we’re delivering 3 major road projects The 6.5km North East Link tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen will fix the missing link in our city’s freeway network take 15,000 trucks off local roads a day and reduce travel times by up to 35 minutes Upgrades to the Eastern Freeway and M80 Ring Road will include new lanes smart technology and a seamless connection to the North East Link tunnels You need to enable javascript to view latest disruptions Return to the North East Link homepage Receive regular updates about North East Link Where to Find Australia’s Best Inner-City Bakeries By Katya Wachtel By Katya Wachtel By Matheus Asawari Tokekar used to travel far and wide for a taste of home The Chai Garden owner would drive to Melbourne’s west for Bombay sandwiches and chaat – both popular street foods from her native Mumbai She opened Chai Garden to fill a gap for healthy home-style Indian brunch in the eastern ’burbs (and ditch the commute) On the menu, Tokekar takes inspiration from her childhood staples. Find favourites like the grilled Bombay sandwich, piled with potato, cucumber, tomato, onion and homemade mint chutney, and topped with grated mozzarella. It’s a refreshing change from the options you’ll find in Melbourne’s main sandwich crop dahi samosa chaat drizzled with pot-set yoghurt and tamarind chutney and panipuri made with mint and chilli grown in the courtyard There’s sabudana khichdi (tapioca pearls tossed with roasted peanuts potatoes and spices); poha (spiced flattened rice); and stuffed potato and paneer parathas To drink, enjoy warming cups of gingery masala chai or the popular Indian filter coffee, which is blended with chicory beans and served in terracotta cups known as kulhads. Regular brews use Proud Mary coffee and there are also fresh cold-pressed juices and smoothies bookcases with miscellaneous trinkets and many potted plants Or take a seat outside in the leafy courtyard with space for another 15 people Website: chaigarden.com.au We do not seek or accept payment from the cafes bars and shops listed in the Directory – inclusion is at our discretion Venue profiles are written by independent freelancers paid by Broadsheet Bakeries and Restaurants That Opened or Closed in April 32 of the Hottest Dishes and Drinks in Melbourne Right Now Menu Reveal: Five Things To Order at Junda Khoo’s Ho Liao First Look: Filipino Pop-Up Palay Moves to Fitzroy for Good You can now click/tap WATCH to start the live stream You can now click/tap LISTEN to start the live stream You can now click/tap LATEST NEWS to start the live stream A “horrendous” cement truck rollover on Bulleen Road in Balwyn North has caused traffic chaos ahead of peak hour on Thursday afternoon The truck driver died at the scene after crashing into a concrete barrier at around 2:30pm and we’re going into peak hour traffic,” caller John said Press PLAY the latest on the incident (including advice from Chris Miller from the Department of Transport) Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time When my wife and I were looking for a new home in 1989 there were two key features that attracted us to Balwyn North: the route 48 tram providing ready access to the city The suburb’s homes had gardens and a canopy of trees the sense of space was and remains appealing And this was all just 12 kilometres north-east of the CBD Large homes have become the norm in Balwyn North.Credit: Penny Stephens Bounded by the Yarra River along its north much of Balwyn North was converted from orchards and farmland into a residential suburb after World War II in a major building surge the final section of the route 48 tram had been completed just a few years earlier John Brack lived here for a while and in 1954 painted the North Balwyn tram terminal as a place where the city ended It was a view echoed by long-term residents who told us how they would walk unformed roads in gum boots to catch the tram to the city Their boots remained at the tram stop for the day and were donned again for the often squelchy walk home in the evening It was a time when new families had little money as was indoor plumbing – it preceded Gough Whitlam’s promise of “sewerage socialism” for outer urban dwellers Many households shared copper telephone cable connections were the product of the Robin Boyd-led Small Homes Service through which prospective home buyers could purchase architectural drawings for five pounds the ubiquitous kind of “brick veneer prison” that the Skyhooks scoffed at in their 1974 song Balwyn Calling These typically three-bedroom homes occupied as little as 15 per cent of blocks that were often more than 800 square metres What else to do if your house is relatively small Balwyn North has largely remained a suburb of detached houses – 6490 in 2021 compared to 6416 in 1991 and the population has grown at a much slower rate than much of Melbourne over that time substantial redevelopment of homes has taken place over the last 20 years or so and surely accounts for Balwyn North regularly featuring in lists of Melbourne’s 20 most exclusive suburbs typically demolish and replace them with two or three storey places designed to use the maximum 60 per cent footprint permitted Front gardens are often much diminished and rear gardens lost altogether Particularly popular is a form of historic Greek and Roman-style gigantism new residences in Balwyn North have not recently featured in Boroondara Council’s urban design awards Rather than presenting as welcoming from the street many of these developments have a “compound” or enclosed presence to them The fact that much of the suburb is undulating provides for significant views from many properties including to the west and the Melbourne’s CBD Regrettably, in some cases, the view has been so compelling for some that it has led to the removal of mature trees, both legally and illegally A phenomenon shared with Melbourne’s bayside Early developers were no doubt eager to emphasise those views and where the gradient rises in the suburb’s north they were relentless in their choice of street names: Longview Road Having run out of English words for “good views” they moved on to Belle Vue Road even if it is missing the “Z” and anything like the altitude of Australia’s tallest mountain Another local feature that is said to lift residential property prices in Balwyn North is the sought-after Balwyn High School one realtor suggested to me that a residential presence in the Balwyn High zone is the “fallback” position if entry to an elite private school fails Shopping is generally easy in Balwyn North It was the location of Australia’s first supermarket with the opening of Dickins (now Coles) in 1960 at the intersection of Burke and Doncaster Roads Numerous shopping strips remain in the suburb the increasing dominance of big box and online retailing has had an impact here so we do not have to travel several kilometres for a small box of nails Balwyn North for a long time had a reputation as a dull suburb, no doubt partly because it was for many years one of a few “dry” areas in Melbourne where locals had to give approval via plebiscite to liquor licences I doubt that per capita liquor consumption was any lower in Balwyn North nor has it changed much since regulations were relaxed in 2015 We have not seen the opening of pubs in Balwyn North – the new licensees have been cafes and restaurants for the most part Balwyn North has become much more multicultural Households that only speak English at home have fallen from 67 per cent in 2001 to less than 50 per cent in 2021 Mandarin and Cantonese are the two languages that have increased the most in that period Balwyn North is well served by green open space there is growing tension between parkland and organised sporting uses These include the Glass Creek linear parks Greythorn Park and the Koonung Creek Linear Park Greythorn Park was formerly a privately owned wildlife sanctuary bequeathed to the then-Camberwell Council in 1951 had an earlier life in the 1950s as a council rubbish tip The creek is now hidden away in a barrel drain – it is difficult to forget the workman who I observed climbing out of an access pit for the drain who exclaimed: “gee it stinks down there!” we have not seen the extension of the 48 tram service to Doncaster Hill while the Eastern Freeway has become an increasingly dominant presence along the northern fringe of Balwyn North since it arrived in 1982 it diminished local access to neighbouring Bulleen and beyond A substantial increase in lane capacity, now under construction as part of the North East Link Project has many residents on edge with the prospect of larger volumes of traffic on local roads and concerns about noise and air pollution The loss of much of Koonung Creek Linear Park and its trees to the freeway is also keenly felt What will Balwyn North be like as a place to live in 20 years’ time it is starting to feel rather more like an oasis than something typical of the suburb we arrived in but if a few more residents could be inspired by the spirit of Robin Boyd Ian Hundley is a long-term resident of Balwyn North and active on local planning and transport policy and community service issues The suburb\\u2019s homes had gardens and a canopy of trees lived here for a while and in 1954 painted the North Balwyn tram terminal as a place where the city ended as was indoor plumbing \\u2013 it preceded Gough Whitlam\\u2019s promise of \\u201Csewerage socialism\\u201D for outer urban dwellers the ubiquitous kind of \\u201Cbrick veneer prison\\u201D that the Skyhooks scoffed at in their 1974 song Balwyn Calling has largely remained a suburb of detached houses \\u2013 6490 in 2021 and surely accounts for Balwyn North regularly featuring in lists of Melbourne\\u2019s 20 most exclusive suburbs new residences in Balwyn North have not recently featured in Boroondara Council\\u2019s urban design awards many of these developments have a \\u201Ccompound\\u201D or enclosed presence to them including to the west and the Melbourne\\u2019s CBD the view has been so compelling for some that it has led to A phenomenon shared with Melbourne\\u2019s bayside and where the gradient rises in the suburb\\u2019s north they were relentless in their choice of street names: Longview Road Having run out of English words for \\u201Cgood views\\u201D they moved on to Belle Vue Road even if it is missing the \\u201CZ\\u201D and anything like the altitude of Australia\\u2019s tallest mountain one realtor suggested to me that a residential presence in the Balwyn High zone is the \\u201Cfallback\\u201D position if entry to an elite private school fails It was the location of Australia\\u2019s first supermarket with the opening of Dickins (now Coles) in 1960 at the intersection of Burke and Doncaster Roads no doubt partly because it was for many years one of a few \\u201Cdry\\u201D areas in Melbourne where locals had to We have not seen the opening of pubs in Balwyn North \\u2013 the new licensees have been cafes and restaurants for the most part The creek is now hidden away in a barrel drain \\u2013 it is difficult to forget the workman who I observed climbing out of an access pit for the drain who exclaimed: \\u201Cgee it stinks down there!\\u201D now under construction as part of the has many residents on edge What will Balwyn North be like as a place to live in 20 years\\u2019 time Former AFL player Stephen Silvagni and television personality have finally moved their Balwyn North family home The European inspired triple storey dwelling with a tennis court at 25 Hosken Street was listed in February with price hopes of $8-$8.8 million However in recent weeks the guide was adjusted to $7.35m Marshall White’s Marcus Chiminello and Mandy Zhu were the listing agents however colleagues Hamish Tostevin and William Chen’s names replaced them on the campaign The highest price paid for a Balwyn North home was set in January when 18 Ferdinand Avenue traded for $8.6m 9 Chelmsford Street held the accolade – at $7.6m the Balwyn North home contains five bedrooms basement gym and five car garage (story continues below) There are also formal and informal lounge and dining rooms The 1878 square metre block is near Jacka Street Reserve The two married in 1996 – five years before the former AFL-linked identity retired from Carlton after 312 games replacing Alyce Platt in Sale of the Century in 1991 a professional player since 2015 – also with the Blues the first generation of the family to play with the team Subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of this page A former property analyst and print journalist Marc is the publisher of realestatesource.com.au Forgot your password? You will receive mail with link to set new password Back to login This is probably not the page you’re looking for Fixing the missing link between the M80 Ring Road and an upgraded Eastern Freeway The North East Link Tunnels will slash travel times by up to 35 minutes and take 15,000 trucks off local roads a day We’ve listened to what people had to say and are building longer 6.5km tunnels to Watsonia simpler interchanges and 50 MCGs of open space across the entire North East Link Program a team of some of the best builders in Australia and around the world to build the North East Link Tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen This includes Victoria's longest road tunnels interchanges at Lower Plenty Road and Manningham Road bike and walking paths and improvements to local roads Visit the project team at the Watsonia Hub, 17 Watsonia Road. Find us on Google maps The North East Link Tunnels will take traffic and trucks under our suburbs and give local roads back to local people We’re also building new wetlands and parklands better connecting Koonung Creek and Yarra River trails and delivering a major upgrade of the Eastern Freeway In response to community feedback through the project's planning approvals we're tunnelling an extra 1.9km using tunnel boring machines (TBMs) The TBMs will travel further south under Manningham Road avoiding the need for construction work at Banksia Park The Manningham Road interchange will shift 14,700 vehicles a day off Bulleen Road and into the North East Link Tunnels The interchange has been carefully designed to avoid the historic River Red Gum tree on Bridge Street keep Bulleen Art & Garden open for business and create land that can be used for future development opportunities later on If you live in the local area and want to use the North East Link Tunnels ramps at Manningham Road will connect you to the Eastern Freeway Ramps at Thompsons Road will connect you to the M80 Ring Road Existing connections between the Eastern Freeway Thompsons Road and Bulleen Road will be kept New ramps will connect the Eastern Freeway to the North East Link Tunnels A 2-hectare green bridge over Bulleen Road will link Koonung Creek Trail to Bulleen Park for the first time The bridge will be planted with indigenous trees Pockets of open space will provide a bike and walking trail New wetlands will be created and connected with paths and trails including: The centre will monitor traffic conditions store maintenance vehicles and be a 5-Star Green Star building The design is inspired by traditional Wurundjeri eel traps Solar panels will help power the tunnels below The North East Trail through Bulleen and Balwyn North will deliver 8.5km of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths including: The Eastern Express Busway from Doncaster towards the city is Melbourne’s first dedicated busway High-speed bus lanes will pass under the Eastern Freeway interchange ramps at up to 100km an hour Passengers will be catching buses from the brand new Bulleen Park & Ride from early 2023 ahead of upgrades to the existing Doncaster Park & Ride See the map on the factsheet (PDF, 2.2 MB) for more details To build the North East Link Tunnels and Eastern Freeway Upgrades trees will need to be removed while we’re working at the surface This will help create space to build a section of tunnel under sports fields along the east side of Bulleen Road the tunnel portal and connections to the Eastern Freeway at least 2 will be planted including extensive indigenous planting at the new wetlands across the Yarra Link green bridge and at Koonung Creek Reserve More than 15,900 pieces of community feedback since 2017 including over 870 submissions on the project’s Environment Effects Statement have helped develop the design for North East Link In 2022 we exhibited an Urban Design and Landscape Plan for the North East Link Tunnels and asked local people to provide feedback on the design for their local area In response to feedback received we’re: Find more information about what we heard in submissions and the changes made in response While most of the work to build the North East Link Tunnels will happen deep underground major works are needed at the surface to launch and retrieve the tunnel boring machines (TBMs) tunnel ventilation structure and upgraded Bulleen Road The TBMs will be launched and operated from the northern end of the tunnel in Watsonia and retrieved at the Manningham Road interchange The Manningham Road interchange ramps will be built using a method called cut and cover A deep area will be excavated to build the tunnel and connecting ramps We'll use smaller mining machinery to build the tunnel under residential areas in Bulleen and cut and cover to build the section further south under the sports fields connecting through to the Eastern Freeway interchange The ground conditions here aren't suitable for a TBM or smaller mining equipment The North East Link Tunnels are just one part of the biggest ever investment in Melbourne's north east We're also completing the Ring Road in Greensborough building Melbourne's first dedicated busway and the North East Trail – more than 34km of new and upgraded bike and walking paths This massive program of works is being carefully planned so the whole project can open around the same time in 2027/2028 - bringing all the pieces of North East Link together See the project timeline on the factsheet (PDF, 2.2 MB) for more details This information is current at the time of publication, however changes may occur. Please visit our website for the latest updates We’re fixing the missing link between the M80 Ring Road and an upgraded Eastern Freeway – reducing travel times by up to 35 minutes and taking 15,000 trucks off local roads a day We’ve listened to what people had to say through the Environment Effects Statement (EES) process. In late 2021 we released a project design with longer 6.5km tunnels to Watsonia, simpler interchanges and 50 MCGs of open space across the entire North East Link Program we’re exhibiting an Urban Design and Landscape Plan to ask the community what they think of the look and feel of what’s planned for their area Subscribe to our e-newsletter The North East Link Tunnels will take traffic and trucks under instead of through our suburbs and give local roads back to local people We’re also creating new wetlands and parklands See the map on the factsheet for more details In response to community feedback we’ve extended the North East Link Tunnels by building an extra 1.9km using tunnel boring machines (TBMs) The TBMs will now travel further south under Manningham Road Better ramp locations at the Manningham Road interchange will shift 14,700 vehicles a day off Bulleen Road and into the North East Link tunnels The simpler ramp layout avoids the historic River Red Gum on Bridge Street reduces impacts on Bulleen Art & Garden and opens up more land for future development Three new wetlands will be created and connected with paths and trails including: store maintenance vehicles and be a 5 Star Green Star building The North East Trail through Bulleen and Balwyn North will deliver 7km of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths including: Work to build the new Bulleen Park & Ride is underway now While we’re refining the design through the Urban Design and Landscape Plan (UDLP) you’ll see us out and about getting ready for major tunnelling works to begin later this year Builders for the Eastern Freeway Upgrades and Eastern Express Busway will be brought on board progressively from 2023 with construction expected to start from 2024 We’re working on the best route for the tunnel boring machines to take beneath the Yarra River and parklands and will be out talking to residents who will have the tunnel near them later this year. Visit our website for more information about works in your area and to sign up for regular updates The Urban Design and Landscape Plan for the North East Link Tunnels and connecting Eastern Freeway upgrades in Bulleen and Balwyn North is on exhibition now The UDLP has detailed maps and drawings of the project design and an explanation of how it meets strict requirements in place for North East Link Making a submission is your opportunity to have a say on local elements for your area including new parklands walking and cycling paths and improvements to local roads We’ll be using what we hear to finalise the UDLP before submitting it to the Minister for Planning later this year for approval and getting major construction underway You can find out more about the UDLP and see a copy online from Wednesday 11 May to Tuesday 31 May 2022 at Engage Victoria or visit a display and talk with our team at: 17 Watsonia Road, Watsonia 191 Bulleen Road, Bulleen You can also view the UDLP at local council offices and libraries. To find a location near you visit Engage Victoria Make your submission online at Engage Victoria by 5pm If you need help accessing the UDLP, or to make a submission, please contact us on 1800 105 105 or at community@northeastlink.vic.gov.au This information is current at the time of publication Please visit our website for the latest updates We're upgrading the Eastern Freeway with new express lanes Melbourne's first express busway and a seamless connection to the North East Link Works to establish construction zones between Burke and Tram roads is progressing Over the coming months we'll continue site investigations relocate utilities and establish major worksites Setting up these work areas with fencing and signage protects drivers cyclists and pedestrians from construction machinery – it also creates a safe environment for our workers to get on with building this massive job Establishment works will continue for the rest of the year with increased activity around Bulleen Road and Doncaster Road as works ramp up to build the new interchanges On the Eastern Freeway we're removing the centre median so traffic can be moved onto new lanes by early next year Crews worked around the clock at the end of May to upgrade 2 intersections and connect the new section of road to Thompsons Road and Bulleen Road near the Carey Bulleen Sports Complex The Bulleen Road diversion has created space for us to start works to build a new interchange at Bulleen connecting an upgraded Eastern Freeway to the 6.5 kilometre North East Link tunnels our team completed major earthworks to remove the old Bulleen Road and have now begun building the foundations for the permanent Bulleen Road The diversion will remain in place until late 2025 To stay up to date on the Eastern Freeway Upgrades, sign up to our e-newsletter. We've installed twenty nesting boxes along Kosciusko Road for possums displaced by tree removal activities in our Koonung Creek Reserve worksite Additional nesting boxes have been installed in and around the Valda Wetlands area alternative nesting places in areas familiar to them In Bulleen we’re starting works to build the new elevated roads for the entrance of the North East Link tunnels Works are also underway to build the first sections of the Eastern Busway near Bulleen Road as well as new walking and cycling connections We're building three flyover bridges in Bulleen starting with the foundations for the southbound flyover that will connect into the Eastern Freeway we’ll start piling inside our work zone north of Thompsons Road We've removed traffic islands along Bulleen Road and the bridge to prepare for shifting traffic to the west we'll begin piling works for the new bridge foundations in the freeway centre median A new separated pedestrian bridge will also be built alongside the widened Bulleen Road bridge To create space for Melbourne's first express busway we've realigned the Bulleen Road outbound exit ramp and will remove a rock wall The busway will travel under the widened Bulleen Road connecting the Eastern Freeway to Bulleen Park & Ride we'll begin work to realign the citybound on ramp at Bulleen Road This will create space for the construction of a new shared path underpass We’re giving away up to 1,000 native trees to help locals green their gardens as we upgrade the Eastern Freeway We’ve partnered with Yarra View Bushland Nursery Australia’s largest social enterprise nursery to grow and deliver native trees for local gardens as part of our Backyard Tree Planting program This program is on top of work already underway to plant at least 2 trees for every 1 removed More than 10,000 trees will be planted as we build the first stage of the Eastern Freeway Upgrades from Burke Road to Tram Road It’s all part of delivering 1 of the biggest tree planting programs for a major road project in Victoria Email us at contact@bigbuild. vic.gov.au to receive up to 3 free native trees Offer closes 31 August 2024 or until stocks run out Doncaster Road bridge will be rebuilt to improve trips for cars Early works to reconfigure lanes on the bridge and build temporary ramps have started These works will create the space needed to build the new interchange and incorporate an upgraded Doncaster Park & Ride and Eastern Busway Engagement on the Doncaster Park & Ride Urban Design and Landscape Plan (UDLP) will start soon. Please sign up for updates and we'll notify you when plans are made public There will be overnight closures of the Eastern Freeway and freeway ramps between Doncaster and Tram Roads during August and September we’ll place safety barriers on the freeway and remove overhead signage gantries For the latest information on times and dates, please check the road signage or visit our Disruptions map With more than 6.5km of freeway between Burke Road and Tram Road the Eastern Freeway Upgrade team are establishing worksites along the reserves on either side of the freeway to accommodate our workers and store equipment This provides separation for road users and park users from construction activity With noise-reducing fencing and site buildings installed our workforce will start working out of the site later this month. The Koonung Creek Trail is diverted around our sites and construction vehicles will use direct freeway access to keep heavy traffic off local streets We’ve diverted the shared path onto Kampman Street and over the Estelle Street bridge to the Koonung Creek Trail on the southern side of the freeway we’ll remove the existing noise walls and get ready to start critical sewer relocation works in this area We've built a new temporary walking and cycling path to keep the Koonung Creek Trail connected while we work We'll begin to relocate the wetlands and build the freeway construction access and exit points over the coming months providing us the space to construct the new wetlands and build the upgraded Heyington Avenue Bridge We're starting works in August to build a construction compound in Elgar Park's north west Oval This site will provide crucial facilities for workers upgrading the Eastern Freeway between Doncaster and Elgar roads The site will be used from late August 2024 until the end of 2026 after which we'll reinstate the oval for community use We thank the community for their patience while we set up these worksites works are progressing on either side of Bulleen Road to construct the North East Link tunnels and future Manningham Road Interchange you'll notice earthworks at the tunnel entrance and retaining walls being constructed as part of the foundations for the Yarra Link green bridge Mined tunnelling works between our Trinity and Manningham worksites will soon be underway which will form the tunnel section that links to the future Manningham Road Interchange The Eastern Freeway Upgrades will deliver a new 63 decibel noise standard consistent with the highest level of traffic noise protection in Victoria In response to community feedback we’re also introducing a quieter 58 decibel standard to provide residents with even greater protection from traffic noise at night – a first for a road project in Victoria To minimise disruption and where noise walls already provide strong protection we'll keep or upgrade existing noise walls where possible New noise walls will range in height from three to ten metres depending on their location and will be designed to protect privacy and allow for the flow of natural light We've begun removing old noise walls between Bulleen and Doncaster roads and we'll continue this work between Doncaster and Elgar roads We may need to work at night near noise walls to ensure the safety of passing motorists and to reduce traffic impacts during the day We’ll always notify residents in advance of these works Drop in and chat with our team, check out the latest designs and learn more about the Eastern Freeway Upgrades Applications are now open for the North East Community Fund Grants of up to $75,000 are available for projects and initiatives that benefit the local community sports club open days and community centre upgrades while partnerships of up to $100,000 are also available If your community group has a great idea to bring people together or improve local sporting and event facilities For more information please visit North East Community Fund After more than 24 years as the gateway to Doncaster The Sentinel by artist Inge King will be removed from Doncaster Road as major works take place Recognising its significance to the community the project will safely store and secure the sculpture using supports and padding to ensure the structure is protected during storage We’ll reinstate The Sentinel at a new location in 2025 in consultation with Manningham City Council Our community engagement team will be out and about talking to people about works in their area and how we can support you during construction You can also contact us on 1800 105 105 to speak to a member of the project team or to make an appointment to see us Sign up to receive SMS or email updates. We’re upgrading the Eastern Freeway with new express lanes new traffic management technology and Melbourne’s first dedicated busway These changes will slash travel times and improve public transport in Melbourne’s east We’ll also be building new and upgraded walking and cycling paths revitalising wetlands and waterways and planting new trees and plants The upgrades will also deliver a better noise standard for the Eastern Freeway The Eastern Freeway Upgrades will be delivered in 3 stages with major works from Burke Road to Tram Road starting in 2024 Before we get major construction for this first stage underway we’re exhibiting an Urban Design and Landscape Plan (UDLP) to ask the local community what they think of the look and feel of what’s planned for their local area UDLPs for the remaining stages of the Eastern Freeway Upgrades will be on exhibition from 2024 the Eastern Freeway Upgrades will connect seamlessly with the new 6.5km North East Link Tunnels – linking Melbourne’s east with the Ring Road slashing travel times by 35 minutes and taking 15,000 trucks off local roads a day the UDLP includes extensive reinstatement to rebuild and reimagine parklands wetlands and waterways and return improved open spaces where it is needed to support construction.  We’ve also reduced the width of the freeway at Valda Wetlands and will be building additional walking and cycling connections To view the Urban Design and Landscape Plan (UDLP) in detail, visit Engage Victoria Download the fact sheet to view the maps in this fact sheet in detail Download the fact sheet New noise walls will provide noise protection for the reserve and nearby residents architecturally designed bridge will improve walking and cycling connections to Koonung Creek Reserve the new bridge will be built and open before the existing bridge is removed Extensive reinstatement works will increase the number of trees and plants and improve the health of the Koonung Creek wetlands The bridge will be widened for extra turning space and improved walking and cycling paths The existing Koonung Creek Trail underpass at Doncaster Road linking Koonung Creek Reserve to Valda Wetlands will be upgraded for a wider New busway lanes will pass underneath Doncaster Road skipping the traffic lights and taking passengers straight through to the future upgraded Doncaster Park & Ride A new Koonung Creek Trail underpass to take bike riders and pedestrians to Doncaster Park & Ride and express bus services will also be built expanded and joined with a rebuilt Koonung Creek The 43,700m² wetland precinct will be reimagined as a living waterway with indigenous trees and plants interpretive signs and new and upgraded pedestrian paths A new bridge will improve walking and cycling connections to the Valda Wetlands we’ve improved the bridge design for a shorter New noise walls will give the sports fields and nearby residents traffic noise protection Designs for the upgraded Doncaster Park & Ride will be exhibited in a dedicated UDLP next year The Eastern Freeway Upgrades will connect to the new 6.5km North East Link Tunnels from Bulleen to Watsonia and a completed Ring Road in Greensborough Designs for the Eastern Freeway/North East Link Tunnels interchange including improvements to Koonung Creek Reserve in Balwyn North were exhibited in May 2022 in the North East Link Tunnels UDLP The UDLP was updated in response to community feedback and work to build the North East Link Tunnels has started Work to start building the interchange with the Eastern Freeway will begin in early 2024 We’ve made some further updates to walking and cycling paths in the interchange area including to align with Boroondara Council’s Koonung Creek Reserve Master Plan The updates are included in the UDLP on exhibition for comment now The Eastern Freeway Upgrades will deliver a new 63 decibel noise standard along the Eastern Freeway The 63 decibel noise standard is consistent with the highest level of traffic noise protection in Victoria In response to community feedback we’re also introducing a new quieter 58 decibel standard to provide residents with even greater protection from traffic noise at night – a first for a road project in Victoria we’ll be keeping or upgrading existing noise walls to reduce construction disruption for residents they will be between 3m and 10m tall and designed to protect privacy while allowing natural light Colours for new noise walls are drawn from the local environment using a natural palette including earthy soil and rock Materials include a mix of textured concrete recycled plastic and semi-transparent acrylic where natural light is needed We’ve been working closely with Boroondara Council to prepare a master plan for Koonung Creek Reserve strategic vision for the future of the whole of Koonung Creek Reserve in Balwyn North As we reinstate the areas of the reserve needed to build the Eastern Freeway Upgrades we’ll deliver key parts of the master plan This includes the walking and cycling paths You can see some of these elements in the UDLP on exhibition now you’ll see us out and about getting ready for major works to begin in early 2024 You’ll also see us getting ready to begin major works for the Eastern Freeway/North East Link Tunnels interchange To stay up to date on works in your area, sign up for e-updates The Eastern Freeway Upgrades will be delivered in stages and timed to open around the same time as the North East Link Tunnels from Bulleen to Watsonia and the Ring Road Completion from Watsonia to Greensborough Download the fact sheet to view the North East Link construction timeline noise walls and walking and cycling bridges trees will need to be removed where we’re working including extensive planting to reinstate Koonung Creek Reserve and Valda Wetlands and to filter views of noise walls We’ve also started planting trees early in local places nearby including parks The UDLP for the Eastern Freeway Upgrades from Burke Road to Tram Road is on exhibition now The UDLP has maps and drawings of the project design and an explanation of how it meets strict requirements in place for North East Link Making a submission is your opportunity to have a say on local design elements for your area including reinstated parklands and wetlands new and upgraded walking and cycling paths and bridges We'll be using what we hear to finalise the UDLP before submitting it to the Minister for Planning for approval and getting major construction underway You can find out more about the UDLP and see a copy online from Monday 9 October to 5pm, Sunday 29 October 2023 at Engage Victoria You can also visit an information display and talk with our team or see the UDLP at local libraries throughout the exhibition period To find a UDLP display location near you visit Engage Victoria Visit Engage Victoria Make your submission online at Engage Victoria by 5pm Please contact us if you would like this information in an accessible format. If you need assistance due to a hearing or speech impairment, contact Relay Service Stay updated about the North East Link Program with the key announcements and milestones Work to overhaul the Eastern Freeway between Burke Road to Tram Road is underway We’ve been working day and night on the freeway and surrounding roads to set up worksites in the centre median Koonung Creek Reserve and in the reserve near Leonis Avenue We’re now preparing for major construction between Bulleen and Doncaster roads by setting up work sites on both sides of the freeway We'll work within the Koonung Creek Reserve and the Koonung Creek Linear Park in Balwyn North and Doncaster to create space to widen the freeway including building the new express lanes and the Eastern Busway we'll divert the Koonung Creek Trail and install fencing around our work areas so we can safely remove trees and vegetation excavate and place large amounts of soil and build retaining walls to create the foundations of the new freeway lanes We’ll build a new shared use bridge near Estelle Street to improve walking and cycling connections to Koonung Creek Reserve We'll provide more information about this in future updates To stay up to date on the Eastern Freeway Upgrades, sign up to our e-newsletter at bigbuild.vic.gov.au/roads-subscribe We’ll continue rolling out safety barriers along the freeway between Bulleen and Tram roads to set up work areas to support major upgrades There’ll be nightly lane closures and intermittent ramp closures throughout our works In June 2024 we’ll divert the Koonung Creek Trail in the Koonung Creek Linear Park between Kampman Street and the Estelle Street bridge Cyclists are encouraged to use the Koonung Creek Trail on the southern side of the Eastern Freeway in Koonung Creek Reserve There will be no local access to the trail between the Estelle Street Bridge and High Street This diversion will be in place until late 2025 there will be further changes to the Koonung Creek Trail east of Doncaster Road on both sides of the freeway We’ll install 2.4m high noise reduction timber fencing around our work areas so we can remove existing noise walls and continue to remove some trees within the Koonung Creek Linear Park This will allow us to begin works in the coming months to relocate a sewer main from under the freeway into the park between Estelle Street and Park Avenue and east of Doncaster Road near Hender and Stanton streets we’ll place barriers on the Doncaster Road outbound exit ramp to create a work area so we can relocate utilities and build a temporary freeway exit ramp we’ll close the dedicated High Street exit lane on the freeway ramp Access to High Street will be maintained from Doncaster Road Work to divert the Koonung Creek Trail and install fencing around our work sites in Koonung Creek Reserve is now underway between Mountain View Road and Doncaster Road We’ve started building a temporary Bulleen Road diversion to create space needed to realign Bulleen Road and build the new connection to the North East Link tunnels we'll need to close a small section of Bulleen Road from Friday 24 to Monday 27 May we'll move traffic onto the temporary alignment (see figure 1 in the map below) which will remain in place until late 2025 we'll start works to widen the Bulleen Road bridge from seven to ten lanes We'll also realign the Bulleen Road entry and exit ramps for the Eastern Freeway as part of an upgraded Bulleen interchange and new walking and cycling underpasses we'll close lanes overnight on Bulleen Road and the Eastern Freeway We'll also close the footpath on the east side of the bridge reconfigure lanes and place traffic barriers We'll then start piling works to build the foundations of the new Bulleen Road bridge within the freeway centre median to add more lanes Construction of the future Manningham Interchange for North East Link is underway with traffic changes in place further north along Bulleen Road One-way traffic on Manningham Road and Bridge Street will be in place for around 2 years This will help create the space needed to build the tunnel entry and exit ramps we’re working on the foundations of the Yarra Link green bridge on either side of Bulleen Road we need to remove a significant number of trees and vegetation within the Koonung Creek Reserve We've identified reuse opportunities for all removed trees including reuse on the project and donation to community groups for sustainable projects More than 10,000 new trees will be planted within the reserve as part of the revegetation plan We’ve also completed extensive field surveys to help identify fauna that need to be rehomed From late May we'll begin installing fencing around the wetlands near Valda Avenue before we clear trees and vegetation to set up a major worksite this area will feature a new Heyington Avenue bridge and a reconfigured 43,700m3 wetland precinct including an improved Koonung Creek to better manage waterflow and aquatic health we're placing a photographic design on the timber fencing along the resident facing boundaries of the worksites in Koonung Creek Reserve This will help blend the fencing in with the natural environment local residents were invited to vote on their preferred design There were three options of native gums to choose from with Option A We'll start installing this design in the coming months Monday to Friday during the day from 7am to 6pm and at night from 7pm to 6am the Community Engagement team visited cafes in Balwyn North offering locals a coffee and an opportunity to chat about the project We spoke to over 200 people about how we'll manage construction impacts and upcoming works there will be more opportunities for locals to meet with us Find out more information about our next community events in your area, visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au/community/community-events There are many ways you can keep in touch and learn more about works in your area Our community engagement team will be speaking to local residents about these works and how we can support you during construction If you would like to receive SMS or email updates visit: bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/roads/email-and-sms-updates technology and Melbourne's first dedicated busway – slashing travel times and improving public transport with speeds now reduced to 80 km/h between Burke and Doncaster roads during the day and 40 km/h at night near work sites The new speed limit will be extended to Tram Road next year as major construction starts The Eastern Freeway Upgrades will stretch from Hoddle Street to Springvale Road and be delivered in three key stages We're starting with Burke to Tram roads first From mid-2025 we’ll start on the book-ends of this massive upgrade from Hoddle Street to Burke Road and Tram Road to Springvale Road the Eastern Freeway Upgrades will seamlessly connect to the new North East Link tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen Alongside the completion of the M80 Ring Road at Greensborough they'll slash travel times across the north east Sign up for more project updates at northeastlink.vic.gov.au extensive reinstatement works will return improved open space where it is needed to support construction designs for an upgraded Koonung Creek Reserve and a reconfigured 43,700m2 wetland precinct near Valda Avenue were exhibited for further community comment as part of the project design from Burke to Tram roads We'll keep working through designs and community feedback for new paths trees and plants ahead of major construction starting next year Located between Doncaster Road and Elgar Road the Valda Wetlands will be reconfigured once construction of the new Eastern Freeway express lanes new noise walls and new Heyington Avenue bridge are complete We’ll also be rebuilding Koonung Creek with improvements to better manage water flow and overall health As we deliver the Eastern Freeway Upgrades North East Link tunnels and Ring Road Completion more than 30,000 trees will be planted across Melbourne’s north and east More than 2500 trees have already been planted through our early tree planting program trees have been planted early at Hyde Park As we overhaul the Eastern Freeway from Burke to Tram roads we'll be building more than 11 km of new noise walls to meet Victoria's first 58 decibel night-time noise standard – making the Eastern Freeway noise standard the toughest in the state Speeds are now reduced to 80km/h during the day and 40km/h at night on the Eastern Freeway between Burke Road and Doncaster Road These changes will extend to Tram Road next year and help workers safely prepare for major works while keeping the freeway open to traffic This daytime speed limit will be in place until 2028 Safety barriers on both sides of the freeway and in the median will be installed We’ll also begin to prepare dedicated worker and truck access between the freeway and construction areas – helping to keep cars and trucks off local streets you’ll notice some lane and ramp closures at night Please check on- road signage for any changes to the way you travel We're building a new Bulleen Road to create the space needed to build the new Yarra Link Green Bridge and North East Link tunnel entrance There will be lane closures on Bulleen Road in November and December to complete these works For the latest details about this disruption visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au From late 2023 we’ll set up a major work site near Freeway Golf Course in Bulleen The area will support more than 200 workers who will move Bulleen Road and build the new interchange with the North East Link tunnels Drivers will notice reduced speed limits and lane closures at night on the Bulleen Road exit ramp as we install safety barriers and build dedicated access to the site for workers and trucks We know the Koonung Creek Trail is important to the local area and will be keeping it open during construction with a long-term detour in place We ask all path users to follow signs and directions We’re also working to keep the Estelle Street bridge over the Eastern Freeway open during construction From January 2024 we’ll start to close sections of Koonung Creek Reserve in Balwyn North for two construction areas About a third of the reserve will remain open during construction with the reserve reinstated with improvements afterwards The works areas will support over 1000 workers and be used to help build the new interchange with the North East Link tunnels and new walking and bike bridges at Estelle Street we’ve reduced the size of the construction areas needed and will be keeping trees along Kosciusko Road and Carron Street We’ll also keep as much of the vegetation as possible within the compound footprint These major work sites will include onsite car parking to keep construction traffic off local streets large timber fencing known as ‘hoarding’ will be installed around the construction areas We’ll be working with nearby residents to help choose designs for printed panels Works will be staged to return areas of the reserve to the community as soon as possible 10,000+ new trees including more than 1.8 million new plants will be planted for the first stage of the Eastern Freeway Upgrades from Burke Road to Tram Road As we deliver this major overhaul of the Eastern Freeway we’ll be working to minimise disruptions for local residents We’ll be carefully managing our works to consider local people and the environment by: owners of nearby properties will be offered a free property condition survey Property condition surveys are commonly carried out for major projects Although construction is not expected to affect properties We're getting ready to start works on the brand new interchange on Bulleen Road which will connect an upgraded Eastern Freeway to the 6.5 kilometre North East Link Tunnels in Bulleen were exhibited in May 2022 and approved in February 2023 as part of the North East Link Tunnels Urban Design and Landscape Plan We’ve started setting up two major construction sites in Bulleen near the Freeway Golf Course and within the former Boroondara Tennis Centre we'll start making changes to Thompsons and Bulleen roads to create space to build the new interchange We’ll follow on from the recently finished Bulleen Road diversion to realign a second section of Bulleen Road between Carey Sports Complex and Thompsons Road. This second diversion will help us create the space we need to build the elevated ramps that will connect into the new North East Link Tunnels (download the pdf with maps PDF, 1.4 MB) while keeping traffic moving through Bulleen we’ll also begin works to widen the existing Bulleen Road bridge over the freeway and realign the freeway entry ramps we’ll install safety barriers on the bridge and set up a small work site within Leonis Avenue Reserve we’ll need to work at night on Bulleen and Thompsons roads to remove traffic islands adjust road markings and create space for a bigger work area within the former Boroondara Tennis Centre We’ll then begin relocating utilities and realigning Bulleen Road between Marcellin College and Thompsons Road Bulleen Road will remain open during almost all of our works and we’ll only need to close it for a short time when we switch traffic onto a new section of road in mid 2024 We’ll share more information for our Bulleen Road diversion works in the coming months We're widening the Bulleen Road bridge from seven to ten lanes and realigning the Bulleen Road entry and exit ramps for the Eastern Freeway We’ll also build new noise walls for better noise protection for residents and create new walking and cycling connections near Leonis Avenue we’ll need to set up a small work area in February within the Leonis Avenue Reserve We'll install fencing to reduce noise and separate our work site from the rest of the reserve while keeping the shared use path open We’ll be out talking to local residents about these works in the coming weeks We’ll continue to set up our work sites along the Eastern Freeway between Burke Road and Tram Road to support major upgrades We’ll continue rolling out safety barriers along the freeway and begin building dedicated construction vehicle access to our major work sites You’ll start to notice some changes along the Eastern Freeway as we remove vegetation and relocate lighting to allow space for freeway widening works to start Speeds have been reduced to 80km/h during the day to keep drivers safe as they travel next to work areas Speeds will be reduced to 40km/h while we’re working at night There’ll also be nightly lane closures and intermittent ramp closures while we set up these work sites Please check on-road signage for any changes to the way you travel From March we’ll start to close sections of Koonung Creek Reserve between Bulleen Road and Doncaster Road in Balwyn North for two major work areas These sites will support over 1000 workers and will be used to help build the new Bulleen Road interchange as well as new noise walls and pedestrian bridges we'll install temporary lighting alongside the Eastern Freeway between Burke Road and Bulleen Road We’ll remove the existing lighting from the centre median for freeway widening works The temporary lighting locations will reflect the final design directional lighting will be positioned to minimise light spill on homes in close proximity to the freeway While we aim to complete most of our works during the day some extended hours and nighttime works may be required water and electricity services and working closely with service providers streets and arterial roads with intermittent lane closures required for these works If you experience disruption to your services We’ll continue our site investigations along the Eastern Freeway and in surrounding areas between Burke Road and Middleborough Road We’ll do this work at night on the freeway and on major arterials to keep traffic moving freely during the day there will be changes to the way you get around with short and longterm detours For up-to-date information on disruptions visit Victoria's Big Build For up-to-date information on bus services please visit the PTV website www.ptv.vic.gov.au Speak to our team: Our community engagement team will be speaking to local residents about these works and how we can support you during construction Join us at an information session: We'll be hosting information sessions about our project works in early 2024 Contact us: You can also contact us on 1800 105 105 to speak to a member of the project team or to make an appointment to see us Sign up for updates: If you would like to receive SMS or email updates visit: www.bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/roads/email-and-sms-updates Work has started to build the missing link in Melbourne’s freeway network We’re moving almost 100 above and underground services such as power, water, gas, sewerage and telecommunications to make way for North East Link North East Link will reduce travel times between the M80 Ring Road and the Eastern Freeway by up to 35 minutes and give local roads back to local communities The project will deliver a massive upgrade to the Eastern Freeway Melbourne’s first dedicated busway and more than 25km of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths works will begin to move 2 water mains under the Eastern Freeway between Estelle Street Bulleen and Koonung Creek Reserve in Balwyn North a site compound will be established within Koonung Creek Reserve and a works area will be built next to the road way on Estelle Street There will also be some temporary changes to local roads and walking and cycling paths CPB Contractors are leading this work and we're starting to talk to residents now about how the works may affect them Stay up to date with North East Link works by subscribing to email updates. Around 124m of new water pipes will be installed under the Eastern Freeway between Estelle Street, Bulleen and Koonung Creek Reserve, Balwyn North. To minimise disruptions for local residents and keep traffic moving, pipes under the Eastern Freeway will be installed using a micro Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM). Connections to existing water mains will be built at both ends by digging a trench that can be filled and then covered once works are finished. Micro TBMs work much the same way as full size TBMs, but are driven remotely using a purpose-built control room above ground. To launch, as well as drive and retrieve the micro TBM, a site compound will be established within Koonung Creek Reserve and a works area will be established next to the road way on Estelle Street. Works to prepare the 2 sites and install the new water mains will be done in different stages and take around 9 months. Please note some works outside of these hours may be required, including tunnelling activities and supporting works. If works outside of these hours are needed, nearby residents will be notified well in advance. To make sure people can move safely around work areas, we’re planning some temporary changes to local roads, as well as walking and cycling paths and trails. We’re also looking at how we can minimise impacts on Koonung Creek Reserve while still providing access to and from work areas. A section of Estelle Street on the east side of the Kenneth Street roundabout near Yarraleen Trail will need to be temporarily closed when we install connections to the existing water network under the road. These works are planned for early 2021. The rest of Estelle Street and all other local roads in the area will stay open and residents will be able to access their driveways at all times. A temporary detour for pedestrians and cyclists using the Koonung Creek Trail will also be in place. We’ll be in touch with local residents with more information about these changes well in advance of these works starting. Depending on the location of the temporary access road within the reserve, sections of the main Koonung Creek Trail and tracks may need to be temporarily diverted. Any detours will be well sign posted and suitable for bike riders and walkers. As part of works in Koonung Creek Reserve, some vegetation will need to be removed. Strict Environmental Performance Requirements will ensure this is minimised as much as possible and replaced through new planting. Construction vehicles will need to use local roads to access the works area within Koonung Creek Reserve. This will be carefully managed to ensure trucks move safely through the area. Please note these dates are subject to change. As part of planning these works, we’re looking at how to best minimise impacts on residents, motorists and Koonung Creek Reserve. While most impacts can be managed well through careful planning, as with all major construction projects, there will be some disruptions. We understand these can be difficult and appreciate your patience while we deliver these important works. The health and safety of our workers is our key priority as we continue to deliver the North East Link Program, as is supporting physical distancing measures in line with current health advice. We have strict protocols in place to protect the safety of our construction workforce, including enhanced industrial cleaning arrangements, provision of personal protective equipment and measures to reduce staff contact, including staggered shifts. Using micro TBMs to build the new water mains under the Eastern Freeway will help to avoid a significant amount of noise for residents. However, we expect there will still be some noise around above ground work sites. Noise will be carefully modelled and managed under the Projects strict Environmental Performance Requirements. Once the new water mains are built, there may be some temporary disruptions as builders connect the water mains to the existing network. Any disruptions will be short and communicated well in advance. You can get in touch with our project team by phone and email. We’re sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. We’re working to restore it. Please try again later. Add videos to your saved list and come back to them any time. It is understood a cement truck was travelling towards the off-ramp near Bulleen Road on the Eastern Freeway in Balwyn North when it crashed into a concrete barrier and rolled about 2.30pm The yet-to-be formally identified driver and sole occupant of the truck died at the scene The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing At around the same time as the Balwyn North incident emergency services were called to a collision in the Murray River town of Bundalong A ute and truck collided near the intersection of Boomahnoomoonah Road and Carmichaels Road The male driver of the truck was treated at the scene but could not be revived The female driver of the ute was taken to hospital with minor injuries Anyone who witnessed the collisions, or with footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id" "aafea8a4a9987046a05c27f35760c60a" );document.getElementById("g3bfc1e4af").setAttribute( "id" and website in this browser for the next time I comment Kangaroo Ground sold in March for a record sum Suburban Melbourne property price records are being smashed at a rate of one a week as the city’s best homes have defied gloomy conditions Even as interest rates remain high and the cost of living crisis continues to bite homes have set new benchmarks in some postcodes that are as much as $1m more than their old top sales with dozens resetting local high water marks by almost $500,000 RELATED: Tax cuts set to boost competition, bring back first-home buyers Yolanda Hadid, Kylie Jenner’s ex-home could sell for $52m Australia’s top comedian reveals epic Hawthorn home plan Out of Melbourne’s 321 suburbs a total of 65 recorded a record price for houses or apartments in the past financial year The majority of new benchmarks have been set since January this year with 40 (61 per cent) of the sales this calendar year And agents believe there are buyers out there cashed up and ready to break even more records before the end of 2024 The old bluestone cottage built in the early 1960s changed hands recently breaking the previous record by $3.4m A sprawling Portsea estate at 3808 Point Nepean Rd centred on an old bluestone cottage built in the early 1960s that changed hands for an eye watering $23.23m broke the wealthy coastal hamlet’s previous record by $3.4m The luxurious property is set on 2000sq m with its living areas centred around a central courtyard and sparkling pool with separate guesthouse Elwood had an asking price of $15m – $16,5m Melbourne-based founder of The Lume and van Gogh Alive exhibition Bruce Peterson will be enjoying a designer bar fancier than most nightclubs Also among the standouts was 9 Bendigo Ave which sold for $17.05m by RT Edgar Toorak’s Sarah Cased The home features architect design and a pool as well as rarer highlights including a designer bar fancier than most nightclubs and an eight-car basement garage complete with street-art wall displays The home was purchased by Melbourne-based founder of The Lume and van Gogh Alive exhibition Bruce Peterson Kew sold for $22.5m breaking the record by $200,000 And the biggest deal recorded in the last financial year was the $80m sale of a country estate owned by the family of the late Sir William Angliss in Rowsley Real Estate Institute of Victoria chief executive Kelly Ryan said despite the negativity surrounding the current state of Melbourne’s market “There is a lot of positive movement in the industry and when you see so many suburbs breaking records it’s pleasing and encouraging,” Ms Ryan said Albert Park broke the suburb record for $13.84m The grandeur interior of 60 St Vincent Place N She added that there was as little as two interest rate cuts between the bullish buyers paying record prices and the typical property punters hinting that it won’t take much to fire Melbourne up for even more high-end suburban sales The home is a relatively new build and around four years old PropTrack economist Anne Flaherty said a shift in buying activity in the first half of the year compared to the last financial year was a key difference in where the market was placed at the moment “There was a notable improvement in sentiment at the start of this year we were seeing buyer demand really bounce back and it bolstered market activity,” Ms Flaherty said The home contains a large space for entertaining guests “And now could be a good time to buy in Victoria We know if interest rates were to increase buyers could lock in (interest rates) before they went up on the other hand if they’re waiting for interest rates to go down property prices will go up — it’s a double edged sword “Melbourne has massively underperformed against the other capital cities so it is cheaper to buy here than in Brisbane and we are the fastest growing capital city in the country.” Weast Corporation director James Liu said his sale at 6 Highmoor Ave which broke the suburb record by more than $2m was an example the property market wasn’t all doom and gloom they want to transact; they’re simply waiting for the right moment,” Dr Liu said Abbotsford sold for $6.28m and the iconic Skipping Girl sign in sight The apartment is equivalent to the size of the house and is situated close to some of Melbourne’s best bars and restaurants Bell Real Estate Olinda’s Corinne Sukroo had two record breaking home sales and said the diversity of prices in the Dandenong Ranges was attractive to buyers And in one of the more surprising records set in Melbourne this year was an Australia-wide benchmark for the highest number of bidders registered for an auction The almost 200 would-be buyers declared their interest in the 22 Charming St home that The Block serial bidder Portelli bought from the show in November last year — and then relisted for auction again in April with a just $1 reserve While it led to huge interest, the five-bedroom house only received bids from nine parties and sold for $3.245m under the hammer leading to a $1.055m loss for the young rich lister known as “Lambo Guy” Portsea — $23.23mKew — $22.5mElwood — $17.05mAlbert Park — $13.84mBalwyn North — $8.6mAscot Vale — $7.25mAbbotsford — $6.30mAlphington — $6.28mCaulfield — $5.80mKangaroo Ground — $5.5m Vermont South — $5.15mHampton East — $5.0mWarrandyte — $4.95mEdithvale — $4.80mBentleigh — $4.70mBangholme — $4.55mBeaconsfield — $4.47mDoncaster East — $4.25mBayswater — $4.158mMcCrae — $4.125mGardenvale — $4.10mEltham — $4.0mBentleigh East — $3.90mPanton Hill — $3.85mBulleen — $3.85mCoburg North — $3.80mMurrumbeena — $3.80mWarranwood — $3.70m Seaholme — $3.625mMonbulk — $3.50mWattle Glen — $3.38mBlackburn South — $3.32mLittle River — $3.15m Waterways — $2.565mReservoir — $2.515mAvondale Heights — $2.50mSandhurst — $2.38mMernda — $2.30mHumevale — $2.25mHuntingdale — $2.201mCatani — $2.20mGlenroy — $2.20mCockatoo — $2.15mMelton — $2.04mCottles Bridge — $2.033mSpringvale South — $2.0mUpwey — $1.972mHeidelberg Heights — $1.9mAltona Meadows — $1.9mHeidelberg West — $1.88mBelgrave Heights — $1.755mKurunjang — $1.70mNotting Hill — $1.615mWatsonia North — $1.57m Aintree — $1.505mBlind Bight — $1.495mNoble Park North — $1.450mSeabrook — $1.30mBurnside — $1.225m Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: Tenants slugged $2900 rent hike in just one year Frankston manor like something out of a time capsule Lysterfield parkside entertainer wows buyers third parties have written and supplied the content and we are not responsible for it completeness or reliability of the information nor do we accept any liability or responsibility arising in any way from omissions or errors contained in the content We do not recommend sponsored lenders or loan products and we cannot introduce you to sponsored lenders We strongly recommend that you obtain independent advice before you act on the content realestate.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd. By accessing or using our platform, you agree to our Terms of Use. In late 2020, we asked people living in suburbs near North East Link to help us plan our tree planting program For every tree removed to build North East Link More than 30,000 trees will be planted as part of the project design and in suburbs nearby We started planting trees last year well before major construction starts From 16 November to 31 December 2020 we asked people how they wanted more trees planted in suburbs near North East Link to improve where they live This report includes a summary of what we heard and how it’s helping to shape the next stages of the project’s tree planting program To make it easy to get involved, we collected responses using a short online survey at Engage Victoria People who wanted to reply by post or email used a printed form 793 people from 100 suburbs took the survey We’re not just counting how many trees we plant for North East Link Trees planted for North East Link will work together to grow more cover from tree canopy than is removed Tree canopy is what you see when you look up the cover from leaves and branches and where trees do their most important work – providing shade filtering air and water and cooling our suburbs Studley Park Gum trees planted in Yarra River parklands in May this year were grown at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria nursery using seeds collected locally As well as working to keep as many trees as we can while we build North East Link we’re getting a head start now on getting more trees in the ground before major construction Early tree planting for this year has already started in parklands along the Yarra River New populations of Studley Park Gum trees have been established in Westerfolds Park Lower Plenty – increasing the number of these significant trees in Melbourne’s north-east We’re also working closely with Banyule Nillumbik and Whitehorse councils on places to plant more trees early in local parks We're looking at planting trees in places that match what we heard is important to people and consider council priorities We'll keep the local community updated as details are confirmed soon Tree planting for this year also includes Belle Vue Primary School in Balwyn North Watsonia Primary School in Watsonia and completing sports upgrades for North East Link at Ford Park in Bellfield Binnak Park in Watsonia North and Greensborough College in Greensborough Along North East Link as part of the project design keeping them as close as possible to where existing trees need to be removed You can comment on urban design and landscape plans after the design is released We’re using the results from this survey to get a head start in some locations now and will continue the rest from 2022 onwards In the 6 council areas the project passes through Keep reading for a more detailed summary of survey responses and how they’re being used to shape the North East Link tree planting program We asked people how important it is to plant trees in different places and for different reasons people told us these were mostly either ‘very important’ or ‘important’ Prioritising planting trees in all these places and for all these reasons We’ve also given each council we’re working with a summary of responses for their local area so some small differences based on where people live can be considered Many of you commented on the need to plant trees to replace or provide more Many of you told us that as Melbourne’s suburbs are becoming warmer shade and cooling from trees is increasingly important Many of you also commented on enjoying shady places to walk Nearly all of the comments on this topic were about the need to plant native or indigenous species Maintaining and improving wildlife habitat biodiversity and local identity and character were common reasons Some of you expressed concerns about planting trees that could drop branches People who wrote about this topic told us living in a suburb that looks and feels green is important to them Many people commented on the importance of being able to connect with nature and the positive impact this has on their wellbeing Some also commented on the need to plant trees to screen and filter views of urban development People let us know it’s important we talk with organisations Some people also let us know they’re keen to get involved where they can too either through more opportunities to have a say in decisions about tree planting or hands-on activities You also asked us to keep people informed about where and why we’re planting trees and to look for broader education opportunities You asked us to make sure we have the right maintenance plans in place to help trees survive You also asked us to get the simple things right like planting trees during the cooler months and not planting trees in places where they’ll need regular pruning or cause issues later on (like under powerlines) While a small number of people asked for no trees to be removed to build North East Link many more asked us to leave areas in either the same condition Some of you raised concerns about how long it will take new trees planted to grow and want us to start planting as soon as possible Some asked us to plant more established trees With the blessing of Archbishop Makarios of Australia the Parish of The Presentation of Our Lady to the Temple in North Balwyn is undertaking for another year the initiative to offer free cooking classes to those who would like to learn Traditional Greek Orthodox recipes and participants will learn how to prepare koliva The course program is designed to convey the rich culinary traditions of mainland and island Greece All recipes will be translated into English and the courses will be conducted in English The new course begins with great enthusiasm building on the great success of last year when participation in the corresponding courses reached 110 people A car once used by Pope Francis during his 2014 visit to Bethlehem is being transformed into a mobile.. the Monastery of Saint Vlash in Albania hosted a festal Divine Liturgy on the.. Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece presided over the festal Great Vespers at the historic.. The holy Great Martyr Irene was born in the city of Magedon in Persia during the fourth century Archbishop Elpidophoros of America arrived at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap 2025—the Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women—Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the Patriarchal and Concelebratory Divine.. (function() { window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { listeners: [] cb) { window.mc4wp.listeners.push( { event : evt callback: cb } ); } } }})(); © 2023 OrthodoxTimes.com - All rights reserved Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website These cookies do not store any personal information Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website The four-bedroom, two-bathroom home at 20 Stroma Avenue had remained virtually untouched for half-a-century before being plated up to the market with a fresh coat of paint, new carpets and a reserve of $2 million. coupled with a block size of 708 square metres and a coveted location in the Balwyn High School zone attracted a crowd of 80 people who were forced to pack into the old home as rain pelted down outside of which four were returning expats based in Hong Kong and Dubai said a series of $20,000 bids brought the price to $1.9 million the lower end of the advertised price guide A handful of $10,000 and then $5000 increments pushed the price to $2 million the top of the guide and the reserve price a flurry of pint-sized bids as low as $1000 were thrown down until a Hong Kong-based woman – who is returning to Melbourne after about five years abroad – won the keys Patterson said the competition was unexpectedly fierce a deceased estate that hadn’t changed hands in 50 years was nothing short of a blast from the past A unit in an old apartment building or a newer one building is the more affordable option for these first-home buyers First-home dilemma: Start small and upsize later or buy your dream home now “It was a time capsule from the ’70s with a pretty classic 1960s-style brick veneer facade and a pool … it all looked straight out of The Castle,” Patterson said you had to get up from the lime-green couch to turn on the black-and-white TV we had to decide if it was worth spending $100,000 on the home to see if we could get another $200,000 or $300,000 … and in the end we did so the rest of that value was what people saw in the house.” As well as repainting and re-carpeting the home And while the old black-and-white “telly” was turfed “It shows the underlying strength of this area because of its proximity to schooling It’s also about 10 kilometres from the CBD,” he said The auction was one of 989 scheduled in Melbourne on Saturday Domain Group recorded a preliminary auction clearance rate of 65.4 per cent from 726 reported results Withdrawn auctions are counted as unsold properties when calculating the clearance rate Over at 51 Joynt Street, Macleod, a renovated three-bedroom brick home on a 951-square-metre block in the sought-after Victoria Cross Estate sold for a reserve-busting $1,407,500 after seven bidders duelled it out for the keys. 1 Bath2 ParkingView listing The home was listed with an advertised reserve of $1,325,000 followed by a vendor bid of $1.2 million quickly after A few $5000 bids were then thrown down to help the home reach the reserve said it was then down to three main bidders including a local who had waited until the eleventh hour to wade in and a phone bidder from NSW who hadn’t seen the property “The buyer who got it was drawn in by the future potential of the home,” Smith said but then we also had buyers interested in knocking it down and rebuilding an engineer from North Melbourne wandered into an auction in his footy shorts He then beat out the sole registered bidder to splash $1,091,000 on the run-down two-bedroom home on a 555-square-metre lot The cottage, which sits on Whiskey Hill at 2 Monash Street, hadn’t changed hands in 38 years. 1 Bath2 ParkingView listing Selling agent Jerome Feery, of Jellis Craig Kensington, said the one registered bidder kick-started the auction with a $900,000 bid. It then forced a vendor bid of $1 million to bring the home closer to its $1,055,000 reserve, with the North Melbourne buyer wading in soon after. He said after a few more bids the auction was paused at $1,020,000 which kick-started a fresh flurry of small bids until it sold under the hammer. Feery said the buyer planned to give the home a new lease on life. Despite a series of top results clocked across the Victorian capital over the weekend, Ray White Chief Economist Nerida Conisbee said Melbourne remained the second-poorest performing capital city after Hobart. “In a nutshell, it’s pretty weak and the view on the ground is that it’s a mixed bag,” she said. “Typically, it’s the renovated homes that are selling well, but everything else is underperforming. “This is really good news for buyers as it means a calmer market for people to get into, but the challenge will be there are a lot of homes coming to the market and a lot of these are from investors, and we do already have a lot of rental struggles. “If you’re wanting to upgrade, however, it’s a good market.” The information on this website is intended to be of a general nature only and doesn't consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. where we are privileged to live and operate with one tipped to break suburb recordSarah Petty Balwyn North is up for sale and could challenge the suburb’s house price record An opulent Balwyn North mansion has come to market which could break the suburb’s price record The five-bedroom abode at 28 Tuxen St adorned in marble and European oak may set the new benchmark for the area if it sells within its $7.5m-$8.2m price hopes Balwyn North’s current residential house price record is held by the $7.6m sale of 9 Chelmsford St last year RELATED: Former pub-turned home still has huge cellar underneath How much Melbourne home prices could rise in 2024 Wine cellar, sunken fire pit the toast of luxe home reno The bathroom closets to the gym and pool features a sauna VICPROP Manningham partner Brian Chen said they had already had around 55 groups through the residence from when they listed on November 25 “On the first inspection we had about 17 or 18 groups; we ran a grand opening VIP invitation only night,” Mr Chen said “I believe this property will be set a new benchmark in Balwyn North.” The open-plan kitchen with Miele appliances The large gym which connects to the indoor pool the three-level property has many standout features panelled walls and marble gas-log fireplaces are also consistent throughout the home Another property nearby in Balwyn that recently listed sprawls across four levels The four-bedroom residence at 8 Power St, Balwyn features a large home cinema golf range simulator and gym with all its furniture coming with its sale The vendor hopes to fetch between $3.7m-$4.07m when it eventually goes to auction Ray White Balwyn director Helen Yan said the owner bought the land in 2017 subdivided it and embarked on two large home builds Ms Yan said a major draw card was how technologically advanced it was as well as its functionality including the ping pong table and golf simulator ping pong table and foosball table come with the sale The sauna and gym are located on the lowest level Other features of the abode are the herringbone oak floors adjoining outdoor entertaining area and modern Miele appliances in the kitchen Two entertaining floors are split underneath the home with the first basement including the six-car garage Ms Yan added that homes in Balwyn were “selling quite well” at the moment because people were buying for convenience and to be close to the private schools in the area MORE: Block serial buyer backing out of all Victorian homes How Christmas can warp the real estate market Inside Bruce Lehrmann’s $50m party pad Past Carlton team member Stephen Silvagni and wife Jo have listed their Balwyn North home Former Carlton fullback Stephen Silvagni and his television personality wife Jo’s Balwyn North mansion is set to smash the suburb’s record house price with a $8m-$8.8m price guide six-bedroom pad featuring a pool and tennis court looks likely to overtake the area’s existing $7.6m benchmark set by a five-bedroom house 9 Chelmsford St in 2022 made his Carlton debut at the age of 17 in 1985 RELATED: AFL player home sales 2023: Which current players bought, sold property Balwyn North suburban resort-style house has a basement nightclub bar, gold class cinema ‘White House’: Family remotely renovated 1930s-era Balwyn property while living in London He became known by the nickname “SOS” which stands for “Son of Serge” Silvagni’s 312-game career included being a member of Carlton’s 1987 and 1995 Premiership sides In the latter grand final he was famously credited with helping to keep Geelong’s Gary Ablett from scoring a goal Silvagni won the inaugural Jim Stynes Medal in 1998 and played as an Australian International Rules team goalkeeper multiple times European appliances and a walk-in pantry in the kitchen Jack and Stephen Silvagni with former Footscray player Ted Whitten Jr and ex-Brisbane captain and radio presenter Jonathan Brown AFL Team of the Century member and Australian Football Hall of Famer retired from playing in 2001 He worked as an assistant coach or list manager at clubs like Collingwood Carlton and Greater Western Sydney before being announced as St Kilda’s list manager in January last year A top-notch undercover entertaining area caters to guests in warmer weather was an anchor for Foxtel’s Entertainment News in the 1990s She has appeared on the television show Sale of the Century and in advertisements for companies including Zoot Review The Silvagni’s son Jack has played for the Blues since 2015 Public records reveal Stephen Silvagni owns the Balwyn North house which Marshall White’s Marcus Chiminello and Mandy Zhu have the listing for Belmore Rd shops and Gordon Barnard Reserve Terry Daniher and Stephen Silvagni playing in an Essendon and Carlton game the impressive home includes a basement level gym there’s a built in-barbecue and terrace covered by adjustable louvres The kitchen comes equipped with stone benches a marble-fitted ensuite and walk-in wardrobe take centre stage The backyard pool and spa are perfect for summer heatwaves A second bedroom also offers an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe and another bedroom boasts a deck looking out to the landscaped garden Completing the package is a formal dining and sitting room and a total of five bathrooms The mansion is located in the Balwyn High School zone Expressions of interest will close at 3pm on March 19 Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: The Simpsons actor Dan Castellaneta puts Santa Barbara home up for sale Northcote: ‘I. AM. GIA’, Tiger Mist fashion designer’s modern, beachy home hits the market Miranda Kerr puts her Malibu home up for sale with $6.9m price hopes We’re getting ready to upgrade the Eastern Freeway with new traffic management technology Melbourne’s first dedicated express busway and to connect the Eastern Freeway to the new 6.5km North East Link tunnels As part of the upgrade to the Eastern Freeway a new Bulleen Interchange will increase capacity and ensure seamless access between the freeway and the North East Link tunnels To make space to build the new Bulleen interchange we’re moving a section of Bulleen Road between Carey Sports Complex and Thompsons Road While we finish the new section of Bulleen Road from 7:30pm on Friday 24 May until 5:30am on Monday 27 May Bulleen Road will be closed between Thompsons Road and Carey Bulleen Sports Complex We'll be working 24/7 over the weekend to tie in Thompsons Road to the new section of Bulleen Road clubs and sporting grounds will remain open throughout the weekend as we complete these works A detour via Thompsons Road and Manningham Road will be in place for those who need to travel through the area during this period of work please allow for extra time when planning your journey When Bulleen Road reopens on the morning of Monday 27 May drivers will travel on the new lanes – which will be in place until late 2025 Drivers travelling from Bullen to Balwyn North will use the new section of Bulleen Road and turn right onto Thompsons Road and left to get back onto Bulleen Road Drivers travelling from Balwyn North to Bulleen will turn right onto Thompsons Road and left onto the new section of Bulleen Road Doing this work now will help keep roads stay open while we build the new Bulleen Road interchange Stay updated about North East Link with the key announcements and milestones A mansion packed with lavish features including two infinity pools games arcade and 25-seat cinema has become the second property to break Balwyn North’s price record this year The details surrounding the sale of 8 Agnes Ave are largely shrouded in secret But it is known the eight-bedroom multi-millionaire’s playground surpassed the suburb’s $7 million benchmark, set by nearby 12 Agnes Ave in February RELATED: ‘Celebrity lifestyle’ for sale with Gold Class mansion in Balwyn North Balwyn North house with karaoke bar, gaming lounge sets record Is Balwyn North property Australia’s best entertainer’s home? Balwyn North has set a new suburb price record enjoys his home’s “better than Gold Class” cinema Both record-holders were built by MJ Building Group director Mark Spinosa Ray White Balwyn selling agent Helen Yang said the convenience the fully furnished mansion offered was a major drawcard for the buyer from Asia She said the back-to-back record sales on Agnes Ave amid the Melbourne market downturn proved “when you have a good product “It doesn’t matter if the market is doing it tough,” Ms Yang said One of the home’s two infinity pools wraps around the house 8 had been Mr Spinosa’s family home since it was completed in 2015 following an 18-month design and build process kids’ playground and garage with three Tesla Powerwall 2 batteries The luxe package included more than $1 million worth of furnishings plus $60,000 of paintings and $40,000 of booze The alcohol in this cellar was also part of the package The “better than Gold Class” basement cinema contains an 8.5m screen and subwoofers in the seats while the arcade was decked out with a marble pool table Mr Spinosa previously described his creation at No 8 as being a “health-conscious house with huge entertaining appeal where we could do everything we wanted at home” “It’s like a celebrity lifestyle — you’ve got the best of everything,” he said The garage has heated floors and three Tesla Powerwall 2 batteries The high-end builder worked with a feng shui master to ensure the ultra-modern pad was “optimised for wealth” and fondly recalled huge parties he’d thrown there for up to 300 people The house sprawled over three levels and 1394sq m internally, and occupied a 1050sq m block within the Balwyn High School zone It was initially listed with a $8.8-$9.2 million asking price in April MORE: Melbourne landmarks celebrated at one of Berwick’s highest homes Kennett-era politician’s party pad up for grabs in Nagambie Secluded Apollo Bay holiday home offers the ultimate tree change The house is a kids’ — and adults’ — paradise samantha.landy@news.com.au The sale price exceeded the vendor’s reserve by $795,000. Ray White Balwyn principal Helen Yan said the result at 5 Ellendale Street had “extremely surprised” its vendors. A young family bought the keys to the new house over three other buyers. Yan said that two other interested parties did not have the opportunity to compete. Bidding opened at $3.5 million and $100,000 increments were made until proceedings reached the reserve price at $3.8 million. After the reserve, $50,000 bids were made. “In this type of market that bidding is very unusual,” she said. The house was designed by Stonehaven Homes and some original bricks were reused at the front. The north-facing house is in the Balwyn High School catchment zone. “It does have a lot of features. Big windows and higher ceilings, it was very nice,” said Yan. What would make Australian housing more affordable? Australia’s future housing market reality check Will Easter slow down the Australian property market? Experts tip it’ll be full steam ahead Bank of mum and dad the driving force behind 40 per cent of first home buyers The Balwyn North sale was one of 1516 auctions scheduled in Melbourne on Saturday, considered a “super Saturday” because more than 1300 auctions were planned. By evening, Domain Group recorded a preliminary auction clearance rate of 62 per cent from 1125 reported results, while 136 auctions were withdrawn. Withdrawn auctions are counted as unsold properties when calculating the clearance rate. In Canterbury, a family bought a four-bedroom house with a pool at 23 Compton Street for $4,001,800. The winning bid was an $1800 increment. 2 Baths2 ParkingView listing Four buyers participated. A vendor bid of $3.4 million started the auction, before the first genuine bid at $3.45 million was made. The house was listed with a quoted price range of $3.5 million to $3.85 million and the reserve set at $3.9 million. Jellis Craig Hawthorn auctioneer Peter Vigano accepted small bids such as $800 after the price passed $3.8 million. “I had a fun time with my bidding sequence,” Vigano said. A crowd of 100 people watched the auction. Vigano said that the house had been built 25 years ago and appealed to families. The vendors installed a pool after they had bought the house in 2012. 2 Baths1 ParkingView listing “It was just a good family home, in a good school setting as well,” he said. Vigano also said that a house on Scotch Hill at 7 Hollingsworth Avenue, Hawthorn was passed in after being auctioned on Saturday. Only a vendor bid of $3.45 million was made, as would-be buyers kept their hands in their pockets. “It is a north-side, very good family home, but held back by land size of 584 square-metres,” said Vigano. The five-bedroom property has since been listed with an asking price of $3,588,000. In St Kilda, two downsizers competed for a renovated Victorian at auction on Saturday. The four-bedroom house at 12 Odessa Street was passed in, but the successful buyer negotiated a $2.72 million price for the property. 2 Baths2 ParkingView listing The house was listed with a quoted price range of $2.4 million to $2.6 million. The auction opened with a vendor bid at the bottom of the range. Marshall White Port Phillip director and auctioneer Oliver Bruce declined to reveal the reserve price. A crowd of 50 people attended the auction. Bruce said a young family was also interested in the property but did not bid. “The architectural nature of it was pretty cool, like [an] industrial style design. Good proportions and a good, quiet street,” said Bruce about the house. AMP chief economist Dr Shane Oliver said that buyer buyer demand had been unable to keep up with supply in the Melbourne property market since the start of the year. This weekend was the highest number of auctions scheduled on a Saturday in 2024. “I suspect that’s because of the higher level of interest rates in the Victorian economy,” Oliver said. “But the Reserve Bank continues to remain cautious on interest rates, leading to speculation that rate cuts might be delayed.” “We’re going into a quieter period, demand and supply normally quieten after Easter,” Oliver said. Add videos to your saved list and come back to them any time Designed around a horizon-edge pool so almost every room has water views this Balwyn North dream home is making a splash on the market The property was built four years ago by custom home builder Latitude 37 as their Horizon display home meaning it has never been lived in and features a raft of luxury features The four-bedroom entertainer at 323 Belmore Roadis on the market with a $3.5-$3.7m price guide RELATED: Balwyn North mansion: Agnes Ave house sets suburb record price Great Gatsby house, Balwyn North Art Deco design has Rivoli-inspired cinema Balwyn North townhouse from builder behind benchmark sales hits market The grand four-bedroom pad has a $3.5-$3.7m price guide There might have to be a ‘no bombs into the pool’ rule during dinner Latitude 37 chief executive Nick Warren said buyers would have glimpses of the pool from each room The main bedroom has a door that opens directly out to the pool perfect for a dip to wake you up each morning “(It’s) not so good if little Jimmy does a bomb while Nan is trying to enjoy her lunch,” Mr Warren said “But it creates that enormous space that really gives that feel of openness and creates that real entertainment space “The pool reflects more light into the home Four ovens will make entertaining a breeze The main living area has an open-plan design double-height ceilings and an opulent main bedroom suite with a private living room are highlights “This is a display home that has really stood the test of time,” Mr Warren said “This really demonstrated the custom nature of what we do It’s on a block with a significant amount of fall and we designed a bespoke home that really ties in with the block “You can’t replace this home on any other block.” The property is on the market through Fletchers Balwyn North agent Daiman Kane There are fireplaces throughout the home to keep it cosy in winter And of course there’s a luxe spot to store wine Balwyn North’s median house price sits at $1.873m The suburb record was set last year with the $7.3m sale of 8 Agnes Avenue MORE: Michael Roberts: AFL identity sells renovated Malvern house Surge in Victorian home building approvals Melbourne stage four: How to get ready to buy this spring 8 Agnes Ave has the Balwyn North residential price record in its sights — and it’s easy to see why A multi-millionaire’s playground with two infinity pools and jacuzzis massage station and 25-seat cinema that’s “better than Gold Class” is poised to smash Balwyn North’s price record by about $2 million The mansion at 8 Agnes Ave also offers eight bedrooms Owner and MJ Building Group director Mark Spinosa said his family home’s $8.8-$9.2 million asking price included all its contents RELATED: Is Balwyn North property Australia’s best entertainer’s home? Modest facade hides ultimate outdoor pool cinema in Balwyn North Mark Spinosa kicking back in his impressive home’s 25-seat cinema Mr Spinosa’s home also features an arcade … Picture: Jason Edwards He’ll be throwing in more than $1 million worth of furnishings plus $60,000 of paintings and $40,000 of alcohol The pad will challenge the suburb’s $7 million benchmark — set in February by another of Mr Spinosa’s creations down the road at 12 Agnes Ave mini casino and golf course simulator among its vast features after an 18-month design and build process and the kids’ playground in the background “The intention was to build a health-conscious house with huge entertaining appeal where we could do everything we wanted at home,” Mr Spinosa said “It’s like a celebrity lifestyle — you’ve got the best of everything.” The “big believer in feng shui” worked with a master to ensure the low-maintenance ultra-modern house was “optimised for wealth” connected by a lift and offering about 1394sq m of internal space All the booze stocked in the house will be included in the sale The garage features heated flooring and three Tesla Powerwall 2 batteries Mr Spinosa said he’d look back fondly on the big bashes he’d thrown there for up to 300 people These included “cinema parties” in the “over-the-top” basement theatre containing an 8.5m screen and subwoofers in the seats The kitchen is packed with Miele appliances There’s also a big screen in one of the home’s lounge rooms Mr Spinosa said the wow-factor facade had enticed more than 50 people to “knock on the door and say It’s set on a 1050sq m north-facing corner block near the shops of Greythorn Village and within the prized Balwyn High School zone Ray White Balwyn listing agent Helen Yan described the home as “an architectural work of art” Its expressions of interest campaign closes May 21 A walk-in wardrobe at the eight-bedroom house Children that live here will never have any trouble making friends MORE: Banyule Homestead sells in record off-market deal Is this Melbourne’s answer to the Hollywood hills? Ex-German embassy in South Yarra for sale as grand mansion samantha.landy@news.com.au -Three storeys with 1394sq m of internal space -Six-car garage with heated floor and three Tesla Powerwall 2 batteries -$650,000 worth of furnishings and equipment curated by interior designer -$400,000 of home automation and gaming equipment -2000-bottle temperature controlled wine cellar gold class cinemaEmily Holgate Balwyn has been likened to a suburban resort “gold class” cinema and resort-style gym are just a handful of the luxury inclusions at this family home in Melbourne’s east Stretching across three levels accessed via an internal lift, the 16 Harrington Ave, Balwyn North pad is a product of high-end home builder Marc Spinosa who is also understood to have lived there after building it Vendor Kamal Somaia purchased the five-bedroom house from Spinosa in 2016 when he moved in with his wife and young son RELATED: Family remotely renovates Balwyn ‘White House’ Balwyn North: Glitzy mansion decked out in Spanish marble 30-bedroom mansion with ballroom sets Balwyn house price record The couple have since shared many special memories at the Balwyn North property including welcoming home their second son and watching Somaia and his eldest son’s beloved Richmond Tigers bag three premierships “The thing I remember most about this house was watching four of the grand finals from 2017 to 2021 in the cinema room,” says Somaia “It was a house that my wife just fell in love with because of the set up of the kitchen and the butler’s pantry as she could easily keep it clean and organised … she loves cooking catering and entertaining so it gave her the space to do so.” Floor to ceiling windows surround the living room The vendor also notes that the home is both spacious and luxurious “I came from South Yarra and I feel like you get all the benefits of South Yarra (in Balwyn North) without the hustle and bustle,” he says Somaia’s family have enjoyed living near local schools as well as in walking distance to a plethora of restaurants and cafes Now moving to another property in the area he and his wife have listed the Harrington Ave dwelling for $4.6m-$4.8m with Buxton Bentleigh agent Melissa Hetherington – a former Channel 7 TV presenter and media personality from the likes of Coxy’s Big Break After switching to a career in real estate the opulent pad is Hetherington’s first multimillion-dollar listing The home gym looks like one you might see at a resort it was off the back of my presenting skills that tweaked the vendor’s interest to consider me as his agent,” she says “He was shown one of my prestige property videos who is also married to The Voice singer and actor Matt Hetherington shows off the many lavish features of the home in a listing video – and even her mixologist skills “Fans of Spinosa’s work might think they have known what to expect but this home’s high walls and hedged gardens give nothing away,” says Hetherington “A sculptural-screened facade and curated LED lighting scheme provide a hint of the luxury beyond but this is a blockbuster that needs to be seen to be believed.” Soaring 3.2m-high ceilings join a glamorous open-plan kitchen with Carrera marble benchtops and grey limestone flooring on the ground floor an open living space opens out to a terrace with marble and mosaic walls while a light-filled lounge room leads out to the covered outdoor entertaining area All five bedrooms come with ensuites and walk-in wardrobes with one found on the ground floor and a further four upstairs But the basement is where the main party is The downstairs space is an entertainer’s dream with a gym a glass wine cellar with room for nearly 250 bottles and a bar that wouldn’t look out of place in a nightclub Outside there’s a glass-walled garden with access to a private jacuzzi “There’s even a business-at-home workspace designed to do double duty as a super-sized children’s play area,” Hetherington adds it’s a warm and welcoming home that puts family life first.” Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: Rent shock: What you’ll be paying in 2024 in every suburb ‘Creepy’ abandoned Chinese homes reclaimed by cows, farmers What you need to earn to buy in every Vic suburb revealed Postscript: this property sold in June. Follow this link for details Ex-Carlton footballer Stephen Silvagni and wife have listed their Balwyn North family home five bedroom plus study Hosken Street mansion is seeking $8-$8.8 million – a result which would smash the suburb record set last April when 9 Chelmsford Street traded for $7.6m Whereas that dwelling – a near new Georgian – covers a 1012 sqm site with a home developed in 2004 also in that style Marshall White’s Marcus Chiminello and Mandy Zhu are representing the Silvagnis which paid $440,000 for the holding in 1998 – three years before Steve retired from a 312-game AFL career is also a member of the AFL’s Hall of Fame and Team of the Century (story continues below) forged a media career after replacing Alyce Platt in Sale of the Century in 1991 – aged just 20 The pair married in 1996 and have three sons born the year later who has been an AFL player since 2016 Last month, we reported The Connault in neighbouring Balwyn traded for $14.85m – a watermark for that suburb – following a marketing campaign targeting aged care providers and prestige home buyers An opulent home in Balwyn North is for sale at 299 Belmore Rd A multimillion-dollar resort-style home exuding opulence and glamour will put more than $500k back in the pocket of its next owner But there’s a catch: they’ll have to wait three years to move in The 299 Belmore Rd, Balwyn North pad was only completed last month as a collaboration between renowned architect Dan Webster and Mazzei building firm RELATED: Balwyn North: Mid-century house by Alan Nance for sale Multimillion-dollar Caroline Springs home smashes suburb record by $650k Loving father lists Alphington house renovated as gift for son after plan change The majestic spiral staircase in the entrance leading to the top floor Mazzei bought the property in 2019 for $1.8m demolishing an existing house and building the ritzy abode in its place “It’s a contemporary residence we feel sits well in most Melbourne suburbs,” firm director Zeb Woodhatch said The striking residence offers buyers the height of luxury and is ready to move into after a three-year lease back at 4 per cent per year That works out to $576,000 across three years if the home sells at the bottom of its $4.8m-$5.25m price guide the next owner would receive $210,000 a year – or $630,000 by the time the home is released to them The house makes a bold first impression with an elegant spiral staircase leading to the top floor and a sky-lit void above the curving structure flooding the home’s lower level with natural light the kitchen features marble benchtops and is perfect for entertaining opening to a concrete alfresco area where buyers can also enjoy an infinity-edge swimming pool The spacious dining room adds flair to dinner parties with a glass-walled wine cellar adjoining it A glass wine cellar can be found alongside the dining room The five bedrooms come with luxurious ensuites rainfall showerheads and marble fixtures that would not look out of place at a five-star hotel or resort Mr Woodhatch said proximity to nearby schools would suit a family in search of a “high-end” residence “It has all the privacy you could want and all the space to not be on top of each other,” he said The home also features many contemporary additions a manicured garden was designed by esteemed Melbourne landscape architect Nathan Burkett Marshall White Boroondara partner Nick Ptak said the property would appeal to people in medical or law careers that did not have the time to oversee a building project – particularly with current construction delays Mr Ptak said a lot of local families — both with younger children and teenagers — had shown interest “It’s a cutting edge home with a very smart design,” he said with an enormous kitchen … great for 18ths Off the ground-floor entrance is one of the bedrooms a lounge room with a bar and gas log fireplace Three further bedrooms and a rumpus room are located on the other side of the floor “It’s got very generous proportions and a well-functioning floorplan,” Mr Ptak said “And it has enough residual garden which young families like but it’s also low maintenance for busier families with teenage children.” MORE: Sizzling hot Garfield entertainer has putting green, indoor barbecue Doncaster East and Mt Waverley suburban classics gift long-term owners premium prices Mark Zuckerberg sells San Francisco home for record $44.5 million A commanding corner property at 39 Stephens St A Balwyn North palace with a nine-car garage is making an impressive statement on the market with a hefty $7.2m-$7.7m price tag The five-bedroom, five-bathroom mansion at 39 Stephens St differs from the suburb’s usual French provincial-style designs with a “more contemporary European look” according to RT Edgar Boroondara agent Annabelle Feng RELATED: Doncaster ‘Parthenon’ house for sale Balwyn North house designed around infinity-edge pool for sale Balwyn North house sells $421k above expectations in big auction result A wine cellar and tasting room also occupies the basement level it’s for nine cars and the special difference with this one is the driveway is very flat so it’s easy to drive in and out,” she said The decadent design on 1086sq m incorporates a rumpus room wine cellar and powder room on the lowest level alongside the garage Take a lift up to enjoy sprawling living spaces and huge bedrooms — all with walk-in wardrobes and ensuites Calacatta and Miele appliances star in the kitchen with parquetry floors underfoot and coffered ceilings overhead Ms Feng said the views were also “amazing” “From the balcony you can see the Dandenongs and the city because of the corner position,” she said The Balwyn High School-zoned property is available via private sale Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: Half-finished penthouse for sale in West Melbourne Burnt-out Thornbury dump listed for more than $1m Unprecedented regional real estate boom which has been described as a home James Bond would love to live in A jaw-dropping Balwyn North house that featured in a rapper’s music video and was described ‘as perfect for James Bond’ is set to become one of spring’s hottest properties Adam and Rina Bulic are selling their five-bedroom home at 23 Yeneda St with a $6.3m-$6.93m price guide The couple plan to build an even more spectacular abode to live in with daughters Lola and Mila RELATED: Designer home could make next owners more than $500k in three years Toorak mansion featuring James Bond-style garage posts ‘spectre-tacular’ sale Balwyn North icon Stargazer House designed by Peter McIntyre has stellar sale hopes if James Bond was to have a home in Melbourne this would definitely be one he would look at,” Mr Bulic said He explained this was because the house included a six-car garage for the secret agent to keep his vehicles a wine cellar to store 400-500 bottles and cutting edge technology like smart home automation and a seven-zone integrated speaker system The walk-in wardrobe inspired by a Gucci store Black marble features in the kitchen alongside a butler’s pantry silent rangehood and Miele appliances including an induction cooktop dishwasher and integrated refrigerator and freezer The kitchen won four awards at the 2017 Housing Industry Association awards The modernist facade has an impressive street presence Rap artist J-Wess filming his Rendition video at the home Any British spy enthusiast could enjoy Dandenongs views from the main bedroom’s 600kg inspired by Rina’s love of classic movies and fashion “We modelled it on a Gucci store so the shoes and bags and jewellery are all on display,” Mr Bulic said “There’s even a place to showcase perfumes.” Enjoy the sunshine while hosting a meal for friends and family Mr Bulic described the staircase as “a functional piece of art” The self-cleaning solar and gas heated pool and spa is located near an in-built trampoline and multipurpose sports area which can be used for soccer and badminton who runs bespoke construction firm Bluestar Living spent four years planning and working on the 2017-constructed house which includes an outdoor mini soccer pitch and in-built trampoline His efforts paid off when the home won five gongs in that year’s Housing Industry Association awards and was named runner-up in the Best Custom Built Home $1.5m-$2m category The wine cellar can be seen through a window in the property The property has been used for fashion shoots and magazine photo sessions and Australian-American rapper J-Wess filmed a video for his song Rendition there “They were on the top balcony with the $100 fake bills and about six women in the spa,” Mr Bulic said they were flicking money from the top of the balcony A home theatre to enjoy movies or streaming shows Ray White Balwyn director Helen Yan described the house as “elegant” and “very modern” thanks to the cantilevered facade and floating staircase If the property sells within its asking range it will become one of Balywn North’s priciest homes Seven houses in the suburb have sold for more than $6.18m including 9 Chelmsford St which set the area’s $7.6m record in April Expressions of interest will close at 5pm on September 16 MORE: Toorak: Luxury mansion purchased by international family for nearly $24m Inside Katy Perry’s final Beverly Hills house that she just sold for $25.7m Essendon captain Dyson Heppell puts renovated Albert Park home up for sale .prefix__st0{fill:#333}AccessAccount Fleur Sibbel’s home and work life are built on solid family foundations. She runs furniture and homewares company Zuster with her sister and now she’s bought and renovated a Balwyn North house her father constructed half a century ago. Words by Leta Keens· Updated on 30 Nov 2023· Published on 22 Nov 2023 loves telling the story of how she found her place It was during a late-night online-trawling session just three weeks into house-hunting Even though it was rundown and the front completely overgrown she recognised the house immediately as one her father built in the ’70s through his company Sibbel Builders “It was the signature kitchen which was built in Dad’s factory And there’s a certain sort of timber cladding that he always used,” Sibbel tells Broadsheet he confirmed that he’d built the house for a doctor whose mother-in-law lived in an annex at the back it was sold to someone who had plans to demolish and rebuild “I wanted to save it and do it justice,” she says who emigrated from the Netherlands to Australia in the 1950s when her great-great-grandfather Hermanus Sibbel set up a building and furniture business in Amsterdam the company she founded in 1996 with her sister Wilhelmina McCarroll (“zuster” is Dutch for “sister”) and Sibbel concentrates more on the business end of things “We sort of started the business in our teens – there are four sisters in the family and if one needed a new bedside table or wardrobe and I’d sell the old one on Trading Post.” the family lived in a house her father had built in South Warrandyte There was a time when he was winning housing awards and I was really in awe of how creative he and his family were “Part of the reason I love the house I live in now is that it feels so similar to where I grew up Name: Fleur Sibbel Lives: In a single-level five-bedroom mid-century house in North Balwyn Since: 2016 With: Her husband Have you made any changes architecturally since you moved in We lived in it for two years before we renovated which I would highly recommend because you change your mind a little bit about what’s important to do and what’s not there’s a buffet in the living room which is very signature Sibbel I thought I’d probably put something new in which I wouldn’t recommend – we started renovating the back of the house and would room-hop our way towards the front and the good thing was I was always here when tradespeople arrived in the morning The best renovations are where you don’t have to extend but can do everything within the footprint of the house so there were things we functionally wanted to change had a separate entrance and was like another house We opened up the whole house through the centre; it used to have doors going off everywhere The bathrooms had the original ’70s brown tiles which had built up grime over the years – it was lovely when they were renovated had been Dad’s apprentice – I’d grown up with him Peter did all the work and Dad would come down and give his opinions He followed the process the whole way through “I don’t know what you see in this,” but then when it was all finished It’s not that easy working with the timber beams so I find it very comforting to come home to somewhere that’s not glary or bright – it’s like a cocoon I really wanted to restore the black slate flooring in the front of the house but it was very hard to find matching tiles so we ended up retiling with white terrazzo just to brighten it up a little I put in an order at Zuster for all new furniture It was the first time I’d done anything like that I really believe in energy transfer – I know personally the effort and consideration that have gone into its design and love the fact that it’s all handcrafted It’s given me a completely different perspective like the console with its repeated pattern but the pleasure you get out of it long-term is immeasurable We converted the old carport into a walk-in wardrobe – I love fashion – and there’s the bathroom there as well I love the whole space and am in there quite a lot I’ll just go and lie on the bed and take it all in It doesn’t look out onto anything – it has three high I know who made it in our factory and that feels really special – it’s something I’ll have in the family forever and will pass down to my daughter I’m so full of joy when we’re all together around the table Obviously I get all my homewares from Zuster – if there’s something we want I’ve now got a throw rug in every room – there’s one in the front room that Harvey I know Kerry Armstrong well; she’s been amazing and helps me find art I’ve just been in Sydney and saw the latest exhibition at Olsen Gallery I’m so busy – “go go go” all the time at one of our five factories or at the showroom – that it’s nice to come back here and be a bit under the radar and people are really down-to-earth and friendly It’s the sort of place that when a new coffee shop opens they’ll know your name and your order within a week This article first appeared in Domain Review, in partnership with Broadsheet. Want a peek inside more beautiful homes? Head here for our Home Visits series. More From This SeriesHome Visit: A Micro-Terrace With a Music Studio Home Visit: A Vogue-Approved Interior Designer’s Family Home Home Visit: A Sentimental Art-Filled Retreat Inside a Warehouse Apartment This 1957-built residence has hit the Balwyn North market for the first time in almost four decades – and it is in mint condition Selling agency Fletchers is marketing the three-bedroom home at 149 Mountain View Rd as “offering an eye-popping bonanza to purists of the modernist genre” RELATED: Robin Boyd-designed modernist dream home one of Beaumaris’s best Portsea renovated 1950s ‘beach shack’ hits the market Hawthorn mid-century masterpiece on bank of Yarra River for sale The house doesn’t give away much from the outside … the design delight is characterised by expanses of timber and glass The kitchen and bathrooms retain their retro glory and a “floating mezzanine” features arguably the best work-from-home space on the market Owner Diana Hammond recalls the mezzanine wowing her the first time she saw it with her late husband 37 years ago “You don’t know what’s behind the front of the house from the street,” Ms Hammond said The property has a $1.8m-$1.95m price guide The home office features extensive built-in shelving and drawers clever cabinetry to hide the kettle and toaster and a “double St George oven (that is) still in beautiful order” The frontyard pool had also been well used by the vendor and her daughter “She went to Balwyn High and brought kids from school home to go in the pool,” Ms Hammond said The three bedrooms are zoned at the back of the house The well-loved house is for sale for the first time in 37 years Mid-century architecture enthusiast and advocacy group Modernist Australia posted the standout home on its Instagram page with the caption: “We are not worthy” “It is these unbelievable local rarities that we exist for,” the group wrote Fletchers Balwyn North director Daiman Kane said he was investigating whether the home had any heritage protections but noted most of the interested parties so far were fans of the era The Balwyn High School-zone pad is near the Koonung Creek Reserve Ms Hammond hoped the buyer would love it as much as she had The property is due to be auctioned on December 11 Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: Skydiving champ lists two Melbourne pads in Byron Bay move Shock report finds 1.5 million Aussies at risk of homelessness Fahour makes $900,000 in 18-month Elwood house flip samantha.landy@news.com.au Balwyn North Art Deco design has Rivoli-inspired cinemaJayitri Smiles An Art Deco masterpiece fit for a Great Gatsby party has been listed in Balwyn North The glamorous property at 23 Doncaster Road was recreated with magnificent 1940s features including a cinema inspired by Camberwell’s beloved Rivoli Theatre who have $3.4-$3.6m price hopes for their four-bedroom home said it had been the perfect setting for a Great Gatsby-themed birthday party RELATED: Caulfield South Art Deco pad has business up front, party out back Frank Valentic: The Block expert lists Elwood Art Deco home Balwyn North townhouse from builder behind benchmark sales hits market Art Deco fireplaces are throughout the home A Rivoli Theatre-inspired cinema will delight “We turned the cinema room into a speak-easy with a bar and filled our main bathroom with gold and black flowers which ended up being a photo booth,” Mr Riccio said “Every room is styled in Art Deco except for the kitchen which was a conscious decision to make it modern and functional A full renovation was undertaken by the couple in 2013 and adding a deck with a retractable roof to the backyard The vendors chose to keep the kitchen completely modern and functional A retractable roof is above the outdoor dining zone an original wooden staircase and decorative ceilings also add to the grandeur Modern features include underfloor heating in the bathrooms double-glazed windows and an integrated sound system The vendors have decided it’s time to make a sea change prompting them to put the property on the market despite stage four coronavirus restrictions There are multiple living and dining areas inside Belle Property Balwyn agent Claire Wenn said “every single bell and whistle” had been added to the incredible home She said unique features would help attract buyers who could inspect the property once stage four coronavirus restrictions ended The agency is running an expressions of interest campaign that closes on October 9 READ MORE: Struggling Melbourne tenants ignored by landlords: report Middle Park price record: Beaconsfield Pde home could be suburb’s most expensive West Footscray California bungalow renovated with contemporary industrial edge Balwyn North renown in recent times for its French chateaux style home construction spree has seen its median house price drop back to 2015 levels It now sits at $1.6 million, according to CoreLogic The median house price has dropped drastically since peaking at $1.95 million mid-last year To see the latest Balwyn North house price data, click here But Balwyn residential properties have more recently become known for its knockdown rebuilds often copying the châteaux of France with their facades Balwyn North was one of the first Melbourne suburbs to be developed according to the pattern of postwar suburbia quiet residential areas designed as family homes and relatively few business districts We're on a mission to radically improve the quality of Urban communities being developed across Australia We aim to showcase every development in Australia to help you find the perfect new home A four-bedroom Balwyn North townhouse is expected to sell for around $2.7 million Townhouses of this quality are few and far between From the builder that broke Balwyn North’s residential price record with a lavish mansion last year, 3/2 Osburn Ave is a comparatively affordable offering With an expected price of $2.7 million, the tri-level townhouse comes in well short of the more than $7 million sale for MJ Building Group director Mark Spinosa’s former home at 8 Agnes Ave RELATED: Balwyn North mansion: Agnes Ave house sets suburb record price A home theatre in this Balwyn North townhouse There’s $100,000 worth of furniture and equipment thrown in as a sweetener But with similar features including a home cinema and ensuite bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes in every room the Osburn Ave property is only a few levels less indulgent And the property comes with $100,000 of furniture thrown in to the deal Mr Spinosa said the townhouse was built to “very high-end specs” for buyers looking to do nothing but roll their suitcases through the front door and unpack “It’s a very good product — we’re aiming towards overseas clients that are school driven,” Mr Spinosa said European Oak chevron parquetry in the high-end kitchen There are multiple living zones and a low-maintenance outdoor space gym equipment … it’s unique — there’s not many products like this (on the market).” Ray White Balwyn agent Helen Yan said she expected a broad range of buyers would show interest in the property with expressions of interest closing March 6 “I think it will attract all types of buyers, because it’s a very good feature product, but the main buyers we will probably see are families because it has four bedrooms, all with ensuites, and is in the Balwyn (High) school zone,” Ms Yan said READ MORE: Victorian rental reforms: REIV slams ‘unfair’ pets law jack.boronovskis@news.com.au @jackboronovskis Robin Boyd original under threat in Balwyn NorthJayitri Smiles A mid-century Bayside house with a one-of-a-kind design has been demolished while an early work of renowned architect Robin Boyd is under threat in Balwyn North Heritage protection for modernist architecture has been flung into the spotlight once again this week after a hexagonal property affectionately known as the Honeycomb House was knocked down at 12 Oak Street Beaumaris Modern president Fiona Austin said it was disappointing to see the 1950s property torn down after it had been recommended for heritage listing in two unfinished Bayside City Council studies RELATED: Mid-century homes: Lax heritage schemes endangering important history Brighton mid-century house demolished while being assessed for heritage protection Olympic golfer Marcus Fraser sells Beaumaris mid-century house The house was designed in an unusual hexagon shape It is not known what will replace the house “The studies were abandoned and it’s just missed out on a heritage study that Bayside Council have recently committed to,” Ms Austin said “It was kind of a special house because it was designed on a hexagon Ms Austin said the W H Dando creation had not been maintained over the years so it looked “like a bit of a wreck from the outside” An Home Beautiful illustration of the home’s interiors “Once I got inside I was blown away with how good the condition was,” Ms Austin said there was a wood burner in the kitchen and it was a really lovely house that could have been restored.” The property was demolished by the homeowner who did not put it up for sale despite Beaumaris Modern offering assistance to help find a buyer It is not known what is planned for the block of land In Balwyn North, a Robin Boyd original at 12-14 Tannock Street was listed for sale as a development and subdivision opportunity last week Balwyn North was an early work of architect Robin Boyd The property was recently advertised for its development potential Boroondara Council director of city planning Shiran Wickramasinghe said “overwhelming community interest in its protection” led to a unanimous vote by councillors to submit an interim heritage protection application to Planning Minister Richard Wynne within the week Mr Wickramasinghe said no planning or demolition application had been lodged on the property but community concerns had been raised after it was briefly put on the market Boroondara Council will apply for an interim heritage protection order The property has been kept in good condition “Once an interim heritage control is approved any proposal to demolish the property is subject to council’s approval.” A Balwyn conservation study from 2015 said the house was “one of three outstanding early and substantially intact houses by Robin Boyd in the study area provide rare and valuable evidence of the innovation boldness and fresh design approaches of a young architect on the cusp of an illustrious career.” READ MORE: Victoria freeze on evictions, rental hikes extended to December 31 Middle Park record: Beaconsfield Parade home could become suburb’s most expensive The Block 2020: New season kicks off with plenty of firsts