Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time The tiger snake in my basement is not typical of Coburg North I just like to start there because it’s a story that travels well The lovely beast slid in from the garden late one arvo while I was down there looking for something I promptly forgot because now I had a tiger snake in my basement The story illustrates my favourite thing about my suburb: the bush that cuts a wild V-shaped swath through it like a set of inverted lungs linked by two converging creeks weirdly comforted by the reminder that everything up on brick and bitumen level is temporary another auspicious memory is the fire billowing from the top floor of the abandoned Kodak building down the road It appeared a day or two after we sealed the plunge into home ownership 15 years ago I saw a nifty invocation of The Tower tarot card: danger the former fearlessly bagged by Steve the snake wrangler; the latter by the inevitable process of urban renewal part of a 20-hectare housing development that has brought in about 1000 new neighbours and kept the small strip of takeaway joints and cafes shuffling Dining out options are my suburb’s weak spot And if you want a drink in a licensed premises But with adjective situated stylishly after noun Coburg North is clearly a cut above plain old Coburg in more than the geographic sense That’s because of all that recreational space for one thing Jackson Reserve wetlands and Coburg Lake parkland sprawl either side of the outdoor Olympic pool footy oval and a table tennis club around there too Some folks I know have even been inside them The grittier side of the non-residential coin is a fair whack of industrial zoning site of the heritage-listed Village Drive-In Cinema and the busier third of the rectangle west of Sydney Road The Gaffney Street superstores front a labyrinth of indie trade suppliers from sand and soil to glass and bric-a-brac My favourite lock-up is Round Again: paradise for pre-loved hi-fi and record hunters It’s a suburb with a distinct east-west divide That western Sydney-Road-to-Sussex-Street block I call the Coles end of town The Lincoln Mills chimney still towers behind Bunnings: the last vestige of a teeming textiles operation that employed most of Coburg at its peak between World War I and 1980 If you ever see a trickle of teenagers pouring off Sydney Road or Batman train station they are probably going to Coburg Velodrome it’s been an unlikely summer dance party venue for the past few years programming those all-day multi-DJ hellscapes my kids have given up trying to explain to me There’s more historical intrigue at the Woolies end The aforementioned Kodak factory ruled here from ’61 to 2004 a steamroller of manufacturing optimism that slowly consumed 40 hectares of dairy land that was still operated by the family of 1880s Scottish immigrant John McKay Kodak’s award-winning modernist buildings were opened by awestruck prime minister Bob Menzies back in an indestructible age of industry that looks from here like a fever dream of Shelley’s Ozymandias under brand-new streets quaintly named for pre-digital memories: Spectrum Way My neighbour Alba worked at Kodak for a while As a young girl she remembers Mr McKay riding his horse along the ridge across the creek a perch now dominated by the recycling plant the Big 4 Caravan Park was full of travelling circus folk Her mum used to tell her aunt in Brunswick how much clearer the air was up here Aerial photos from Kodak’s reign show a lot less greenery than I walk my dog through now shrubs and grasses with the Friends of Edgar’s Creek a fantastic community organisation bent on the steady restoration of a landscape the original Wurundjeri mob might recognise outside of my basement — although I have a strong suspicion the developers will unearth a bit of wildlife in the rotting weatherboard a couple of doors up According to the notice that just went up outside the peeling pile is due to be razed for “construction of two double-storey dwellings” Another weirdly comforting reminder that everything else is temporary Michael Dwyer is a Melbourne-based freelancer who specialises in music I just like to start there because it\\u2019s a story that travels well Dining out options are my suburb\\u2019s weak spot That\\u2019s because of all that recreational space for one thing It\\u2019s a suburb with a distinct east-west divide it\\u2019s been an unlikely summer dance party venue for the past few years There\\u2019s more historical intrigue at the Woolies end The aforementioned Kodak factory ruled here from \\u201961 to 2004 Kodak\\u2019s award-winning modernist buildings were opened by awestruck prime minister Bob Menzies back in an indestructible age of industry that looks from here like a fever dream of Shelley\\u2019s Ozymandias Aerial photos from Kodak\\u2019s reign show a lot less greenery than I walk my dog through now shrubs and grasses with the Friends of Edgar\\u2019s Creek I\\u2019m sure the tiger snakes are loving it outside of my basement \\u2014 although I have a strong suspicion the developers will unearth a bit of wildlife in the rotting weatherboard a couple of doors up the peeling pile is due to be razed for \\u201Cconstruction of two double-storey dwellings\\u201D Brunswick Voice No on-site car parks will be provided for more than 100 town house residents MERRI-BEK Council has waived residential car parking requirements in a decision which allows the city’s first major car-free town house development to go ahead in Coburg North The project by Brunswick-based developer Nightingale Housing on the site of an industrial foundry in Sheppard Street will contain no residents’ car parking spaces for 72 dwellings the developers will only be required to provide five spaces for a car share operator one for disabled access and two for a loading zone The project is the first time Nightingale’s car-free model which has been used extensively for apartment projects in Brunswick has been adapted to a medium density town house development The council chamber erupted into spontaneous applause after the council’s Planning and Related Matters committee approved the project at its first meeting for 2025 on Wednesday night two and three bedroom town houses on the 10,000 square metre site in Sheppard Street which borders Hosken Reserve and is a few hundred metres from Sydney Road and Merlynston Station Nine dwellings would be sold to an affordable housing provider at a 20% discount to the market rate Nightingale’s housing model actively discourages car ownership and most of its apartment projects have had no on-site parking Critics say this has resulted in some Nightingale residents parking their cars in nearby streets a development of this size would require the provision of 100 on-site parking spaces for residents but Nightingale argued that the proximity of public transport made this unnecessary along with access to a car share scheme for all residents Providing on-site parking would have added about $50,000 to the cost of each unit The application was referred to the PARM committee primarily because the changes to car parking requirements were a significant deviation from the planning scheme Nightingale co-founder and acting managing director told the meeting that the project would be unviable if it was not allowed to waive the parking requirements “We ask that you understand we’re in a housing crisis not a car parking crisis and that housing is a basic human right “If we have to reduce the number of housing to put in more car parking the only thing we can do is to reduce the number of affordable housing.” Other speakers in favour of the project included Jonathan O’Brien from the pro-housing development YIMBY Melbourne group warned the lack of on-site car parking would have a negative impact on neighbouring residents because it would result in cars being parked in the streets instead She said there needed to be more scrutiny and additional conditions to offset the impact of additional traffic “The Nightingale car-free model is great in theory I’m really on board with what they’re trying to do but I just don’t believe it works in Coburg North … Coburg North is not Brunswick People in my community are far more likely to feel the need to own a car,” she said in whose Bababi Djinanang ward the development is located said local residents had been provided with no rights to object to the project Bolton said she wanted to see the project go ahead but suggested Nightingale could purchase land nearby to provide additional residential parking Deputy Mayor Helen Politis voted against the project after foreshadowing an alternative proposal for Nightingale to provide 30 parking spaces on the site But Cr Natalie Abboud said the council had to support housing projects which encouraged reduced car usage the permit with reduced parking was approved by a clear majority of nine councillors out of 11 with only Politis and Mayor Helen Davidson voting against it We are an independent hyperlocal news organisation owned and run by the people in your community. With your support we can continue to produce unique and valuable local journalism for Brunswick and the inner north of Melbourne.  Become a supporter About Us Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Advertising Brunswick Voice acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as the traditional custodians of the lands and waterways in the area now known as Brunswick and pays respect to their Elders past and present and to all First Nations people and communities Brunswick Voice embraces their traditional and contemporary cultural and creative expression and significant contribution to life in the area Get our latest articles and current events around Brunswick straight to your inbox SUBSCRIBE → Elliot Giakalis and his family are riding Melbourne’s $1m wave north The city’s million-dollar club has defied the odds and grown across 2024 despite widespread home value falls for almost 200 suburbs Mr Giakalis bought a Coburg home when it was just him and his golden retriever Sammy He watched the suburb become a $1m neighbourhood a few years later RELATED: Aussie gold hunters reveal how to spot a bush block with gold on it Aussies getting trapped in ‘mortgage prison’ not to mention Sammy having been joined by Theo the labrador retriever their daughter Odette and dogs Theo and Sammy at their Coburg house another of Melbourne’s newly minted $1m suburbs but settled on the perfect home for them in Coburg North Renovated and offering a rear garden with heaps of edible plantings that was “an absolute oasis” it was the perfect fit for their next step MORE: Investor’s surprise move as portfolio hits 35 homes they know the suburb is worth every cent of its new $1m median price tag “The things we have where we are in Coburg we will still have access to and the Merlynston shops have a bit of a vibe going,” Mr Giakalis said Dog Sammy and Elliott’s family has grown a lot the nearby Merlynston train station is fourth last on the Upfield line which is one of Melbourne’s shortest rail routes “So I am definitely getting a seat on the train in the morning.” A total of eight areas have had typical home prices stretch to seven figures this year See the full list in our story here 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: How much RBA’s grinch move will really cost you Portelli slammed: Block is dud investment Marketing mogul puts $8.8m ‘street secret’ oasis up for sale 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. 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 Press PLAY to listen to Tony Leonard’s full review VENUE: Fairly typical outer-ish suburban pub with full gaming/tote/sports bar the First and Last (F&L) has a steady as we go offer in food and drink Located in the shadows of Fawkner Cemetery in North Coburg/Hadfield/Fawkner (yes there are 3 references) the pub has a wild west saloon feel to it in the spacious dining room There is a kids playroom attached so the family feel is here Merlynston station on the Gowrie line is 500 metres away The standard specials are plentifully applied free pool Sundays and a two hour happy hour with $7 schooners etc tartare ($32) while listed in the starters are made for a share Pastas/steaks/chicken dishes run a familiar line also More fair play to the F&L in regard to the wine list Prices are fair and $10per glass is the most paid for a Pepperjack Shiraz Just a bit more care in the finish and this would sit well at any pub Something Different to Eat: Grilled Afghan bread This is a different starter for sure and never seen (by me) on a pokies dining menu Surcharges: None on cards//10 per cent on public holidays Summary: There is no reinvention of wheels here with everything you would expect to get in any part of Melbourne that constitutes “outer suburbs” no real faults here at the First and Last North Coburg/Fawkner/Hadfield Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad have announced a $1 million reward for information in relation to the murder of Gianni 'John' Furlan who was murdered in Coburg North over two decades ago The 48-year-old was driving his white Subaru Liberty sedan north along Lorensen Avenue John was alone in the vehicle and was driving his usual route from his home address on Sydney Road to his auto wrecking business on Sages Road he stopped at the Merlynston News Agency for a coffee and the newspaper on the way Commercial explosives had been attached to the car The force of the explosion killed John instantly catapulting his vehicle 15 metres down the road shattering nearby shop windows and spraying debris over 300 metres away The explosion was heard up to five kilometres away Numerous residents on Lorensen Avenue had their property and vehicles damaged that morning John had travelled to Hobart to visit a friend and stayed for four days leaving his Subaru Liberty parked behind a high timber fence at his home address Investigators believe his car was fitted with an explosive device during this time Witnesses reported seeing two suspect vehicles in the days before John’s death a Coronial Inquisition determined that John Furlan died from a percussive injury (blast damage) Despite an extensive investigation by members of the Arson and Explosives Squad and a number of public appeals for information over the past 27 years nobody has ever been charged with John’s death A $100,000 reward for information was previously offered in 2000 Victoria Police have announced a $1 million reward for information in relation to those responsible for John’s death A reward of up to $1 million will be paid at the discretion of the Chief Commissioner of Police for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for the death of John Furlan The Director of Public Prosecutions will consider the granting of indemnification from prosecution to any person who provides information as to the identity of the principal offender or offenders in this matter Police hope the increased reward will encourage someone to come forward with information Anyone with information about the murder of John Furlan is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report Return to our Rewards list to see if you have any information that could help police. Head to Olive Tree Bakery in Coburg and find a variety of bustling stalls Look forward to plenty of flavoursome delights acai desserts and pistachio chocolate from Dubai Pop into Olive Tree Bakery for yummy pastries and drinks browse through the stalls and find clothes Take part in activities while you’re there such as traditional henna or face painting If you’d like even more delicious food pop by the bakery from 10pm to 2am from Monday to Thursday the meal eaten early in the morning before fasting Find the market at 948-950 Sydney Road in Coburg North Brunetti Oro now has sites in the CBD and Brunswick, and you can find Brunetti Classico in Carlton, Moonee Ponds, Melbourne Airport, and now Coburg. This two-storey Newlands Road concept store is home to the brand's classic mini cakes, paninis, arancini, calzones and signature coffee. But unlike the Carlton flagship that has ample seating, this new venture is mostly a takeaway situation. Rather than easing into a long coffee and cake session with mates, drop by the new northside spot to grab a quick lunch or a box of small cakes to take back to the office or home. Alternatively, you can take your pick of large, ornately decorated cakes from the fridges that line the walls, ideal for last-minute cake-requiring events. But those seeking something more special are in for a real treat at the new Brunetti Classico store. Here, you can skip the pre-made celebration cakes and book your own cake consultation upstairs. During your session, a personal cake consultant will talk you through all the options, whether you want to keep it simple or go rogue with design and flavour combos. "This is a VIP-style service, our cake consultants are experts in their field, and can create custom cakes for any special occasion, including weddings and significant birthdays," says Fabio. Either drop by to simply nab your favourite Brunetti torta, or team up with an expert cake consultant to dream up your own delicious masterpiece. 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googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/300x250_Mobile_Middle_MREC' 'div-gpt-ad-1511489982092-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/300x600_2nd_homepage_skyscraper' 'div-gpt-ad-1511938773649-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/728x90_leaderboard_position_2' 'div-gpt-ad-1510792120057-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/300x250_Article-page_Position01' but we don't want to lose you.\"}],[\"$\",\"div\",null,{\"className\":\"notfound-page__text-block\",\"children\":\"We recently updated the way we organise our articles 8km north of Melbourne’s CBD.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site is bound by The Grove to the north\u0026nbsp; and by De Carle Street to the east.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site houses several former education buildings including a distinctive Brutalist-style concrete panel building.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe proposal comprises four buildings designed by Hayball Architects and incorporating co-working spaces extensive communal areas and a 72sq m ground floor cafe at the corner of De Carle Street and The Avenue.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHeritage considerations in the design include stepped building heights and taller elements positioned towards the western portion of the site next to the Coburg Activity Centre.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Heritage Impact Assessment supports the demolition of education buildings noting they provide minimal contribution to the local character.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe architect’s response to its heritage context include the use of red brick in the facade design reflecting materials common to the area’s historic buildings.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRaworth said the new buildings would balance contemporary design with heritage sensitivity through articulated balconies and pronounced gaps between buildings that respected the rhythm of the surrounding streetscape\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe apartment mix comprises 24 per cent studios 42 per cent two-bedroom configurations (split between one and two-bathroom options) and 6 per cent three-bedroom homes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to the application 99 per cent of the apartments would be accessible At least 10 per cent of apartments would be designated as affordable housing for a minimum of 10 years and “prioritise key workers Two car-share spaces and 34 electric-vehicle spaces are included in the parking allocation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe proposal involves significant planning framework adjustments including rezoning from Public Use Zone—Schedule 2 to Mixed-Use Zone—Schedule 1 and removing two covenants.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site requires environmental remediation with a Due Diligence Environmental Site Assessment identifying potential contamination from historical uses and nearby activities.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSustainability initiatives included roof-mounted solar photovoltaic cells supplying about 10 per cent of the development’s energy needs and high-performance double glazing.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe development team is aiming for a 5-star Green Star certification with aspirations for 6-star Green Star and Passive House certification.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCommunal facilities incorporate co-working spaces Image: Development Victoria\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe application is being assessed through the Department of Transport and Planning’s Development Facilitation Program with the Minister for Planning as the Planning Authority.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to the documents the proposal aims to address recognised shortfalls of appropriately located affordable and diverse housing forms while contributing to the economic vitality of the nearby Sydney Road retail precinct.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site is near the Coburg Activity Centre and offers high accessibility to public transport including Moreland Train Station and tram routes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDevelopment costs and end value were not disclosed in the application Development Victoria said high land-value and construction costs made large-scale affordable housing for purchase unlikely without significant discounts.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eConstruction was scheduled for later this year.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Development Victoria proposal comes amid broader transformation plans for Coburg with \u003ca href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/council-seeks-partners-for-coburg-redevelopment-plan\" data-mce-href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/council-seeks-partners-for-coburg-redevelopment-plan\"\u003eMerri-bek City Council recently endorsing its Revitalising Coburg\u003c/a\u003e initiative.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe council is investigating development opportunities across 4.418ha of council-owned sites in central Coburg aiming to address a documented need for affordable housing in the area.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to council data 4341 households in Merri-bek required affordable housing with significant private sector investment already under way Lendlease’s third residential building in the Collins Wharf precinct of Victoria Harbour.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 28-storey building at 971 Collins Street in Melbourne’s Docklands will deliver 312 homes in a mix of one two and three-bedroom apartments as well as townhouses and penthouses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to Lendlease the project has already secured more than 50 per cent in presales.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHickory is the construction contractor—it completed the precinct’s first development in 2019 and is also working on LendLease’s second tower Regatta.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor Ancora Hickory is implementing several technical construction methods including various piling techniques and precast concrete solutions that enable a parallel-track construction program.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe building’s facade designed by architect Warren and Mahoney uses a three-stage design incorporating double-glazed glass and textured precast concrete with Reckli and brick finishes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe structural design transitions from a solid podium base to lighter upper levels “reflecting a maritime theme” aligned with the Collins Wharf design objectives.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAncora will connect to the neighbouring Regatta development via a podium allowing resident access to shared amenities.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned as an all-electric building that includes electric vehicle infrastructure the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star certification Completion is expected in 2027.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRegatta including build-to-rent and build-to-sell units.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtensive wharf works including remediation of pre-existing wharf piles installation of raker piles and construction of the extension to Australia Walk are also part of the project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTechnical challenges include constructing on the finger wharf and co-ordinating extensive above-wharf road reserve and public parkland works.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Collins Wharf precinct will ultimately comprise six residential buildings of more than 1800 homes surrounded by over 5000sq m of parks and community space.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease is developing the parkland concurrently with the residential components including the extension of Australian Walk that forms part of the City of Melbourne’s Greenline project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease executive director of development Adam Williams said Collins Wharf “is fast becoming a sought-after address .. which took just a handful of hours to emerge on Saturday night the Coalition’s failure to sway voters has come under intense scrutiny.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIts lack of policies around property that resonated with voters has been a large part of that criticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong those policies was a $5-billion infrastructure program to unlock up to 500,000 new homes was greeted with no small amount of scepticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Coalition also campaigned on its previously revealed plan to allow first home buyers to draw down on their superannuation giving access to up to $50,000 to help fund mortgage deposits.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile that proposal had won some support it got the thumbs down from many of Australia’s top economists who said the measure could prove highly inflationary among other issues.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimilarly its plan to allow mortgage interest for first home buyers to be tax-deductible was roundly criticised for its likely inflationary and regressive effects.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt has also been pointed out that the Coalition’s rejection of the Green’s policies around housing supply affordable housing and help for renters did it no favours.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe ALP went to the polls spruiking an extension of schemes introduced during its previous term including a $10-billion promise for its first-home buyers’ scheme to encourage 100,000 more homes.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt also had its Help to Buy shared equity scheme under which the Government pays up to 40 per cent of the house price to point to.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf it was these policies per se or the lack of detail and depth to the Coalition’s the nation's ready for the Albanese government to act.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is clear been endorsed to follow through on its policies and fix the crisis that is crippling the Australian property sector.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs Urban Taskforce Australia chief executive\u0026nbsp;Tom\u0026nbsp;Forrest has pointed out it is time for the Federal Government to get back to work.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Housing affordability and housing supply featured large during the campaign,” Forrest said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“The key now is for the Government to strike while the iron’s hot.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“If legislation is needed to support the delivery of Labor’s $10-billion 100,000 new homes commitment—then pass it through the parliament now and get on with it.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe states have made many changes to how they enable home development The Federal Government’s support of that is crucial to its success material supply assistance or any other factor that affects getting homes out of the ground.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis has been a pivotal election Then Cities for Total Fan Immersion\",\"slug\":\"billionaire-arsenal-rams-denver-nuggets-sports-anchored-precincts\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-04-30T00:00+10:00\",\"tags\":[],\"summary\":\"Why your next home might be stadium-adjacent; sports are the hook Development Victoria has filed a combined Planning Scheme Amendment and Planning Permit Application for the site at 27-31 and 22-38 The Avenue is bound by The Grove to the north  and by De Carle Street to the east The site houses several former education buildings including a distinctive Brutalist-style concrete panel building The proposal comprises four buildings designed by Hayball Architects and incorporating co-working spaces extensive communal areas and a 72sq m ground floor cafe at the corner of De Carle Street and The Avenue Heritage considerations in the design include stepped building heights and taller elements positioned towards the western portion of the site next to the Coburg Activity Centre noting they provide minimal contribution to the local character The architect’s response to its heritage context include the use of red brick in the facade design reflecting materials common to the area’s historic buildings Raworth said the new buildings would balance contemporary design with heritage sensitivity through articulated balconies and pronounced gaps between buildings that respected the rhythm of the surrounding streetscape The apartment mix comprises 24 per cent studios and women [aged] over 55 for initial rental applications,” the planning document said A priority access scheme would be implemented to ensure these groups had leasing opportunities before the broader market The development provides nearly 2000sq m of external communal space and 400sq m of internal shared facilities It would also include 169 carparking spaces (a cut of 122 spaces from standard requirements) and 325 bicycle parking spaces across a basement level Two car-share spaces and 34 electric-vehicle spaces are included in the parking allocation The proposal involves significant planning framework adjustments The site requires environmental remediation with a Due Diligence Environmental Site Assessment identifying potential contamination from historical uses and nearby activities Sustainability initiatives included roof-mounted solar photovoltaic cells supplying about 10 per cent of the development’s energy needs The development team is aiming for a 5-star Green Star certification with aspirations for 6-star Green Star and Passive House certification Communal facilities incorporate co-working spaces alongside 1980sq m of external communal open space and 399.5sq m of internal communal areas The proposal included upgrading and widening the laneway west of the site to enable dual directional travel between The Avenue and The Grove The application is being assessed through the Department of Transport and Planning’s Development Facilitation Program with the Minister for Planning as the Planning Authority the proposal aims to address recognised shortfalls of appropriately located affordable and diverse housing forms while contributing to the economic vitality of the nearby Sydney Road retail precinct The site is near the Coburg Activity Centre and offers high accessibility to public transport including Moreland Train Station and tram routes Development costs and end value were not disclosed in the application Development Victoria said high land-value and construction costs made large-scale affordable housing for purchase unlikely without significant discounts Construction was scheduled for later this year The Development Victoria proposal comes amid broader transformation plans for Coburg, with Merri-bek City Council recently endorsing its Revitalising Coburg initiative The council is investigating development opportunities across 4.418ha of council-owned sites in central Coburg aiming to address a documented need for affordable housing in the area According to council data, 4341 households in Merri-bek required affordable housing, with significant private sector investment already under way, including Salvo’s $1.2-billion Pentridge redevelopment nearby. Residents say they warned Merri-bek council of the potential for asbestos to be found at Hosken Reserve years ago Link copiedShareShare articleIn short: Residents in Melbourne's north say their warnings about potentially dangerous materials in the soil of a local park were ignored by the local council.Asbestos was discovered during the redevelopment of Hosken Reserve in Coburg North earlier this year.What's next Council says the asbestos clean-up is continuing and is expected to cost around $700,000.An asbestos clean-up at a park in Melbourne's north is contributing to skyrocketing redevelopment costs despite residents warning the council about it years ago Merri-bek City Council pledged an upgrade of the Hosken Reserve in Coburg North to install football pitches and accommodate more soccer clubs at the park The park has been a controversial topic locally and has been met with resistance from some members of the community who claim the council did not listen to their concerns The discovery of asbestos at the park in late January has further complicated the picture and added to already increasing costs When the park redevelopment was proposed in 2021 the project was originally costed at $7.5 million That figure has now blown out to $10.6 million an increase of more than 40 per cent on the initial budget About $700,000 of the increase is due to the recent discovery of asbestos during an upgrade one of the football pitches While council no longer lists contingency funds in its budgets it said it had set aside money in the event of contamination The upgrading of facilities at Hosken Reserve has cost millions of dollars more than originally budgeted It's a situation longtime residents say they warned the council about years ago Merri-bek resident Margaret-Mary Cashin was part of a "refresh" committee set up by council to consult with local residents She said the committee had flagged the land's industrial past with council "We actually told them that there was serious contamination of the site," Ms Cashin said She said people who had lived in the area for decades claimed the site had been used as a dumping ground for potentially dangerous materials for years Ms Cashin said the consultation process was "soul destroying" and said it felt as if council were uninterested in changing their minds on the Hosken Reserve redevelopment "It was very much consultation to a predetermined plan." the council said most of the cost increases stemmed from a rise in labour and construction costs The official document that Merri-bek council has published on the community consultations makes no reference to the possibility of land contamination or the need for costly clean-ups The multi-million dollar upgrade of park facilities is still progressing at Hosken Reserve Councillor Sue Bolton said while contamination was not a big feature of the consultation process "I actually think it should have been acknowledged as part of the report that was produced around the master plan," Ms Bolton said "The contamination issue should have been raised because it was definitely raised in consultation by the residents." Ms Bolton said some residents had now grown wary of any council decisions around the site's redevelopment Ms Bolton noted that many community members only found out about the council putting out a tender for the construction of a synthetic pitch in 2020 on Hosken Reserve due to posts on a football club's social media page "There was no notification of the community about 80 per cent of the 580 respondents were happy with the proposed upgrades But less than a quarter of those respondents said they actually lived in the area with the response from locals far more mixed The council has closed off sections of Hosken Reserve this year following the discovery of asbestos in January It coincided with the closure of several parks in Melbourne's west due to the presence of asbestos, but unlike those parks, the asbestos found at Hosken Reserve was buried in the topsoil as opposed to being mixed in with mulch. "There is no evidence available to suggest this incident is related to any other asbestos contamination cases across the state or nationally," Merri-bek council said in an April 6 statement. "All asbestos found on site is considered non-friable. Non-friable asbestos is solid and cannot be crumbled or released into the air." With asbestos appearing in parks in Victoria and NSW, 7.30 went to industry insiders to find out why. The answer according to someone else who owns a similar business is a "major let-down in processes". In April 2023, Merri-bek council requested risk management firm Prensa to sample the soil at Hosken Reserve. The firm established 10 boreholes, and did not identify an asbestos containing materials (ACM) in them. However Prensa noted "boreholes are not the preferred method of assessing ACM contamination in soil, which results in a degree of uncertainty as to the presence of ACM within the fill at the site". Prensa further noted that in line with regulations, it did not test any further for potential asbestos contamination. "Visible evidence of asbestos was not identified during the assessment works. Therefore, no discrete analysis for asbestos fines was undertaken," the report said. For residents, the saga has left them questioning the financial stewardship of the council. "They say that they can't afford this or that for a library or a daycare service, but they've got $10.6 million to spend on a soccer club," Ms Cashin said. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) sells at auctionAlesha Capone dates back to the 1870s when it was part of the Pentridge Prison complex A first-home buyer is the proud new owner of a slice of Melbourne’s history The buyer purchased a two-bedroom townhouse at1 Sentry Lane that’s part of the former Pentridge Prison’s Woollen Mill conversion carpenters’ workshops and blacksmiths’ areas RELATED: ‘Bit of a vibe’: Melb family riding the $1m+ wave north in Coburg North Charming Coburg period home sells for $1.28m amid fierce bidding Auctions: Coburg villa sells for more than $50,000 above its reserve price under the hammer Prisoners worked in the mill while serving out their sentences the entire prison site was converted into a residential Jellis Craig Northern’s Yash Akpinar said more than 150 groups inspected the townhouse prior to the auction “I think what stood out is how unique the property is,” Mr Akpinar said Exposed brick gives the townhouse an industrial feel One of the home’s two courtyards even has a separate guards’ watchtower that is now used for storage Mr Akpinar said the townhouse’s industrial look including timber floors sealed sash windows and exposed brickwork was another feature that stood out to buyers The kitchen is fitted with stone bench tops built-in workstation and concealed wall storage form part of the main bedroom A waterfall-style island bench takes centre stage in the kitchen Mr Akpinar said four bidders contested the auction “There was strong bidding out of the gates the auction kicked off with a $670,000 bid,” he said He said most of the interested buyers were looking for their first home Pentridge Prison was established in 1851 and the Victorian government sold it to developers in 1999 Some of the prisoner’s most infamous inmates included bushranger Ned Kelly and gangland identity Mark ‘Chopper’ Read MORE: Couple buy their first home in Melbourne while holidaying 3100km away in WA $30m Canterbury home could break suburb’s lofty residential price record Brighton: Designer Kirsty Ristevski’s home hits the market for $7m This is probably not the page you’re looking for A small crowd came together in Melbourne’s north – sharing plates of food and dancing to Palestinian music – to celebrate the moment the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was due to come into effect They cried hopeful tears as the deadline arrived at 5.30pm on Sunday (AEDT), but the truce was delayed by almost three hours because of an eleventh-hour dispute Supporters of the Palestinian cause gathered in Coburg North on Sunday in anticipation of the ceasefire.Credit: Penny Stephens Hamas failed to provide the promised names of hostages set for release by an agreed deadline but it later said it had provided three names Israel announced soon afterwards that the ceasefire would start at 8.15pm (AEDT) The turmoil did not interrupt the crowd of about 100 at Olive Tree Bakery in Coburg North At least a dozen people driving down Sydney Road honked their horns in solidarity Father of four Darwish Alqahwaji and his family arrived in Melbourne seven months ago “I want to survive with my family,” he told The Age Outside Olive Tree Bakery.Credit: Penny Stephens who also owns the fast food chain Burgertory told the crowd the gathering was a celebration of the “survival resilience and the strength of our people” as we gather here in safety; let us remember what this ceasefire means,” he said a first step in a long journey toward true liberation and self-determination for Palestine.” The crowd in Coburg North on Sunday.Credit: Penny Stephens fighting is to pause in Gaza and dozens of hostages held by Hamas are to be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel pro-Palestinian protesters vowed to continue their Sunday rallies in Melbourne’s CBD even with a ceasefire prompting renewed calls from the state government and business lobby for the weekly marches to end after 15 months Palestinian activist Mai Saif said the ceasefire would not bring her peace nor would it bring relief to the tens of thousands of people killed in the war Demonstrators march towards Parliament House during the weekly pro-Palestinian rally in Melbourne on Sunday.Credit: Luis Enrique Ascui “It doesn’t give relief to every single home that’s been destroyed “They want us to cheer and celebrate – for what They want us to celebrate and say thank you a man wearing Israel’s flag as a cape approached the back of the crowd during speeches at the State Library but tempers remained calm and the group eventually dispersed A man wearing Israel’s flag as a cape at the rally.Credit: Luis Enrique Ascui Police estimated about 500 protesters attended in a reference to US President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign The crowd repeatedly chanted on the march to parliament: “All Zionists are terrorists.” Jewish Community Council of Victoria president Philip Zajac said he was frustrated that protesters planned to continue “disruptive and offensive demonstrations through Melbourne’s CBD” regardless of the ceasefire agreement Zajac said the council would continue to push the state government City of Melbourne and Victoria Police to “reclaim the city from these troublemakers” He said the community would sleep easier once all hostages were freed the hostages and their families remain in our prayers.” Acting Premier Ben Carroll said he was hopeful the protests could come to an end “Everyone does have a right to a peaceful protest,” Carroll said on Sunday “Protesting in Melbourne is not going to change outcomes overseas It’s important that we realise we have a CBD that we need to support … and I would hope that we can see a step-down from those protests.” Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry acting chief executive Chanelle Pearson said the protests were discouraging people from going into the city and hurting small businesses in particular “Traders are enjoying the swell of tennis fans attending the Australian Open – we don’t want anything to damage our reputation with visitors The protests continue to have a negative impact.” Australia Palestine Advocacy Network president Nasser Mashni said it was important the protests continued Rallies have been a regular event in Melbourne’s CBD every Sunday since Israel launched a devastating offensive in response to the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack that killed 1200 people More than 250 people were also taken hostage nearly 100 of whom remained in captivity in Gaza 15 months later – though it is uncertain who has survived Israel’s response has since killed more than 46,000 people in Gaza more than half of whom were women and children The ceasefire will pause fighting in populated areas of Gaza allowing people to return to what’s left of their homes and allow for a surge of aid to flow 33 hostages are to be released over six weeks in exchange for 737 Palestinian prisoners the Liberal MP for Caulfield and opposition police spokesman said on Sunday that the Jewish community would keep fighting for justice “We will not rest until every hostage is brought home,” he said The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here. A small crowd came together in Melbourne\\u2019s north \\u2013 sharing plates of food and dancing to Palestinian music \\u2013 to celebrate the moment the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was due to come into effect. They cried hopeful tears as the deadline arrived at 5.30pm on Sunday (AEDT), but the truce was delayed by almost three hours because of . Hamas failed to provide the promised names of hostages set for release by an agreed deadline, blaming a \\u201Ctechnical field\\u201D issue, but it later said it had provided three names. Israel announced soon afterwards that the ceasefire would start at 8.15pm (AEDT). The turmoil did not interrupt the crowd of about 100 at Olive Tree Bakery in Coburg North. Children, surrounded by green, red, white and black balloons, had watermelons painted on their faces. At least a dozen people driving down Sydney Road honked their horns in solidarity. Father of four Darwish Alqahwaji and his family arrived in Melbourne seven months ago, after leaving their lives behind in Gaza. \\u201CI want to survive with my family,\\u201D he told The Age. \\u201CWe lost everything.\\u201D Alqahwaji said he was worried for Gaza, and his brother there. \\u201CBut we live in hope.\\u201D Olive Tree owner Hash Tayeh, who also owns the fast food chain Burgertory, told the crowd the gathering was a celebration of the \\u201Csurvival, resilience and the strength of our people\\u201D. \\u201CTonight, as we gather here in safety; let us remember what this ceasefire means,\\u201D he said. \\u201CIt is not the end, it is merely a pause, a first step in a long journey toward true liberation and self-determination for Palestine.\\u201D Under the first phase of the agreed deal, fighting is to pause in Gaza and dozens of hostages held by Hamas are to be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Hours before yesterday\\u2019s delay, pro-Palestinian protesters vowed to continue their Sunday rallies in Melbourne\\u2019s CBD even with a ceasefire, prompting renewed calls from the state government and business lobby for the weekly marches to end after 15 months. Palestinian activist Mai Saif said the ceasefire would not bring her peace, nor would it bring relief to the tens of thousands of people killed in the war. \\u201CIt doesn\\u2019t give relief to every single home that\\u2019s been destroyed, every memory, essence, the society, the culture, history, our heritage, our lands, our trees,\\u201D Saif said. \\u201CThey want us to cheer and celebrate \\u2013 for what? They want us to celebrate and say thank you. We are not thankful.\\u201D At one point on Sunday, a man wearing Israel\\u2019s flag as a cape approached the back of the crowd during speeches at the State Library. After declining to leave the public space, he was encircled by protesters. Police watched closely, but tempers remained calm and the group eventually dispersed. Police estimated about 500 protesters attended, and said no incidents were reported. Several attendees wore red caps, in a reference to US President-elect Donald Trump\\u2019s campaign, that read: \\u201CMake Israel Palestine again.\\u201D The crowd repeatedly chanted on the march to parliament: \\u201CAll Zionists are terrorists.\\u201D Earlier on Sunday, Jewish Community Council of Victoria president Philip Zajac said he was frustrated that protesters planned to continue \\u201Cdisruptive and offensive demonstrations through Melbourne\\u2019s CBD\\u201D regardless of the ceasefire agreement. In a message to community members, Zajac said the council would continue to push the state government, City of Melbourne and Victoria Police to \\u201Creclaim the city from these troublemakers\\u201D. He said the community would sleep easier once all hostages were freed. \\u201CUntil then, the hostages and their families remain in our prayers.\\u201D Acting Premier Ben Carroll said he was hopeful the protests could come to an end. \\u201CEveryone does have a right to a peaceful protest,\\u201D Carroll said on Sunday. \\u201CProtesting in Melbourne is not going to change outcomes overseas. It\\u2019s important that we realise we have a CBD that we need to support \\u2026 and I would hope that we can see a step-down from those protests.\\u201D Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry acting chief executive Chanelle Pearson said the protests were discouraging people from going into the city and hurting small businesses in particular. \\u201CEnough is enough,\\u201D Pearson said. \\u201CTraders are enjoying the swell of tennis fans attending the Australian Open \\u2013 we don\\u2019t want anything to damage our reputation with visitors. The protests continue to have a negative impact.\\u201D Australia Palestine Advocacy Network president Nasser Mashni said it was important the protests continued. \\u201CA ceasefire is not liberation. Palestinians deserve liberation, like everyone else,\\u201D Mashni said. Rallies have been a regular event in Melbourne\\u2019s CBD every Sunday since Israel launched a devastating offensive in response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attack that killed 1200 people. More than 250 people were also taken hostage, nearly 100 of whom remained in captivity in Gaza 15 months later \\u2013 though it is uncertain who has survived. Israel\\u2019s response has since killed more than 46,000 people in Gaza, more than half of whom were women and children, according to Gazan health officials. The ceasefire will pause fighting in populated areas of Gaza, allowing people to return to what\\u2019s left of their homes and allow for a surge of aid to flow. Under the first phase, 33 hostages are to be released over six weeks in exchange for 737 Palestinian prisoners. David Southwick, the Liberal MP for Caulfield and opposition police spokesman, said on Sunday that the Jewish community would keep fighting for justice. \\u201CWe will not rest until every hostage is brought home,\\u201D he said. The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. . 1) 0ms;transition:fill 200ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;font-size:1.5rem;}.mui-13xs5pt{width:100vw;max-width:100vw;margin-top:1px;}.mui-68tkgc{width:100vw;max-width:100vw;margin-top:1px;}.mui-1i0sejk{min-width:200px;border-radius:4px;}.mui-o2bopd{text-align:center;-webkit-flex:0 0 auto;-ms-flex:0 0 auto;flex:0 0 auto;font-size:1.5rem;padding:8px;border-radius:50%;overflow:visible;color:rgba(0 0.54);-webkit-transition:background-color 150ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;transition:background-color 150ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;padding:12px;font-size:1.75rem;}.mui-o2bopd:hover{background-color:rgba(0 0.04);}@media (hover: none){.mui-o2bopd:hover{background-color:transparent;}}.mui-o2bopd.Mui-disabled{background-color:transparent;color:rgba(28 1) 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(min-width:1050px){.mui-10cmey2{padding:40px;}}.mui-19o9i2l{background-color:#fff;color:rgba(0 0.87);-webkit-transition:box-shadow 300ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;transition:box-shadow 300ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;border-radius:4px;border:1px solid rgba(0 0.12);}.mui-1extoah:hover{box-shadow:none;}.mui-1extoah.Mui-focusVisible{box-shadow:none;}.mui-1extoah:active{box-shadow:none;}.mui-1extoah.Mui-disabled{box-shadow:none;}ADVERTISEMENTSHAREEmailLinkedinFacebookTwitterPrintResidentialLeon Della BoscaThu 03 Apr 25Nightingale Secures Coburg Site for Townhouse DebutTUD+ Member Only Content Police arrested a man last night in Maribyrnong for his involvement in a Coburg North clandestine laboratory located a large-scale clandestine laboratory and seized various drugs of dependence as part of a four-month investigation into drug manufacturing who investigators will allege was the cook was arrested in Maribyrnong Thursday night He was charged with traffick commercial quantity methylamphetamine resist police and possess methylamphetamine The Hadfield man was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 23 police located a large-scale clandestine laboratory literature relating to the manufacture of drugs and a large commercial quantity of methylamphetamine A 44-year-old Toorak man was arrested at the address and charged with traffick methylamphetamine possess articles to manufacture and permit person to use land to manufacture He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 23 a search warrant was executed at a residential address in Pascoe Vale Police located commercial quantities of methylamphetamine A 53-year-old Pascoe Vale man was charged with two counts of traffick commercial quantity methylamphetamine traffick commercial quantity of amphetamine and two counts of possess articles to manufacture He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 23 A 53-year-old man living at the address was arrested but released pending further enquiries investigators searched a West Melbourne address locating varying quantities of methylamphetamine A 44-year-old man living at the address was arrested and subsequently extradited to Queensland where he had allegedly breached parole Anyone with information about illicit drug activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au Whether you're celebrating something special or just craving a sweet snack this new Brunetti Classico location in Melbourne's north has got you covered you won’t have to make the trip to Carlton to get your Brunetti fix This new boutique offers plenty of treats for takeaway perfect if you need to pop in for a quick snack Peer into the glass cabinets and find some savoury delights There will also be a full range of celebration cakes as well as their respective individual and mignon cakes Pair it with a coffee or a cool beverage for the ultimate experience why don’t you head upstairs and try their new custom cake consultation service you’ll get to taste test and design your dream cake with the help of a personal cake consultant “A selection of Brunetti Classico’s custom cakes will be on display for customers to peruse and to help inspire ‘cake design’ creativity,” said owner Fabio Angele “Mignon cakes will be available for tasting to ensure customers select the perfect filling flavour.” These cakes can be made for any special occasion You will need to book an appointment via phone or email to arrange a cake consultation Banco Group has secured one of Melbourne’s highest profile cake and desert makers to a near new food focused manufacturing hub investment in the north With a focus on celebration cakes – it will be the company’s first ever “cake consulting boutique” – but also selling hot and cold food and coffee the tenancy spreads 989 square metres including a mezzanine office Brunetti Classico was formed in 2021 while Mr Angele’s brother The family held the Brunetti Group name since 1991 The pasticceria opened in Carlton six years earlier Also today we are reporting Yuri picked up a Brunswick café and commercial kitchen occupied by Brunetti Oro for 10 years Covering six hectares at 105-113 Newlands Rd the Banco estate was designed for food grade requirements; kitchens contain grease interceptors some with circa eight metre clearances and three phase power Banco’s Will Lo Giudice and Anna Marie Leggo with CBRE’s Joe Brzezek, Jake George and Corey LeFavi are the leasing agents 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 Where to Find Australia’s Best Inner-City Bakeries By Katya Wachtel By Katya Wachtel By Matheus Back Alley Bakes rose out of Melbourne’s lockdowns when husband-wife duo (and baking enthusiasts) Gabriel Alonso and Alana Trevisan kneaded dough more than ever It’s since grown from a small two-person show in the couple’s Preston garage to a diminutive Coburg North bakery with regular lines out the door Behind a pink roller door in an industrial backstreet the space invites you in with its cabinet of gleaming pastries a window gives you a glimpse into the baker’s area and temperature-controlled pastry room Beyond the fan-favourite sourdough that cemented its reputation Back Alley Bakes offers a Basque cheesecake that’s scorched on the outside and fluffy on the inside A viennoiserie line-up includes pains au chocolat cruffin-like “morning buns” coated in sugar But the winner is Back Alley Bakes’ own creation: the “crois-sauso” a pork-and-fennel sausage roll wrapped in flaky croissant pastry The rest of the menu includes a host of vegan Website: backalleybakes.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 An architectural wonder nestled next to Coburg North’s Edgars Creek could soar to a new suburb price record The stone and timber Tree Haus at 44 Spectrum Way will let a buyer escape to the country without even leaving the city which blends perfectly into its leafy setting on the edge of Cash Reserve is for sale with a $2.095-$2.3 million price guide RELATED: Three-year hunt ends in Coburg North townhouse bidding battle victory A heavenly property bouquet in the heart of Coburg North Coburg North unit stock tight The property is on the edge of Cash Reserve Stone and timber features blend into the natural environment The stylish property could set a new price record in the suburb But a buyer will have to pay more than any Coburg North buyer before for the privilege CoreLogic records show the four-bedroom house would shoot past the existing residential price record set by a large block at 146 Elizabeth St when it sold for $2.02 million in 2016 Jellis Craig Brunswick agent Lisa Roberts said the pricey Spectrum Way property which was built where the old Kodak factory once operated was an unusual find in the industrial suburb A modern kitchen with Asko appliances is included Leafy vistas will make you feel far from the city The house has a $2.095-$2.3 million price guide “It’s the first tree change I’ve ever sold in the city,” Ms Roberts said “The house mimics the nature that it surrounds including the Silurian rocks found at the reserve.” She said tranquil vistas from huge windows in nearly every room made the house feel like it was in Daylesford or Byron Bay The bathroom has a Japanese sunken bath hidden under timber slats An indoor-outdoor setting can be enjoyed in the sunken lounge An indoor-outdoor central hallway also makes it easy to feel at one with nature at the environmentally sustainable home The Breathe Architecture design includes a Zen garden outdoor fire pit and veggie garden around the house which all add to the home’s sense of seclusion Other unusual features includes the central bathroom which has a sunken Japanese bathtub hidden under timber slats There are four bedrooms at the family home There’s a two-way fireplace to warm the dining area and the adjoined sunken lounge SUBURB PROFILE: Coburg North READ MORE: Warehouse conversions in high demand in Armadale and Windsor Old Beechworth Post Office awaits buyer stamp of approval HMVS Cerberus shipwreck inspired apartment sets Black Rock record Police investigating the attack that claimed the life of a teenager in Melbourne’s north at the weekend say they were shocked by the brutality of the targeted assault after reviewing CCTV of the incident died on a residential street in Reservoir after allegedly being chased beaten and stabbed multiple times by a group of about six people Detective Superintendent Paul O’Halloran said Declan was at a house party in Coburg about 2.40am when the group arrived looking for him and his friends Declan and several friends ran from the home Declan became separated from his friends and was unable to outrun the vehicle “The young male was separated from his friends and he was attacked by that group of offenders,” Superintendent O’Halloran said The attackers caught up with him near the intersection of Horton and Elizabeth streets and stabbed him several times in a brutal attack “I’m also told by the investigators reviewing some footage they were able to obtain that it was a very [they] are quite shocked about the brutality of the assault which involved a number of stabbings to the victim and also kicks and punches,” Superintendent O’Halloran said showed six people sprinting down Elizabeth Street near the time of the alleged attack two more figures ran down the street before a police car drove past in the opposite direction Two people could then be seen attempting to hide in the bushes of a nearby home before being picked up by a black car said one of the two boys asked the driver to take them away to avoid being discovered by police One of the boys was saying to the driver: ‘Please bro pick me up and take me a minute up the road because I don’t want the cops to find me’,” she said “It’s a bit scary … I knew there was something bad happening First responders rushed to provide first-aid but could not save the teenager Mourners flocked to a makeshift roadside memorial in Coburg North on Sunday spray-painting tributes to the 16-year-old on the road and outside wall of a home Parts of Elizabeth Street and adjacent streets were closed in the morning as police talked to residents and scoured the area for evidence State Emergency Service volunteers continued the search in the afternoon Police cordoned off parts of Elizabeth Street in Coburg North on Sunday as they collected evidence A large kitchen knife and another blade were among the items found by officers near the crime scene but it is not yet clear if the weapons were used in the alleged attack Superintendent O’Halloran said investigators had some “very strong lines of inquiry” and believed the attackers had targeted the teenager “We’re working very hard trying to identify exactly what has occurred but I can say this: it doesn’t appear to be a random attack,” he said Anyone who witnessed the incidents or has CCTV or dash-cam footage of the areas is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report the information confidentially online through the agency’s website Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. Get it here. Police investigating the attack that claimed the life of a teenager in Melbourne\\u2019s north at the weekend say they were shocked by the brutality of the targeted assault after reviewing CCTV of the incident. Declan Cutler, 16, died on a residential street in Reservoir after allegedly being chased, beaten and stabbed multiple times by a group of about six people. Detective Superintendent Paul O\\u2019Halloran said Declan was at a house party in Coburg about 2.40am when the group arrived looking for him and his friends. Declan and several friends ran from the home, chased by the group in a small dark car. Declan became separated from his friends and was unable to outrun the vehicle. \\u201CThe young male was separated from his friends and he was attacked by that group of offenders,\\u201D Superintendent O\\u2019Halloran said. The attackers caught up with him near the intersection of Horton and Elizabeth streets, in Reservoir, where they allegedly kicked, punched, and stabbed him several times in a brutal attack. \\u201CI\\u2019m also told by the investigators reviewing some footage they were able to obtain that it was a very, very vicious assault. In fact, [they] are quite shocked about the brutality of the assault which involved a number of stabbings to the victim and also kicks and punches,\\u201D Superintendent O\\u2019Halloran said. CCTV footage captured 400 metres away, obtained by Nine News Melbourne, showed six people sprinting down Elizabeth Street near the time of the alleged attack. Moments later, two more figures ran down the street before a police car drove past in the opposite direction. Two people could then be seen attempting to hide in the bushes of a nearby home before being picked up by a black car. A neighbour, who did not provide her name, said one of the two boys asked the driver to take them away to avoid being discovered by police. \\u201CIt was right outside my window. One of the boys was saying to the driver: \\u2018Please bro, pick me up and take me a minute up the road because I don\\u2019t want the cops to find me\\u2019,\\u201D she said. \\u201CIt\\u2019s a bit scary \\u2026 I knew there was something bad happening, but I didn\\u2019t know what it was.\\u201D First responders rushed to provide first-aid but could not save the teenager, who died at the scene. Mourners flocked to a makeshift roadside memorial in Coburg North on Sunday, spray-painting tributes to the 16-year-old on the road and outside wall of a home, and leaving flowers on the nature strip. Parts of Elizabeth Street and adjacent streets were closed in the morning as police talked to residents and scoured the area for evidence. State Emergency Service volunteers continued the search in the afternoon, looking in driveways and letterboxes. A large kitchen knife and another blade were among the items found by officers near the crime scene, but it is not yet clear if the weapons were used in the alleged attack. Superintendent O\\u2019Halloran said investigators had some \\u201Cvery strong lines of inquiry\\u201D and believed the attackers had targeted the teenager. \\u201CWe\\u2019re working very hard trying to identify exactly what has occurred, but I can say this: it doesn\\u2019t appear to be a random attack,\\u201D he said. Anyone who witnessed the incidents or has CCTV or dash-cam footage of the areas is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report the information confidentially online through the . Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. . Share via...Gift this articleSubscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe Sydney-based retail property investor Isaac Solomon has expanded his portfolio southwards buying the Coles-anchored Coburg North Village in Melbourne for $47 million The acquisition by Mr Solomon –  a seasoned investor who also owns the strongly performing Nowra Mall in Sydney –  was struck on a 4.7 per cent yield SaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy link Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Follow the topics, people and companies that matter to you. The three-bedroom home at 1A Lorensen Street has a tudor style, two bathrooms and had been lightly updated ahead of the sale. Despite three interested buyers, auctioneer Ben Calcagno had to open the bidding at $790,000. From there it quickly climbed in $10,000 increments, before it stalled at $895,000 and again at $900,000. Calcagno placed it on the market after conferring with the vendors a second time, and the property sold to an owner-occupier couple after no further bids were placed. Calcagno said the property had been popular for its unique charm and spacious floor plan. “It’s more popular because it’s a finished product … and when you’re talking inner city, there’s some old homes, they need some work,” he added. The auction was one of Calcagno’s last for the year. Mr Melbourne’s home sold, the Murdochs’ old home hasn’t: 2023 in prestige property Turn ‘devastation into a dream’ at fire damaged Eden Park property The best homes for sale in Victoria right now “This is our last weekend before Christmas … It’s been a bit of a roller coaster year, but I think it’s been a roller coaster the last couple of years. Post COVID I think it’d be nice to get some steadiness.” It was one of 1006 auctions scheduled for Saturday. By evening, Domain Group recorded a preliminary auction clearance rate of 59.2 per cent from 786 reported results, while 130 auctions were withdrawn. Withdrawn auctions are counted as unsold properties when calculating the clearance rate. In Hawthorn, a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment in a sought-after building sold for $860,000. The Agency’s Luke Saville listed the property at 22/1 Domville Avenue for sale with a quoted price range of $740,000 to $780,000. 2 Baths2 ParkingView listing He said four bidders took part, but had been shy at the start of the auction. “The first half of the auction was like pulling teeth,” he said. “It started at $720,000, and it took a good 10 minutes to get it up to $770,000. “Once that third bidder got involved in it, the bidding was strong after that. It took off, and it was done in five minutes.” Saville said most of the buyers had been particularly invested in the building and the surrounding neighbourhood. “The final two bidders really love it and didn’t want to be anywhere else. There’s not much like it in that part of west Hawthorn. “It’s a building that’s aged really well. It’s pretty popular, lots of people say they’d love to get an apartment in that building.” In Glen Iris, a family home sold for $2,472,000, after topping its advertised reserve price on the first bid. The four-bedroom house at 60 Dent Street featured a classic 1930s art-deco style, and had been renovated throughout. 2 Baths2 ParkingView listing Belle Property listing agent Tony Doh had advertised a reserve price of $2.15 million, which he said was welcomed by the five bidders. “I think buyers appreciated that it was transparent, and it was laid out before them, so there was no confusion.” The first bid was at the reserve, and Doh said the price steadily increased from there. The bidders were a mix of couples, families and downsizers, but the house sold to a buyers’ advocate whom Doh said had viewed the property for the first time that morning. He did not know the new owner but believed they were an owner-occupier. Doh said the sale was a great way to end the year. “The vendors are very happy. It was a win-win for everyone really.” In Carlton North, a terrace sold for more than its reserve price in a post-auction contest, after two parties of first home buyers let their nerves get the better of them on the auction floor. Nelson Alexander’s Charlie Barham had the listing for the two-bedroom house at 132 Lee Street; he said he passed the property in after no one topped his vendor bid of $1.1 million. 1 Bath− .css-12a1b0h{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;padding:0;-webkit-clip:rect(1px,1px,1px,1px);clip:rect(1px,1px,1px,1px);border:0;overflow:hidden;-webkit-clip-path:inset(100%);clip-path:inset(100%);-webkit-clip-path:none;display:none;}ParkingView listing He had listed the house for sale with a quoted price range of $1.1 million to $1.2 million. The reserve was at the top of the range. “The two parties that had an interest, they went to and fro, and we had an auction after the auction,” he said. “For one reason or another they chose not to bid. We get that from time to time. “We find in the first home buyer pool, bidding can be a nerve-wracking thing.” The home sold for $1.28 million, $80,000 more than its reserve price. Barham said the buyers liked that the property was ready to move in to and was nearby local restaurants and cafes. “It was a great entry-level, renovated terrace in Carlton North,” he said. “It’s literally a few hundred metres off Rathdowne village, near Florian, which is the bee’s knees these days.” 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 Two men have been charged in Coburg North after being caught with a sawn-off rifle Police observed a vehicle leaving an address on Arthur Street Police searched the vehicle and they located a sawn-off Stirling .22 rimfire rifle The rifle was not loaded at the time and was sawn down on the stock and barrel to become a handgun A 22-year-old Broadmeadows man has been charged with multiple offences including possession of a drug of dependence and driving whilst disqualified A 25-year-old Wollert man has been charged with multiple offences including unlicensed possession of a handgun Both men were bailed to appear in the Broadmeadows Magistrate’s Court on July 5 A Coburg North family watched as the home they bought two years ago developed them hefty windfall today The four-bedroom house at 35 Snapshot Drive in the suburb’s Coburg Hill Estate built in place of a former Kodak film facility Anthea Jewson said after seeing a few signs the market might be slowing in the suburb after recent strong momentum she “didn’t know what to expect” when her 35 Snapshot Drive house went under the hammer yesterday RELATED: Jeanette Large of Women’s Property Initiatives lists Coburg North home Coburg home last sold for $27,000 makes $1.43m in five-bidder auction Mount Waverley’s Sienna estate selling final homes 25 years on “It’s more than I was expecting and I’m very happy,” Ms Jewson said The sale was also close to $200,000 beyond the $1.09m it last changed hands for in 2019 A crowd of about 50 scanned a QR code and spread out inside the home as inclement weather pushed the event indoors A $1.1m vendor bid got the auction started and with five bidders emerging it reached the $1.15m reserve so fast the home was only called on the market at $1.2m but has seen substantial price growth in that time The figure rose in mostly $1000 increments from $1.26m with two bidders battling it out In the end a young professional couple renting in Preston after selling another property in Brunswick claimed the keys and ended the search for a home they began during lockdown last year Philip Webb’s Sam Babalis handled the auction and said the result had even come as a surprise to him after buyers who said they would be out at $1.15m prior to auction day continued bidding past $1.2m The home’s four bedrooms are all located on its second level The double-storey home was built seven years ago and features an open-plan living area and a study nook on the ground floor with a retreat joining the four bedrooms upstairs 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: Victoria’s most tightly held real estate markets for houses, units Bondi Sands tan founder Blair James lists Blairgowrie pad Half Melbourne suburbs tipped to have $1m median house price in next 12 months Father of three Mark Ganame was over the moon yesterday when his 1940s Coburg North house sold for more than twice what he paid for it seven years ago The big result followed a stunning renovation that inspired eight bidders to battle it out for the property on Saturday Mr Ganame and his wife originally purchased the three-bedroom California bungalow at 8 Lewis St from Ray White Brunswick agent Jamil Allouche for $560,000 RELATED: Coburg North Kodak factory estate house sold $125,000 above reserve Coburg single-fronted house for sale after architect-designed reno Coburg inner city oasis: sustainable house with no bills makes owners $300 a year But during a hotly contested auction the house sold for $1.298m a figure $248,000 above its $1.05m reserve A professional builder and renovator of bespoke bathrooms Mr Ganame said he had intended to “fix and flip” the house But the family loved the property so much they stayed on longer than planned four-year-old Leo and six-year-old Tommy spending years growing up in the home Mr Ganame said the abode had “solid bones” and he wanted to retain its period features while modernising the property I stripped it down to a shell and rebuilt it timber by timber,” he said He plans to take a holiday to Dubai or Italy to celebrate the sale breakfast bar and herringbone tiled splashbacks Mr Ganame is a professional builder and renovator of bespoke bathrooms Mr Allouche described the “cute as a button” abode as “a beauty with the kitchen and enormous north-facing Between 75 to 80 groups looked through the house which features a leadlight entrance and hardwood floor Mr Allouche kickstarted the event with a $900,000 vendor’s bid which was followed by a $950,000 bidder’s offer The living areas open to the backyard via bi-fold doors After rising in mostly $10,000 increments until a $1.215m offer came in several bids of $1000 drove the action at a rapid pace Mr Allouche was entertaining the crowd by talking about his undying support for Carlton when a new entrant joined the race at $1.22m — with the auctioneer announcing them as “a nice and loud Richmond supporter” “The eight bidders went at it hammer and tongs,” Mr Allouche said He said a Melbourne woman wanting to upsize won the keys to the residence after already attending several other auctions in recent weeks MORE: The Melbourne suburbs that have made their owners millionaires Brimbank, Moreland and Darebin named among national top 10 for property growth Mt Martha estate named Eden reborn after flood complete with huge entertainment barn Find Cedar Fox Distilling Co – a distillery from locals Craig Westwood and Ran Zaydan – in a former warehouse near Batman Station in Coburg North Its bar and cellar door is the culmination of years of hustling from the duo Westwood (ex-White Rabbit, Starward Whisky and Mountain Goat) started Cedar Fox in 2017 out of a nondescript 50-square-metre space not far from the current site your eyes are immediately drawn to a green onyx bar top and a large mural – the work of Melbourne-born artist Seldon Hunt who also designed the Cedar Fox labels – that depicts lush undergrowth Pomegranate and sumac add intrigue to the Fox and the City cocktail while Lebanese cucumber and parsley put a new spin on the classic gin mint and lime Southside cocktail (dubbed Northside here) the Cedar Fox Martini flight is a clever and original offering: you might sample three small Martinis – dry Hawkers and Watts River Brewing are joined by a tidy wine list of local and European drops And a concise list of bites includes cheese Website: cedarfoxdistillingco.com A former piece of Coburg North’s Mercy College has been listed by the Sisters of Mercy is expected to sell for about $2.5 million walking distance to Batman station and the mixed-use Pentridge prison redevelopment the land could accommodate a townhouse or low rise apartment complex The holding has rear access to Carr Street it could be replaced with an essential services product who is marketing the asset with Matt Hoath said any incoming owner might also utilise or repurpose an existing improvement The agents declined to comment on the buyer The listing comes two years since the Sisters of Mercy sold a 14.8 hectare hilltop estate – believed to be inner Brisbane’s largest privately held land parcel – at Bardon to White Energy managing director Brian Flannery for $14.5m (story continues below) The Coburg North property is being offered by the Institute Property Trust which supports and sustains the Sisters of Mercy in Australia and New Guinea “Coburg has to date been a bridesmaid suburb to its neighbours Brunswick and Thornbury but the increasing median price of townhouse and residential real estate has confirmed its appeal,” Mr White said “The Pentridge urban infill redevelopment nearby has also aided the demand for freehold property in the suburb,” he added “There are also major retail occupiers nearby including Officeworks Bunnings and a rage of café destinations along Sydney Rd” according to the agent The asset is near the ex-Australian Defence Apparel factory, at 14-22 Gaffney St, Coburg North, which Ryman acquired last year for $48.2m with plans for a $350m independent living and aged care complex Coburg North is nine kilometres north of Melbourne’s CBD This Coburg North spot shines thanks to its specialty Turkish Adana kebabs Stop by and you’ll likely find owner Erin Icbudak rotating the lamb over the grill which infuses the meat with a smoky flavour Get an accompaniment of grilled tomato with extra garlic sauce and pickled chilli or try one of Icbudak’s equally good chicken kebabs each bite of this Lebanese-style falafel wrap is a mini flavour explosion – and you can amp it up again with the Sydney Road spot’s signature chilli oil travel spots and more – curated by those who know Run by husband and wife Gabriel Alonso and Alana Trevisan Back Alley Bakes offers a sandwich menu that locals love sauerkraut and seeded mustard on a demi baguette fresh herbs and pickles on a classic sourdough – all for under $20 Alonso and Trevisan have keen eyes for seasonal produce transform the humble lunch staple into culinary gold Make sure you stock up on sourdough before heading home – and don’t sleep on the olive loaf Read Broadsheet’s guide to three of the best dishes in Preston for $20 or less Builder Hillbrook has officially turned the first sod on Norris a brand-new office complex at 2-6 Norris Street in Melbourne’s Coburg North The collection of 14 three-level offices is expected to be completed in April 2023 Offering secure premises and a modern aesthetic the studios range from 138 sqm to 165 sqm in size Located in the inner-north area of Melbourne down the road from the Upfield railway line the offices at 2-6 Norris Street are both easily accessible and quiet The complex is a five-minute walk from Sydney Road where plenty of options for meeting venues and post-work gatherings lie the studio spaces have three walk-up storeys The first floor is a brightly lit space with a kitchenette and the second floor hosts the versatile and functional office spaces The ground floor of each property is a warehouse that affords generous storage space and secure double parking The industrial exterior of the complex features a slick black corrugated façade bright interiors incorporate European Oak flooring and modern The development also features secure internal car parking with electric roller doors and a three-phase power security gate with CCTV security systems throughout said: “We’re excited to officially break ground on Norris an incredible development that blends the best of the city with the peace and convenience of the inner suburbs “This modern complex is perfect for businesses seeking a versatile workspace “Norris has been purposefully designed to create an environment that considers different ways of working Hillbrook has partnered with developer DVLPMNT Group on the project said: “We are excited to see Norris come to life given the careful planning undertaken to achieve the tri-level industrial solution “This project is unique for industrial buildings in the area coupling premium design and quality to achieve a high-level of finish in all aspects “With Norris already breaking the sales square metre record for Coburg North we are excited to deliver yet another exceptional project with Hillbrook.” Hillbrook’s custom buildings and renovations are designed to foster connection and bring people together with a commitment to sustainable construction at the fore You must be logged in to post a comment Construction industry ready as Queensland hospital expansion review concludes Boroondara opens nominations for 2025 Urban Design Awards Construction industry leaders to take part in 2025 Vinnies CEO Sleepout New leadership team appointed to overhaul QLD’s construction regulator Engineers Australia calls for target of 60,000 additional engineering graduates by 2035 Willmott Dixon selected to lead construction of Northern Roots Visitor Centre in Oldham New York state launches US$16.6m road resurfacing initiative on Long Island Foster + Partners unveils design for luxury green community on Laheq Island Victoria Tower Adelaide celebrates topping out milestone Plus Architecture secures DA approval for landmark build-to-rent project in West Melbourne Why concrete carbon sequestration could revolutionise the construction industry Adoption of AI in construction remains low with widespread concerns CFMEU investigation uncovers bad behaviour in building industry Sector hones in on sustainable building elements to meet efficiency standards Concrete surface treatments still improving after decades of innovation are embracing the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) in record numbers – having returned more than 500 million cans and bottles to be recycled Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos visited the CDS Vic Depot in Melton on May 24 – the second-highest performing site in Victoria to announce Victorians have put an impressive $50 million back into their pockets while donating thousands to participating charities or community groups The Melton depot which has handled 14.7 million cans and PET plastics in just over six months is operated by KARI in partnership with Clean Vibes a sustainable event waste management company KARI is a not-for-profit organisation that supports Aboriginal families and youth They also manage a second refund point in Coburg North and employ 17 people from mostly First Nations backgrounds across both sites Victorians continue to step up to the challenge in record numbers returning an average of 138 containers per transaction with CDS Vic processing around 17 million cans Williamstown is leading the state with over 18.6 million containers returned while Hallam is Melbourne’s third best performing site with residents having returned 10.9 million containers Mildura maintains its position as the top-performing refund point in regional Victoria having returned an astounding 11.7 million containers followed closely behind by Shepparton with more than 9.7 million containers collected Containers collected through CDS Vic can be transformed into all kinds of new things textiles and more – creating new economic opportunities that will support more than 600 jobs across Victoria Victorians will be able to return eligible drink containers to around 600 refund points across the state To find your nearest refund point and for more information, visit cdsvic.org.au Wesfarmers-owned Coles Group has made a quick profit selling a retail asset it has just developed in Melbourne's north for a speculated $34 million at the north-east corner of Gaffney and Sussex streets is understood to be selling to an investor after a high-profile campaign launched in June Coburg North Village shopping centre on the corner of Gaffney and Sussex streets.Credit: Cloud 9 Aerial Photography Coles paid $6.3 million for the 1.8-hectare site in 2010 previously occupied by another Wesfarmers business the supermarket giant applied to build the $15 million shopping centre which it opened last August The 6283-square-metre asset is two-thirds occupied by a Coles supermarket and associated Liquorland business however the Wesfarmers-associated groups pay just over 60 per cent of the rent An artist's impression of 60-82 Johnson Street some built around the 303-bay car park and facing the street contribute to the asset's annual return of $1.88 million the mall transacted on a low yield of 5.5 per cent Savills Pat De Maria and Tom Forrest marketed the asset Coles has developed and is now offloading mid-size shopping centres on prime sites acquired in the years after the 2008 property downturn Property developer Bill McNee is speculated to be selling half of a major Fishermans Bend development site for about $28 million where Vicinity is selling its Wodonga Plaza retail complex.Credit: Rick Stevens The 68 Johnson Street opportunity came about after numerous plans in recent years to sell the larger site known as 60-82 Johnson Street for about $60 million The director of Vicland Corporation obtained a development permit to build four towers on his South Melbourne landholding including two skyscrapers of more than 50 levels The opportunity to build one of these towers and a smaller apartment complex was put to the market a few months ago via agencies Dawkins Occhiuto and Colliers International the offering included a permit for 641 dwellings McNee acquired the 9776-square-metre 60-82 Johnston Street parcel in 2013 for $10.1 million Organic materials recycler Enviromix is negotiating to buy the trophy Labertouche Farm between Pakenham and Drouin – to develop a state-of-the-art composting plant considered one of Victoria's most productive farms Labertouche Farm hit the market nearly two years ago with a price tag of between $18 million to $21 million Some members within the syndicate of private investors who acquired the trophy asset in 2006 now want to follow other investment opportunities The farm operation raises nearly 300,000 broiler chickens every two months and runs more than 1000 dairy cows Harcourts Evan Broadbent marketed the site 75 kilometres from town and within a high rainfall area Enviromix is in the process of gaining approval from the Baw Baw Shire Council to integrate a composting plant and renewable energy anaerobic digester within the farm at 385 Labertouche Road The Dingley Village-based company said its proposed complex will feature force aerated chambers within a receipts shed where a selection of organic materials will be received and processed It said existing operations at Labertouche Farm will continue A privately owned transport company with a presence in the south-east has paid more than $9 million for a Rowville industrial site that is soon to be vacated The 830 Wellington Road property includes a large freestanding cool room and was marketed with a short-term lease to Parmalat Australia which began the Paul's Milk brand more than 80 years ago it is paying net rent of almost $77,000 per month to occupy the premises Colliers International's Justin Fried and Andrew Chrapot Mr Fried said Rowville was popular with industry users because of its easy access to arterial roads EastLink and the Monash Freeway "The campaign and sale demonstrates the strength and depth of current demand for established large-scale facilities in this tightly held fully developed industrial precinct," Mr Kelly added Balwyn North's former Village Disco – now a mixed-use asset – is expected to sell for more than $9.5 million the double-storey 1353-square-metre building includes shops undercover car park and rooftop penthouse capturing views of the CBD 11 kilometres away A residential developer may consider exploiting the potential views from this airspace replacing the 900 square metre block with a taller complex Lemon Baxter's Paul O'Sullivan and Chris Curtain are representing the vendor whose father built 70 Doncaster Road 60 years ago Vicinity Centres is selling its Wodonga Plaza retail complex for a speculated $50 million is occupied by more than 40 retailers including Coles With a lettable area of 17,560 square metres Wodonga Plaza would return a fully-leased annual rent of $4.72 million of Sydney's Stonebridge Property Group Part of a 636-bay car park at the 55-71 Elgin Boulevard complex has the potential to make way for a centre extension Vicinity said it would sell Wodonga Plaza and five other national retail assets estimated to be worth a total of about $250 million The other centres were the Maitland Hunter Mall and Tweed Mall Monier Village in Queensland and Albany Brooks Garden centre The Wodonga Plaza was valued at $47 million by the ASX-listed landlord which bought together retail management operations Federation Centres and Novion Property Group last year the group sold a portfolio of four shopping centres for $841.4 million to a partnership including US private equity giant Vicinity sold a 1.9-hectare block around its Keilor Shopping Centre Email: marcpallisco@gmail.com Wesfarmers-owned Coles Group has made a quick profit selling a retail asset it has just developed in Melbourne's north for a speculated $34 million contribute to the asset's annual return of $1.88 million Organic materials recycler Enviromix is negotiating to buy the trophy Labertouche Farm between Pakenham and Drouin \\u2013 to develop a state-of-the-art composting plant considered one of Victoria's most productive farms which began the Paul's Milk brand more than 80 years ago Colliers International's Justin Fried and Andrew Chrapot \\\"The campaign and sale demonstrates the strength and depth of current demand for established fully developed industrial precinct,\\\" Mr Kelly added Balwyn North's former Village Disco \\u2013 now a mixed-use asset \\u2013 is expected to sell for more than $9.5 million Lemon Baxter's Paul O'Sullivan and Chris Curtain are representing the vendor Asbestos has been discovered at three more parks in the Hobsons Bay council area as the industry warns the regulations enforcing safe disposal of the cancer-causing material are not being prosecuted On Friday evening, the Hobsons Bay Council confirmed three other parks had been contaminated with asbestos after it was originally found at a Spotswood park over Easter Donald McLean Reserve in Spotswood was taped off on Wednesday after asbestos-containing material was found The asbestos material has been found in parks at Crofts Reserve PJ Lynch Reserve and GJ Hosken Reserve – all in Altona North The three areas were fenced off on Friday night “Hobsons Bay City Council is closing areas at three additional reserves after testing confirmed the presence of asbestos-containing material,” a statement released on Friday night said Recycled mulch from these reserves was sent for testing following the recent findings at Donald McLean Reserve in Spotswood,” it said “Council will work with a material hygienist and the Environment Protection Authority Victoria to conduct remediation works on all these sites.” The council’s revelation came less than two hours after the Environmental Protection Authority released a statement which said the asbestos contamination had been confined to the original Spotswood park and was believed to be the result of illegal dumping The Allan government was warned last year it was not collecting information to stop illegal asbestos dumping as a key government program to set up in 2021 disposal sites collapsed earlier this year Asbestos removal specialist company Grounds Maintenance Australia’s managing director Steve Marett said laws regulating the industry weren’t being enforced “The less reputable demolition contractors will bundle all that timber up and send it to a recycling facility that has no real checks and balances,” Marett said “They are putting them through these grinders and then there’s a little bit of residual asbestos that hasn’t been removed in that process and that’s ending up in mulch.” At least three of the four Hobsons Bay parks are sites related to the state government’s Big Build West Gate Tunnel project The state government released an Asbestos Disposal Management Plan in 2021 that estimated the amount of the material going to landfill would rise from 178,000 tonnes in 2019-20 to 310,000 by 2031 This masthead revealed in January that a plan to expand the number of safe landfill sites The program set up three pilot sites but was meant to have eight by June 2022 The Victorian auditor-general audited the plan and said in November that it would not be delivered on time or as intended The auditor-general also said the government does not understand the scale of asbestos dumping across the state “The government also does not know where and how much asbestos is still in Victorian buildings and structures This information would help the government forecast patterns of illegal disposal and plan for future infrastructure needs,” the agency said the state government directed questions to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Employment Minister Vicki Ward said the government had given the EPA the ability to respond quickly to problems such as this “This is an issue that government is taking really seriously,” Ward said they are investigating and will continue to monitor this case.” Employment Minister Vicki Ward (centre) with Premier Jacinta Allan and Deputy Premier Ben Carroll in 2023.Credit: Getty The EPA asserted on Friday afternoon that it believed pieces of bonded asbestos came to be at Don McLean Reserve in Spotswood from illegal dumping rather than being mixed in with mulch that was laid at the park in late 2022 The EPA said it had “assessed and taken samples from other parks in the area that received mulch from the same source as Donald McLean Reserve” The statement said that while EPA investigations continue the authority believed the issue was “localised to Donald McLean Reserve and that the source of asbestos and other contaminants at the site was illegal dumping of construction and demolition waste that occurred after the mulch was delivered” That information was contradicted just hours later when Hobsons Bay council revealed three other parks had been contaminated and was managing them with the EPA At 8pm on Friday night the EPA released another statement saying “EPA understands that the mulch at these sites is from a different source to Don McLean Reserve which has been the focus of EPA’s initial investigations.” The local father who first raised the alarm about the material also found insulated wires and bits of wood containing nails scattered throughout the mulch a playground in Hosken Reserve in Coburg – which until last week was open to the public – was also barricaded off on Friday morning after Merri-bek Council confirmed asbestos-contaminated soil had been unearthed at the reserve It is unrelated to the mulch issue in Melbourne’s west Yellow tape emblazoned with “Asbestos Dust Hazard” surrounded the playground and other sections of the 5.5 hectare reserve on Friday while asbestos removalists in orange protective jumpsuits worked at the scene Asbestos contamination in Hosken Reserve Coburg North.Credit: Justin McManus Merri-bek Council said the majority of the reserve had been closed to the public since January when asbestos-contaminated soil was first found on site and that all asbestos found on site was considered non-friable “Asbestos located at the reserve has been localised to soil only and has not been detected in any materials (topsoil or mulch for example) being brought onto the site,” a spokesperson said Local resident Rachel Matton said council was warned the site could be contaminated in 2020 during community consultation ahead of the park’s development She said a neighbour who’d lived in the area for more than 60 years had called for a site stability assessment as the land had been used as a tipping site and was adjacent to a rubber works and a foundry Matton said she’d taken her two children to play at Hosken Reserve the week before council closed the playground Residents Simone Hocking with her children and Rachel Matton at the playground where their kids used to play.Credit: Justin McManus “It’s all very well for them to say it’s non-friable but have they seen how kids play in the dirt?” she said “I think they need to have a proper handle on where the asbestos is across the entire site and I think they need to do an assessment of parks that have been dug up and developed in the last 10 years to give the community reassurance they’re safe to use.” which said all contaminated soil was being “removed by competent and qualified asbestos removalists” and was expected to be completed by May 31 said it had tested the site for asbestos before the park was built but it must have been missed “Soil testing works were carried out via numerous bore sites across the reserve as this is an industry standard way of working may not detect isolated areas of contaminated soil as was the case at Hosken Reserve,” a spokeswoman said Diggers were continuing earthworks on other parts of the reserve when The Age visited on Friday Merri-bek Council clarified that the playground had only been closed as a precaution and the asbestos-contaminated soil was elsewhere on the reserve A council spokeswoman said that the dirt under the tarps on the playground was clean fill “and as is regular practice on construction sites The EPA said it was “supporting” Merri-bek Council to resolve the issue but did not confirm the agency had visited the site to inspect the clean-up methods “EPA will continue to support council as they resolve this issue but can reassure the community there is low risk,” a spokesperson said Although the cases in Coburg North and Hobsons Bay were unrelated “Bonded asbestos is generally made up of a small amount of asbestos fibres that are tightly bound in a product such as resin or cement,” the EPA statement said “It is considered low risk for people who are in contact with it resulting in asbestos fibres being released into the air.” The EPA said asbestos products were commonly used in houses constructed from the mid-1940s until the late 1980s and may still be found in houses built before 1990 asbestos waste must be legally disposed of to landfill – it must not be reused in mulch or any other product as does accidental contamination in construction and demolition waste that is recycled,” it said Asbestos contamination in Coburg North.Credit: Justin McManus “It is not unusual for people to find pieces of bonded asbestos in their homes or in the community you should contact your local council environmental health officer or EPA The authority earlier this week said it had carried out proactive inspections at 59 mulch suppliers and found no contamination although it issued six suppliers to improve their contamination controls The EPA has also cleared two schools in Upwey, Melbourne’s outer east where asbestos was suspected to have been found on a redeveloped oval After the discovery of the asbestos at Spotswood this week a Department of Education spokesperson said it was liaising with all mulch suppliers “out of an abundance of caution” Concerns around asbestos contamination in public spaces is heightened following a widespread asbestos-mulch scandal in NSW where asbestos-contaminated mulch has been found at 75 sites in the past month Contact the journalist securely: rachaeldexter@protonmail.com Get the day’s breaking news, entertainment ideas and a long read to enjoy. Sign up to receive our Evening Edition newsletter here. the Hobsons Bay Council confirmed three other parks had been contaminated with asbestos after it was originally over Easter PJ Lynch Reserve and GJ Hosken Reserve \\u2013 all in Altona North \\u201CHobsons Bay City Council is closing areas at three additional reserves after testing confirmed the presence of asbestos-containing material,\\u201D a statement released on Friday night said following the recent findings at Donald McLean Reserve in Spotswood,\\u201D it said \\u201CCouncil will work with a material hygienist and the Environment Protection Authority Victoria to conduct remediation works on all these sites.\\u201D The council\\u2019s revelation came less than two hours after the Environmental Protection Authority which said the asbestos contamination had been confined to the original Spotswood park and was believed to be the result of illegal dumping Asbestos removal specialist company Grounds Maintenance Australia\\u2019s managing director Steve Marett said laws regulating the industry weren\\u2019t being enforced \\u201CThe less reputable demolition contractors will bundle all that timber up and send it to a recycling facility that has no real checks and balances,\\u201D Marett said \\u201CThey are putting them through these grinders and then there\\u2019s a little bit of residual asbestos that hasn\\u2019t been removed in that process and that\\u2019s ending up in mulch.\\u201D At least three of the four Hobsons Bay parks are sites related to the state government\\u2019s Big Build West Gate Tunnel project that a plan to expand the number of safe landfill sites \\u201CThe government also does not know where and how much asbestos is still in Victorian buildings and structures This information would help the government forecast patterns of illegal disposal and plan for future infrastructure needs,\\u201D the agency said \\u201CThis is an issue that government is taking really seriously,\\u201D Ward said they are investigating and will continue to monitor this case.\\u201D The EPA said it had \\u201Cassessed and taken samples from other parks in the area that received mulch from the same source as Donald McLean Reserve\\u201D The statement said that while EPA investigations continue the authority believed the issue was \\u201Clocalised to Donald McLean Reserve and that the source of asbestos and other contaminants at the site was illegal dumping of construction and demolition waste that occurred after the mulch was delivered\\u201D \\u201CEPA understands that the mulch at these sites is from a different source to Don McLean Reserve which has been the focus of EPA\\u2019s initial investigations.\\u201D The about the material also found insulated wires a playground in Hosken Reserve in Coburg \\u2013 which until last week was open to the public \\u2013 was also barricaded off on Friday morning after Merri-bek Council confirmed asbestos-contaminated soil had been unearthed at the reserve It is unrelated to the mulch issue in Melbourne\\u2019s west Yellow tape emblazoned with \\u201CAsbestos Dust Hazard\\u201D surrounded the playground and other sections of the 5.5 hectare reserve on Friday \\u201CAsbestos located at the reserve has been localised to soil only and has not been detected in any materials (topsoil or mulch for example) being brought onto the site,\\u201D a spokesperson said during community consultation ahead of the park\\u2019s development She said a neighbour who\\u2019d lived in the area for more than 60 years had called for a site stability assessment Matton said she\\u2019d taken her two children to play at Hosken Reserve the week before council closed the playground \\u201CIt\\u2019s all very well for them to say it\\u2019s non-friable but have they seen how kids play in the dirt?\\u201D she said \\u201CI think they need to have a proper handle on where the asbestos is across the entire site and I think they need to do an assessment of parks that have been dug up and developed in the last 10 years to give the community reassurance they\\u2019re safe to use.\\u201D which said all contaminated soil was being \\u201Cremoved by competent and qualified asbestos removalists\\u201D and was expected to be completed by May 31 \\u201CSoil testing works were carried out via numerous bore sites across the reserve as was the case at Hosken Reserve,\\u201D a spokeswoman said A council spokeswoman said that the dirt under the tarps on the playground was clean fill \\u201Cand as is regular practice on construction sites The EPA said it was \\u201Csupporting\\u201D Merri-bek Council to resolve the issue \\u201CEPA will continue to support council as they resolve this issue but can reassure the community there is low risk,\\u201D a spokesperson said \\u201CBonded asbestos is generally made up of a small amount of asbestos fibres that are tightly bound in a product such as resin or cement,\\u201D the EPA statement said \\u201CIt is considered low risk for people who are in contact with it resulting in asbestos fibres being released into the air.\\u201D asbestos waste must be legally disposed of to landfill \\u2013 it must not be reused in mulch or any other product as does accidental contamination in construction and demolition waste that is recycled,\\u201D it said \\u201CIt is not unusual for people to find pieces of bonded asbestos in their homes or in the community The EPA has also cleared Melbourne\\u2019s outer east a Department of Education spokesperson said it was liaising with all mulch suppliers \\u201Cout of an abundance of caution\\u201D Concerns around asbestos contamination in public spaces is heightened following a widespread asbestos-mulch scandal entertainment ideas and a long read to enjoy Coburg North residents have been blindsided by plans to rip up a grass oval and replace it with synthetic turf which would be closed to the public during soccer games and training The oval at the northern end of Hosken Reserve would get LED lighting and low fencing as part of the redevelopment Locals at Hosken Reserve in Coburg North.Credit: Justin McManus But there has been no consultation with residents since 2009 and most people learned of the plans in the days before Moreland Council went into caretaker mode ahead of local council elections Resident Tatiana Stephens, who started a change.org petition that so far has almost 1800 signatures said council could easily work with locals to find a solution that works for everyone "It's really surprising that community consultation hasn't taken place because it's such an easy fix," Ms Stephens said Moreland Council chief executive Cathy Henderson last week acknowledged there had not been appropriate consultation there hasn't been recent consultation with nearby residents," she told councillors and candidates Ms Henderson said the project has been part of capital works plans approved by council for years residents near Hosken Park would not have been aware of the proposed synthetic pitch unless they participated in the 2009 consultation process or unless they checked recent consultation documents in detail." Ms Henderson said it was unfortunate that the plans were not accessible on the council website Tender plans for Moreland Council to turn the oval at Hosken Reserve into a synthetic soccer pitch.Credit: Moreland Council / LD Eng it would have been preferable that recent consultation occurred with local residents about changes planned for Hosken Reserve (north) Council's community and engagement and public participation policy would suggest that such consultation should have occurred I acknowledge the frustration and disappointment felt by local residents." There were 177 responses to the 2009 survey of neighbouring households An agenda item from 2016 shows that the oval was with a smaller training area in the north-east of the reserve set to be covered in synthetic grass who is from the Socialist Alliance and is up for re-election said councillors have been kept in the dark Tatiana Stephens and daughter Elfie with unhappy locals at Hosken Reserve.Credit: Justin McManus "Somewhere along the lines the plans have changed without coming back to council in a way in which councillors can make informed decisions and without any public consultation," Cr Bolton said Minutes from the 2009 council decisions are not publicly available and have not been provided to councillors Moreland Council also invested in a stormwater project to water the grass at Hosken Reserve There is already an enclosed soccer field at the southern end of Hosken Reserve The synthetic pitch would host up to 70 hours of soccer a week and would be open to the public outside of formal games and training said residents would not be locked out of the park by the 1.2-metre high fence "We want to align ourselves with the community," Mr Tona said "There's sufficient parkland for everyone to get their daily exercise to cater for the whole community and the club." He said he believes the plans changed because the smaller space The announcement came after the state government awarded $500,000 to the project as part of the $4.9 million World Game Facilities Fund Moreland Council released the tender on September 19 three days before the council went into caretaker mode for the election period The tender will close on October 13 and will be considered by councillors after the election Cr Bolton said the community was suspicious of any fence going up but she hopes that a resolution can be found Greens candidate Adam Pulford said he would vote to pause the project so consultation can take place A state government spokesman said the project was being managed by Moreland Council and residents should raise concerns with them A Moreland Council spokeswoman declined to comment during caretaker mode An earlier version of this article incorrectly described Sue Bolton as a Victorian Socialists councillor Cr Bolton is a Socialist Alliance councillor who started a that so far has almost 1800 signatures \\\"It's really surprising that community consultation hasn't taken place because it's such an easy fix,\\\" Ms Stephens said there hasn't been recent consultation with nearby residents,\\\" she told councillors and candidates or unless they checked recent consultation documents in detail.\\\" Council's community and engagement and public participation policy would suggest that such consultation should have occurred I acknowledge the frustration and disappointment felt by local residents.\\\" \\\"Somewhere along the lines the plans have changed without coming back to council in a way in which councillors can make informed decisions and without any public consultation,\\\" Cr Bolton said \\\"We want to align ourselves with the community,\\\" Mr Tona said \\\"There's sufficient parkland for everyone to get their daily exercise to cater for the whole community and the club.\\\" The announcement came after the state government awarded $500,000 to the project as part of the $4.9 million confirms late on Friday that three further sites have been identified Victoria’s environment watchdog says it suspects an illegal dumping of construction waste was behind the discovery of asbestos in mulch in Melbourne’s west this week But the spread of asbestos could be broader than first suspected confirming late on Friday that three further sites have been identified Asbestos-containing material was initially found in mulch next to a playground in Donald McLean Reserve in Spotswood on Monday Asbestos was then also discovered in soil at a second park in the city’s north with Merri-bek city council on Friday confirming the detection at Hosken Reserve in Coburg North after an earlier discovery in late January the Victorian Environment Protection Authority said it had identified other parks in the city’s west that received mulch from the same source as that used in Spotswood “Testing results have confirmed the only site with traces of asbestos is Donald McLean Reserve Material from all other sites tested negative for asbestos,” the EPA said in a statement Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup The EPA said the issue was localised to the one site and believed “illegal dumping of construction and demolition waste” that occurred after the mulch was delivered was the source of the contamination. However, late on Friday, a statement from Hobsons Bay Council contradicted the EPA’s findings, saying it had detected asbsetos at three more public parks. “Hobsons Bay City Council is closing areas at three additional reserves after testing confirmed the presence of asbestos-containing material,” the council said in a statement. “Sections of Crofts Reserve, Hosken Reserve and Lynch Reserve, all in Altona North, will be closed until further notice. Recycled mulch from these reserves was sent for testing, following the recent findings at Donald McLean Reserve in Spotswood.” The statement said the council would work with a material hygienist and the EPA to undertake remediation works on all of the sites. It said the materials discovered at the reserve were bonded asbestos, which is considered low-risk for people in contact with it unless it is damaged or badly weathered. In a statement earlier on Friday, Merri-bek council said the “majority of the site” at Hosken Reserve had been closed to the public since asbestos was first discovered there in January. appropriate measures were taken to ensure the contaminated soil was removed the site was safe and local residents were notified,” they said further asbestos-contaminated soil was discovered This contaminated soil is now being removed by competent and qualified asbestos removalists and is expected to be completed by Friday 31 May.” air monitoring will be conducted to ensure the safety of workers and nearby residents Workers on site will also be required to wear personal protective equipment They said any soil that contains asbestos is also “sealed under cover and is inaccessible to the public” the asbestos found at the reserve has been “localised to soil only” Sign up to Afternoon Update: Election 2025 Free daily newsletterOur Australian afternoon update breaks down the key election campaign stories of the day telling you what’s happening and why it matters All asbestos found on the site was considered non-friable which means it is solid and cannot be crumbled or released into the air They said there was “no evidence” it was linked to any other asbestos contamination cases across the state or nationally “It is a frequent occurrence in inner Melbourne that construction projects will involve discovery of centuries-old or decades-old contamination which can then be appropriately dealt with under standards and guidelines,” they said On Wednesday, the Hobsons Bay city council in Melbourne confirmed two pieces of building material found by a resident on Monday contained asbestos. The council said the asbestos material was discovered in a recycled mulch product around mature tree-planting. A “virgin soft mulch” was also used around the playground. Read moreIt said it has identified the supplier of the mulch but has not made this information public The Victorian opposition said the state government must do more to ensure the state’s parks were safe for children to play in The government needs to come clean and tell us: are there any other playgrounds that have the same kind of risk [and] what is the government doing to mitigate the risk?” the deputy Liberal leader Guardian Australia has approached the government for comment There is heightened community concern around asbestos contamination after the discovery of bonded asbestos at more than 75 sites, including parks and schools Queensland authorities have also identified at least 90 sites for investigation after contaminated mulch was taken from two stockpiles EPA Victoria has conducted precautionary inspections of 59 commercial mulch producers and said on Wednesday no traces of asbestos were found in their products Retail giant Coles will divest its newly developed Coburg North Village shopping centre into a property market starved of retail assets and fuelled by historic low interest rates Coles' development arm opened the new-format supermarket on the corner of Gaffney and Sussex streets in Melbourne's north in August last year along with 15 speciality stores leased to various businesses including a medical centre Coburg North Village shopping centre on the corner of Gaffney and Sussex streets.Credit: Cloud 9 Aerial Photography The supermarket giant appears to have chosen an opportune time to pitch the neighbourhood shopping centre to investors with few similar assets being offered this year It follows the listing this week of another major retail asset MAB Corporation's service station and convenience store complex on the West Gate Freeway which is expected to sell for around $25 million The Shell service station includes a Coles Express Hungry Jack's and Red Rooster with 15-year leases returning total net income of $1.41 million About 180,000 vehicles a day drive past the complex at the city end of the West Gate Bridge according to selling agents Savills Australia and Dawkins Occhiuto The 18,560 square metre shopping complex in Coburg North is anchored by a new-format Coles supermarket and Liquorland said Savills Australia's Pat De Maria and Tom Forrest who have been appointed to handle the sale Mr De Maria said low interest rates and limited availability of non-discretionary retail assets were likely to drive strong national and offshore interest "There hasn't been many of these come up This is one of the best neighbourhood centres offered in the last five years," he said Few stand-alone supermarkets and neighbourhood centres have been offered for sale this year with the level of market activity slumping as investors hold onto landmark properties rather than sell in a low interest rate environment The last Victorian neighbourhood centre to change hands was Bundoora Square shopping centre in Melbourne's northern suburbs Equivalent pricing would put a value on Coburg North Village of more than $30 million Bundoora Square was purchased by developer Five Squared for $26.5 million from CoINVEST the trustee administering the portable long-service leave scheme for Victoria's construction industry Coles' development arm opened the new-format supermarket on the corner of Gaffney and Sussex streets in Melbourne's north in August last year along with 15 speciality stores leased to various businesses including a medical centre MAB Corporation's service station and convenience store complex on the West Gate Freeway Hungry Jack's and Red Rooster with 15-year leases returning total net income of $1.41 million said Savills Australia's Pat De Maria and Tom Forrest \\\"There hasn't been many of these come up This is one of the best neighbourhood centres offered in the last five years,\\\" he said The last Victorian neighbourhood centre to change hands was Bundoora Square shopping centre in Melbourne's northern suburbs the trustee administering the portable long-service leave scheme for Victoria's construction industry.