<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> is one of Melbourne's longest standing architecture firms.

Founded in Melbourne in 1853 by Joseph Reed, the firm began as Reed &amp; Barnes and has evolved through various partnerships before adopting the Bates Smart name in the 20th century. With a continuous presence spanning more than 170 years, the practice has played a pivotal role in shaping Melbourne’s architectural identity.

In the 19th century, Bates Smart designed several of Melbourne’s enduring landmarks, including the Royal Exhibition Building (1880), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Melbourne Town Hall. The firm’s influence continued into the 20th century with notable works such as Ici House (1958), considered Melbourne’s first modern skyscraper and a milestone in post-war Australian architecture.

One of their landmark designs was&nbsp;The First Church of Christ, Scientist, at 336-340 St Kilda Road. The building, which is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, was designed by Bates, Peeble and Smart with construction completed in 1922. Architecturally, the building is significant as a rare example of early twentieth century classicism applied to a religious building. Historically, the building is significant as the first church of the Christian Science movement.

Melbourne developer Time &amp; Place decided to bring Bates Smart back to the area to design their next residential apartment project, Park Modern.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138453 project_image_fid=2138]

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/park-modern-south-melbourne-1-middleton-lane-south-melbourne-vic-3205">Park Modern</a>, on one of the largest island sites on the Melbourne CBD fringe, bordered by Dorcas Street, Wells Street, and Middleton Lane, will comprise two sculptural towers. It is being positioned as a design-forward response to evolving owner-occupier preferences in the Domain precinct.

Tim Price, Director at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/time-place">Time &amp; Place</a>, says&nbsp;Bates Smart have got a footprint on this city, probably like no other architect.

"It’s a really nice kind of next chapter story, that they created from a design perspective so long ago," Price told Apartments.com.au.

Park Modern will be the third time Time &amp; Place has worked with Bates Smart, having successfully designed and delivered Collins House and Opera on St Kilda Road together.

The brief focused on creating a built form that would feel contextually appropriate while offering a contemporary evolution of inner-city apartment living.

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The focus for Park Modern is squarely on owner-occupiers.

“It’s not always about downsizing," Price says.

"Sometimes it’s just about creating a space which is easily maintained, lock up and leave, reflecting people’s aspirations, whether they’re entertainers, big dining room spaces, big open terraces, they’re important parts of any design consideration.”

The building includes a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as penthouses, with layouts and floor plans designed to suit a broad demographic. The architecture has been shaped to capture&nbsp;view corridors to the Botanic Gardens, Port Phillip Bay and the CBD skyline.

Each apartment has been oriented to maximise natural light and provide a clear outlook, elements often cited by owner-occupiers as key criteria.

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Rather than defaulting to a generic luxury offering, the amenity strategy at Park Modern reflects specific insights into how residents want to live. The ground floor will include co-working areas, wellness facilities, and a concierge-led lobby that blends indoor and outdoor design cues.

“Wellness has become a more thoughtful consideration, not just gyms or lap pools, but things like magnesium plunge pools, saunas, daybeds, and studio spaces for Pilates and the regular cardio workout,” says Price.

One notable inclusion is a substantial porte-cochère, a covered vehicle drop-off zone integrated into the site plan. It’s a feature rarely seen in inner-urban developments and speaks to the team’s emphasis on ease of arrival and departure for residents and guests.

A display suite for Park Modern is now open by appointment, giving prospective buyers an early look at the project.

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Joel Robinson

100 years on, Bates Smart returns to South Melbourne's Domain Precinct to design Park Modern

One of the most significant beachfront projects ever proposed for the small suburb of Miami on the Gold Coast, has taken a major step forward.&nbsp;Monaco Property Group has secured approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nalu-miami-122-marine-parade-qld-4220">NALU</a>, a $500 million development comprising just 45 ultra-luxury residences on the iconic former Nobby’s Outlook site.

Acquired by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/monaco-property-group">Monaco Property Group</a> in 2024 for $70 million, the rare 7,238 sqm Marine Parade parcel boasts more than 80 metres of uninterrupted ocean frontage.

With approvals now secured, Monaco Property Group will move NALU into its delivery phase. The project has been designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, who collaborated with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/ldg-landscape-architecture">LDG Landscape Architecture</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/tom-mark-henry">Tom Mark Henry Interiors</a>&nbsp;to create the low-rise building, its landscaping, and interiors.

<img alt="NALU" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3fdf578e-7cc4-4b17-bbc2-ba853522a5d8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/122_Marine_Parade_002.jpg?VersionId=zFhJWVzX0jmCO.5iIIxNELImHesTjWS4" />

Residences will range from 237 sqm layouts to beachfront homes exceeding 1,400 sqm.

At the heart of the project is a 2,200 sqm lifestyle precinct with a bathhouse, fitness centre and resort-style pool, elevated by a concierge service.

Jonathan Grasso, Co-Founder of Monaco Property Group, said the council approval marks an exciting milestone for NALU, which will launch in Q1 2026.

“The project will now progress toward construction, working alongside our world-class collaborators to bring NALU to life," Grasso said.

“Our vision is to create a legacy project for the Gold Coast, one that not only honours the history of the site but also elevates its future, setting a new standard for coastal living in Australia. NALU embodies the pinnacle of design and location and will stand as an enduring icon of prestige and liveability.”

<img alt="NALU" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ae8545b-87ca-4dea-90ed-ac273ec6515d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Image7.jpg?VersionId=Wnmie4bu3x2WQonnG4Pwmh39NdZVKeOV" />

Originally developed in the 1970s as Nobby’s Outlook and later refurbished in 2019 as Nalu, the property has long held a place in the local community’s coastal identity. The new vision will build on this legacy, creating luxury residences that capture ocean views while fostering a lifestyle defined by wellness, connection, and ease.&nbsp;

Beyond its residential offering, NALU will deliver significant economic benefits to the Gold Coast through job creation and opportunities for local suppliers and contractors. Construction is anticipated to commence in early 2026, with completion expected in Q3 2028.

Monaco Property Group approved for $500 million NALU apartments on Miami beach

The most elevated residential tower in Palm Beach, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/corallo-palm-beach-5-palm-beach-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Corallo</a>, has officially launched this week, however only a handful of buyers will have an opportunity to buy in to the 17-storey project.

The $200 million mixed-use project includes ground floor dining and retail and is considered so valuable its developer, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a>, will be staging its release of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses to the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=806]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> International, Director, David Higgins, said the development’s location just metres from the beach on the corner of Palm Beach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway influenced the sculptural design by the acclaimed Plus Architecture studio.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a> locals understand the rare opportunity here at Corallo, particularly being the tallest building in the suburb and its proximity to the beach and local restaurants, and they’ve represented the bulk of pre-launch enquiries,” Higgins said.

“The orientation of the apartments captures views of the coastline from Surfers Paradise to Currumbin, and the diversity of floor plans and apartment types provide an exceptional level of choice.

“The first release includes just 59 one-, two and three-bedroom apartments and two half-floor penthouses, with flexible use designed to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=799]

In addition to the ground floor amenity, residents will also have access to a private dedicated wellness level offering 734 sqm of resort-style amenities including a pool, cold plunge, wet deck, steam room, sauna, gym, day bed, fire pit, barbecue area, dining area and yoga/stretch deck.

The project is located within walking distance of Tallebudgera Creek, Burleigh Heads village, Currumbin Alley and Palm Beach Currumbin High School. The Gold Coast Airport is under 10 minutes away.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=814]

Higgins said Palm Beach remained a hotly contested suburb for home buyers, with prices doubling in the past five years.

“What makes Corallo so appealing to the local market is the diversity of apartment types and pricing, with one-bedroom apartments starting from $841,000 and two-bedroom apartments starting from $1.34 million,” he said.

“The ground floor retail and dining offering will further expand on Palm Beach’s village atmosphere and create a meeting place for locals, and those opportunities for connection are highly valued.”

&nbsp;

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The on-site sales display, which includes a fully fitted kitchen, bathroom and bedroom, will be open until early works commence in Q1 2026. Each residence at Corallo will feature premium finishes including natural stone, artisanal brickwork, and warm copper accents.

Changfa Group has a two-decade history of delivering premium developments in Australia and internationally, having recently completed its collection of premium townhomes at Lyra, Hope Island, as well as apartment projects in Leichhardt, Carlingford, and Chatswood in New South Wales.

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$200 million Corallo Palm Beach launches with limited apartment release

In a move that aligns with NSW's accelerated planning incentives for affordable housing, developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/the-one-collection">One Collection</a> has revised its Hills District apartment plans, and taken it to the NSW Government, to secure approval.

The developer, which is currently delivering Horizon Hurstville, is seeking to add 80 more apartments to its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-castle-hill-16-dawes-avenue-nsw-2154">Castle Hill development</a> near Castle Towers. They already have approval for 280 apartments across eight six-storey buildings.

<img alt="One Collection" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3c298ba-1cc5-4db7-9872-607c75f8ceca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-13%20at%2010.19.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=wN9KpFIu5ENSGZLLsaZgXQHrXcwEO3Vd" />

Now on the desks of the NSW Department of Planning is 360 apartments, 48 of which will be dedicated to affordable housing.&nbsp;Affordable housing is to be “fully integrated within the building and visually indistinguishable,” according to the planning submission.

The 15,697 sqm block, an amalgamation of 16 sites, spans across Dawes Avenue, Hughes Avenue, and Camdan Crescent, sits 550m from Hills Showground Metro Station.&nbsp;

"The existing context is quickly changing from free-standing homes into residential flat buildings in line with the Hills Showground Precinct planning framework," Place Studio noted.

<img alt="Castle Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ec24948-c185-48fa-af8b-ed25adf302bf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-13%20at%2010.19.04%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zNDX.IeRROX1RlDeYcS38xn8w_dqgU2t" />

They said the design was informed by the site's unique condition of having three street frontages and was developed to to respond sensitively to iots surrounding context.

"The design adopted a conventional perpendicular alignment to the primary street frontage. The massing of the development was carefully modulated to align with the evolving character of the neighbourhood. The design ensured that the scale was not excessive or out of context, but instead contributed to a cohesive urban form consistent with emerging developments in the area."

<img alt="Castle Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f83ffdaa-f960-469d-b6fe-abcece57c9ef" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-13%20at%2010.19.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4oKlCyfaKes7jLi1_EMoqa46w2h_YvDZ" />

The apartment mix will be 46 one-beds, 168 two-bed apartments, and 146 three-bedroom units, with 631 parking spaces proposed.

Along the street frontages, the building heights are four storeys with a 7.5 metre setback, and eight storeys with an 11.5 metre setback. It should cost about $150 million to build.

One Collection works hand-in-hand with the respected development and construction firm Masscon, which has built a reputation for leveraging its expertise in the built environment to take on developments others can't. That's what they're achieving at Horizon Hurstville, having taken over the project to deliver it.

First look: One Collection advances plans for Castle Hill apartments

At Yarra’s Edge, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>’s newest tower under construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trielle-at-yarra-s-edge-docklands-16-point-park-crescent-docklands-vic-3008">Trielle</a>, sets a new benchmark for elevated living. Rising 45 storeys, 12.5 metres from the Yarra River, the landmark building offers residents access to a private wellness retreat and spa, a resident-only golf simulator, and an elegant lounge, dining and bar complete with a self-playing piano, all without ever having to leave home.

Now, that sense of elevation has reached new heights with the Aerus Sub-Penthouses, a limited release of half-floor riverfront residences on the Collins St axis where the sought-after street meets the Yarra River.

Each Aerus Sub-Penthouse, located across levels 42 and 43, represents the most expansive offering within Trielle, aside from the yet-to-be-revealed crowning penthouses. Spanning between 269 and 301 sqm, these residences are designed to capture natural light and uninterrupted views of the city skyline, Yarra River, and Port Phillip Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114216 project_image_fid=3784]

Among the collection are three-bedroom sub penthouses, complemented by a media room, and expansive four-bedroom layouts. All include panoramic living areas and oversized master suites with luxury ensuites reminiscent of a five-star hotel, complemented by dedicated dressing rooms finished in timber and natural stone.

The interiors have been crafted by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mirvac-design">Mirvac Design</a>, the developer’s award-winning in-house architecture and design team. Every material has been chosen for quality and longevity, from sculpted stone island benches with feature soft wash LED lighting to bespoke joinery and chevron timber oak flooring.

Kitchens are fitted with a BORA induction cooktop with integrated downdraft extractor, alongside Gaggenau appliances, including a fridge, freezer, and wine fridge. The adjoining butler’s pantry incorporates the exclusive Gaggenau Minimalistic Series including oven, steam oven, microwave, coffee machine and warming drawer, all concealed behind handleless glass panels for a clean, integrated presentation. Bathrooms feature custom Apaisar freestanding baths and basins and natural stone benchtops, continuing Mirvac’s design emphasis on tactile, timeless materials.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114216 project_image_fid=353085]

Michael Wiener, Design Director at Mirvac, says The Aerus Sub-Penthouse embodies the apex of Mirvac’s design ethos.

“Moving through your home is like walking on air - a private sanctuary where the craftsmanship is refined, the proportions generous, and the flow so effortless, you feel completely at ease in the sky,” Wiener says.

“In Aerus, we wanted to create a sense of weightlessness - a home that feels suspended in the skyline, full of light, grounded in luxury.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114216 project_image_fid=3777]

The Aerus Sub-Penthouses are expected to attract a mix of local and international buyers seeking a long-term residence of scale and quality in a riverfront setting, from returning expats to established families and business owners who value privacy, craftsmanship, and convenience within walking distance of the CBD.

With an unmatched suite of amenities, Trielle is the most extensively appointed development Mirvac has created to date at Yarra’s Edge. Within the tower will be The Oasis, a 900 sqm podium rooftop wellness retreat designed in collaboration with spa expert Naomi Gregory. Located seven storeys above the Yarra River promenade, it features a 25-metre lap pool, spa and sauna, hot magnesium spa, biophilic gym, yoga and Pilates studio, cold-pail contrast treatment, and day spa treatment rooms. Further amenities include a piano lounge, bookable dining room, cinema room, golf simulator studio, games room, teppanyaki bar, dog wash bay, and two flexible work hubs, The Biblioteca library and Mills Place office space, catering to residents’ evolving lifestyle needs.

Construction of the $350 million tower is underway through Mirvac’s in-house construction arm, with completion anticipated for mid-2027.

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Sky-high sanctuaries: Mirvac unveils The Aerus sub-penthouses at Trielle

Whitsundays

The Whitsunday property market is shaping up as one to watch this year as southern buyers continue to flock to the Whitsundays, cementing the area as one of Australia’s key lifestyle markets.&nbsp;

Recent market activity suggests that the Whitsundays is going head-to-head with the long sought-after Gold Coast, Byron Bay and Sunshine Coast regions, proving to be favourable destination for buyers south of the border.&nbsp;

Rob Taylor from Taylors Property Specialists revealed that the Christmas and New Year period has shown continued strong demand from southern states in the Whitsundays area.

“January 2023 has started in a positive manner with continued interest from southern buyers,” said Taylor.

<img alt="Render from the Shute Harbour Marine Resort" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc3e4a82-8c27-4f6f-8377-6f4ed564b9ed" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Family%20Pool_0.jpg?VersionId=jKYaoUJjfx8g6sQ_udf7Hg.1U5EQDDUZ" />Render from the Shute Harbour Marine Resort. Image supplied.

“We’ve seen steady demand for property from southern buyers who have identified the Whitsundays as a key lifestyle market, especially blue chip locations such as Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach,

“With growth in the state’s south-east coupled with limited stock due to rising construction costs, demand is outstripping supply and attention has turned to markets further north, especially among lifestyle buyers.”

Among the major projects currently marketed by Taylors is the $350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort which has drawn inquiry from buyers seeking the lifestyle and value offered by the Whitsundays.

“Already in the first few weeks of the new year buyers have secured numerous $1 million-plus lifestyle homes,” Taylor said.

“The enquiry rate hasn’t shown any real signs of slowing down from southern interest. While we don’t expect to see the hectic market activity of early 2022, we can expect a far more realistic, solid market which is best for the long term.

The Shute Harbour Marina Resort master plan will feature 58 luxury waterfront residences to be located along the marina, each with their own private marina berth of between 25 and 35 metres.

When completed, the marina village will comprise mixed retail and commercial Pier 61, restaurants, cafes, and swimming pool, as well as managed apartments with resort club facilities for berth owners.

<img alt="Render from the Shute Harbour Marine Resort" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f68153f2-b5ec-4b3e-9817-f7e062bac3b8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Entertainers%20Kitchen%20Living.jpg?VersionId=0SlC.4GD6cynyNfKUjiKAwKKi_Dq.lVl" />Render from an apartment in the Shute Harbour Marine Resort. Image supplied

As one of the biggest residential-resort projects in North Queensland in more than a decade, the transformational development is also destined to become the region’s premier lifestyle and leisure precinct – the perfect place to live, work and play.

Development of the first stage of Shute Harbour Marina Resort, which will include the marina and the stage-one release of land and marina berths, is expected to take two years to complete.

“Buyers are more willing than ever to head to the regions for a lifestyle and property that meets their needs - it’s a value proposition that is likely to see the property market in the Whitsundays hold its own for some time to come.”

Taylor believes that the lifestyle markets such as the Whitsundays will continue to perform really strong despite headwinds from inflation and interest rates.

“Talk of interest rates potentially stabilising in the coming months will add to this. However, what we are finding is these southern lifestyle buyers don’t seem to be as greatly impacted by these rate increases,” he added.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138294]

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Lifestyle buyers pursue value as the Whitsundays sails ahead as the market to watch

Sustained above-average population growth is set to position the Whitsundays region for a golden era of growth, according to a report by research group Aurelius.&nbsp;

Population growth in the Whitsundays looks set to outperform the 15-year average, with Victoria and NSW leading the post-Covid boom.

“The population in the Whitsunday Regional Council area grew by 1.7 per cent per annum over the past five years, ahead of the region’s 15-year average of 1.5 per cent,” said the report.

“With population growth expected to remain above the historical average over the next two decades, it is estimated the Whitsunday region’s population will hit 49,591 by 2041, up from about 38,000 at present.”

<img alt="Render of the Shute Harbour Marine Resort " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="94989fed-19b8-49b7-9323-c237d70a267e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Front%20Executive.jpg?VersionId=kp.hjr86geYF1Trmwnyka9rnHlgbpNay" />

Among the major infrastructure investments currently under way in the region is the $350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort which will bring to the market 395 new wet-berth marina berths centred on a residential-resort precinct comprising waterfront homes and a vibrant marina village with a retail and dining precinct, a resort hotel and backpacker accommodation.

Sam Wade, the managing director of the Shute Harbour Marina Development, said the Aurelius research highlights the opportunity ahead for the Whitsunday region and North Queensland more broadly to capitalise on the region’s growth potential.

“Australians have a growing appreciation of the region and everything it has to offer in terms of lifestyle and growth potential,” said Wade.

“With the growth we have seen over the past three years, and with the level of investment currently under way in North Queensland, this research presents a compelling case for continued growth in the Whitsunday region, particularly as international tourism begins to regain momentum.”

Aurelius Director Peter Bell, a highly regarded advisor and strategist, estimates the Whitsundays could see its tourism economy grow by an extra $600 million to $2.14 billion by 2025 if new initiatives currently in train come to fruition.

Bell highlighted that the region is already a major tourism drawcard with the visitor market expected to be worth $1.53 billion in the next three years, but the infrastructure spending currently under way in the region will significantly accelerate the tourism economy.

The top end of his forecast will see a doubling of the value of the local tourism economy over the seven years to 2025, building on an economic pillar that Bell said remains pivotal to the region’s future.

The Whitsunday economy is heavily reliant on tourism with about 3,000 people directly employed in the industry, and the expected growth in the industry will be significant for the region.

The region has become an increasingly popular destination for the domestic holiday market following an influx of interstate visitors to Queensland during the pandemic.

Tourism supports about 40 per cent of local jobs in the Whitsundays region, which is the highest in Queensland and one of the highest in Australia.

<img alt="Render of the Shute Harbour Marine Resort " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40801710-b860-4fbd-b595-5caecb28f827" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Family%20Pool.jpg?VersionId=AObyYOROyZ8.jr3bEc8_6auiEAX28Ln1" />

The Brisbane-based researcher presented his findings on the State of the Whitsundays before a host of special guests including the Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council, Julie Hall, and Deputy Mayor Gary Simpson during a presentation at the Whitsunday Marine Club.

Among his findings, Bell sees potential for the Whitsundays region to leverage off its reputation as a boating haven with new facilities for large and small marine vessels among the essential infrastructure projects that will support an expanding tourism economy.

Signalling the significant growth of the marine industry in the Sunshine State, Bell revealed that the number of boat registrations in Queensland grew almost four times faster than the state’s population in percentage terms during the 2021 financial year, at the height of the pandemic.

Queensland boat registrations rose 2.9 per cent in 2021, well above the 10-year average of 1.4 per cent.

The recent growth in boat ownership highlights an urgent need for increased storage capacity, especially for on-water marina berths which have sustained a high marina occupancy rate of 86 per cent in FY21, despite the pandemic.

Bell estimates the Whitsundays region’s economy is being further supported by a post-Covid migration renaissance from both interstate and intrastate migration with the latest population data showing historically higher rates of growth.

The region has become an increasingly popular destination for the domestic holiday market following an influx of interstate visitors to Queensland during the pandemic.

New research reveals the Whitsundays set for a golden era of growth

The Whitsunday Lakes Trust, $350 million Shute Harbour development has been inundated with enquires, amassing a whopping 520 expressions of interest in just four weeks following its national launch to market.

As the Whitsunday&rsquo;s first major resort development in over a decade, the stage one release has been met by a swarm of interested buyers, eager to put their name to one of the 58 land and berth packages in one of the most sought-after sailing locations across the world.

<a href="/developments/cannonvale-qld-4802"><img alt="" height="768" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/final_terrace_house_render_v3.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
Render of the proposed Shute Harbour Marine precinct development in the Whitsundays Lakes Estate. Image supplied.

Rob Taylor of Taylors Property Group said the latest wave of interest has come off the back of the Sanctuary Cove Boat show which accounted for 10 per cent of the enquiries to date, with the vast majority coming from boating enthusiasts who recognised the value of large-scale berths in the Whitsundays region.

&ldquo;The immediate market response to the resort has been incredible. We knew we had something special on our hands here, but we have been simply inundated with genuine interest &ndash; it&rsquo;s been a whirlwind,&rdquo; said Taylor.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re already in the process of converting many of these enquiries into contracts for our future Shute Harbour Marina Resort residents.

&ldquo;Many of these buyers have been long awaiting a marina project of this calibre to arrive in the area. Large scale berths are difficult to secure along the coast right now &ndash; all nearby marinas are close to capacity for the forthcoming season.&rdquo;

Once complete, the Shute Harbour Marina Resort will encompass a 395-berth marina with individual berths ranging from 10-metres to 30-metres on a 99-year lease, in addition to private berths ranging from 25-metres to 45-metres.

<a href="/developments/cannonvale-qld-4802"><img alt="" height="706" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/v1-4_0.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
Render of the proposed Shute Harbour development in the Whitsundays Lakes Estate. Image supplied.

The project will also deliver a 100-plus room hotel resort, with function and meeting rooms, bars, restaurants, a swimming pool, and undercover parking, along with 58 freehold land allotments, and 100 managed apartments with resort club facilities.

The free-hold residential waterfront sites cover 440 sqm and are earmarked for two- and three-storey design concepts.

According to Taylor, the enquiries have come from a broad demographic of parties, including veteran boating enthusiast, first-time boat owners, and future retirees.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re seeing the project timeline align with those buyers looking to lay the foundations for future plans two to three years down the line &ndash; whether that&rsquo;s retirement, or the eventual purchase of a larger boat,&rdquo; he said.

The land and berth packages have arrived to a market limited in supply for waterfront lots. With just 28 vacant residential waterfront lots currently available in the area, almost half of these are not located within or close to a marina development.

<a href="/developments/cannonvale-qld-4802"><img alt="" height="674" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/waterfront_homes_interior.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
Render of a proposed waterfront home interior. Image supplied.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Although the property market in the Whitsundays has increased about 20 per cent over the past 12 months, units are still about 25 per cent below their 2007 peak and land is only just matching the levels of 15 years ago,&rdquo; added Taylor.

Development of the first stage of Shute Harbour Marina Resort, which will include the marina and the stage-one release of land and marina berths, is expected to take two years to complete with construction targeted to commence in 12 months.

Expressions of interest are also being taken on future stages which will include marina loft apartments and plaza terrace homes.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=28292]

The first Whitsunday’s development in over a decade, Shute Harbour inundated with inquiries following launch to market

The first resort and marina precinct in almost 20 years is set to be launched in the Whitsundays.

The approved $350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort&nbsp;aims to transform Shute Harbour into an extensive foreshore with a&nbsp;resort hotel and a&nbsp;residential precinct featuring restaurants, retail outlets and marine services.

A new near 400-berth marina will also be part of the development.<img alt="" height="3095" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/211208_v1_final.jpg" width="5000" /> 
The $350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort masterplanned development. Image supplied.

Shute Harbour Marina Resort will be the first major marina and residential development in the Whitsundays since 2006 and will create the ultimate waterfront lifestyle for residents and tourists in one of the world&rsquo;s most sought-after sailing locations.

The multi-use marina, located on a prime 28-hectare waterfront site, will tap into a critical shortage of secure cyclone protected boat moorings in the state&rsquo;s north.

The marina resort will provide a much-needed boost for post-Covid tourism in the Whitsundays region and create 700 jobs during and post-construction.

Shute Harbour Marina Resort will also include a new commercial hub known as Pier 61, as part of a master-planned marina plaza that will create a range of new retail and commercial outlets for the waterfront development.

<img alt="" height="1500" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/final_waterfront_house_courtyard_renderv2.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The $350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort masterplanned development. Image supplied.

&ldquo;This is a development of regional and state significance that will deliver enormous benefit to the local economy,&rdquo; said Project Director Mark Daniels, who heads the&nbsp;consortium developing the project.

&ldquo;Shute Harbour is the gateway to the Whitsundays, with an outstanding marina location, and our plans will bring much needed tourism infrastructure to the region and complement the township&rsquo;s existing tourism and marine facilities.&rdquo;

&ldquo;In particular, we&rsquo;ve seen growing demand for marina berths in recent years and this is an exceptional offering that delivers a highly accessible mainland residential marina resort with a superb range of amenities and supporting services,&rdquo; he added.

The Shute Harbour Marina Resort master plan comprises 58 managed resort dwellings, each with their own private marina berths of 25 to 35-metres at their doorstep, along with managed apartments with resort club facilities, and a 100-plus room resort hotel, including function and meeting rooms, bars, restaurants, swimming pool and undercover parking.

<img alt="" height="706" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/v2-4.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The $350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort masterplanned development. Image supplied.

The entire precinct will be linked by public boardwalks, lookout spaces and seating throughout, with plans to also establish new public parks and a community cyclone shelter on site.

Shute Harbour Marina Resort is poised to become a popular destination for residents, locals and tourists who will be drawn to the village-style precinct that will host a marina cafe and bar, marina club, supermarket, bottle shop, marina office, chandlery, marine electronics and charter operators.

The project is being undertaken by an Australian consortium headed by Mark Daniels, Mark McLachlan, Greg Phillips and Sam Wade.

The consortium members have a combined 70 years&rsquo; experience in the development industry with a collective delivery of projects to the tune of $1.25 billion, including Encounter Lakes, Encounter Bay SA &ndash; an award winning regional residential development set around a man-made environmentally sustainable saltwater self- flushing lake, Holdfast Shores, Glenelg SA &ndash; an integrated residential, tourism, retail and commercial development involving co-operative action between Commonwealth, State and Local Government, and Seaford, Noarlunga SA &ndash; a major urban &ldquo;Greenfield&rdquo; development comprising the transformation of 730 hectares into an integrated community development with a projected population over 15,000. 
<img alt="" height="674" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/final_waterfront_house_internal_render_v1.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The $350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort masterplanned development. Image supplied.

Daniels, who has extensive experience in project delivery in the Whitsundays region over the past decade, said the development is a game-changer for Shute Harbour which is set to benefit from the recent reopening of international borders.

Marina berths will range from 10 to 35 metres for mono and multi-hull craft, while the proposed land and berth packages will include marina facilities to accommodate boats up to 35-metres.

Berths are priced between $175,000 and $1 million, with each berth sold on a 99- year lease. Stage one will offer free-hold residential waterfront sites of 440 sqm which are earmarked for two and three-storey design concepts, with the land-and-berth prices starting from $1.75 million.

Expressions of interest are also being taken on future stages which will include marina loft apartments and plaza terrace homes. Development of the first stage of Shute Harbour Marina Resort, which will include the marina and the stage-one release of land and marina berths, is expected to take two years to complete.

Construction is targeted to commence in 12 months.

<img alt="" height="706" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/v1-4.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The $350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort masterplanned development. Image supplied.

Shute Harbour Marina Resort has taken 20 years to gain all necessary approvals to proceed and was identified as a project of significance by the Queensland Government in 2006. The project benefits from its accessibility by air with three regional airports located within 30-minutes to 90-minutes drive.

The Whitsundays has a population of more than 35,500 people with tourism among the major contributors to the region&rsquo;s $5.9 billion economy.

The master planned foreshore development will feature a resort hotel alongside an extensive residential precinct featuring restaurants, retail outlets and marine services.



$350 million Shute Harbour Marina Resort set to boost property and tourism market in the Whitsundays

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<div>The high end market in the Whitsundays is performing well despite COVID and what’s happening in other areas of Australia, with lifestyle properties being sought after, according to the November report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
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<div>HTW found that rural residential lifestyle properties are being snapped up with sales ranging from $800,000 to over $1 million. </div>
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<div>Properties with ocean views or frontage are also being snapped up along with vacant lots in similar locations.</div>
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<div>"There have also been two sales in the prestige unit market, both selling for over $800,000," the Queensland-based Herron Todd White valuer Noelene Spurway said. </div>
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<div>"We expect that once the borders are open, lifestyle properties will continue to move as the lifestyle in the Whitsundays is second to none."</div>
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<div>Spurway did however jest that she is maybe just a little biased.</div>
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Whitsundays prestige market strong amid COVID uncertainty: HTW

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Whitsunday achieves record month of sales as Melbourne buyers in lockdown dream of a tropical getaway.
Ray White Whitsunday sold more than $21 million worth of stock in August, with principal Mark Beale claiming he is fielding “dozens of calls” a day from southerners prepped to travel at the end of lockdown.
“So many people are looking to buy a holiday home in Airlie Beach with the option of living here full time or working from home", Beale says.
"It feels like everyone from down south wants to have a property here.
"So many of our buyers are working remotely anyway."
Recently, Hog’s Breath Café founder Don Algie sold his Whitsundays mansion Chesapeake Whitsundays through Beale.
<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/2020/9/9/Chesapeake.jpg" alt="">
The off-market sale was the highest price achieved in the Whitsundays mainland since 2018 when Mandalay House sold for $14 million.
The buyer was revealed to be Alan Thomas Galloway of the world famous Alabar horse breeding stud in Victoria.
“I was flying and I saw the mountain with Chesapeake on the top at 1000ft above sea level, it was like a beacon", Galloway says.
"I have fallen in love with Airlie Beach, it’s like a hidden gem, a slice of paradise."
Set on 22 hectares, the gated Chesapeake estate has a three bedroom, four bathroom home with a number of living areas, a full stainless steel chefs kitchen and an upper pool.
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Surge in demand for tropical paradise as Whitsunday's nets big sale

<html><body>A COVID-induced spike in real estate enquiry has experts predicting a strong Whitsundays in the ‘new normal’. Reports across the country state city-dwellers are making a COVID-19-change and are trading their CBD cubicle for a remote office with room to enjoy tranquility. This newfound flexibility is believed to be behind the near-record number of online searches for Whitsunday property in recent months.  The lure of acreage seems to be the strongest, with leading real estate website <a href="http://domain.com.au/" target="_blank">Domain.com.au</a> experiencing a 507 per cent increase in searches for rural residential property in Cannonvale, and surrounding areas.  <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=V1I3c3ZNeXdEbDVDRmVndkZYMmJYT01wQzNoTU43Zk10SDRYRmRwZDB3QUdIb2k1M0RZNzZRK25pSWxLSXpSU0NJK0xDcnZJZlljMThnNFFMZEt1ckE9PQ==&amp;rh=ff006465a85cb54541341c264f419930d26ae172" target="_blank">Ray White Whitsunday</a> Sales Associate Brett Dwyer said he had been surprised by the increase in enquiry.  “It seems like anyone that has had the Whitsundays as their 'one-day' dream address has decided that now is the time to move, and the latest stimulus announcements have magnified this further,” Mr Dwyer said. <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=V1I3c3ZNeXdEbDVDRmVndkZYMmJYT01wQzNoTU43Zk10SDRYRmRwZDB3RGsyVUtad1h5clQ5dktQcnFTbGtrSzU4SnR4UC82dmkzamRXZ3k3UXZtWHc9PQ==&amp;rh=ff006465a85cb54541341c264f419930d26ae172" target="_blank">Hidden Valley Whitsundays</a>, a new estate outside of Cannonvale may well be the epicentre of new interest, receiving over $1.3 million of land offers in May alone.  Hidden Valley Project Manager Brett Evans was less surprised that southern eyes were looking north for an escape.  “I lived in the Whitsundays for years but I live in the city right now and I can tell you where I’d rather be when things get crazy. We all felt the walls closing in down here,” Mr Evans said. “After a few weeks of empty grocery shelves and being outsmarted by grade one home-schooling, we were definitely ready to hook the boat up and head north.”  With ten lots in the first stage of Hidden Valley sold to local buyers, it seems it’s not just the southern city-dwellers feeling claustrophobic. Locals are also looking for the security that comes with a few extra acres.  “The prospect of a more self-sufficient lifestyle and the security that comes with a few extra acres seem to be really strong motivators, which is understandable,” Mr Dwyer said. “Who hasn’t found themselves in lockdown staring at the neighbours’ fences on either side and thinking that a little extra space, a veggie garden and a few chickens sounds pretty good?”  Senior Analyst for <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=V1I3c3ZNeXdEbDVDRmVndkZYMmJYT01wQzNoTU43Zk10SDRYRmRwZDB3QUdIb2k1M0RZNzZWNkdQbFYzNnBuVktEOWJQZHIzaGVjYjV4Q0UwUkRxV0h1V2RROEp6eDRSWUlxNlIzZzljZUFwR2FjbmR2TFdtUT09&amp;rh=ff006465a85cb54541341c264f419930d26ae172" target="_blank">Ray White Northern Corridor Group</a>, Ashley Rees, said supply of quality acreage land could soon become an unexpected issue in the region.  “When the pandemic began, stock levels were already 14 per cent lower than they were at the same time last year,” Mr Rees said. “Add the new pressure of buyers cashing out of a strong southern market, to this renewed local demand, and we may soon find buyers struggling to find quality options.  “The Whitsundays has always offered an unbeatable lifestyle, but has been hamstrung by the lack of diverse employment options.  “For many it seems, the newfound acceptance of remote working in a post-lockdown world may have removed the last great barrier to living in this tropical playground.”</body></html>

Whitsundays proving to be a post-COVID-19 hotspot

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A Mongolian yurt-inspired trophy home in far north Queensland is for sale.
The three bedroom circular house at <a id="LPlnk420651" href="http://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=jRYOrR8N39QzG/Nyy8oj1En3xzZ47XV4dQAroOlFxcu7jSkLPEPfO0JN57GoF42hS+PP08mxh17xm/LnjGuC3a9E4u1AmbY6331RZJWmFtsIRQjxDF69ISN6BQiyf87UowWHm6eWYrA=&amp;rh=ff0043c59865a7cd7264c5dc414b826e48c2f9ec" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">60 Rossetti Road, Gregory River</a> in the Whitsundays took almost six years to complete.
Retired theatre nurse and owner-builder Lisa Gilmore built the round house, inspired by a traditional yurt.
“I have always been attracted to circle shapes, it’s a bit like a wedding ring, it’s eternal and from the sky it looked like a petal,” Gilmore said.
“My father had always wanted a round house and in his last years he came to live with me and we started researching the concept.
“We bought the skeleton from Beavis Conceptual Designs in Goulburn and the rest I built myself with the help of two very clever shipbuilders.
“It’s a big job to get the joins to go in the right way but every one is perfect.”
<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/2018/11/26/OHF_RW_Rossetti_60-15%201.jpg" alt=""> 
It took almost six years from concept to completion in a true labour of love project for Gilmore who has recently moved from her semi-rural acreage on the Gregory River to Jubilee Pocket. “I need to close this chapter of my life and let someone else move it who will love it,” Gilmore said. Inside the walls, steel cables hold the structure together from the roof to the top of the walls.
A perspex skylight, which has been certified by builders, lets light in through the apex of the roof. The three bedrooms - one with an ensuite - come off the main circle to continue a bigger circle.
 <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/2018/11/26/Crop%201GB%201.jpg" alt="">
“There’s no hallway as such and it looked beautiful with all my antique furniture. It’s like a piece of art that’s been filled with peace and love,” Gilmore said. “It’s been a labour of love and I believe in life you need to be true to yourself and be challenged. “Someone who understands the workmanship will love it. I can imagine a builder or a ship-right or a sailor or just someone who understands energy forces will be drawn to it.” Ray White Whitsunday agent Simon Dymmott said the home needed to be seen to be appreciated. “Now selling well below replacement value, take the time to organise to inspect this very unique opportunity,” Dymmott said. “Inspired by a Mongolian yurt the house design is quite something to behold," he said. “Surrounded by established gardens and tropical fruit trees and bordered by a river, this is a perfect lifestyle opportunity, offering a peaceful and very private aspect.”
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Whitsundays yurt-inspired circular trophy home listed

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Sotheby’s has appointed a new head to its operation in the Whitsundays.
<a href="https://queenslandsothebysrealty.com/team/wayne-singleton" target="_blank">Hamilton Island Realty principal Wayne Singleton</a> has been recruited.
Singleton has represented buyers and sellers of property in Hamilton Island since 2002 having transacted over 350 property sales on Hamilton Island totalling $300 million in property sales on Hamilton Island alone.
He has personally bought and sold five properties on the island.
“I’m really excited to bring Sotheby’s International Realty to the Whitsundays,” he said.
“The global network will provide un-precedented international exposure for the region’s lifestyle and real estate – putting us on the world stage.
“Couple this with our local expertise and knowledge and we are now able to provide a service to our clients like no other.”
Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty CEO Paul Arthur said the Whitsunday region had always featured in the company’s growth plans.
“Our own Carol Carter has done an amazing job servicing the high end from our Gold Coast office, but in addition we always wanted a physical presence and that takes the right person,” Arthur said.
“We believe we have that with Wayne who brings his immense experience to the region, and specifically Hamilton Island.”
Arthur said the company had achieved numerous significant sales in the past 12 months, including including <a href="https://queenslandsothebysrealty.com/1P0009/383-mandalay-road-whitsundays" target="_blank">Mandalay House</a>, <a href="https://queenslandsothebysrealty.com/19498662/4-383-mandalay-road-whitsundays" target="_blank">Aqua</a> and <a href="https://queenslandsothebysrealty.com/1P1063/119b-botanica-drive-woodwark" target="_blank">Botanica</a>.
“Our ability to attract buyers to the region is unsurpassed, pulling from our private clients across our offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, New Zealand, and our 970 offices across the globe,” Arthur said.
“We bring a different value proposition and capability to the region. Our expansion into the Whitsunday region complements our office in Port Douglas which has enjoyed great success since opening.”
It follows the recent opening of the company’s Port Douglas office. 
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Sotheby's appoint new Hamilton Island head of operations 

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The Whitsundays residential markets and businesses are still recovering in the wake of cyclone Debbie, according to the valuation firm, Herron Todd White.
There are still noticeable signs of recovery with Daydream and Hayman Islands closed to the public and boats filled with tradesmen travelling to Hamilton Island daily.
On a smaller scale, there are still a number of houses and units that are in need of repair.
The report states that, "In regard to tourism, the Whitsundays market has been experiencing a growth in domestic and international tourist visitors compared to the past few years."
"It is worth noting however that although visitor numbers have increased, tourists are staying for a shorter period and are spending less in the region, but this is as expected with some of the major attractions and smaller businesses still recovering."
This recovery is well reflected by the Mackay region unemployment rate, postulates the report.
In 2012 the unemployment rate was 3.2%; it rose to 8.4% in 2015 and is currently sitting at around 4.4%.
The report noted that, "We have started to see positive growth in the residential market of Airlie Beach and surrounding suburbs."
"There has been a significant increase in sales volumes from the third quarter of 2017 with a mild increase in the median sale price."
The rental market has increased at an unsustainable rate with gross yields at 5.6% and an average rental of $480 per week.
The region is looking forward to the completion of a number of larger projects including the reopening of Daydream Island.
"With the completion of these works, anticipate a significant number of workers leaving the region and this will most likely lead to an increase in the vacancy rate, as well as a decline in the median rent back to sustainable levels", the report suggested. 
The report predicts that, as the construction work declines, tourism will continue to increase with a renewed appeal to the region.
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