The cream of the property sector gathered on the Gold Coast in July to celebrate standout property industry performers from across Australasia at the 2024 The Urban Developer Awards for Industry Excellence.

The winners were announced at a gala dinner at The Star on the Gold Coast on July 31.

The seventh annual awards, in association with Trilogy Funds, boasted a record 167 finalists across 23 categories from Australia and New Zealand.

Hosted by actor, author and comedian Matt Okine, more than 640 of the industry’s movers and shakers joined The Urban Developer to celebrate their achievements

The Urban Developer co-founder and chief executive Adam Di Marco said it had been an excruciatingly difficult task for the judging panel thanks to the calibre of finalists.

“Competition across all 23 categories was intense,” he said.  

“The best and brightest projects in Australia’s built environment have again come to the fore in a true indication of the high standard of strong, sustainability-led design and projects, and the people behind them, in the region.”

Development of the Year – Medium-Density Residential

Sponsored by Trilogy Funds

17 Spring St
Nominated by Cbus Property 

The Parq
Nominated by Urban Property Group

Kurraba Residences 
Nominated by Thirdi Group

Canvas, Brunswick
Nominated by ID_Land

The Oxlade
Nominated by Seymour Group

Horizon Frankston
Nominated by Urban DC

No. 7 Field St. Mount Lawley
Nominated by Willing

Cala Dei
Nominated by Spyre

Canvas, Bulimba
Nominated by Graya Developments

And the winner is

Kurraba Residences

Excellence in Marketing Innovation 

Sponsored by Cue Property

AURA
Nominated by Aqualand

Hume Place, Crows Nest
Nominated by Third.i Group

’Smart Move’ Campaign, Uniting Retirement Living
Nominated by Uniting NSW.ACT & Forethought Outcomes

Wallis Creek
Nominated by Walker Corporations

Ashbury Terraces
Nominated by Coronation Property

Resimax Group Marketing Innovation – Destination Eynesbury
Nominated by Resimax Group

ESR Australia Brand & Digital Experience Transformation
Nominated by ESR Australia

Central Element Rebrand
Nominated by Central Element

Moray House
Nominated by Spyre Group

Seymour Residences
Nominated by Plus Agency and Keco Group Developers

And the winner is

Hume Place, Crows Nest

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Multi-award-winning construction company Decode Group has been appointed by ThirdAge, the retirement division of Third.i Group, to build The Merewether Residences, the over-55s senior living development at The Merewether Golf Club in Newcastle.

Having successfully collaborated with Third.i on their Dairy Farmers Towers project in Newcastle, Decode Group will now bring its iCIRT-rated expertise to this landmark development.

Developed as a joint venture between ThirdAge and The Merewether Golf Club, The Merewether Residences will feature 178 thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with 16 exclusive penthouses across four 6-storey buildings. Located at an exclusive address on Newcastle’s scenic coastline, the resort-style retirement living development promises a vibrant, connected community and world-class amenities for over-55 retirees, empty nesters, downsizers, and Sydneysiders seeking a lifestyle change.

Originally designed by renowned architect Eugene Marchese of Marchese Partners, The Merewether Residences will have architectural oversight from EJE Architecture, which is taking lead on this ambitious development.

The design draws inspiration from Newcastle’s coastal charm and contemporary style, with ThirdAge envisioning The Merewether Residences as a stylish sanctuary where architectural elegance meets beachfront relaxation in a modern retreat-like environment.

The palette of textures and materials to be used in the design is inspired by the surrounding landscape to enhance the location’s natural beauty, aligning with ThirdAge’s vision of creating spaces that effortlessly blend into the environment.

Alongside the development, The Merewether Golf Club will be upgraded with a new clubhouse, a health and wellness space, and a brand new sports bar to benefit golf club and community members as well as apartment residents.

On the appointment of Decode Group as the builder, ThirdAge director Luke Berry said, “At ThirdAge, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, high-quality projects that resonate with today’s buyers. Having previously collaborated with Decode Group, we’ve seen first-hand their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence. With Decode leading construction, we’re confident The Merewether Residences will set a new benchmark in retirement living, offering unparalleled quality, sustainability, and long-term value.”

“We’re thrilled to be working with Decode Group to bring something truly unique to Newcastle – a resort-style community where over-55s can embrace the best of Newcastle’s lifestyle, with the championship Merewether Golf Course right at their doorstep,” he added.

Sam El Rihani, founder & chairman of Decode Group, commented, “We are honoured to partner with ThirdAge on The Merewether Residences. This project aligns with our vision of delivering landmark developments that enhance the lifestyle and wellbeing of residents. Our team looks forward to bringing our expertise in high-quality, sustainable construction to this unique coastal community.”

Demand for The Merewether Residences is already strong, especially from those considering retirement living and seeking a coastal lifestyle, a like-minded community, and access to world-class amenities.

Future residents can look forward to high-end facilities such as a health club with gym, wellness programs, a luxurious spa with massage and facial treatments, serene pool, on-site cinema, communal kitchen for cooking classes, herb garden, workshop, and art and craft rooms.

While early works began on site in August 2024, construction is estimated to be completed in Q2 2027, with the new clubhouse opening in Q3 2026.

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ThirdAge, the retirement division of Third.i Group, has appointed multi-award-winning construction company Decode Group to lead the build of The Merewether Residences, the over-55s retirement living resort at The Merewether Golf Club. 

Following their successful collaboration on Third.i’s Dairy Farmers Towers project in Newcastle, Decode Group brings its iCIRT-rated expertise to this landmark development. The project paves the way for an exclusive new address on Newcastle’s scenic coastline, appealing to retirees, empty nesters, downsizers, and Sydneysiders seeking a lifestyle change. 

The Merewether Residences, a joint venture between ThirdAge and The Merewether Golf Club, will feature 178 thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with 16 exclusive penthouses, across four 6-storey buildings. 

Drawing inspiration from Newcastle’s coastal charm and contemporary style, ThirdAge envisions The Merewether Residences as a stylish sanctuary where architectural elegance meets beachfront relaxation, offering a modern retreat for over-55s. 

The project also supports investment in The Merewether Golf Club and the club’s infrastructure. The golf club and community members will benefit from a range of extensive amenities including a health and wellness space, a sports bar as well as a new clubhouse for its members and apartment residents. 

ThirdAge Director Luke Berry shared his enthusiasm for appointing Decode Group as the builder: “At ThirdAge, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, high-quality projects that resonate with today’s buyers.

Having previously collaborated with Decode Group, we’ve seen firsthand their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence. With Decode leading construction, we’re confident The Merewether Residences will set a new benchmark in retirement living, offering unparalleled quality, sustainability, and long-term value.” 

Sam El Rihani, Founder & Chairman of Decode Group, also shared his excitement about the project: “We are honoured to partner with ThirdAge on the Merewether Residences.

This project aligns with our vision of delivering landmark developments that enhance the lifestyle and well-being of residents. Our team looks forward to bringing our expertise in high-quality, sustainable construction to this unique coastal community.” 

Demand for The Merewether Residences has already been strong, drawing both local and out-of-town interest. The development appeals to those considering retirement living and seeking a coastal lifestyle, a like-minded community, and access to world-class amenities.

Residents will enjoy high-end facilities that elevate their lifestyle, including a health club with gym, wellness programs, and a luxurious spa with massage and facial treatments. A serene pool, on-site cinema, communal kitchen for cooking classes, herb garden, workshop, and art and craft rooms will promise a vibrant, connected community. 

The Merewether Residences was beautifully designed by renowned architect Eugene Marchese of Marchese Partners. However, architectural oversight has since been transitioned to EJE Architecture, who are now taking lead on this ambitious development. 

The design will incorporate a palette of textures and materials inspired by the surrounding landscape to enhance the location’s natural beauty. This approach aligns with ThirdAge’s vision of creating spaces that effortlessly blend into the environment. 

Early works began on site in August 2024, with the construction of the existing greenkeepers shed marking the start of this iconic project.

The project’s design reflects years of planning and collaboration with local councils to ensure a development that enhances Newcastle’s coastal aesthetic, without disrupting residents. Construction is estimated to be completed in Q2 2027, with the new clubhouse opening in Q3 2026. 

Mr Berry highlighted the significance of this next phase for The Merewether Residences, highlighting its impact for residents and the local community:

“We’re thrilled to be working with Decode Group to bring something truly unique to Newcastle – a resort-style community where over-55s can embrace the best of Newcastle’s lifestyle, with the championship Merewether Golf Course right at their doorstep.” 

The approved breakdown of apartments includes 12 one-bedroom, 121 two-bedroom, and 29 three-bedroom apartments, along with 8 two-bedroom and 8 three-bedroom penthouses. 

Third.i has successfully delivered large-scale residential projects in Sydney and Newcastle. The latter includes Dairy Farmers Towers and WEST Apartments in Newcastle, and Eaton on Union and Stella on Hannell apartments in Wickham. The group currently has a development pipeline worth more than $4 billion. 

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GOLD star-rated Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT) construction company Decode Group has been appointed by Third.i Group to deliver The Merewether Residences at The Merewether Golf Club.

The development a joint venture between ThirdAge, retirement living division of Third.i and The Merewether Golf Club. The resort-style project will comprise 178 apartments and 16 luxury penthouses, across four six-storey buildings, for over 55s retirees and downsizers.

The project will also upgrade The Merewether Golf Club with a new clubhouse, health and wellness space and brand-new sports bar.

The appointment of Decode follows their successful collaboration on Third.i’s Dairy Farmers Towers project in Newcastle.

“Having previously collaborated with Decode Group, we’ve seen firsthand their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence. With Decode leading construction, we’re confident The Merewether Residences will set a new benchmark in retirement living, offering unparalleled quality, sustainability, and long-term value.” ThirdAge director Luke Berry said.

“Our team looks forward to bringing our expertise in high-quality, sustainable construction to this unique coastal community,” said Sam El Rihani, founder & chairman of Decode Group.

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Years of planning are set to come to fruition at The Merewether Residences following the appointment of a construction company.

Decode Group will lead the build on the eagerly-awaited over-55s retirement living resort at the neighbouring golf club, partnering with ThirdAge, a division of Third.i Group, on the landmark development.

The Merewether Residences, featuring 178 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments along with 16 exclusive penthouses across four six-storey buildings, is slated for completion in 2027.

Residents can enjoy high-end facilities, including a health club with gym, wellness programs, and a luxurious spa with massage and facial treatments.

A serene pool, on-site cinema, communal kitchen for cooking classes, herb garden, workshop, and art and craft rooms promise a vibrant, connected community, too.

The project will also support investment in the Merewether Golf Club and its infrastructure.

Members and locals are expected to benefit from a range of extensive amenities including a health and wellness space, a sports bar and a new clubhouse, to open in 2026.

“At ThirdAge, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, high-quality projects that resonate with today’s buyers,” director Luke Berry said.

“Having previously collaborated with Decode Group, we’ve seen first-hand their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence.

“So, with them leading construction, we’re confident The Merewether Residences will set a new benchmark in retirement living, offering unparalleled quality, sustainability and long-term value.

“Demand has already been strong, drawing both local and out-of-town interest.

“But, the development will appeal to those seeking a coastal way of life, like-minded community and access to world-class amenities.

“We’re confident we are bringing something truly unique to Newcastle – a resort-style facility where over-55s can embrace the best of the city’s lifestyle, with the championship Merewether Golf Course right at their doorstep.”

Early works began on site in August, with the construction of the existing greenkeepers’ shed marking the start of the venture.

The approved breakdown of apartments includes 12 one-bedroom, 121 two-bedroom, and 29 three-bedroom units, along with eight two-bedroom and eight three-bedroom penthouses.

Third.i has previously delivered large-scale residential projects in Newcastle, including Dairy Farmers Towers and WEST Apartments, Eaton on Union and Stella on Hannell apartments in Wickham.

Read More.

Downsizers and rightsizers have dominated the new and off the plan apartment market in 2024.

The two camps, downsizers in particular, are the least impacted by the continued high interest rates compared to a first home buyer or investor, positioning them as a key target for developers. Most of the new apartment developments that have come to the market in 2024 have been large apartments that suit the size and budgets of a downsizer.

Many downsizers have built significant equity in their family homes over the years and are now looking to move into more manageable living spaces, while also securing funds for retirement.

But where are downsizers and rightsizers looking to buy? 

In this article, we’ve looked at the most popular suburbs in Sydney for both buyer demographics, highlighting some of the most popular developments in those areas.

Crows Nest

Crows Nest has attracted a wide range of apartment buyers over the past three months, especially following the launch of two of Sydney’s most in-demand developments near, and above, the newly opened Metro station.

Apartments in Elevate Hume Place, the apartment development by Third.i and joint venture partner Phoenix Property Investors above the Crows Nest Metro Station, have been snapped up since they hit the market.

Designed by Woods Bagot, Elevate will comprise 130 one, two and three and four-bedroom apartments, the larger apartments proving popular with the next home buyer demographic given the connectivity to the city and the growing lifestyle on offer locally.

 TWT Property Group also has recently revealed The Collective nearby, on the fringe of Crows Nest village and a short walk from the metro.

Locals have driven the sales in the first building of what will be a multi-stage precinct with extensive retail and hospitality spaces.

Read more:

The Weekly SOURCE looks back at the past 12 months in the community living sector.

With its momentum hampered by high interest rates, the retirement living sector in October came under attack from the ABC, aided and abetted by Centre Alliance Federal MP Rebekha Sharkie and the Housing Aged Action Group.  

The national broadcaster also walloped Lifestyle Communities in July with unproven allegations and as its share value plunged over 50% in YTD, co-founder and Managing Director James Kelly announced his retirement and people cancelled their home purchases.

Billions more dollars have also been invested into the over 55s land lease lifestyle communities with one CEO jumping from being the pioneer of land lease to lifting the profile of seniors’ rental communities.

See Ian Horswill’s recap of the year below.

May

• A first look at the Care Hub at RetireAustralia’s The Verge Retirement Village at Burleigh on the Gold Coast, which opened the following month, was the most talked about innovation in retirement living.
• Jim Hazel was inducted into the Property Council of Australia’s Property Hall of Fame at a gala dinner at the Great Hall in Parliament House in Canberra.
• Cameron Taylor, who resigned as CEO of Eureka Group Holdings in July 2023, is the new CEO of Sundale, the Sunshine Coast-based Not For Profit organisation which has been without a CEO since February.  
• With construction costs soaring, Third.i said it needs 36 extra apartments from City of Newcastle to make Merewether village, a joint venture between ThirdAge and Merewether Golf Club, commercially viable.
• New WA land lease entrant Everland Communities, which is part of Yolk Property Group, said its first community Arbour Margaret River would see residents from the LLC sharing community facilities with their adjacent masterplanned community.
• The Queensland Government passed the Manufactured Homes (Residential Parks) Amendment Bill 2024, providing significant protections across 203 residential land lease communities. Park owners are given 12 months to instigate the wide-ranging changes.

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With construction set to begin in early 2025, The Merewether Residences, will disrupt traditional stereotypes of retirement living, blending high-end design with community- focused amenities for active retirees.

The over-55s retirement village reflects the personal vision of Third.i’s founders, who sought to create a community they would be proud to offer their own families.

“We wanted to develop retirement homes that we’d be delighted to have our own parents live in,” said co-founder Luke Berry.

“The project has gone through a few challenges to get to this stage but now we’re able to move ahead on creating something that will never be replicated in the region; it’s such a rare opportunity.”

LUXURY MEETS COMMUNITY AT THE MEREWETHER RESIDENCES

Following several planning approvals since 2021, construction is set to begin in early 2025, with completion anticipated in 2027.

The Merewether Residences will boast 178 one, two and three-bedroom upscale apartments overlooking the golf course, as well as a suite of resort-style facilities. These include a health and wellness centre, a cinema, and a newly constructed clubhouse for the golf club. Designed to accommodate over 300 residents, the project seamlessly integrates luxury with an active lifestyle.

The development, initially conceptualised by Marchese Partners and now helmed by EJE Architecture, embraces a design ethos centred on light-filled, spacious apartments that cater to a new generation of retirees’ desire for luxury living and activity.

“Today’s retirees aren’t ready to slow down,” Berry explained.

“They’re looking for communities where they can golf, dine, and socialise, all while living in comfort. Which is why we have named our retirement division ‘Third Age’.”

Local interest in the project has been strong, with many downsizers from Newcastle and even Sydney expressing enthusiasm for the development.

REDEFINING RETIREMENT IN NEWCASTLE

The Merewether Residences represent a bold step forward for Third.i and the senior living industry at large. With its blend of luxury, community, and innovative design, the project sets a new benchmark for retirement living, catering to the evolving needs of today’s retirees.

“Now we’re able to move ahead on creating something that will never be replicated in the region; it’s such a rare opportunity”

Despite an interest rate cut not materializing in 2024 as many had anticipated at the start of the year, first home buyers appear content to enter the Sydney off the plan apartment market, somewhat reassured that rates are unlikely to rise in the short to medium term.

Data collected by MatterFact showed that first home buyers made up over 60 percent of enquiries in 2024 across New South Wales on Urban.com.au, driven by more affordable stock coming to market outside the city, particularly in and around suburbs along the recently opened Metro line.

Speaking with first home buyers across Sydney in 2024, the main driver of their purchase is the ability to afford the deposit, having saved up while living at home. However, many feel they are not yet ready to take on a mortgage. They are looking to enter the property market but aren’t prepared to begin repayments just yet, so they’re opting to buy into new developments at the earliest possible stage, knowing that the construction period will likely be at least two years, by which time they will be better positioned to begin repayments.

In this article, we explore the most popular suburbs in Sydney for first home buyers in 2024, highlighting some of the most sought-after developments in these areas.

Crows Nest 

Another suburb to benefit from the metro boom is Crows Nest.

Previously relying on heading to the neighbouring St Leonards for a train, Crows Nest is now just minutes from the centre of Sydney on the metro, which is drawing first home buyers.

One of the most popular projects for the year, and it only launched a few months ago, is Elevate Hume Place, the apartment development being delivered literally above the Crows Nest Metro Station.

Third.i, and joint venture partner Phoenix Property Investors, have seen a great response to the 130 one, two and three-bedroom apartments that have been designed by Woods Bagot.

One-bedroom apartments, which are under $1 million, are being seen as a great investment given the rarity of a TOD (Transit Oriented Development) so close to the city, one which isn’t easily repeatable.

Not just first home buyers, but any buyer at Elevate can buy an apartment with just a $10,000 deposit, rather than the standard 10 per cent.

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Time is ticking for homebuyers wanting to get their foot in the door of the Elevate Hume Place development, with multiple apartments sold at launch to both local and international buyers.

Positioned strategically above the newly opened Crows Nest Metro Station, Elevate Hume Place by developer Third.i Group, alongside joint venture partner Phoenix Property Investors, generated significant interest from both local and international buyers.

Designed by Woods Bagot, Elevate Hume Place features 130 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments that combine modern aesthetics with convenience providing residents with seamless access to Sydney’s CBD in just seven minutes and Chatswood in four minutes, making it one of the most connected addresses in Sydney.

Third.i co-founder Luke Berry said the project has received over 6,000 leads with over 400 appointments to date, with this unprecedented demand and strong interest not only reflecting the quality of the apartments but also the increasing demand for convenient, transit-oriented living in Sydney’s dynamic real estate market.

“We are thrilled with the strong sales results at launch for Elevate Hume Place, this achievement highlights the growing appetite for contemporary living that prioritises accessibility and connectivity,” Luke said. 

“The design, amenities, demographic, and prime location of Elevate Hume Place have attracted a diverse range of local and international buyers, from young professionals and first home buyers to investors and downsizers, all seeking the perfect blend of urban convenience and community charm.”

JLL’s head of residential project sales Australia Freya Watson said the development’s position to the Sydney Metro was a massive drawcard.

“Properties near metro stations often achieve a 20-30% price premium and attract high rental demand, which has contributed to the strong buyer interest,” Freya said.

Among the international buyers, 25% were seeking residences for their children studying in Sydney and another 25% comprising Australian passport holders or permanent residents looking for personal stays. The remaining 50% are investment-driven buyers, predominantly from Singapore and Hong Kong, drawn by the project’s strong rental returns potential.

“The Metro is a huge draw for buyers, especially those who value or are accustomed to the convenience of public transport, with its prime location and quick access to the CBD,” said Freya.

“The city views are also a major attraction, along with the abundance of schools and universities right on the doorstep.”

Elevate Hume Place buyers will experience a perfect blend of connectivity, community, and the vibrant lifestyle that Crows Nest offers.

“In addition to direct metro access, residents will benefit from being close to Crows Nest Village, which provides a variety of lifestyle amenities,” Luke said.

“The overwhelming interest underscores the demand for transit-oriented developments in Sydney, and we are proud to fulfil this need with Elevate Hume Place. 

“We encourage interested buyers to act swiftly.”

A limited number of residences remain available at Elevate Hume Place, with prices starting from $970,000 to $12 million.

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