macquarie, the true reality of downsizing began to set in.
Sue and Barney showed just how difficult it is to downsize, especially from a home you love. Though they both wanted to be closer to their family, they weren't quite ready to make the final purchase of their life - especially if it meant settling for a home they weren't happy in.
In the end, although they couldn't find the perfect home, Sue and Barney decided they needed to be in Wagga. So they sold their Port Macquarie home and set out to rent a house in Wagga while waiting for the right home to come onto the market.
This article continues on the next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 Bryce teamed up with Melbourne couple Ben and Amelia, who had the opposite move in mind.
They were planning to migrate northward, to the Gold Coast. After watching prices skyrocket in Melbourne, they decided they wanted more warmth and luxury for their dollar.
The upgraders, who want a family home they can grow into, had a budget of $1 million. They've been searching for a home in the Gold Coast for some time, but were finding the interstate property inspections a little impractical.
Enter Bryce. He was tasked with finding them a four bedroom home with a minimum of two bathrooms, a pool and canal views. Ben and Amelia wanted something close to the beach, with plenty of entertaining space.
Bryce was optimistic about their prospects, especially on their budget. The property market's downturn means that homes are more affordable than before, and it's a buyers' market.
According to Bryce, good capital growth potential can again be found in the Gold Coast, with high price growth in the southern states spurring on upgraders just like Ben and Amelia.
Their hunt began in <a href="/news">Broadbeach Waters</a>, at a home situated right on the canal. The four bedroom, four bathroom house had a pool and a six car garage. Unfortunately, it required some renovations - but with a price of $800,000, there was plenty of money leftover in the couple's budget for that.
It seemed, however, that Ben and Amelia had other things in mind. They weren't interested in extensive renovations, and wanted at least two living areas.
So house number one was a bust, and they moved along to house number two: a <a href="/news">Mermaid Waters</a> house with two open plan living areas. The contemporary tiled house had four bedrooms, four bathrooms and a spot to tie up the boat.
There was also an outdoor entertaining space by the pool. On the market for $995,000, it was within their budget, and made a good first impression.
But Ben and Amelia, it turned out, wanted a home with a better indoor-outdoor flow. So house number two was also out.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-broadbeach+waters-116288195" target="_blank">third home they inspected</a> was one on main road, which caused some concern. But its huge contemporary interior space and layout, pictured below, won them over. The home, on a wide plot, also included a pool and spa facing the canal, with its own jetty.
<img src="/images/2014/09/24/2.jpg" alt="">
While the home's bedrooms weren't amazing, the outdoor entertaining area was enough to win them over.
The house had a $1 million asking price, but it turned out that the vendors had accepted a $950,000 offer previously, and finance had fallen through.
They inspected a final house, a single storey home with two large living areas and four bedrooms in Broadbeach. The house, which the couple wasn't keen on, had an asking price of $950,000.
The price gave Amelia and Ben a point of comparison, and solidified their preference for the third home.
Knowing that the vendors had accepted a $950,000 offer, Bryce proposed a $930,000 to $950,000 price for the home. Amelia and Ben decided to put in a $920,000 bid, and were happy to play the waiting game.
However, so was the vendor, who rejected the bid. Amelia and Ben pushed up their offer to $945,000 - which, after a few days of waiting, was accepted by the vendor.
By knowing the previous offers put in on the house, Amelia and Ben were able to gauge the vendor's needs, securing the home for $55,000 under the asking price.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Location Location Location: Big moves and big decisions

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Scott Cam, the host of TV renovation show The Block, has been announced as Australia's first national careers ambassador. 
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Despite losing some respect among viewers in the latest series, the Gold Logie winner has been appointed by the Employment and Skills Minister Michaelia Cash.
His role will be to highlight how practical and technical training can lead to high-paying and fulfilling jobs.
"Anybody who is thinking twice about getting a trade just needs to look at Scott Cam and his success," she said.
"Anything is possible by pursuing vocational training."
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The Prime Minister Scott Morrison said university, which had become the default expectation for young people, wasn't the only path to success.
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<div id="google_ads_iframe_/21666581298/theflindersnews/news/nationalnews_0__container__">"I want to see more Australians become plumbers, electricians and bakers than lawyers and consultants. I would like to see more of them going on to become their own boss," he said on Thursday.</div>
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"Scott Cam is proof that undertaking a trade can be a very valuable, rewarding and successful career choice, and there are plenty more who can tell a similar story to Scott."
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Cam is a qualified carpenter who ran his own business before shooting to fame on the television.
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Mr Morrison is hopeful the appointment will encourage more people to get technical, trade and practical skills.
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"By learning a trade you'll earn more, your skills will be in demand and you'll help build our country and keep our economy strong," he said.
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Employment and Skills Minister Michaelia Cash said vocational education and training was key to building Australia's future workforce.
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<div class="assets">
She said Cam would help Australians at "all ages and stages" to make informed decisions about learning, training and work.
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<div id="google_ads_iframe_/21666581298/theflindersnews/news/nationalnews_5__container__">"Working with the National Careers Institute, Scott will make sure individuals and businesses can take advantage of the pathways on offer," she said.</div>
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<div>The appointment of Scott Cam as the first National Careers Ambassador was welcomed by Kristin Brookfield, the HIA's chief executive industry policy.  </div>
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“Today’s announcement by the Prime Minister and the Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, Michaelia Cash, reinforces the change in approach now being taken by the Government to ensure vocational education and the careers on offer are seen by young people, their parents and educators, as the pathway to an inspiring and long term career,” she said.
“As an apprentice carpenter, builder and business owner, Scott Cam has been giving back to the housing industry and sharing his passion and insights with young people as HIA’s Ambassador since 2017.
“Scott has worked with HIA to help raise the profile of a career in the housing industry. His own career shows how completing a trade can be the beginning of an exciting future."
HIA has been encouraged by the COAG Skills Council’s adoption of a vision for skills in Australia at their August meeting, on the back of the Government’s commitment to vocational education in the federal budget. 
“It certainly feels like the tide is turning on the bias towards university education as the best way to build a career,” concluded Ms Brookfield.
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Scott Cam's surprise ambassadorial appointment

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The first 11 Islanders of second series of Love Island Australia have been revealed including Eoghan Murphy, 24, a real estate agent from Gold Coast.
The Irish-born real estate agent has been working at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eoghannmurphy/" target="_blank">Kollosche Broadbeac</a>h since January. He was previously at Queensland Sotheby's for over a year where he was named Rookie of the Year at the REIQ Awards in 2017.
He began his real estate career as a sales professional at M-Motion Australia.
Murphy joined Love Island to find new love, having just come out of a long-term relationship.
<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/2019/10/3/Eoghan%20Murphy%202.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://kollosche.com.au/employee/eoghan-murphy/" target="_blank">His most recent sale</a> was a $4.45 million Currumbin home.
"I was in a relationship pretty much my entire life. When it happens you always think the grass is greener," he said.
"I enjoy being in a relationship. I want a companion. All my mates have girlfriends and I’m the one on my own. I want a girl, I want someone I can spend the rest of my life with," Eoghan told the magazines before his entry into the compound.
Eoghan considers himself a "respectful man with a huge heart" and is looking for the girl of his dreams.
<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/2019/10/3/Eoghan%20Murphy%203.jpg" alt="">
Premiering on Monday, October 7 at 8.45pm on Nine, the cast is just days away from meeting each other for the first time in their own luxury villa.
The singles will play the ultimate game of love and lust in a format that has taken the world by storm.
The initial 11 Islanders are:
Cartier, 19, Lifeguard from Sydney; Jessie, 23, Waitress from Hobart; Vanessa, 24, Businesswoman from Sydney; Cynthia, 23, Model from Brisbane; Cassie, 27, Executive Assistant from Sydney; Eoghan, 24, Real Estate Agent from Gold Coast; Gerard, 23, Personal Trainer from Perth; Matt, 24, Wrestler/model from Melbourne; Adam, 27, Plasterer from Gold Coast; Maurice, 27, Media Executive from Sydney; and Sam, 28, International DJ from Melbourne.
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Gold Coast estate agent Eoghan Murphy on Love Island Australia second series

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The former reality television chippie Luke Van Dyck and his wife Aime have listed their Avalon Beach home with $2,775,000 hopes.
They built <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-avalon+beach-131102158" target="_blank">the house</a> after subdividing and knocking down a 1950s cottage.
A longtime Avalon local and former Chadwicks model, Van Dyck is a third-generation builder.
Set on the 790 square metre block close to Paradise Beach, his eco-friendly new build saw everything constructed by hand with three distinct living zones.
The four-bedroom, two-bathroom home goes to May 30 through McGrath Avalon agent Adrian Venturi.
In 2003 Van Dyck was among the pioneers of reality TV renovation on the Nine Network’s DIY Rescue show, for which he was nominated for a Logie for best new talent up against Dr Chris Brown, then on Harry’s Practice, Daniel Frederiksen from Stingers, Home and Away’s Kip Gamblin, and Andrew O’Keefe on Deal Or No Deal.
The show was billed as offering the solution to “do-it-yourself-mad husbands and partners great at starting jobs around the house but lousy at finishing them”.
Van Dyck joined interior designer Tara Dennis and landscaper Greg Norton and host Leah McLeod, as they put broken homes back together.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
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Former reality TV chippie Luke Van Dyck lists at Avalon Beach 

Selling Houses Australia films in Brisbane this weekend at a home in the south west suburb of Jamboree Heights.

The home is scheduled for a transformation by&nbsp;Shaynna Blaze, Andrew Winter and Charlie Albone on the Lifestyle Channel show now in its 11th season.

The listing agent Helen Saba of More Estate Agents confirmed to the Courier Mail that the before shots and comments would be filmed this Saturday at the open home.

&ldquo;Many are looking at older homes to renovate and make it a comfortable investment to live in,&rdquo; she said.

With growth of 33.% in the past five years, interest in Jamboree Heights was heating up, she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163979]

The house kicked off the year with a $560,000 plus asking price.

The home at 28 Troop Street, Jamboree Heights last sold in 2016 at $530,000.

Selling Houses Australia set for Jamboree Heights makeover 

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Shaynna Blaze will front Nine’s silly new property series Buying Blind.
The show features buyers who hand over their life-savings to others to secure their home.
Buying Blind was originally aired on <a href="https://redarrow.tv/broadcasters-get-the-keys-to-red-arrow-internationals-buying-blind/" target="_blank">Danish television</a> - made by the same production company behind the Married At First Sight.
The Block/Selling Houses Australia expert will be joined by buyer’s agent, Rich Harvey and builder, Marshal Keen.
Some have dubbed it Mortgage at First Sight.
“Buying a home is the biggest investment a couple will ever make together, so I couldn’t be more excited to join these couples on their journey to find, build and design their dream home,” said Blaze.
Nine’s Head of Content Production and Development, Adrian Swift, said the show had "unlucky house-hunters who take the ultimate leap of faith".
It’s marketed as edge-of-the-seat drama with the biggest reveal on TV.
Mark Fennessy, CEO of Endemol Shine Australia, the series producers says Buying Blind is a high-stakes property thriller.
An airdate is yet to be announced.
The show's moment of truth comes when the family must decide whether to grant the experts power of attorney over their life-savings to buy a house on their behalf.
The experts then start house-hunting, culminating in them putting in an offer, negotiating the price and completing the purchase.
Then the family are taken to the property, blindfolded, and their new house is revealed to them for the first time.
Disappointment often ensues; and then the experts spend some of the client's money for renovations.
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MAFS for property: Buying Blind to take property television to new lows

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GUEST OBSERVER
Washington Brown has crunched the numbers on The Block’s latest development in Melbourne’s inner-city bayside suburb of Port Melbourne, and something just doesn’t add up.
From a financial point of view the development, which consisted of transforming a 1920s art deco building into a luxury apartment block, was one of the worst I have ever seen.
While I understand the magic of television, Channel 9 have outdone David Copperfield in creating the illusion of a profit to the public!.
Let's look at the numbers:
According to reports Channel 9 bought the site for around $5 million, which allowed for 6 apartments. Only 5 were sold on TV and for calculation purposes let’s say the acquisition costs is $4.2 million.
The construction cost and depreciation allowances totalled over $11 million, for the 5 apartments.  
That’s $15.2 million alone in construction and acquisition costs.
It’s worth noting that under the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 the initial vendor (ie. the developer) has an obligation to pass on the actual costs of construction to the purchaser, where the costs are known.
Let’s not forget there’s then a variety of other costs involved in buying and selling, and undertaking the development, including:
<ul>
<li>Stamp duty</li>
<li>GST on the sale</li>
<li>Demolition</li>
<li>Marketing</li>
<li>Agents’ fees</li>
<li>Legal fees</li>
<li>Interest</li>
<li>Rates</li>
</ul>
Whilst some of these costs may have been avoided due to contra deals, the bulk would have to be outlaid by Channel 9.
I estimate these additional costs to conservatively be $2 million, which brings the total cost to $17.2 million.
The Block’s<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/news/the-block-2016-will-and-karlie-win-and-take-home-815000-in-prize-money-20161113-gsoefv/" target="_blank"> total sales </a>realised just a little over $12 million, leaving the development in the red by around $5 million, yet it has been indicated that <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/news/the-block-2016-the-auctions/" target="_blank">profits</a> of up to $715,000 were made by the contestants. 
That something David Copperfield would be in awe of.
You know it’s the peak of the market when reality TV shows are pulling rabbits out of a hat to show a profit.
Whilst the contestants may have walked away with some ‘profit’, if the numbers are to be believed as shown on the show that development was a stinker.
Tyron Hyde is director, Washington Brown, and can be contacted <a href="https://www.washingtonbrown.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
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How successful was The Block Port Melbourne as a development?

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Over the years The Block contestants have pocketed some pretty impressive sums from their auction sales but it hasn't all been largely over the reserves and champagne celebrations.  
Here's how the Block winners have performed since the show's beginnings in 2003. 
Triple Threat (2015), South Yarra
Winners Darren and Deanne walked away with The Block's highest ever prize, winning a total of $935,000. The three-bedroom property at 4/27 Darling Street was sold by Jellis Craig's Andrew McCann and auctioned by Damien Cooley. The couple's $1.39 million reserve was dismissed with a starting bid of $1.8 million. An active market and growing house prices no doubt contributed to the record-breaking win.
Heritage Art Deco (2016), Port Melbourne
Most recently, Will Bethune and Karlie Cicero walked away with a massive $815,000, the second highest winnings earned by a team on The Block. Their ground floor apartment of the converted 1850s J.Kitchen and Son soap factory at 164 Ingles Street sold for $2.6 million at auction, $715,000 above the reserve. Despite not being a favourite with the show's judges, the art deco apartment was a win with the fans. 
The Blocktagon (2015), South Yarra
The Blocktagon winners Dean and Shay sold their penthouse apartment for $2.3 million, $655,000 over the reserve price. Along with the show's prize money, the couple walked away with $755,000 in total for their work on the old Hotel Seville in South Yarra. The luxury residence was also the third consecutive victory for Jellis Craig's agent Andrew McCann who also sold Dean and Darren's record-breaking Triple Threat apartment in 2015 and Simon and Shannon's winning Glasshouse apartment in Prahran. 
Fans V Faces (2014), Albert Park
Steve and Chantelle pocketed a total of $736,000 for their apartment on the show's Fans V Faves series. Their north-facing Albert Park apartment sold at auction for $2.47 million to a young professional couple with a baby on the way. The city and bay views no doubt helped the 1/47 O’Grady Street apartment sell for well over the reserve. 
The Block (2012), South Melbourne
The Block winners Brad and Lara pocketed $606,000 for their apartment in South Melbourne. The apartment was larger than the other contestant’s and sold for $1.62 million, setting a record for the show at the time.
Glasshouse (2014), Prahran
Glasshouse winners Shannon and Simon won a total of $435,000. The brothers sold their apartment for $1.9 million at auction. The Glasshouse apartment block was located on a main, high-traffic road and contestants had to convert old offices into residential spaces, contributing to the lower figure.
All Stars (2013), Bondi
Phil and Amity claimed the top spot in the show's All Stars series, walking away with a total of $395,000. Their Bondi townhouse sold for $1.67 million.
Sky High (2013), South Melbourne
Alisa and Lysandra won the show’s Sky High series with $395,000, the same amount as Phil and Amity in the All Stars series. Their first-floor apartment featured vertical gardens, an emerging trend at the time, and sold for $1.345 million at auction.
The Block (2010), Vaucluse
Josh and Nisha walked away with $305,000 for their upscale apartment in Vaucluse, Sydney. Only one of four apartments didn’t sell at auction, proving the show’s success was on the rise.
The Block (2003), Bondi
Contestants of The Block’s first season, Adam and Fiona, walked away with a total of $256,000. Having renovated three properties before entering the show, the married couple from Banksia, New South Wales had the most experience of all contestants competing at the time.
The Block (2004), Manly
Jamie and Andrew pocketed $178,000 when their Manly apartment sold for $868,000 at auction. Only two of the four apartments sold at auction making it one of the least successful seasons in The Block’s history.
The Block (2011), Richmond
Polly and Waz were the lowest earning winners ever in The Block series, walking away with just $115,000 in total prize money. Their Richmond apartment was the only one of the season to sell at auction thanks to a downturned market at the time.
The Block has been renewed for a thirteenth season, but aren't saying just where yet.
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The richest to poorest Block winners

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Crowd-funder DomaCom have announced the appointment of former TV presenter Nikki McCarthy as their buyer's agent at The New Block auctions.
For the first time, DomaCom's platform will allow Channel 9 viewers to support their favourite contestants and invest in the apartment of their choice.
The minimum investment price is $2,500 to share in the future rental income and capital growth.
McCarthy has been a TV presenter on Postcards and property show On Display, the latter led her into residential real estate.
Now working closely with RT Edgar Camberwell principal Glen Coutinho, Nikki (above) continues to pursue her love of property.
“I am so excited with DomaCom’s crowdfunding platform because it heralds a new era for property investors who don’t have sufficient funds for a whole property or who want to spread their investment across multiple properties," McCarthy said.
"There are many more people wanting the type of investment structure that DomaCom offers and The Block is a great way to demonstrate this.”
The Block, which starts this week, is Australia's longest running reality show having started in 2003. This series is scheduled to hold auctions in November.
 
 
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DomaCom joins with RT Edgar for The New Block at Port Melbourne

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The third house renovated on this year's House Rules series was Team NSW Nancy and Daniel, who's rundown 60's house lies half way between their parent's homes.
Their south Sydney home which they settled on four years ago has a mortgage of $500,000.
When it came to choosing their home, its dire condition nearly scared them away.
"When we first walked in, we went, 'oh no, no' and we walked out," Nancy said.
"But then we came back," added Dan, after realising its potential.
Three years later and no renovations started, the couple were considering selling the house before being accepted onto the show.
“We were in the process of deciding whether we were going to actually go ahead and renovate, or if we were going to detonate and rebuild or sell, so we were tossing all of that up at the same time," Dan said.
"We were leaving it up to fate."
 
<img src="/images/2016/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-01%20at%208.36.35%20AM.png" alt="">
Above, Daniel and Nancy's House Rules.
The couple have two kids, Jonathan, six, and Sophia, three, and didn't want to take time away from them renovating the home.
“We were going to renovate in stages and that would have taken so much of our time away from our children with every weekend spent on planning and renovating, so I really feel like this buys us 20 years with our children,” Nancy said.
They have a lot of concerns with the house, like dampness in the roof, poor layout and just being plain old and worn out..
Wanna-be house proud Dan shies away from inviting people over because of the state of their home.
“The reason we have applied for House Rules is because if someone is coming over Dan says, ‘Have they seen the house before? How long will they stay? Do they have to come over? Why can’t we go to their house?’ ” said Nancy.
A can-do attitude is what will see this pair through, who have limited hands-on experience in renovating.
“I wouldn’t call myself a renovator, not even a handyman,” says Dan.
The first couple on 2016's House Rules were Fil and Joe, who have a 1950's weatherboard house in Melbourne.
The second house transformed on air on this seasons House Rules was South Australian parents Michelle and Brooke.
 
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