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) The Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) has formally announced that the 2025 Melbourne Boat Show will take place from 16–19 October at Docklands This announcement follows an extensive review process involving consultation with major boat dealers and exhibitors a site visit to a potential alternative venue BIAV CEO Steve Walker expressed gratitude to the approximately 45 participants who represented the broader exhibitor group and contributed to the process Walker emphasised that exhibitor engagement was vital in supporting the Board’s final decision for 2025 He noted that exhibitor satisfaction remains a key performance indicator for BIAV’s boat shows and that a thorough comparison of options and high-quality feedback were essential—and successfully achieved The evaluation process compared the established Docklands venue—adopted by BIAV in 2022—with Caribbean Park which offered both indoor and lakeside exhibition options While Caribbean Park presented many advantages and remains a potential future option the majority of support for 2025 favored Docklands Contributing factors included its capacity to accommodate all exhibit types and its continued growth in terms of both footprint and visitor numbers Exhibitor information for the 63rd Melbourne Boat Show will be distributed in May as preparations continue for another highly successful event For further information visit their website HERE Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value" Australian Venue Co has leased a high-profile hospitality component of Lendlease’s Melbourne Quarter Pub, Quarterhouse, will open mid-May from the recently completed three level building at 693 Collins Street, opposite Southern Cross train station, between the ex-Age headquarters (655 Collins St), which GPT old in December bookings were being accepted from yesterday The venue will include an open-to-the-public pub and restaurant on the ground floor Private function spaces with a terrace – able to be merged and accommodate 240 people – are on the first floor There is also a rooftop bar opening to the new Sky Park which forms part of the Melbourne Quarter masterplan “Quarterhouse is exactly what this part of the CBD has been missing,” venue manager “It is everything Melburnians love about a pub; casual and with something for everyone whilst also offering something unique with our rooftop bar overlooking the Sky Park,” he added Also this week we are reporting a Fitzroy church converted office was rented to a hospitality group for a wedding venue 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 You need to enable javascript to view latest disruptions Stay updated about the West Gate Tunnel Project with key announcements and milestones. 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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Development Victoria for $22.5 million in late 2021 and we anticipate announcing further details in due course”.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"2eOcQl0gP2gaNamKWkJvI\"\u003e\u003cpicture\u003e\u003cimg src=\"//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6XLV84u8eNtMuN6rq3gV25/66a07b18039e316063ec7f5ee6a80ba8/Samma_ivanhoe_story_mid_1.jpg\" alt=\"The proposed plans for Samma Property Group and Brightlight's $200-million build-to-rent project at 194-206 Lorimer Street near the Bolte Bridge in Docklands Melbourne.\" data-mce-src=\"//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6XLV84u8eNtMuN6rq3gV25/66a07b18039e316063ec7f5ee6a80ba8/Samma_ivanhoe_story_mid_1.jpg\"\u003e\u003c/picture\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan style=\"opacity: 0.8;\" data-mce-style=\"opacity: 0.8;\"\u003e▲ A render of the Samma Property Group\u003cspan data-mce-style=\"font-family:'Times New Roman' serif;\" style=\"font-family:'Times New Roman' serif;\"\u003e’s\u003c/span\u003e\u0026nbsp;and Brightlight\u003cspan data-mce-style=\"font-family:'Times New Roman' serif;\"\u003e’\u003c/span\u003es $200-million build-to-rent project at Docklands.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe waterfront site has four frontages and views of the Yarra River Melbourne’s CBD and Port Phillip Bay.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is next to the Bolte Bridge and contains the heritage-listed Shed 21 which was to be integrated into the architectural design with a connecting public realm.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBensons Property Group will serve as development manager for the project overseeing the full development process including pre-sales construction and delivery.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe company said that due diligence on the site began in the fourth quarter of 2024 with the sales contract finalised in late February.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis acquisition follows the developer’s emergence from a challenging financial period.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCreditors voted overwhelmingly (99.1 per cent) to approve a Deed of Company Arrangement on February 7 accepting about $414 million in settlement of more than $811 million owed.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"6P5snsUJRiiNgZKu53X8Ua\"\u003e\u003cpicture\u003e\u003cimg src=\"//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3Y2ShJp2ZJ5Pchd0K1UIn3/f71daff8ae049ca45ab5e30f42de56f3/BENSONS-Chevron-One_HERO.jpg\" alt=\"Construction on Bensons Property Group Chevron One will continue according to the terms of the administration settlement.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“We are committed to providing opportunities for our stakeholders and believe Melbourne remains an attractive market offering affordability that is increasingly rare in other capital cities,” Curtis said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePrior to entering administration the group had more than 1300 homes under construction across Victoria Its projects were valued at about $1.5 billion.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMajor creditors included Banner Asset Management which was owed $190 million for the ongoing construction of a $485-million tower on the Gold Coast’s Chevron Island.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBensons’ financial situation had deteriorated significantly with revenue plummeting from $243 million in 2019 to just $4 million by December 2024.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe administrator’s report revealed potential insolvency dating back to July 2023 though directors had sought “safe harbour” protection during this period.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThroughout the administration BPG continued trading without interruption to existing projects or staff redundancies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe company’s portfolio includes notable Melbourne developments such as Society Armadale and St James Park in Hawthorn.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFounded in 1994 by Lebanese immigrant Elias Jreissati (\u003cem\u003epictured top\u003c/em\u003e) Bensons \u003ca href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/under-pressure-bensons-vows-to-deliver-1300-apartments\" data-mce-href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/under-pressure-bensons-vows-to-deliver-1300-apartments\"\u003eplans to deliver its $1.5-billion development pipeline\u003c/a\u003e comprising more than 1000 homes across multiple projects 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 The Melbourne-based developer secured the 4509sq m site at 194-204 Lorimer Street from Samma Property Group for what industry sources suggest was “just over $20 million” The acquisition is the company’s first major move since exiting administration on February 20 It entered the process in December of 2024 with debts totalling $812 million comes with planning approval for a residential tower Samma’s $250-million plan for a 31-storey tower comprising 402 build-to-rent apartments approved in 2023 was due for completion in 2026 The Fender Katsalidis-designed project features a non-traditional maritime-inspired silhouette with two sculptural towers extending to ground level Bensons plans to establish two new investment funds targeting the same creditors who recently accepted reduced debt settlements These funds would support the development of a luxury residential project on the site Bensons Property Group chief executive Rick Curtis said the “site represents a high-quality residential development opportunity and we anticipate announcing further details in due course” The waterfront site has four frontages and views of the Yarra River It is next to the Bolte Bridge and contains the heritage-listed Shed 21 which was to be integrated into the architectural design with a connecting public realm Bensons Property Group will serve as development manager for the project The company said that due diligence on the site began in the fourth quarter of 2024 with the sales contract finalised in late February This acquisition follows the developer’s emergence from a challenging financial period Creditors voted overwhelmingly (99.1 per cent) to approve a Deed of Company Arrangement on February 7 accepting about $414 million in settlement of more than $811 million owed The rescue deal involved the company’s founding Jreissati family committing to inject nearly $480 million over three years The decision to approach previous creditors for new investment comes after these same stakeholders agreed to settle for roughly 50 cents on the dollar for their existing claims Unsecured creditors reportedly received just 0.14 cents in the dollar according to the terms of the administration settlement “We are committed to providing opportunities for our stakeholders and believe Melbourne remains an attractive market offering affordability that is increasingly rare in other capital cities,” Curtis said Its projects were valued at about $1.5 billion Major creditors included Banner Asset Management which was owed $190 million for the ongoing construction of a $485-million tower on the Gold Coast’s Chevron Island Bensons’ financial situation had deteriorated significantly with revenue plummeting from $243 million in 2019 to just $4 million by December 2024 The administrator’s report revealed potential insolvency dating back to July 2023 though directors had sought “safe harbour” protection during this period BPG continued trading without interruption to existing projects or staff redundancies The company’s portfolio includes notable Melbourne developments such as Society Armadale Founded in 1994 by Lebanese immigrant Elias Jreissati (pictured top), Bensons plans to deliver its $1.5-billion development pipeline comprising more than 1000 homes across multiple projects The Docklands acquisition is its first step towards growth beyond the existing pipeline Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time Volunteer groups restoring some of Melbourne’s best-known heritage vessels have been given the heave-ho from their headquarters to make way for 900 new apartments The not-for-profit restorers of boats like the 120-year-old tall ship Alma Doepel said they will have nowhere to go after being evicted from North Wharf at Docklands Heritage views: Eden Alley-Porter on the replica schooner Enterprize at North Wharf in Docklands.Credit: Jason South of showing “a complete disregard” for our maritime heritage will be razed by developer Lendlease in the latest phase of its Collins Wharf precinct Development Victoria recently extended the heritage fleet’s eviction deadline from June until the end of 2025 The three heritage boats based at North Wharf include the Alma Doepel a three masted topsail schooner launched in 1903 that is being restored so it can run training programs on the water for disadvantaged young people and school groups; the Enterprize which currently does educational sailing trips and is a replica of the tall ship that carried early settlers into Melbourne in 1835; and the steam-powered tug boat Wattle which is being refurbished to resume its longtime use for tourist cruises chairperson of Melbourne Maritime Heritage Network.Credit: Jason South chairperson of Melbourne Maritime Heritage Network said Development Victoria had shown a lack of respect for maritime heritage and offered “no viable alternative” premises “Development Victoria are effectively washing their hands and saying ‘oh well knowing full well that it is not long enough,” she said said the vessels are “the last remnants of our maritime heritage” chair of the charity that owns the Alma Doepel said they were in shock at the eviction notice and Development Victoria appeared to have “thrown out” its past keenness to maintain connections to Docklands’ heritage On the lookout: Eden Alley-Porter and Warwick Brown on the replica schooner Enterprize which will have to move from its current home at North Wharf.Credit: Jason South said the eviction news was very disappointing He calculated that one proposed alternative site would cost his group $15,000 to $20,000 to move to A Lendlease spokesperson said they would continue to support Development Victoria in its efforts to assist the heritage fleet’s relocation Development Victoria’s acting group head of precincts said: “We recognise the importance of providing time to determine a suitable alternative location for the fleet’s workshop and vessels and we will continue to work with them to explore viable relocation options.” this has always been presented as an interim solution that would involve the fleet’s relocation as housing development in the area progressed Development Victoria has provided $800,000 in funds or in-kind support over that time to maintain the workshop and berthing facilities as well as covering utilities and other outgoings They said an extension of the fleet’s occupation of Shed 2 beyond December was unlikely Deputy Lord Mayor and head of the planning portfolio Roshena Campbell said at a council meeting on Tuesday night that “unfortunately the City of Melbourne currently has no available options for an onshore workshop and adjacent berthing to accommodate vessel restoration within Docklands” On March 25 at 6pm, Melbourne Maritime Heritage Network is hosting a free forum on the issue at Docklands Library. Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter Volunteer groups restoring some of Melbourne\\u2019s best-known heritage vessels have been given the heave-ho from their headquarters to make way for 900 new apartments of showing \\u201Ca complete disregard\\u201D for our maritime heritage Development Victoria recently extended the heritage fleet\\u2019s eviction deadline from June until the end of 2025 said Development Victoria had shown a lack of respect for maritime heritage and offered \\u201Cno viable alternative\\u201D premises \\u201CDevelopment Victoria are effectively washing their hands and saying \\u2018oh well we\\u2019ll give you another six months\\u2019 knowing full well that it is not long enough,\\u201D she said said the vessels are \\u201Cthe last remnants of our maritime heritage\\u201D said they were in shock at the eviction notice and Development Victoria appeared to have \\u201Cthrown out\\u201D its past keenness to maintain connections to Docklands\\u2019 heritage A Lendlease spokesperson said they would continue to support Development Victoria in its efforts to assist the heritage fleet\\u2019s relocation Development Victoria\\u2019s acting group head of precincts said: \\u201CWe recognise the importance of providing time to determine a suitable alternative location for the fleet\\u2019s workshop and vessels and we will continue to work with them to explore viable relocation options.\\u201D that would involve the fleet\\u2019s relocation as housing development in the area progressed They said an extension of the fleet\\u2019s occupation of Shed 2 beyond December was unlikely Deputy Lord Mayor and head of the planning portfolio Roshena Campbell said at a council meeting on Tuesday night that \\u201Cunfortunately the City of Melbourne currently has no available options for an onshore workshop and adjacent berthing to accommodate vessel restoration within Docklands\\u201D Melbourne Maritime Heritage Network is hosting Start the day with a summary of the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories as well as large scale urban renewal precincts.  Explore our interactive project map and see where our projects are located We create vibrant places to live and work across Victoria through diverse and strategic property development and urban renewal projects Our approach combines extensive development project management and urban renewal experience with strong relationships across government and industry technical capability and commercial thinking.With an emphasis on environmental sustainability our goal is to create vibrant places that enrich the local area – with diverse and affordable homes Join our team of experienced industry professionals and develop your capability in a diverse and collaborative workplace.    Scaffold surrounds the Docklands Shipping Control Tower during maintenance works Important maintenance works continue on the Docklands Shipping Control Tower on North Wharf in the Victoria Harbour precinct The old window frames and render have been removed and new window frames and glass panels are being made especially to fit the tower requiring bespoke measurement and installation due to the age and design of the building The historic crows nest was originally used as a lookout to spot approaching hazards or land by using the naked eye or telescopes or binoculars when the tower was first operational - was removed remediated repainted and reinstalled to withstand the marine conditions Improvements to electrical and security systems have also been made as well as a new roof membrane that will keep the tower safe and dry the tower will be ready to stand tall for years to come The current tower was built in 1966 to coordinate shipping towage pilots and emergency services in the busy port and was decommissioned in the 2000’s when the port facilities at Docklands were relocated further west to the Port of Melbourne stairs and two decks – one for observation duties containing radar and communication equipment the other being for amenities for its 24-hour a day operation Docklands comprises of a number of precincts each with a diverse variety of residential retail and leisure spaces and developed under the guidance of Development Victoria entertainment venues and cleverly designed parks Find out more about the Docklands Victoria Harbour precinct Development Victoria respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Victoria We recognise their continuing cultural heritage and connection to land Yinga Biik Birranga-ga (Sing land and Country) Connect with us to stay up to date on the latest developments Works to remove Central Pier from Victoria Harbour are progressing well The removal of the concrete area on the west and south of Shed 14 continues as does works to realign services along Harbour Esplanade Specialist marine contractor, Fitzgerald Constructions Australia Pty Ltd has also started stabilising the sea wall and removing the concrete deck connecting the piers to Harbour Esplanade As we continue the removal of Central Pier we will also be aiming to repurpose maritime heritage materials salvaged during the removal works More than 80% of the waste materials from the removal are receiving a new lease on life in construction and manufacturing across Victoria timber and e-waste from the pier have been recycled by Victorian-based companies underpinning Development Victoria’s goals to support both sustainable construction and local business Find out more about how we are recycling the items from Central Pier The removal of Central Pier from Victoria Harbour is a key step in the Victorian Government’s plans to revitalise this waterfront in the heart of Docklands Development Victoria will continue to work closely with Heritage Victoria the community and other key stakeholders to identify opportunities for the revitalisation of Central Pier and adjacent waterfront along Harbour Esplanade to create a vibrant waterfront destination The ‘Revitalising Central Pier Waterfront - Vision and Place Principles’ outlines the long-term vision to transform Central Pier and the adjacent waterfront in Docklands drawing inspiration from successful waterfront locations around the world It is built around five key themes - Reflect and Connect – and sets out the vision to create a vibrant The vision and place principles were developed following extensive consultation with the community and key stakeholders plus input from an advisory panel consisting of leaders in the fields of cultural place making It was also delivered with input from the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation Development Victoria will continue to collaborate with Heritage Victoria and other key stakeholders to transform the precinct into one of Australia’s premier waterfront destinations The delivery of a revitalised Central Pier waterfront is a long-term project that will be progressed in stages Informed by the Vision and Place Principles the next step is to investigate options for revitalisation and develop a detailed implementation plan focusing on funding If you'd like to stay up to date with the latest news on the project central.pier@development.vic.gov.au Following the closure of Central Pier in 2020 further investigations were undertaken to assess the condition of the structure and the future of the pier and adjacent waterfront These investigations found underlying safety concerns with the pier and previous engineering advice that the pier’s condition was irretrievable Development Victoria commenced planning for the safe removal of the pier by lodging an application to Heritage Victoria for a permit to remove the pier from the water This application was approved by Heritage Victoria in October 2022 Works to remove the sheds on Central Pier have now started following the removal of the western tip in 2022 We have installed permanent hoarding around Central Pier which is around 125 metres long to ensure it is secure and unable to be accessed It is important the pier is secure and safe while we undertake the removal of the Central Pier structure the removal of the pier will be undertaken from barges in the harbour as the structure is unsafe and unable to support any equipment including Central Pier is of state significance and included on the Victorian Heritage Register We will be following all appropriate processes to ensure we understand what is required from a heritage perspective We will continue to work with Heritage Victoria Heritage Victoria has approved Development Victoria’s permit application to remove the unsafe pier structure from the water and we will comply with all permit conditions. No. The engineering advice is that the pier structure has deteriorated significantly and is irretrievable. It is more than 100 years old, and the structure has been in the water for a very long time. Development Victoria recognises the heritage value of Victoria Dock and Central Pier, and any future plans will reflect its heritage significance. Victoria Dock, including Central Pier, is of state significance and is included on the Victorian Heritage Register. We will be following all appropriate processes to ensure we understand what is required from a heritage perspective.  We will continue to work with Heritage Victoria and other key stakeholders to explore ways to continue to celebrate the heritage of Victoria Dock for many more years to come. Central Pier is no longer safe for occupation or public access. In late 2021, Development Victoria received approval from Heritage Victoria to remove the western tip of Central Pier from Victoria Harbour. It was removed in 2022. In October 2022, Heritage Victoria approved a permit for Development Victoria to remove the remaining unsafe pier structure from the water. Specialist marine contractor Fitzgerald Constructions Australia Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to progress the removal of Central Pier in the heart of Docklands. The pier was permanently closed in January 2020 due to safety issues. This decision was based on specialist advice on the pier’s condition, which noted that even with further maintenance, there was no guarantee Central Pier would be safe for ongoing occupation. The contract was awarded after a competitive public process conducted by Development Victoria, the State Government’s major projects agency and property developer. In 2022 Fitzgerald Constructions completed the project to remove the western tip of Central Pier. Fitzgerald Constructions will evaluate the safest way to remove the pier before removal work is anticipated to begin in the second half of 2023. The removal of the pier is expected to take several years to complete. The pier was closed for safety reasons following engineering advice. Additional advice from independent engineers is that it is not possible to safely repair the pier because of its current dilapidated condition and associated safety issues. The safety of workers and visitors has always been the primary concern in considering the future of Central Pier. Given the current dilapidated condition of the pier structure and safety concerns the pier must now be removed from the water.  To safely remove the pier, cranes and equipment will work from barges anchored in the water, carefully positioned alongside the structure to begin the process of removing the buildings first and then the pier itself. From 15 October to 22 December 2022, Development Victoria undertook stakeholder and community consultation on the revitalisation of Central Pier and adjoining waterfront via an online survey on the Engage Victoria website, as well as an online community session and an in-person session with the Victoria Point Owners Corporation. An Engagement Summary Report was released in late-2023. The feedback gained from the community engagement process will be used to inform the development of a Vision and Place Principles document which will guide the future revitalisation of the pier and adjacent waterfront. The document is anticipated to be publicly released in 2024. There will be further opportunities for the community to engage and provide feedback as the strategy and plans for Central Pier and adjacent waterfront are developed. We are at the start of the journey to revitalise Central Pier and the adjacent waterfront, and no decisions have been made at this early stage. Development Victoria is planning to commence our engagement process shortly. We have allowed for an approximate three-month engagement process but will be reviewing this timeframe while the engagement process is underway to make sure adequate time is allowed for all interested parties to provide their feedback. Following engagement with the community and other key stakeholders across 2022 and 2023, Development Victoria has released the Central Pier Waterfront Vision and Place Principles document. It was developed with input from an advisory panel and the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, the document will guide future planning and concept development for revitalisation of Central Pier and the waterfront along Harbour Esplanade. In the Central Pier Waterfront Vision and Place Principles document, the vision is that the Central Pier waterfront will be Melbourne’s gathering place at the water’s edge where the city’s creative energy comes together in welcoming spaces to reflect, celebrate, play, and connect. It will be a resilient harbour where regenerated ecological systems enable people, flora, and fauna to flourish. The Place Principles establish a framework of objectives and values that will be used to inform and guide decisions that shape the future physical design, appearance, and functionality of the revitalised waterfront. The Vision for Central Pier and adjacent waterfront is framed by the five key Place Principles: In the spirit of reconciliation, Development Victoria respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Victoria. We recognise their continuing cultural heritage and connection to land, and pay our respects to their Elders, past and present. Yinga Biik Birranga-ga (Sing land and Country), Steve Ulula Parker Connect with us to stay up to date on the latest developments. initially got planning support from the City of Melbourne’s Future Melbourne Committee in 2019.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThat set up the then Victorian planning minister Richard Wynne to grant planning permission.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowever Salta has now filed new plans for the 2692sq m site with the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning for a 38-storey tower designed by architects FK.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThose plans have now been referred to the City of Melbourne Council where a wellness room and services within the podium.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 37th floor would have dining areas adaptive spaces and external amenity areas.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere would be 126 studio apartments \u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eRainwater tanks electrical pumps and 401 bicycle storage spaces would be included in the basement level with another 34 bicycle storage spaces on the ground floor.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn 2019 it was reported that richlisters the Tarascio family were likely to hold off on developing the project till the development cycle was more favourable.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe previous version of the plans included a hotel component with 276 apartments 197 hotel rooms and 26 serviced apartments across 26 storeys.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere is no hotel component included in the proposed application before DTP and the City of Melbourne.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn 2019 the end value of the project was estimated at $330 million.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site is next door to the Marvel Stadium and Home Docklands Melbourne next to Marvel Stadium.\",\"alt\":\"Salta has redesigned plans for a build-to-rent tower in the heart of Docklands Melbourne next to Marvel Stadium.\",\"imageDesc\":\"Salta has redesigned plans for a build-to-rent tower in the heart of Docklands Salta Properties’ project at 695-699 La Trobe Street initially got planning support from the City of Melbourne’s Future Melbourne Committee in 2019 That set up the then Victorian planning minister Richard Wynne to grant planning permission Salta has now filed new plans for the 2692sq m site with the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning for a 38-storey tower designed by architects FK Those plans have now been referred to the City of Melbourne Council where the Future Melbourne Committee will determine if they support the application or not It will then be up to the current Victorian planning minister Sonya Kilkenny to make the final determination as the relevant authority Salta filed the new plans with the Department in February 2025 The tower would have seven podium levels for both apartments and 114 carparking bays with amenities on the seventh and 37th floors There would be a total of 560 build-to-rent apartments with a residents’ lounge a wellness room and services within the podium adaptive spaces and external amenity areas 219 two-bedroom apartments and 32 three-bedroom apartments electrical pumps and 401 bicycle storage spaces would be included in the basement level with another 34 bicycle storage spaces on the ground floor were likely to hold off on developing the project till the development cycle was more favourable 197 hotel rooms and 26 serviced apartments across 26 storeys There is no hotel component included in the proposed application before DTP and the City of Melbourne In 2019 the end value of the project was estimated at $330 million The site is next door to the Marvel Stadium and Home Docklands Salta Properties was contacted for comment prior to publication Faster and safer trips between the city and inner west will become a reality for pedestrians and bike riders with the bright green walking and cycling bridge into the heart of the Docklands now open to the public as part of the Allan Labor Government's West Gate Tunnel Project The Labor Government has opened the elevated crossing over Footscray Road that will make it easier and safer for people to walk and ride to and from the CBD Inspired by the West Gate Bridge design and suspended from two 40-metre tall steel pylons by a series of cables the 220-metre long bridge takes bike riders diagonally over busy Footscray Road - linking to the Docklands retail precinct the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail and soon-to-be-completed elevated Veloway The bridge now provides a safe and dedicated elevated crossing over the busy Footscray Road and Waterfront Way intersection - linking the Capital City Trail seamlessly to the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail enhancing one of Melbourne's key strategic cycling corridors More children and their families can look forward to safer walking scooting and riding their bike to Docklands Primary School thanks to the new bridge It's the next step in transforming the Footscray Road corridor into Australia's premiere cycling super-highway with the bridge forming a critical part of a bike connection to the 2.5-kilometre veloway The West Gate Tunnel Project will transform travel in Melbourne's west - providing a much-needed second river crossing cutting congestion and taking 9,000 trucks a day off local roads More than 14 kilometres of new and upgraded paths being delivered to make it safer and easier for more people to cycle As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams "This new bridge over Footscray Road is a game-changer - a big step towards transforming the corridor into an elevated cycling super-highway between the city and the west." As stated by Member for Footscray Katie Hall "'We are making it safer and easier for cyclists and pedestrians to get into Docklands or the city on this dedicated off-road express route." A new pedestrian walking and cycling bridge in Docklands Victoria has opened as part of the $10 billion West Gate Tunnel Project the 220-metre long bridge takes bike riders diagonally over busy Footscray Road – linking to the Docklands retail precinct The bridge now provides a safe and dedicated elevated crossing over the busy Footscray Road and Waterfront Way intersection – linking the Capital City Trail to the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail enhancing one of Melbourne’s key strategic cycling corridors Children and families will also have safer access to Docklands Primary School thanks to the new bridge It’s the next step in transforming the Footscray Road corridor The West Gate Tunnel Project will transform travel in Melbourne’s west – providing a much-needed second river crossing The West Gate Tunnel Project will deliver a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge widening the West Gate Freeway from 8 to 12 lanes and taking 9000 trucks a day off local roads When the West Gate Tunnel Project opens by end 2025 the twin tunnels will serve as a much-needed alternative to the West Gate Bridge Using the newly expanded and strengthened West Gate Freeway and the twin tunnels trucks will now have a direct access to the Port of Melbourne to and from the west resulting in less trucks on inner west roads The widening of the Freeway will also provide motorists with a clear run to the West Gate Bridge from the M80 interchange via express lanes Minister for Transport Infrastructure said the new bridge over Footscray Road is a game-changer “It is a big step towards transforming the corridor into an elevated cycling super-highway between the city and the west,” said Williams For more information, visit: bigbuild.vic.gov.au/ Major construction has kicked off on the Suburban Rail Loop in Victoria ahead of tunnelling commencing at the start of.. An intricate timber net structure has been completed on the northern portal of Victoria’s West Gate Tunnel project Applications for the Western Australian Government’s Zero Emissions Vehicle rebate scheme which has so far paid back over $41 million.. All content published on this site is the property of Prime Creative Media An eye-catching bridge section of Melbourne’s so-called cycling super-highway has finally opened in the city’s west and one of the first riders to use it described it as like “riding through a disco” vice-president of cyclist advocacy group BikeWest was also struck by the architectural beauty of the Footscray Road crossing during his first ride along it on Tuesday as sunlight shone through the holes of its cocoon-like shell vice-president of cycling advocacy group BikeWest on the new bridge over Footscray Road.Credit: Jason South The bright green elevated crossing in Docklands is part of more than 14 kilometres of new and upgraded bike paths funded through the $10.1 billion West Gate Tunnel project The state government announced on Tuesday that the 220-metre cable-suspended bridge near the old Melbourne Star ferris wheel was now open to pedestrians and bike riders connecting the Capital City and Moonee Ponds Creek cycling trails construction of a 2.5-kilometre “veloway” (an express route for bike riders) between Footscray and Docklands remains ongoing which has been dubbed the rainbow bridge thanks to its multicoloured panelling The tunnel project has disrupted western Melbourne’s transport network for three years longer than planned, while the cost has blown out to almost double the initial $5.5 billion budget In February, The Age reported that cyclists were stuck riding on dangerous truck-laden roads in Melbourne’s inner west as key bridges remained blocked off This is despite the government spruiking the bridges, as if they were complete was among the first to cycle across the Footscray Road bridge with the Banyule Bicycle User Group on Tuesday “It was like riding through a disco,” he said “At the [traffic] lights [before the crossing was built] However, critics of the project, including the BikeWest group, have previously accused the government of “playing politics” by delaying opening infrastructure they say is vital for public safety While Vairo enjoyed his cycle along the Footscray Road crossing he said the section had always been one of the better parts of his ride into the city before the West Gate Tunnel construction He said truck-filled suburban streets further west remained a big safety problem for cyclists but it’s not what we would have done,” Vairo said of the new bridge Ned Watson rides his child across the bridge on Tuesday morning.Credit: Jason South “Our advocacy now is: we’ve got this thing So people from the suburbs – from Yarraville West Footscray and further afield – can get to this bit of infrastructure safely.” Vairo said he was more excited about the Dynon Road crossing opening soon as it created a new corridor over rail lines “That is a brand-new bit of infrastructure that gives people new ways to go to the city safely,” he said Vairo remained critical of the West Gate Tunnel’s impact on cyclist safety in Melbourne west, and blames construction works for creating a dangerous Footscray Road intersection where 22-year-old cyclist Angus Collins died in February 2024 a 41-year-old from Brunswick who was cycling with his child on Tuesday said the new bridge had made his trip to a school holiday show safer “I think normally we’d have to go through all those traffic crossings down there [on Footscray Road].” Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the new bridge was “a big step towards transforming the corridor into an elevated cycling super-highway between the city and the west” Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter An eye-catching bridge section of Melbourne\\u2019s so-called cycling super-highway has finally opened in the city\\u2019s west and one of the first riders to use it described it as like \\u201Criding through a disco\\u201D The state government announced on Tuesday that the 220-metre cable-suspended bridge near was now open to pedestrians and bike riders construction of a 2.5-kilometre \\u201Cveloway\\u201D (an express route for bike riders) between Footscray and Docklands remains ongoing The tunnel project has disrupted western Melbourne\\u2019s transport network for three years longer than planned while to almost double the initial $5.5 billion budget that cyclists were stuck riding on dangerous truck-laden roads in Melbourne\\u2019s inner west as key bridges remained blocked off \\u201CIt was like riding through a disco,\\u201D he said \\u201CAt the [traffic] lights [before the crossing was built] so it\\u2019s an improvement on that.\\u201D by delaying opening infrastructure they say is vital for public safety \\u201CIt is a postcard for incredible photos but it\\u2019s not what we would have done,\\u201D Vairo said of the new bridge \\u201COur advocacy now is: we\\u2019ve got this thing So people from the suburbs \\u2013 from Yarraville West Footscray and further afield \\u2013 can get to this bit of infrastructure safely.\\u201D \\u201CThat is a brand-new bit of infrastructure that gives people new ways to go to the city safely,\\u201D he said Vairo remained critical of the West Gate Tunnel\\u2019s impact on cyclist safety in Melbourne west and blames construction works for creating a dangerous Footscray Road intersection where in February 2024 \\u201CIt was pretty awesome,\\u201D he said \\u201CI think normally we\\u2019d have to go through all those traffic crossings down there [on Footscray Road].\\u201D Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the new bridge was \\u201Ca big step towards transforming the corridor into an elevated cycling super-highway between the city and the west\\u201D Follow our live coverage of election results in Victoria’s key swing seats here Voters at polling stations in inner Melbourne have complained of lengthy waits of up to two hours to cast their ballot prompting the city’s lord mayor to call for a “root and branch” review voters told The Age they had waited between 45 minutes and two hours in queues that snaked through school and church grounds or along residential streets A queue of voters at North Melbourne Primary School just after 10am on Saturday.Credit: Sophie Aubrey The Australian Electoral Commission has denied waits reached as long as two hours, but the issues prompted Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece to lash the commission for “an election day fail we could all see coming” following similar problems during the 2022 federal election and the 2023 Voice referendum While some voters were easygoing about extensive waits others voiced frustrations about poor queue management and a lack of inner-city pre-polling options that could have reduced pressures on Saturday Some voters gave up and turned around when they saw the lines Rachel Kennedy said she found two-hour queues at Christ Church Grammar School and at her local library before she walked to St Martins Hall the wait to vote was between 60 and 90 minutes Voter Rachel Kennedy in South Yarra in the seat of Melbourne Kennedy felt the queues were particularly bad because not enough pre-polling booths were set up nearby but we couldn’t because it was nowhere near where we lived,” she said Jessica Broadbent waited for an hour from 10am to cast her vote at North Melbourne Primary School and was disappointed to see an electoral officer come around only once Simon Heaysman at North Melbourne Primary School.Credit: Sophie Aubrey “We should make it easy for people … to participate in democracy,” she said “Why is there not even one person in a fluoro vest with a loud voice and cheerful smile staying out here doing any kind of queue management?” Simon Heaysman was relishing the election atmosphere given he often has to vote early due to work voters arriving at Docklands’ only polling booth were told they would have to stand in line for at least 90 minutes Older voters and people with access issues were whisked to the front Some voters told The Age they wouldn’t bother lining up at Docklands and would “vote in the suburbs” later in the day those at the front of the queue at Docklands said the wait had eased to just 20 minutes At the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School in Southbank the queue to vote was snaking around the block in the early afternoon Voters said they were told it could be up to a two-hour wait A trio close to the front of the line said they had been waiting for about 75 minutes “Some drinks would be nice … or a hat for me to put on,” said one man motioning to his empty drink bottle and bare bald head Fitzroy and Kooyong also shared experiences of waiting close to two hours and minimal resourcing at polling stations Reece said inner-city waiting times were “not good enough” and it wasn’t unreasonable for people to be in and out of a polling booth in 20 minutes “I’m calling for a root and branch review of how this poll has been conducted in Melbourne,” the lord mayor said “In a country where we have compulsory voting there is an obligation on electoral authorities to make voting as easy as possible.” Access to pre-polling in and near the Melbourne CBD was a hot topic in the final days of the election campaign Reece called the lack of pre-polling venues in the city centre baffling and undemocratic The AEC later accused the City of Melbourne of failing to help the commission secure suitable venues Reece said: “I’m not interested in the blame game The City of Melbourne is happy to work with the AEC to ensure this never happens again “They managed to find a pre-polling booth in every CBD in the country The voting infrastructure in inner-city Melbourne is failing the voters and our democracy.” People queue to vote in Docklands.Credit: Jason South AEC spokesman Evan Ekin-Smyth denied waiting times on Saturday had hit two hours and suggested the reported figures from voters were inadvertently inflated He said the lines at each booth were checked regularly and data being fed into the commission’s command centre showed queues were “The absolute vast majority of the 7000 [national] polling places on offer are seeing very reasonable wait times Ekin-Smyth said that when waits reached about 30 minutes officers looked at adding new ballot-issuing points or redeploying staff from other stations He said extra election day venues were added to the CBD following the 2023 Voice referendum “Whenever you have a process that gives 18 million-plus people the choice of when and where to turn up You simply cannot avoid that,” Ekin-Smyth said “There is no election in the world without queues We’re better than most and do everything possible to minimise them.” Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter prompting the city\\u2019s lord mayor to call for a \\u201Croot and branch\\u201D review The Australian Electoral Commission has denied waits reached as long as two hours but the issues prompted Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece to lash the commission for \\u201Can election day fail we could all see coming\\u201D following similar problems during the and the but we couldn\\u2019t because it was nowhere near where we lived,\\u201D she said \\u201CWe should make it easy for people \\u2026 to participate in democracy,\\u201D she said \\u201CWhy is there not even one person in a fluoro vest with a loud voice and cheerful smile staying out here doing any kind of queue management?\\u201D \\u201CI wanted the full election experience voters arriving at Docklands\\u2019 only polling booth Some voters told The Age they wouldn\\u2019t bother lining up at Docklands and would \\u201Cvote in the suburbs\\u201D later in the day \\u201CSome drinks would be nice \\u2026 or a hat for me to put on,\\u201D said one man Reece said inner-city waiting times were \\u201Cnot good enough\\u201D and it wasn\\u2019t unreasonable for people to be in and out of a polling booth in 20 minutes \\u201CI\\u2019m calling for a root and branch review of how this poll has been conducted in Melbourne,\\u201D the lord mayor said \\u201CIn a country where we have compulsory voting there is an obligation on electoral authorities to make voting as easy as possible.\\u201D Access to pre-polling in and near the Melbourne CBD was a in the final days of the election campaign in the city centre baffling and undemocratic Reece said: \\u201CI\\u2019m not interested in the blame game \\u201CThey managed to find a pre-polling booth in every CBD in the country The voting infrastructure in inner-city Melbourne is failing the voters and our democracy.\\u201D He said the lines at each booth were checked regularly and data being fed into the commission\\u2019s command centre showed queues were \\u201CThe absolute vast majority of the 7000 [national] polling places on offer are seeing very reasonable wait times \\u201CWhenever you have a process that gives 18 million-plus people the choice of when and where to turn up You simply cannot avoid that,\\u201D Ekin-Smyth said \\u201CThere is no election in the world without queues We\\u2019re better than most and do everything possible to minimise them.\\u201D Cut through the noise of federal politics with news Gas flaring up to 3m high will happen from Tuesday 25 February to Friday 4 April and will occur periodically between 7 and 8am Riders who use Collins Street to and from Docklands will encounter gas main works near Harbour Esplanade in early January which houses various recreational facilities near the Collins Street corner is also home to T16 West Melbourne Pipeline The facility is due for regular maintenance involving the creation of a compound in the reserve that extends close to the Collins Street east-bound bike lane The works will be underway for about eight weeks A 3-metre-high flare will be required for a period of up to an hour approximately four times per week as a part of the cleaning the pipeline for repair An exclusion zone will be in place during flaring with all traffic restricted from the exclusion zone during flaring Traffic management will be in place during any restrictions which will mainly impact traffic on Harbour Esplanade The off-road bike path on Harbour Esplanade should not be impacted Become a Member and help fund our advocacy work Or become our friend and subscribe to receive our fortnightly newsletter The Great Victorian Bike Ride is set to return in 2025 on 24–28 November offering an exciting new format while keeping the spirit of this beloved event alive Bicycle Network Memberships offer benefits to all kinds of riders The Peaks Challenge Ride2School fundraiser is on again for this year's epic event on Sunday 9 March The City of Adelaide will undertake a speed limit review to understand the need for reducing speeds to support business and residents and create a safer city environment Work on the much-anticipated $38.9 million Sydney Harbour Bridge ramp upgrade has begun the bike lane will link the country's most famous bridge to the bike network in Milsons Point we launched our Affiliate Membership program specially designed for cycling groups and clubs Orange in New South Wales is in line for a nice new stretch of bike path one that will expand the off-road network and improve access to schools Work has kicked off on a key Canberra bike route setting the wheels in motion for safer and more pleasant journeys through the city’s northern suburbs In a submission to the federal government’s draft National Urban Policy Bicycle Network and seven other Australian bicycle organisations have called for active transport infrastructure funding to be increased to 10% of federal transport investment Many of our best bike journeys are along coastlines or up and down the creeks and rivers that meet the sea But with rising sea levels some of this vital infrastructure is at threat of inundation erosion and from changes in groundwater chemistry were (L-R): Development Victoria Action CEO Nicholas Reece; Managing Director of International Business Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate Itaru Ishihara; and Lendlease CEO Development A major new housing development in Docklands has received planning approval by the Victorian Government The towers will be built by Lendlease on Collins Wharf and supply 915 homes The $521 million Lendlease development includes two 28-storey buildings with 349 and 375 apartments and a 16-storey building with 191 apartments This development will complete the Collins Wharf precinct a planning approval has been received for a neighbouring public park that will feature over 1,500sqm of open space construction is now underway at Lendlease’s site at 899 Collins Street on Victoria Harbour The 499-unit build-to-rent development spans 24 levels and is due to be completed in 2066 the development will also offer an outdoor pool overlooking Victoria Harbour; a dog park and outdoor rooftop BBQ area; music and podcast rooms; lounges; a full-sized and fully equipped gym wellness treatment rooms and private dining rooms It will also be all-electric and target a 5-Star Green Star Building rating as the Victorian Government’s property developer plays a pivotal role in delivering the Government’s objectives in its Housing Statement Development Victoria is creating more options for people who want to buy or rent contributing to the Victorian Government’s broader goal to help make home ownership and long-term rental possible for more Victorians “As the landowners and development partner for Docklands our team oversees and administers development agreements to create exciting opportunities to create more housing for Victorians in this fast-growing precinct,” he said As one of the largest urban renewal projects under construction in Australia Melbourne’s Docklands is a long-term project.Matching the size of the Melbourne CBD the precinct is home to more than 17,000 residents and 73,000 workers and attracts millions of visitors annually Find out more about Docklands. including build-to-rent.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe first three towers will comprise about 700 homes.\u0026nbsp; \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGurner has also secured a builder for the first tower with Hamilton Marino coming onboard.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA joint venture between Gurner and City Harbour—a consortium that includes the Liberman family which holds the development rights to the project—the precinct’s approval means the first tower a luxury build-to-sell offering with around 250 residences with early construction works to begin next month.\u0026nbsp; \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Appointing Hamilton Marino to construct the first tower gives our clients certainty in delivery,” Gurner founder Tim Gurner said \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“We are committed to the precinct and will be commencing early construction works before the first launch of sales.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHe said Gurner was no stranger to “pushing the boundaries of design” \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Now we are taking this one step further with Elysium Fields,” Gurner said \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“This will be Australia’s first next-generation wellness precinct where our homes can make us healthier and have a marked impact on our mental and physical wellbeing.\u0026nbsp; \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Through the proliferation of plastics our modern homes are no longer the safe haven they once were.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"1x0dlDSxZMhX7uoi75ezzK\"\u003e\u003cpicture\u003e\u003cimg src=\"//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4rLwKoVyW21TrXks6RCoVv/fe6aef571c6b862f1fee13d00f7573d4/gurner_biosphere.jpg\" alt=\"208-226 Harbour Esplanade (also known as 30-40 Digital Drive) Docklands by biosphere gurner\" data-mce-src=\"//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/4rLwKoVyW21TrXks6RCoVv/fe6aef571c6b862f1fee13d00f7573d4/gurner_biosphere.jpg\"\u003e\u003c/picture\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan style=\"opacity: 0.8;\" data-mce-style=\"opacity: 0.8;\"\u003e▲ The original render released by Gurner when it revealed details on the project earlier this year \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Elysium Fields will re-imagine this narrative and incorporate cutting edge health and wellness technologies natural anti-microbial materials and other holistic design practices into both the public spaces and private residences to set the bar for the future of home-based-wellness in Australia.”\u0026nbsp; \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe project was \u003ca href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/gurner-wellness-precinct-unveiled\" data-mce-href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/gurner-wellness-precinct-unveiled\"\u003erevealed in March of this year\u003c/a\u003e and included renders that showed a biodome over the precinct.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAnd indeed in a media statement announcing the approval on October 18 Gurner said the precinct would feature a “a stunning modelled on the concept of Elysium being the utopian afterlife”.\u0026nbsp; \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGurner said the precinct had been “inspired by a futuristic approach to holistic health and anti-ageing private amenities and residences incorporating the latest technologies in health and wellness”.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Residents at Elysium Fields can expect to enjoy on-site anti-ageing facilities and equipment such as cryotherapy alongside exclusive access to the Elysian Reverse Ageing Medical Clinic that will provide medical grade treatments including MRIs blood testing and personalised health plans,” the developer said in a statement \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEach home would include filtered air purifiers circadian lighting and “optional recovery upgrades” it said.\u0026nbsp; \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe development will also include a retail and hospitality precinct four-star short-stay hotel and a 250-plus-key five-star hotel in the main tower of over 250 keys.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“This project is a once-in-a-lifetime transformation precinct and one of the last remaining major developable land parcels in Docklands,” Time Gurner said \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Across our portfolio we are launching $3.5 billion of new projects in the next 12 months and believe the market is primed for a solid rebound as sentiment settles The first three towers of the $1.7-billion Elysium Fields precinct at Melbourne’s Dockland have been greenlit by Victoria’s planning minister The 27,000sq m site at 208-226 Harbour Esplanade is slated for about 1100 homes The first three towers will comprise about 700 homes Gurner has also secured a builder for the first tower A joint venture between Gurner and City Harbour—a consortium that includes the Liberman family with early construction works to begin next month “Appointing Hamilton Marino to construct the first tower gives our clients certainty in delivery,” Gurner founder Tim Gurner said “We are committed to the precinct and will be commencing early construction works before the first launch of sales.” He said Gurner was no stranger to “pushing the boundaries of design” “Now we are taking this one step further with Elysium Fields,” Gurner said “This will be Australia’s first next-generation wellness precinct where our homes can make us healthier and have a marked impact on our mental and physical wellbeing our modern homes are no longer the safe haven they once were “Elysium Fields will re-imagine this narrative and incorporate cutting edge health and wellness technologies to set the bar for the future of home-based-wellness in Australia.”  The project was revealed in March of this year and included renders that showed a biodome over the precinct And indeed in a media statement announcing the approval on October 18 modelled on the concept of Elysium being the utopian afterlife” Gurner said the precinct had been “inspired by a futuristic approach to holistic health and anti-ageing private amenities and residences incorporating the latest technologies in health and wellness” “Residents at Elysium Fields can expect to enjoy on-site anti-ageing facilities and equipment such as cryotherapy Each home would include filtered air purifiers The development will also include a retail and hospitality precinct four-star short-stay hotel and a 250-plus-key five-star hotel in the main tower of over 250 keys “This project is a once-in-a-lifetime transformation precinct and one of the last remaining major developable land parcels in Docklands,” Time Gurner said interest rates start to reduce and chronic undersupply continues to place pressure on the housing market.”  The District Docklands and the Docklands Chamber of Commerce to launch the Docklands Dollars 3008 an initiative to encourage Docklands residents to support local traders the working group committed to implementing further community-based projects In 2023 the working group connected with the North & West Melbourne Neighbourhood Centre around a proposed project which sought to strengthen the profile of the local community by highlighting the people and businesses from the Docklands Launched in March 2024, the Soul of Docklands shines a light on the people, businesses and community groups that define and help shape the Docklands. The project profiles key members from the local community on the dedicated website; soulofdocklands.org.au featuring their inspiring stories to showcase and celebrate the precinct. The website features a diverse range of profiles and currently features 18 individuals. initial-scale=1\"}],[\"$\",\"meta\",\"1\",{\"charSet\":\"utf-8\"}],[\"$\",\"title\",\"2\",{\"children\":\"MAB Corp Flags Office-to-Apartments Swap at Docklands | The Urban Developer\"}],[\"$\",\"meta\",\"3\",{\"name\":\"description\",\"content\":\"With a six-tower project just down the street including rising demand for housing at Docklands.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“We have submitted a planning permit amendment .. including converting commercial space into additional residential apartments and modernising the podium facade,” the spokesperson said.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe office space conversion would create eight additional apartments and five more one-bedroom apartments on floors 11-15.\u003c!-- the 11th 14th and 15th floors.\u0026nbsp;--\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThat change would bring the total number of apartments from 196 to 209.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlso proposed is replacing a glass block facade on the north-east corner on the first The Buxton brothers are fifth-generation property developers—J.R Buxton founded a real estate agency in 1861.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDevelopment Victoria was set up in the 1990s to oversee development in Melbourne’s Docklands.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis led to the suburb being divided into multiple precincts and Development Victoria partnering with several developers to create housing Melbourne.\",\"alt\":\"MAB Corp's render for its tower on Lot H at 473-505 Docklands Drive in Docklands Melbourne.\",\"imageDesc\":\"MAB Corp's render for its tower on Lot H at 473-505 Docklands Drive in Docklands The developer is one of two partnering with Development Victoria to build residential towers and other buildings in the precinct An application has now been filed with the City of Melbourne Council to amend the plans for a 24-storey tower on a substantial site at 473-505 Docklands Drive that has been divided into several lots The application filed seeks to change the planning permit for the tower on the 2270sq m Lot H A MAB Corp spokesperson said the changes were prompted by changing market conditions including rising demand for housing at Docklands “We have submitted a planning permit amendment .. including converting commercial space into additional residential apartments and modernising the podium facade,” the spokesperson said The office space conversion would create eight additional apartments and five more one-bedroom apartments on floors 11-15 That change would bring the total number of apartments from 196 to 209 Also proposed is replacing a glass block facade on the north-east corner on the first third and fourth floors with a precast podium facade “MAB is currently preparing for the launch of its first new residential project in seven years at NewQuay Docklands in 2025,” the spokesperson said Buxton founded a real estate agency in 1861 Development Victoria was set up in the 1990s to oversee development in Melbourne’s Docklands This led to the suburb being divided into multiple precincts and Development Victoria partnering with several developers to create housing