NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces says new development is the key to restoring the record lack of housing choice and keeping young Aussies in major cities like Sydney This week, Mirvac turned the first sod to officially commence construction at their "never to be repeated again" Sydney development, Highforest Located on the edge of the Cumberland State Forest in the northwest Sydney suburb Highforest offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live alongside Australia’s only metropolitan state forest The $830 million project will deliver 414 much-needed new homes to the established area – 165 detached and attached houses and 249 apartments along with publicly accessible open spaces and a range of community facilities The development stands out for its unique location but also for the wide-ranging mix of housing types on offer a feature that Mr Scully is pleased to see Mr Scully told realestate.com.au that housing choice in established areas is high on the government's agenda "There are some recent surveys that suggested that one of the reasons why younger people are moving out of Sydney is that they didn't have the types of medium density homes that people wanted to see," Mr Scully said "We've got less housing diversity now than what we had 100 years ago MORE: Millennial moves: Why young families are leaving our cities – again "We've got less housing diversity now than what we had 100 years ago.. so we're restoring choice," said Minister for Planning and Public spaces at Mirvac's Highforest sod turning ceremony The Government recently released the NSW Housing Pattern Book of Design to accelerate the delivery of new low- and mid-rise housing with a mix of dwelling sizes add to street appeal and function well for residents They've also introduced reforms to allow development applications for dual occupancies and semi-detached dwellings to be submitted in more R2 residential zones Demand for varied housing types is a trend that Mirvac has also noted across multiple of its developments With Highforest's first building release one- and four-bedroom apartments were quickly snapped up "We sold all the one bedders and four bedders in the first building and while we've sold across all the different product types it's been interesting because we never thought demand for ones would be there from day one," said Stuart Penklis "We're reflecting on it across the country – particularly in projects where there's a lot of amenity – and the one bedders have been in high demand," continued Mr Penklis "We've seen it in Victoria with our apartment projects, and then even with our newest project down in Darling Harbour, Harbourside – a lot of registrations for one bedders as well." MORE: Treasurer Chalmers agrees to push banks to respond to mortgage stress According to REA Group's New Homes Report for September 2024 nearly 40% of apartment enquiries are for one-bedroom properties single-person households will make up over a quarter (approximately 26%) of all households in Australia Highforest is unique for its location next to Australia's only metropolitan state forest and for its mix of dwelling types from one-bed apartments through to four- and five-bed attached and detached houses With housing affordability at its worst level on record people are compromising on space to balance their desire between location and price point "With the cost of living and increasing value of properties in Australia making it hard for buyers to get on the property ladder one-bed apartments are increasingly in high demand," said REA Group senior data analyst Karen Dellow."High interest rates are reducing the borrowing capacity of buyers and many are having to reduce their expectations and choose a smaller property." good design is a big part of the willingness to compromise Mr Penklis believes that in well-designed projects with excellent amenity – such as swimming pools dedicated work spaces and integrated green areas – the move to a smaller home is an easier decision whether it's a one bedder or four-bedroom pad "It's great to join a community where you get all this additional amenity "I think everybody that has purchased here [at Highforest] realises that this is a never-to-be-repeated project in terms of this type of unique environment coupled with the vibrancy of all the array of different housing options We are creating a very special and connected community." MORE: Customisations that make an off-the-plan apartment your own Mirvac CEO of Development has noted a demand for one-bedroom apartments across their projects especially when designed with quality amenity and open spaces Picture: Highforest resident swimming pool The Hills District is one of many established areas in Sydney where there are large homes on large lots couples and smaller families or those on tighter budgets are typically locked out of well-established areas with a majority housing type downsizers in those big homes who wish to stay in their local area struggle to find suitable lower maintenance options – another trend Mr Penklis has seen at all of Mirvac's developments "What we're seeing across the board is people want lower maintenance living There's no question about that," he explained prospective buyers come in after either a detached or attached house when they start to see the size and the layout of the apartments and particularly in this project where the apartments are looking into the forest canopy they convert to an apartment purchaser." Mr Penklis outlined that both upsizers and downsizers typically don't wish to leave their surrounding amenity so spacious apartments that provide low-maintenance living without losing access to open space are an attractive option "It's often still more affordable than buying a house in the surrounding market so when it comes to moving further out versus choosing a larger apartment the larger apartment often wins," Mr Penkils said Highforest in West Pennant Hills offers a varied mix of housing types and size MORE: Where to secure house and land in Sydney under $1.1 million Highforest has been many years in the making for Mirvac the first thing you'll notice is lively birdsong – an instant and beautiful reminder of its unique urban location alongside a vibrant state forest And an aspect Mirvac has been passionate to protect With a commitment to leaving the site better than they found it the company is dedicating 10 hectares of endangered remnant forest to the public replanting 1.5 trees for every tree removed – which equates to around 4600 trees on site – and is regenerating close to 10,000 square metres of forest Mirvac has ensured the safe relocation of important endangered species and are closely monitoring the powerful owl Over 40 nest boxes for possums and birds have also been installed the built form of Highforest will be confined to the footprint of the existing office buildings and carpark which was formerly the IBM commercial offices which will be transformed into a wonderful place for over 1,000 people to call home over the next four years,” said Mr Penklis Mirvac is targeting a 6 Star Green Star Communities v1.1 rating in recognition of the group’s efforts to go beyond the building and address other issues 7-star NatHERs-rated Highforest will also include public spaces for the wider community to enjoy including a cultural classroom with a yarning circle children’s bike track and shaded BBQ and seating areas Mirvac has been collaborating with First Nations representatives for years on the project and they have led on the design of some of the open community spaces a Discovery Centre aims to educate the community and customers on the significance of the site – the endangered remnant forest and its flora and fauna and the original custodians of the land The project is just a 25-minute drive to Sydney’s CBD and 800 metres from the new Cherrybrook Metro station Looking for new properties? 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By accessing or using our platform, you agree to our Terms of Use. a masterplanned community at West Pennant Hills north-west of Sydney.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMirvac told\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eThe Urban Developer \u003c/em\u003ethat the project on the 25.87ha site is expected to cost $640 million and has an estimated end value of $760 million.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe development at 55 Coonara Avenue will eventually be home to 249 apartments and 165 townhouses across four seven-storey buildings.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere will be 128 two and 11 four-bedroom apartments.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWithin the townhouse precinct there will be 55 three 75 four and 35 five-bedroom townhouses.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA public park of 24,900sq m a multi-purpose community facility room and 940 carparking spaces are also part of the plans which were designed inhouse.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere are several precincts set out within the project which is close to the Cherrybrook Metro Station and the Pennant Hills Golf Club the footprints of the buildings would be used to ensure protection of the surrounding ecological environment of the Cumberland Forest.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“The built form is confined to the footprint of the existing office buildings and extensive carpark to create a community that balances its unique location with the urgent need for housing in locations well-served by public transport including the new Sydney CBD Metro extension,” Bible said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Construction of Southern Housing Precinct is expected to commence next month.”\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe $2-million sales suite also known as the Highforest by Mirvac Discovery Centre is open to the public and taking sales appointments.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMirvac has received planning approval for the housing central and north precincts for the remaining townhouses with a cost of $66 million and the plans for the recreation area and facilities with an estimated cost of $8 million.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe recreation area will include a skate park and indoor pool.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eApproval has also been granted for the open space area with a cost of $2 million with amenities 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 Mirvac told The Urban Developer that the project on the 25.87ha site is expected to cost $640 million and has an estimated end value of $760 million The development at 55 Coonara Avenue will eventually be home to 249 apartments and 165 townhouses across four seven-storey buildings Within the townhouse precinct there will be 55 three There are several precincts set out within the project The site is a 25-minute drive from the Sydney CBD Civil works have begun on the site but an application to amend some of the details of the $165-million Ironbark apartment precinct is still awaiting approval Those plans set out the 249 apartments over three basement levels with 465 carparking spaces 16 bicycle storage space and six motorcycle parking spaces The Southern Housing Precinct's civil works for 60 houses is expected to start construction next month Demolition works for existing buildings at a cost of $8 million have also begun with approval granted for the subdivision of five lots and associated civil works Mirvac general manager for residential development in NSW and Queensland Warwick Bible said that despite demolishing the existing buildings the footprints of the buildings would be used to ensure protection of the surrounding ecological environment of the Cumberland Forest “The built form is confined to the footprint of the existing office buildings and extensive carpark including the new Sydney CBD Metro extension,” Bible said “Construction of Southern Housing Precinct is expected to commence next month.”  is open to the public and taking sales appointments Mirvac has received planning approval for the housing central and north precincts for the remaining townhouses with a cost of $66 million and the plans for the recreation area and facilities with an estimated cost of $8 million The recreation area will include a skate park Approval has also been granted for the open space area with a cost of $2 million with amenities by Media Team on September 25 has been a staple in the community for years it has recently faced significant challenges The club has struggled with an ageing membership base But instead of viewing these challenges as insurmountable the club saw an opportunity to revitalise its programs and grow participation ensuring it could continue to serve the local greens for years to come One of the key figures in this transformation is Ian Moyes a passionate bowler and a lecturer/tutor at Western Sydney University As a member of the Bowls Committee at Pennant Hills Ian has been instrumental in developing strategies to not only sustain the club but also to engage a younger demographic while continuing to provide quality programs for existing members Pennant Hills introduced the Jack Attack competition—a fun and fast-paced social version of bowls designed to attract new participants Jack Attack is a unique format that simplifies the game making it more accessible for beginners and younger players while maintaining enough competitive elements to keep experienced bowlers engaged After the success of its first competition last year where 30 players participated over a four-week period Ten participants from that initial competition became full bowling members The success of the program was not only a boost for Pennant Hills but also a template for future competitions Ian Moyes had been working closely with Brett Hughes who had successfully run similar programs at other clubs in Sydney Ian tailored the Jack Attack format to fit Pennant Hills’ needs The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive and inclusive atmosphere that appealed to both current members and newcomers alike The Support of Seven Hills RSL and Local Businesses the club has taken the Jack Attack competition to new heights Seven Hills RSL stepped in to provide critical support by waiving the $10 green fees for participants a gesture that has allowed the club to reinvest these funds into prize offerings donating weekly prizes and showing their support for the club’s efforts to engage the community These partnerships have helped make the event more exciting and rewarding for participants further encouraging new bowlers to join in With the backing of Seven Hills RSL and local businesses the second iteration of Jack Attack has seen participation grow The growing interest in the competition is a testament to Ian’s vision and the club’s determination to adapt to the changing landscape of bowling Pennant Hills has made it clear that Jack Attack is not just a one-off event but a key part of its long-term strategy to attract and retain new members The competition provides a low-pressure entry point into the sport offering newcomers the chance to experience the game in a relaxed the hope is that these new participants will eventually transition into full bowling members ensuring the club’s continued growth and sustainability The success of Jack Attack at Pennant Hills represents a shift in how smaller clubs can adapt to modern challenges By embracing innovation and fostering community partnerships the club has not only increased participation but also created a welcoming space for players of all ages and skill levels Ian and the team at Pennant Hills Bowling Club have demonstrated that with passion As the Jack Attack competition continues to grow Pennant Hills Bowling Club is poised to become a model for other clubs facing similar challenges Through perseverance and a commitment to inclusivity the club has found a way to balance the needs of its older members while attracting a new generation of bowlers securing a bright future for the club and the sport of bowls in Pennant Hills the continued success of Jack Attack could serve as a blueprint for how other struggling clubs can revitalise their programs and ultimately thrive in an ever-changing sporting landscape Pennant Hills Bowling Club’s journey is a reminder that even in the face of adversity community spirit and innovation can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and renewal Find out more about Jack Attack HERE 30th April 2025 Rising Stars Named for 2025 National Development SeriesThe future of Australian bowls will be on full display this 26th April 2025 2025 World Bowls Indoor Championships: Final day recapAustralia’s Jack McShane has been crowned the 2025 World Bowls Indoor 25th April 2025 2025 World Bowls Indoor Championships: Day 5 wrapAustralia still remains in the hunt for a gold medal at Subscribe to Bowls Australia's official e-newsletter For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link] We responded to over 150,000 incidents in 2023-24 The incidents displayed below are note-worthy incidents that have been published as media releases or tweets Details about incidents may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice North Parramatta | The fire at Dunlop Street, North Parramatta has been contained but is expected to smoulder through the morning. Because there may be smoke in the area, residents and businesses in the vicinity are advised to keep doors, windows, and vents closed. View on X [external link] Fire and Rescue NSW acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has announced a severe weather warning for areas in New South Wales Heavy rain and damaging winds are expected to develop from Jan The warning comes as a low-pressure system is forecast to form near the northern NSW coastline Winds reaching up to 90 km/h are predicted for exposed coastal areas from Sydney to Seal Rocks Rainfall of 70 to 120 mm over six-hour periods is anticipated in elevated areas within the northern Hunter and Mid North Coast districts The BoM has also issued a coastal hazard warning for damaging surf between the Illawarra and Mid North Coast regions. Residents in towns such as Port Macquarie and Yarrowitch are advised to follow emergency guidance and monitor updates The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has urged residents to avoid floodwaters and ensure vehicles are moved to safe locations It also highlighted the risk of landslides in areas recently affected by bushfires where heavy rain may destabilize soil and debris Insurance providers are responding to the storm’s impact, with Insurance Australia Group (IAG) deploying teams under its brands NRMA Insurance, CGU, WFI As of Jan. 16, IAG reported receiving over 1,100 claims mostly for property damage caused by strong winds and rain Luke Gallagher executive general manager of claims at NRMA Insurance said the company is working to provide immediate assistance to affected customers “Our major event response team is in place 24/7 to ensure we can be on the ground immediately to help our customers affected by severe weather,” he said Gallagher encouraged customers to lodge claims through digital platforms He also emphasised that emergency financial assistance and temporary accommodation are available for those in need which function as on-site claims support centres including West Pennant Hills in Sydney’s northwest which experienced significant storm damage IAG is also managing claims from recent hailstorms that struck Glen Innes The storms caused widespread damage to vehicles and homes with 267 claims reported from Glen Innes and 36 from Queensland towns such as Applethorpe and The Summit Residents are encouraged to visit these locations for face-to-face assistance with lodging claims authorities are advising residents to monitor official updates Louis Carr Real Estate agent and long-term resident Jennifer Carr says the suburb has a wonderful sense of calm and serenity without all the busyness of its neighbours. “It means the people that come to West Pennant Hills come here because they live here,” she says. “We’re leafy, quiet, safe and private: the perfect Aussie dream of what suburbia should be.” Notably, she says, all the essentials of daily life are within easy reach. Browse Domain’s property and lifestyle magazines. “It’s a five-minute trip to Castle Towers, and since the metro went in we can hop on to Macquarie Centre or the city,” she says. “The buses from private schools like Barker and Knox come here to pick children up.” Carr believes the suburb offers great value for money compared to the upper north shore, where properties of similar scale sell for twice the price. “I think we were overlooked because people would say, ‘Where the hell is West Pennant Hills?’” she says. “Then, over the years, we’ve seen the M2, the NorthConnex tunnel and the metro line, which have relieved traffic congestion and made us more viable.” While free-standing homes currently account for more than 90 per cent of dwelling stock, Mirvac’s Highforest development will soon offer apartments likely to appeal to locals looking to downsize within the suburb. 'We’re spoilt': Residents of this connected suburb have reason to be smug The popular NSW tree-change towns where property prices jumped Postcard pretty: Iconic terraces in this 'burb are largely protected Your pooch can keep you company at an outdoor table at Sunny Side, while the Grind & Bloom Cafe is open from 6am weekdays and well-known for its excellent customer service. You’ll find classic Italian dishes and takeaway pizza at La Carretta, and Persian delights – including pomegranate chicken and homemade saffron ice cream – at Bastani at Thompsons Corner, which is also home to Jeff’s Hideout Cafe, a favourite for bacon and egg rolls. There are plenty more wining and dining options in neighbouring Castle Hill. The 40-hectare Cumberland State Forest is the country’s only metropolitan state forest and a must-visit if you’re after a dose of nature. Enjoy a forest walk and a picnic, or swing through the trees at Treetops Adventure. There are bush tracks to explore throughout Bidjigal Reserve, which wraps around the suburb’s south-western corner, and golfers will enjoy the tree-lined fairways at the Pennant Hills Golf Club. For a selfie with one of Australia’s cutest marsupials, drop into Koala Park Sanctuary. 7 Baths6 ParkingView listing Backing onto Bidjigal Reserve, this palatial home set on 2263 square metres comes with a 17-metre indoor pool, a home theatre, a billiards room, a gym and a Miele-appointed kitchen. There’s also a self-contained, two-bedroom guesthouse and room to install a tennis court. 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 A West Pennant Hills mansion reminiscent of a property seen in the hit show Succession has been drawing attention from around the world after hitting the market for sale The five bedroom and seven bathroom property at West Pennant Hills has an open plan layout spread across three levels that are accessible via a lift.It’s similar to the show’s lobby area of fictional CEO Logan Roy’s apartment in New York It has a range of luxury features including stone tile flooring and six metre ceilings in the living area The lavish modern property was constructed by a builder who has constructed luxury mansions in Vaucluse You could live like Succession’s Logan Roy Mr Kee said the West Pennant Hills and Bella Vista Waters properties had received interest from international buyers around the world “These properties are such unique builds that we’ve received enquiries from buyers overseas and offshore “It is a seamlessly connected home over three levels that combines an earthly finish to its design and build.” Prospective buyers from around the world have expressed interest in the property “Both properties are located in prestigious areas and offer exceptional features that make them truly-one of a kind.”No price guide has been made publicly available for the property.A review of comparable homes in the area suggested the property could achieve one of the highest prices ever paid in the area.West Pennant Hills’ suburb performance growth has increased by 149.2 per cent according to PropTrack data over the past decade A number of enquiries into the property have come from out of area buyers in NSW Buyers of the property can enjoy a range of outdoor lifestyle features a wood fire pizza oven and a barbecue gas plate with a full security alarm system and CCTV with infra-red monitoring the entire property MORE: Crypto Kings’ staggering wealth revealed Rabbitohs stars splurges on new luxury home Packer throws down the gauntlet in battle of the penthouses “The West Pennant Hills property is a modern masterpiece that blends quality and refinement with carefully appointed features that offer a layer of functionality that is second to none.”“Both it and the Bella Vista property are by appointment and invitation only.” 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 'div-gpt-ad-1511396693346-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/728x90_Leaderboard_Position_1' 'div-gpt-ad-1511394032333-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/970x90_bottom_leaderboard' 'div-gpt-ad-1511396722471-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/728x90_Hompage_Leaderboard_Position_1' 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googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/300x250_Article-page_Position01' initial-scale=1\"}],[\"$\",\"meta\",\"1\",{\"charSet\":\"utf-8\"}],[\"$\",\"title\",\"2\",{\"children\":\"Mirvac Wins Approval for West Pennant Hills Masterplan | The Urban Developer\"}],[\"$\",\"meta\",\"3\",{\"name\":\"description\",\"content\":\"After several rounds of amended plans and have been approved by The Hills Shire Council.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMirvac acquired the 25.9ha site in 2016 for $74 million.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe masterplan at 55 Coonara Avenue will deliver 417 homes including 165 houses and 25"])self.__next_f.push([1,"2 apartments The development is estimated to cost $165 million.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMirvac lodged plans for the former IBM complex at West Pennant Hills in 2021 after the site was rezoned in June \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eA development application for the demolition of all existing structures was approved by \u003ca data-mce-href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/mirvac-lodges-concept-plans-coonara\" href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/mirvac-lodges-concept-plans-coonara\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eThe Hills Shire Council in 2021\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowever initial plans for more than 1000 homes on the site were scaled back after Mirvac failed to win support for a bigger community footprint.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLater concerns over traffic and the environmental impact of adjoining neighbourhoods meant the development was not initially well received.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs part of the plans about 10ha of remnant forest will be dedicated to the NSW Government as public open space Updated plans with some minor amendments were filed this year and have been approved by The Hills Shire Council Mirvac acquired the 25.9ha site in 2016 for $74 million The masterplan at 55 Coonara Avenue will deliver 417 homes including 165 houses and 252 apartments The development is estimated to cost $165 million Mirvac lodged plans for the former IBM complex at West Pennant Hills in 2021 after the site was rezoned in June 2020 from Zone B7 Business Park to Zone R3 Medium Density Residential A development application for the demolition of all existing structures was approved by The Hills Shire Council in 2021 initial plans for more than 1000 homes on the site were scaled back after Mirvac failed to win support for a bigger community footprint concerns over traffic and the environmental impact of adjoining neighbourhoods meant the development was not initially well received being an extension of the adjoining Cumberland State Forest A young woman and her partner have surprised a crowded auction by jumping in at the last minute to win a $2.56m home purchase funded by “Mum and Dad.” The couple in their 20s had the task of buying a house in Sydney for themselves and her parents to live in once they moved from Melbourne The plan was for the parents to purchase the house in the daughter’s name without seeing it for themselves MORE: Sydney’s priciest houses revealed Home with swim-up bar comes back for $2m more The parents were at home in Melbourne where the whole family came from when their daughter made the big decision She was one of 11 registered bidders at the auction of 20 Bishop Ave Bidding opened at $2.1m and moved quickly among five of the bidders until it hit $2.4m The young woman jumped in during the last five minutes to seal the deal at $2.56m Selling agent Giuseppe Murace from Ray White Cherrybrook said the pair hadn’t expressed much interest during the campaign before showing up unexpectedly and registering on the day They stayed silent for most of the auction before surprising the other bidders towards the end “They literally put up the paddle at the last $40,000 battle,” he said The vendors were an older couple planning to downsize A big enough kitchen for a family cook-off Mr Murace said they purchased the land about 17 years ago for $380,000 before building the five bedroom house All of the registered bidders were families attracted to the property’s location and the fact that it was a newer build compared to others in the suburb MORE: Millionaires only: dilapidated estate’s eye-popping price Unique timber CBD hotel sells for $30m The Bachelor life can be all yours for just $6.5k The West Pennant Hills home where a father killed two of his teenage children has been sold and bulldozers have moved in to demolish it The Hull Rd property sold in July for $1.1 million CoreLogic records confirm – just over two years after John Edwards shot his children Jack 13 in a bedroom of the home where they lived with their mother Olga Edwards then returned to his own home and killed himself who was renting the Hull Rd house at the time her children were killed The case is the subject of a coronial inquest Hearings were held at Lidcombe Coroners Court last month and State Coroner Teresa O’Sullivan ­is expected to deliver her findings before Christmas The property came to market in June through Deborah O’Brien sales and marketing manager at Homeway First National She told The Daily Telegraph she had planned to take the property to auction but it sold prior According to realestate.com.au’s latest Market Trends report the median house sale price for West Pennant Hills is $1.725 million which had been held by the same owner since 1985 was marketed as a knockdown-rebuild opportunity as the home was beyond renovation there are a lot of older properties like this being knocked down and new homes being built,” she said “This property was ready for that and it was always marketed as that Strict legislation requires agents to disclose material facts about properties that have been the scene of a crime of murder or manslaughter in the last five years Mrs O’Brien said she had taken the responsibility very seriously and developed a summary of the facts which she presented to every buyer email or in person at open for inspections It was also fully disclosed in the contract for sale Mrs O’Brien has been selling real estate in the area for the past 35 years and said it was the first time she had managed a sale like this She conceded it had been an emotional experience especially given her desire to make the process as easy as possible for the vendor who was Ms Edwards’ landlord at the time of the tragedy “It meant I was having a conversation every day about the tragedy it was emotionally quite draining,” she said “Most of the people were genuinely looking and I ensured I spoke to everyone personally There were some people I would meet on the front porch and I would offer full disclosure before they even set foot inside.” Mrs O’Brien said the response from buyers had been mostly positive every single one of them thanked me for disclosing the information,” she said The 814sqm property is well located on the fringe of Pennant Hills the train station and a choice of parks and playgrounds Mrs O’Brien said the vendor was happy with the result “I think it was a fair result and the fact that I sold it before auction showed everyone was comfortable,” she said was granted approval from Hornsby Shire Council in September to demolish the house He has also lodged a development application to build a new two-storey home and additional detached secondary dwelling 1 Bradley Ct in West Pennant Hills is for sale With international travel off the table for the foreseeable future this palatial home in the Hills District is allowing buyers to sample Hollywood and Vatican City The West Pennant Hills mansion has 645sqm of internal space and opulent features across three levels rumpus room and a show stopping marble foyer that has an imperial staircase and a 9m ceiling The property at 1 Bradley Ct has a $4 million guide and is for sale through Louis Carr’s Jennifer Carr It is the first time it has been offered since it was built by the owner 23 years ago who wanted a home that his children could live at for as long as possible “The owner put every bit of love into this property to build a house that will stand the test of time,” Ms Carr said “The foyer is simply jaw-dropping and blows your mind … it is like something you would find in the Vatican.” The house is perfect for the entertainer with four living spaces There is also a large gazebo and kitchenette beside the heated pool complete with spa and waterfall A flood lit tennis court rounds out the outdoor amenities Ms Carr has had good interest from a number of buyers who have been blown away by the design of the six-bedroom property “This is a home many locals have been waiting for as it is like finding a needle in a haystack,” she said “I’ve even had one buyer tell me this is a house you would find in Hollywood and not Sydney.” Tennis can be played at all hours with the lights The swimming pool has a kitchenette and a water feature The upstairs level has six bedrooms including the main that features a private balcony a his and hers dressing room and an ensuite with a spa The other five bedrooms all have built-in wardrobes and bush views Ms Carr said whoever buys the property will be getting good value for money “You would easily pay more than $10 million if this home was in the eastern suburbs,” she said One of the walk-in wardrobes has a balcony The real estate agent said this type of bang for your back is drawing a lot of potential buyers from across the city to West Pennant Hills “Sydneysiders are realising that this area offers a lot of value for money and great facilities such as the new NorthConnex tunnel,” she said an intercom and a tiled four-car garage round out the features of the home shops and transport are all within proximity Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time Thousands of trees will be bulldozed as part of a residential development in northern Sydney despite opposition from residents and a local council Property developer Mirvac has lodged plans to build 418 apartments and houses on the old IBM site at West Pennant Hills 20 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD and next to the Cumberland State Forest Thousands of trees will be bulldozed as part of Mirvac’s plan to redevelop the old IBM site at West Pennant Hills.Credit: Nick Moir A Mirvac spokeswoman said the project would transform “obsolete” office buildings car parks and roads into a “family-friendly residential community” the project involves the removal of more than 3000 trees prompting opposition from community groups and The Hills Shire Council The Hills Shire Liberal mayor Peter Gangemi said he was disappointed the council’s rejection of Mirvac’s plans for the site had been overturned by the NSW government “It’s incredibly disappointing that councillors have been sidelined and unable to make decisions on local planning matters especially on issues which residents feel passionate about,” he said An artist’s impression of Mirvac’s proposed redevelopment of the old IBM site at West Pennant Hills.Credit: Mirvac Mirvac initially wanted to build more than 1500 homes on the 26-hectare site but its current plan proposes 166 houses and 252 apartments in four buildings up to eight storeys The state government fast-tracked Mirvac’s planning proposal in 2020 to rezone the site – after it was rejected by the council – allowing development applications to be lodged. Mirvac’s earlier plans for the site were also opposed by the National Trust Mirvac’s spokeswoman declined to say how many trees would be bulldozed but the developer has approval to cut down 1253 trees as part of the demolition of existing buildings on the site Mirvac has since lodged DAs seeking approval to remove a further 1877 trees The spokeswoman said about 10 hectares of remnant forest would be protected and handed over to the state government as public open space “This forest will become publicly accessible for the first time in 100 years,” she said “Presently the site is private land with no public access.” Trees planted in the 1980s business park development will be cut down and replaced with species more sensitive to the area “Mirvac’s current tree replacement strategy will see 1.5 trees planted for every tree removed.” The $300 million development is opposed by some residents who have raised concerns over traffic impact on the environment and especially the destruction of thousands of trees The project prompted 12 community groups opposed to Mirvac’s plans to join forces under the banner Forest in Danger Its spokeswoman Jan Primrose said there was significant concern about the amount of Blue Gum forest that will be cut down Residents have also lodged objections to proposed building heights which Primrose said “will loom over the surrounding forest and residential areas and visually impact on the adjacent Cumberland State Forest” Primrose said the redevelopment would add to the existing strain on public infrastructure such as schools: “The community would have preferred not to have had medium and high density housing on such an ecologically sensitive site.” Gangemi said he did not support the Mirvac project because of its environmental impact the loss of employment land and a lack of infrastructure to support new residents “There’s also more pressure that will be placed on our roads parks and reserves that are already at capacity,” he said Some changes have been made to the project including a reduction in the area zoned residential and an expansion of the Cumberland State Forest but Gangemi said: “It still doesn’t address what we’ve been calling for and that’s for the land to be retained for the existing use” Transport Minister and Baulkham Hills Liberal MP David Elliott did not answer The Sun-Herald’s questions but said Gangemi is the “most pro-development councillor in living memory so he has forfeited the right to critique the Perrottet government over local infrastructure” The redevelopment of the old IBM site was one of 101 projects approved in 2020 under the NSW government’s Planning System Acceleration Program to boost jobs and investment during the COVID-19 pandemic The rezoning changed planning rules on the site including height limits and rezoning land from a business park to a mix of recreation environmental conservation and residential But a Planning Department spokeswoman said this did not give the green light for any development to start “Any development application needs to be lodged with Council which would be required to place it on exhibition for community feedback NSW Greens planning spokeswoman Cate Faehrmann said the Mirvac project will lead to an “unacceptable loss” of critically endangered forest Faehrmann said the NSW government should ensure development is sustainable with homes built around major transport hubs and services – not at the expense of our urban bushland “Most people would find it abhorrent that developers are able to get the tick of approval to clear some of the last patches of a critically endangered forest found nowhere else on earth,” she said “The suggestion that clearing this forest can be somehow offset by planting a few saplings somewhere else is also deeply offensive.” A Mirvac spokeswoman said the project would transform \\u201Cobsolete\\u201D office buildings car parks and roads into a \\u201Cfamily-friendly residential community\\u201D The Hills Shire Liberal mayor Peter Gangemi said he was disappointed the council\\u2019s rejection of Mirvac\\u2019s plans for the site had been overturned by the NSW government \\u201CIt\\u2019s incredibly disappointing that councillors have been sidelined and unable to make decisions on local planning matters especially on issues which residents feel passionate about,\\u201D he said The state government fast-tracked Mirvac\\u2019s planning proposal in 2020 to rezone the site \\u2013 after it was rejected by the council \\u2013 allowing development applications to be lodged Mirvac\\u2019s for the site were also opposed by the National Trust Mirvac\\u2019s spokeswoman declined to say how many trees would be bulldozed \\u201CThis forest will become publicly accessible for the first time in 100 years,\\u201D she said \\u201CPresently the site is private land with no public access.\\u201D \\u201CMirvac\\u2019s current tree replacement strategy will see 1.5 trees planted for every tree removed.\\u201D The project prompted 12 community groups opposed to Mirvac\\u2019s plans to join forces under the banner Forest in Danger which Primrose said \\u201Cwill loom over the surrounding forest and residential areas and visually impact on the adjacent Cumberland State Forest\\u201D Primrose said the redevelopment would add to the existing strain on public infrastructure such as schools: \\u201CThe community would have preferred not to have had medium and high density housing on such an ecologically sensitive site.\\u201D \\u201CThere\\u2019s also more pressure that will be placed on our roads parks and reserves that are already at capacity,\\u201D he said but Gangemi said: \\u201CIt still doesn\\u2019t address what we\\u2019ve been calling for and that\\u2019s for the land to be retained for the existing use\\u201D Transport Minister and Baulkham Hills Liberal MP David Elliott did not answer The Sun-Herald\\u2019s questions but said Gangemi is the \\u201Cmost pro-development councillor in living memory so he has forfeited the right to critique the Perrottet government over local infrastructure\\u201D The controversy over Mirvac\\u2019s plans for the site follows growing anger over the and the The redevelopment of the old IBM site was one of 101 projects approved in 2020 under the NSW government\\u2019s to boost jobs and investment during the COVID-19 pandemic \\u201CAny development application needs to be lodged with Council as part of its assessment processes.\\u201D NSW Greens planning spokeswoman Cate Faehrmann said the Mirvac project will lead to an \\u201Cunacceptable loss\\u201D of critically endangered forest with homes built around major transport hubs and services \\u2013 not at the expense of our urban bushland \\u201CMost people would find it abhorrent that developers are able to get the tick of approval to clear some of the last patches of a critically endangered forest found nowhere else on earth,\\u201D she said \\u201CThe suggestion that clearing this forest can be somehow offset by planting a few saplings somewhere else is also deeply offensive.\\u201D ASX-listed developer Mirvac has revealed its West Pennant Hills masterplan, Highforest by Mirvac It was a year ago Urban revealed the plans for the near 26-hectare, $700 million community which will have around 418 apartments and townhouses on the site bordering the Cumberland State Forest Around 10 hectares of remnant bushland will be dedicated to the stage government as public open space Mirvac promise a "harmonious blend of modern living and nature." There will be 252 apartments and 166 houses considerably less than the 1,500 homes that were envisaged for the large site The apartments will be spread across four buildings no higher than eight levels The state government expedited Mirvac's planning proposal greenlighting the site's rezoning after the local council rejected it Mirvac's commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its decision to protect approximately 10 hectares of remnant forest “This forest will become publicly accessible for the first time in 100 years, transforming the site from private land with no public access into a sanctuary for all to enjoy," Mirvac said Highforest, spearheaded by Mirvac Design is set to revolutionise residential living focusing on the connection of architecture The development comprises generously proportioned semi-detached and terrace homes offering flexibility to meet the evolving needs of families four apartment buildings with deep balconies and large windows provide an immersive connection with nature inspired by the concept of treehouse living The first apartment release many of which capture views of the surrounding forest with some units incorporating dedicated media and study areas including a mix of semi-detached and attached homes Key features encompass provisions for additional media along with private open spaces such as ground-level and upper-level balconies Residents of Highforest will have access to an array of amenities and a private resident-only recreational facility The West Pennant Hills project will be just 800 metres from Cherrybrook Metro Station We're on a mission to radically improve the quality of Urban communities being developed across Australia We aim to showcase every development in Australia to help you find the perfect new home on the market for the first time in more than 40 years It was one of 734 homes scheduled to go under the hammer in Sydney on Saturday Domain Group recorded a preliminary clearance rate of 88 per cent from 573 reported results Withdrawn auctions are counted as unsold properties when calculating the clearance rate It was the fourth Saturday in a row that the city’s preliminary rate climbed above 85 per cent The 911-square-metre block at 102 Eaton Road attracted 34 registered buyers, a dozen of whom threw their hats in the ring. The auction for the deceased estate opened at $1.6 million – $50,000 shy of the price guide – and spirited bidding then raised the price in varying increments from $50,000 down to $10,000. By the $2.07 million mark, it was a two-person race between the next-door neighbour and an owner-occupier who shouted across the backyard: “If you stop bidding, I’ll shout you lunch!” To which the neighbour replied: “I’ll let her have it, I live next door.” Sydney median auction house price reaches a high of $1.68m during record month of clearance rates Sydney auctions: Sale price of Earlwood house jumps almost $500,000 in four months Huge weekend of auctions sees aggressive bidding from buyers in Sydney A final $1000 bid secured the home for $2.072 million – $442,000 above the reserve. The next-door neighbour and underbidder, who only wanted to be identified by his first name, Peter, said he had been hoping to flip the property. “We were going to fully renovate,” he said. “We were going to spend just over 10 per cent of [its] resale value and then sell it [in] a bit over 12 months. Two months ago would have been better [to buy]. “Sydney’s real estate has always gone up … low interest rates are stimulating purchases … and I think prices will continue to rise.” Benson Auctions auctioneer Stu Bensons said it was a most pleasant and cordial outcome despite the market’s competitiveness. “A lot of people are seeing the value in the land and its proximity to schools and arterial roads,” he said, adding that the other 33 buyers who missed out were going back into an already short-supplied market. The property sold through Jennifer Carr and William Carr of Louis Carr Real Estate. Mr Carr said the buyers had only inspected the property for the first time on Friday. “A lot of people have got the view the market is going to continue to rise so they want to purchase now,” he said, adding that many buyers who were priced out of the north shore were turning to the Hills district instead. West Pennant Hills’ median house price rose 14 per cent to $1.75 million by the end of 2020, Domain data shows. Three of the four registered buyers raised the price after the auction opened at $2.9 million – bang on the price guide. PPD Real Estate’s Mary Anne Cronin said a shortage of eastern suburbs homes amid improving certainty around the health situation was fuelling the market’s strength. “If that was about five months ago, it would have sold for $2.8 million or $2.9 million, so that’s a big jump from where it was,” she said. The property last sold for $89,950 in 1980, according to the agent. North Bondi’s median house price rose 11.8 per cent to $3.185 million over the year in 2020, Domain data shows 3 Baths2 ParkingView listing In Manly Vale, an architect-designed renovation of 42 Parkes Street helped the four-bedroom house sell for $3.471 million. Six of the nine buyers placed bids on the property, with an opening offer of $2.95 million starting the auction. It sold to a young Queenscliff family who were upsizing from an apartment. Cunninghams Real Estate’s Andrew Lutze said there was a huge appetite for well-renovated homes on the northern beaches because of the lifestyle factor. “We don’t know where the depth of the market is behind that,” he said. “While it’s good to look at comparable sales, we’re breaking new ground each week.” The property sold for $1.25 million in 2015, records show, with the sale price almost tripling in just six years. 1 Bath1 ParkingView listing In Lewisham, three first-home buyers registered to bid on a one-bedroom unit at 312/20 Hudson Street. The auction started with an opening offer at $650,000, and two of the bidders drove the price up to $750,000 – $50,00 above the reserve. True Property’s Michael Catalano said there was a small pool of first-home buyers looking in the $700,00 to $750,000 price range. “Usually apartments in that complex are selling between $650,000 and $680,000,” he 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) 3 Compton Green West Pennant Hills recently sold for $2.13 million There was strong buyer interest recently for a luxury West Pennant Hills home within a non-gated community estate with tennis court and clubhouse The property at 3 Compton Green sold for $2.13 million through Louis Carr Real Estate Agent Jenny Carr said it was a solid result compared with other sales within The Glade estate during more buoyant market times 4 Compton Green which sold for $2.2 million and 11 Compton Green which sold for $2.388 million — both larger homes and achieved in early 2017 “This is a very good looking house and buyers were keen to see something that wasn’t that old West Pennant Hills federation style,” Ms Carr said The five-bedroom home has four bathrooms and parking for three The swimming pool is the centrepiece of the backyard the property is designed for large or extended families with the potential for dual occupancy afforded by fully self-contained guest or in-law accommodation European appliances and gas cooking in the kitchen West Pennant Hills has a price guide of $3.8 million to $4 million When builder Peter Harb started construction of a six-bedroom five-bathroom mansion in West Pennant Hills who had a design background and was responsible for much of the home’s internal look and finishes were so in love with it that neither could part with it “We had some plans to build in Castle Hill but we decided to stick with this one,” Harb says “It had so much open space and the entertainment area was just fantastic So it’s only now, 12 years later, with the four kids now grown up, that the stunning property on a massive 1471 sqm block at 13 Matthew Way has hit the market with a price guide of $3.8 million to $4 million The north-facing outdoor entertainment space is one of the big attractions Castle Hill is getting plenty of interest for exactly the same reasons that prompted the Harbs to want to stay Says Peter: “The inside-outside area worked perfectly and the way the house is designed The living areas and outdoor spaces all have a perfect north-easterly aspect so they get plenty of sun and are a joyful place to be even during winter There are also extensive indoor entertainment areas One of the family’s favourite features has been the pool and spa The children could invite their friends over — everyone no doubt wanted to come to the Harb house during summer — and mum and dad could keep a close eye on what’s going on The huge rumpus room with its pool table was a big hit Douaihy says buyer interest is coming from families wanting to upgrade in neighbouring suburbs but also the north shore event from places like Nelson Bay,” she added “It has that French provincial look in a beautiful location not far from the station She says it’s the size and the appeal of the entertainment areas — both inside and out — that’s also winning over buyers “An outdoor entertainment area like this is something you rarely find in West Pennant Hills,” Douaihy says “It’s got a beautiful outlook and it’s a substantial home.” The lift that travels from the four-car garage to the two other levels of the home also means it’s a home for all ages And there’s even a self-contained bedroom off the garage perfect as a teenager retreat or guest accommodation There are soaring ceilings higher than three metres in parts of the home Buyers have also been attracted to the wide floorboards and very high ceilings (much higher than three metres) Douaihy says the property market has improved in the area in recent weeks “There’s a lot more buyer confidence now and we’re getting good numbers through open homes and buyers are making decisions,” she says but other than that buyers are coming back for second looks has sold for $4.5 million property recently Though buyers coming through the Harb property have said they preferred the wider frontage and entertainment space of this latest listing This grand residence has just been listed for sale in West Pennant Hills This lavish West Pennant Hills mansion really knows how to make an entrance with a jaw dropping front foyer featuring an opulent marble staircase gold and wrought iron balustrade plus Roman statues High above is a stunning timber ceiling featuring diagonal panelling exposed timber beams and an eye catching central light MORE: Treasured Baulkham Hills home sells How to find the perfect property location Set on 2024 sqm block in a cul-de-sac at 1 Bradley Court this super-sized six bedroom triple level home has just been listed on the market with $4m price guide The outdoor entertainment area feels like a holiday resort It also offers resort style living with massive 150,000 litre tiled swimming pool full-size championship tennis court and a gazebo with outdoor kitchen Agent Mark Vinogradov from McGrath Castle Hill said the no-expense-spared residence is incredibly solid as it was constructed using suspended concrete slabs and is double the size of other homes in the suburb “The foyer is even grander in real life – the vendor’s daughter had her wedding photos taken on the stairs,” he said you really feel like you are at a holiday resort.” While the property is located the heart of suburbia it has an incredibly private location backing directly onto bushland It is conveniently located just a six minute drive to the Cherrybrook Metro Station and is even closer to the local shopping village The residence is undeniably palatial with intricate ceilings and rich drapery in both the formal lounge and dining rooms The home backs onto bushland and features a tennis court It includes a spacious open planned family meals area the home also has a spacious theatre room (measuring 6.2m x 8.3m) and a games area located on the lower ground floor Sliding doors off the kitchen lead out to an expansive balcony overlooking the picturesque rear gardens and surrounding gumtrees The peaceful outlook can also be enjoyed from the luxurious master retreat located on the upper level of the home It also features a walk-in wardrobe and full-sized ensuite with bath Another five bedrooms are also located on the top floor There is also a family bathroom and separate study which is zoned for Murray Farm Primary School also includes a four car lockup garage Australia's most controversial soccer team has won its grand final after going through their season undefeated Sydney-based Flying Bats FC made headlines around the globe earlier this year after it was revealed that five of the team's women's side were made up of transgender players The team's presence in the women's competition led to complaints from club officials and parents, while high-profile figures like JK Rowling and Lucy Zelic have also criticised their participation. And now it can be revealed that the team have capped of an undefeated season in the Women's Premier League competition which they have won all 16 of their  regular season matches while scoring 65 goals and conceding just four in the process by winning the grand final on Sunday Zelic posted the scoreboard at the ground with the final 5-4 scoreline over West Pennant Hills Cherrybrook Football Club 'Full-time. Flying Bats FC win the Premiership and the Grand Final. Trans-identified [players] will be crowned champions in the Women’s Premier League Division,' she posted with the hashtag #SaveWomenSports The game was held at 3pm at Christie Park with security guards present at the venue discouraging the use of professional photography equipment and checking people's phones for images taken of the match The scores were locked at 3-3 at halftime before the Flying Bats made a host of changes and edged clear in the second half One of the transgender players was issued a yellow card during the match while a transgender player was named best on ground after the tight finish Football NSW has removed the identities of the Flying Bats players from their websites Daily Mail Australia has elected not to reveal their identities The beaten West Pennant Hills Cherrybrook Football Club posted describing the loss as 'heartbreaking' and praised their players for pushing the Flying Bats all the way 'Our Premier League Women's team have left everything on Christie Park this afternoon losing 5-4 in heartbreaking fashion to the Flying Bats,' the club posted on Facebook 'You embodied everything it means to play for our club over an amazing 90 mins of football 2GB's Ben Fordham previously revealed that six of the team's victories came as a result of the opposition team forfeiting including the two semi-final fixtures that led to their progress to the final it was reported that sports governing bodies had told clubs that they would be punished if they forfeited their games against the Bats it's a women's competition and they have five [transgender] players and we have some people trying to say "it doesn't make a difference" really?' he said on Thursday morning's show Zelic, a vocal critic of the team, responded to their successful season, labelling it a 'crime against women' 'I think that's a real crime against women here.. 'The fact that these women have been rendered voiceless in this and if they do have a voice they are being punished for it it is something that needs to be explored very deeply To reach the knockout stages of the competition.. it takes some real courage in this situation to stand up and say "no Both Putney Rangers and Macquarie Dragons should be commended for that.' Zelic then pointed the finger out the governing bodies for what she claimed was a dereliction of duty that I consider the most villainous are the national sporting organisations the ones who haven't yet acted to introduce policies to protect women and girls who are the real culprits and are responsible for allowing this circus act to continue,' she added 'These are the people we really need to bring to the fore here and ask them for answers I want to know "why don't these women's voices matter?" it's just not right.' On the Flying Bats' official website, they claim they are 'the biggest LGBTQIA+ women's and non-binary football club in the world'.  Club president Jennifer Peden told Daily Mail Australia in April: 'As a club the Flying Bats FC stand strongly for inclusion the promotion of a supportive community for LGBTQIA+ players social and mental health benefits that participation in sport brings especially to marginalised members of the LGBTQIA+ community We are a club that values our cisgender and transgender players equally 'We strongly support the Australian Human Rights Commission's guidelines for the inclusion of transgender and gender diverse people in sport.' The guidelines state that under the federal Sex Discrimination Act 1984 sporting organisations cannot discriminate against transgender players either directly 'An example of direct discrimination would be a sporting organisation refusing a trans woman’s application for membership because she is transgender,' the guidelines state 'An example of indirect discrimination might be a sporting organisation requiring a birth certificate upon registration and not accepting any alternative form of documentation to verify a person’s gender.' Football NSW has developed a Gender Diversity Policy but it only applies to the NPL NSW Women’s Competition FNSW League One Women’s Competition and FNSW Girls’ Youth League One Competition The Women's Premier League that the Flying Bats compete in does not come under this policy but Football NSW states that these competitions would align with Football Australia’s adoption of the Australian Human Rights Commission’s Guidelines community (grassroots) players are permitted to participate in Football on the basis of the gender with which they identify,' the Football NSW website states inform the gender inclusion policies of Football Australia and the North West Sydney Football Association at the community grassroots level at which we play,' Peden continued 'Trans women belong in the women's competition because that is the gender with which they identify Trans women have played with the club for at least 20 years at levels ranging from beginner to skilled and placed in the team that is most appropriate for their skill and experience level.' The LGBTI Rights Australia Facebook group posted a message congratulating the team shortly after they won the Beryl Ackroyd Cup and slammed critics of the side 'Transgender women have been proudly part of the bats for 20 YEARS yet it took terf N@zi$ up until this week to take notice,' the message read 'This underscores that the issue isn't transgender athletes but the exploitation of sports for political gain 'Congratulations to the Flying Bats Soccer Club who recently won the Beryl Ackroyd Cup OAM sellsKatrina Creer The late organist David Parsons would hold lunchtime concerts in his home to raise money for charities Lunchtime concerts by the late legendary organist David Parsons at his Sydney home not only wowed audiences but raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities The single-level residence at 8 Roma Court in West Pennant Hills which has just sold for $1.75 million through Louis Carr Real Estate was custom built with its own auditorium for the talented musician they would open the doors of their home three times a week to retirement and social groups who would attend special performances followed by light refreshments The couple started their fundraising concerts in the 1970s while living in Beecroft before later moving to their purpose-built home set on a 2073 sqm block in West Pennant Hills The property at Roma Court looks like a suburban home but has its own auditorium The 9.5m x 7.5m auditorium could accommodate 70 guests and featured cathedral ceilings “Dad mainly played pieces from musicals and really liked Gilbert and Sullivan Andrew Lloyd Webber plus there would be a few hymns,” said eldest daughter Cheryl Hill “The audience would sing-a-long if they knew the words and he would take requests – he never used sheet music he just knew music and would play things from ear so the audience could see what was happening and they loved that If dad was playing a march or a rousing song both hands and feet would be going and he would be very busy.” Mr Parsons placed mirrors above the organs so the audience could see his intricate performances He attracted the largest crowd ever recorded at the Concert Hall at the Sydney Opera House when a free lunch time performance in 1979 bought numbers so great people were spilling into the aisle and foyer He was later appointed ‘Assistant City Organist Theatre’ at the Sydney Town Hall – home to the largest pipe organ in the Southern Hemisphere – which he regularly played who was the resident organist at St Matthews Anglican Church West Pennant Hills for 35 years played the organ at more than 7,000 services during his lifetime The additional kitchen for serving light refreshments he was playing music for his father’s congregations Mr Parsons also developed a passion for the theatre organ playing his first Wurlitzer in the Plaza Theatre in George Street back in the 1950s But it was his fundraising performances for charities that became one of his greatest loves He was awarded the Order Merit of Australia (OAM) in 1985 and later the Paul Harris Fellow Medal (Rotary International’s highest award) for services to the community “Dad would have done the concerts every day but we had to limit him,” Ms Hill said and played right up until a couple of weeks before he went into hospital for the last time.” The family made the decision to keep Mr Parsons’ instruments in the home when they recently listed the property for sale Both electronic organs sold during the marketing campaign Agent Jenny Carr said while the property is well known in the Hills community for its musical concerts even she was taken back by the size of the auditorium It was purchased by a young family who plan on redesigning the layout as a residential property but this house has massive memories,” Ms Carr said FORMER Parramatta Eel captain Nathan Cayless the new assistant coach of the Kiwi’s national rugby league side and his wife Erin have listed their five bedroom West Pennant Hills home SIGN UP FOR THE LATEST REAL ESTATE NEWSLETTER HERE two years before Nathan retired having captained more NRL games than any other player Stone Hills District agents Jane Booty and Viv Mylott are marketing the cul-de-sac property as a family entertainer with contemporary excellence ●HOPE FOR STAMP DUTY RELIEF IN NSW ●SYDNEY’S NEWEST MILLIONAIRE’S ROW It sits on 1690sqm with a heated pool overlooking an alfresco entertaining space with outdoor kitchen The renovations to the 1990-built home were done six years ago Lana Taylor and Bonnie Hindmarsh to form the Three Birds renovation team where she is the operations director Raptor Squad officers have charged an alleged member of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG) with allegedly assaulting another man at a Greystanes hotel last month. About 7.45pm on Friday, August 16, police were called to a hotel on Merrylands Road, Greystanes, following reports of an assault. Officers arrived and were told a 48-year-old man had allegedly punched and stomped on a 39-year-old man’s head before leaving the scene. The 39-year-old was taken to Westmead Hospital by NSW Ambulance paramedics where he was treated for serious head injuries. Following extensive investigations, State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad executed a search warrant at a West Pennant Hills home about 6am on Wednesday, September 4. During the search, officers arrested a 48-year-old man – and an alleged member of the Bandidos OMCG with retired status – before taking him to Castle Hill Police Station. He was charged with reckless wounding and affray. The man was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Local Court yesterday. Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/mirvac-plots-next-stage-of-1b-waterfront-newstead-brisbane\"\u003eIt is one of many apartment complexes the developer has on the boil,\u003c/a\u003e and is anticipated to cost about $165 million Civil works to prepare the site would cost about $30 million \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe developer won support for its residential project at West Pennant Hills and after soil investigations lodged plans for four apartment buildings up to six storeys on the site with further development applications to be lodged for subsequent stages \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMirvac acquired the site in 2016 for $74 million and was unable to re-lease the property when IBM vacated the property \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt then sought change of use from business park to residential development and won approval to create the $600-million-plus masterplanned community \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe planned development came under fire from residents and environmentalists over traffic increase concerns and possible detrimental effects on neighbouring ecosystem among other concerns.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe lodgement of the concept plan development application outlines building parameters across the site building envelopes and also dwelling yields according to Mirvac.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe application also addressed the demolition of seven low-rise interconnected office buildings next to Cumberland State Forest \u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"row ci\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"cell cs12 cx12\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"ci cl\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlans for the first stage of housing and the apartments precinct are being finalised which will provide greater detail on the development of the site \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eInitial plans for more than 1000 dwellings on the site were scaled back after Mirvac failed to win support for a bigger community footprint \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site is 800m from the Cherrybrook Metro Station and 3km from the new Northconnex interchange \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMirvac has committed to handing over about 10ha of remnant forest to the state government for the extension of the adjoining state forest \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“We understand the important role the remnant blue gum high forest and the Sydney turpentine ironbark forest has in providing valuable habitat for local native flora and fauna and we are committed to its protection,” Mirvac said in a statement any proposed demolition and construction works will be carried out under specific controls designed to minimise any potential impacts \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“As part of the proposed redevelopment approximately 10ha of forest area will be dedicated to the state government as public open space The concept plan and civil works development application lodged with The Hills Shire Council is for 252 apartments and 166 houses across the 25.87ha site at 55 Coonara Avenue It is one of many apartment complexes the developer has on the boil, and is anticipated to cost about $165 million The developer won support for its residential project at West Pennant Hills Mirvac acquired the site in 2016 for $74 million and was unable to re-lease the property when IBM vacated the property It then sought change of use from business park to residential development and won approval to create the $600-million-plus masterplanned community The planned development came under fire from residents and environmentalists over traffic increase concerns and possible detrimental effects on neighbouring ecosystem among other concerns The lodgement of the concept plan development application outlines building parameters across the site The application also addressed the demolition of seven low-rise interconnected office buildings next to Cumberland State Forest Plans for the first stage of housing and the apartments precinct are being finalised Initial plans for more than 1000 dwellings on the site were scaled back after Mirvac failed to win support for a bigger community footprint The site is 800m from the Cherrybrook Metro Station and 3km from the new Northconnex interchange Mirvac has committed to handing over about 10ha of remnant forest to the state government for the extension of the adjoining state forest “We understand the important role the remnant blue gum high forest and the Sydney turpentine ironbark forest has in providing valuable habitat for local native flora and fauna to become an extension of the adjoining Cumberland State Forest.” Mirvac acquired a major greenfield site in Sydney’s south-west growth corridor recently The move by Mirvac enables the developer to restock its landbank in Australia’s most expensive city where stock has been snapped up by the HomeBuilder program and lot prices have surged A father who shot and killed his two teenage children in Sydney's north-west has been found dead A massive manhunt was sparked after the bodies of the teens were found in a home on Hull Road Police arrive on Friday morning to the scene where two teenagers were shot in their bedrooms.Credit: Janie Barrett in a house in Normanhurst on Friday morning Acting Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden said the shooting deaths of the teens was "premeditated and planned" "What we do know from the information available to us this was a planned activity on the part of the 68-year-old male and we are of the belief that shortly thereafter he has attended the address at Normanhurst and taken his own life," he said were also found at the Normanhurst property acting Assistant Commissioner McFadden said he did not believe it was extensive and was from "many years ago" As forensic examinations of the home continued on Friday morning it is understood the teens' bodies were removed just before 6am Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull described the deaths as heartbreaking it appears by their father who has subsequently taken his own life," he said Our hearts go out to the mother and to all of the family and we mourn the loss of those young people can find comfort in prayer and the consolation from friends and loved ones." a neighbour said the children were shot dead within a minute's walk of her home Emergency services arrived at the Hull Road address just after 5pm on Thursday to find a 13-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy dead in their bedrooms Seven ambulances and a helicopter attended but there was nothing the first responders could do for the children She was treated at the scene for severe shock and was released into the care of friends Acting Assistant Commissioner McFadden said the woman suffered "significant shock" "I can't imagine the significant stress and heartache she is going through," he said Support is available by phoning Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service 1800 737 732; Men's Referral Service 1300 766 491 A father who shot and killed his two teenage children\\u00A0in Sydney's north-west has been found dead Acting Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden said the shooting deaths of the teens was \\\"premeditated and planned\\\" \\\"What we do know from the information available to us this was a planned activity on the part of the 68-year-old male and we are of the belief that shortly thereafter he has attended the address at Normanhurst and taken his own life,\\\" he said acting Assistant Commissioner McFadden said he did not believe it was extensive and was from \\\"many years ago\\\" it is understood the teens' bodies were removed just before 6am it appears by their father who has subsequently taken his own life,\\\" he said can find comfort in prayer and the consolation from friends and loved ones.\\\" a neighbour said the children were shot dead within a minute's walk of her home Acting Assistant Commissioner McFadden said the woman suffered \\\"significant shock\\\" \\\"I can't imagine the significant stress and heartache she is going through,\\\" he said Support is available by phoning Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service 1800 737 732; Men's Referral Service 1300 766 491 Police say a teenage boy and girl were found dead at the home in West Pennant Hills in Sydney’s north-west Two teenagers have been shot dead in Sydney’s north-west in a “horrific” incident police believe may have been domestic violence-related Police have confirmed that two “young teenagers” – a boy and girl – were shot dead at a home in Hull Road Det Supt Brett McFadden said one male “person of interest” believed to be in his 50s was “still at large” McFadden said the shooting was “targeted” and “may well be a domestic violence-related incident” McFadden said the two teenagers were found dead in a bedroom in what he described as a “harrowing” and “horrific” scene arrived at the scene shortly after police arrived “We’ve really got a family who will be struggling to come to terms with [what occurred],” McFadden said Inspector Kevin McSweeney from the NSW Ambulance service said paramedics who arrived at the scene had been “confronted with an extremely [distressing] situation” “Unfortunately there was nothing we could do to help [the two teenagers],” he told reporters on Thursday evening Police and emergency services attended the home after reports of shots being fired but McFadden said investigations into whether the children were siblings and who lived at the home were still ongoing ABC News News HomeTrench collapse: Plumber dies at building site in Cherrybrook in Sydney's north-westShare Trench collapse: Plumber dies at building site in Cherrybrook in Sydney's north-westTopic:Workplace Accidents and Incidents Fire and Rescue NSW attend the scene at Cherrybrook where a man died after a trench collapsed. (ABC: Lucy Carter) Link copiedShareShare articleA plumber and father of two has been killed after falling into a collapsed trench at a building site in Sydney's north-west. Workers at the West Pennant Hills Sports Club desperately tried to dig the 47-year-old man out of the three-metre trench just after midday, but he died at the scene. Distraught colleagues were in tears at the worksite on Friday as Fire and Rescue workers tried to free the body. The ABC was told the man was the head of a family plumbing business and has two young daughters. The construction union said it was concerned safety standards are slipping at sites across the country, claiming workers are being rushed before Christmas. The CFMEU said four workers had died in New South Wales in the past fortnight. Police and Workcover are investigating the incident. The property is expected to set a new record for West Pennant Hills A WEST Pennant Hills mega mansion with giant-sized double front doors so huge they dwarf visitors is set to create a new residential price record Sitting behind an electronically gated driveway with landscaped terrazzo gardens and soaring columns the French chateau-inspired property is expected to fetch in excess of $5m It opens up to an incredible 896 sqm of internal space — double the size of some suburban blocks — with beautiful marble flooring and a sweeping wrought iron staircase The property has a floodlit tennis court and inground pool a floodlit tennis court and an in-ground freshwater pool with spa “People are just gobsmacked when they arrive at the home because it just has such a presence it is massive but really elegant’’ said agent Roslyn McCormack from eastern suburb’s based Black Diamondz Real Estate The sweeping staircase with chandelier in front foyer “The doors are exceptionally beautiful and when you open them up into the foyer it is just so lovely with its beautiful staircase.’’ The residence at 3 Doris Hirst Place was built by its current owners as their `forever home’ 12 years ago with no expense spared finishes Three of the six bedrooms have bathroom-sized marble ensuite with spas; while the upper level also has elevated views stretching out to the Blue Mountains Concertina glass doors stretch across the back of the home blending indoor and outdoor living creating an entertainment area that can fit more than 200 guests is being sold through a system of private bidding It has already attracted strong local and international interest while some other cashed-up buyers have been turned away “I’ve had people call me about this property and the first thing I ask is what is your budget,’’ Ms McCormack said I tell them the land alone is worth between $2.7m and $2.9m.’’ The current residential record for West Pennant Hills is $5m Higher prices have been paid for homes closer to the future Cherrybrook train station by Toplace Construction Ms McCormack said while the mansion is within walking distance to the station it will remain as residential “It has been built with a lot of love in it and it is just quality all the way through.’’ Inner West overcame a challenge from the UNSW-ES Bulldogs in round 2 and was victorious by eight points Whilst Pennant Hills defeated Macquarie University by 27 points Despite the heavy conditions at Picken Oval With most of the play in the Magpies’ forward half Although it was the Demons who struck first Following an act of ill-discipline by Inner West Pennant Hills was awarded a 50-metre free-kick Tayla Duguid was the beneficiary and kicked the opening goal of the match from the Demons’ first forward 50 entry It didn’t take long for the Magpies to answer back A free kick for incorrect disposal was paid as Sarah Tutt had no trouble with the distance from 30 metres out The Magpies made it two goals in quick succession Erin Lorenzini after she fended off two defenders and sent a low kick inside the forward 50 Ella Heads’ second effort sent the ball to the hotspot Jasmine Smith roved and kicked on the turn from 20 metres out A counter-attacking goal from Alexandra Wade and a sharp finish from Eleri Morris rounded out an entertaining first quarter Quarter time Inner West Magpies 3.3.21 Pennant Hills Demons 2.0.12 Sheerin would’ve added to the goal tally early in the second quarter if not for a crucial touch off the boot from the Pennant Hills defence Lael Kassem followed up her deep entry inside the forward 50 and fired a handball to Lorenzini Lorenzini smartly delayed her handball giving Sheerin an extra step to straighten onto her left side and finished on the run The Demons almost capitalised from another counter-attacking move Although Eliza Harvey was cruelled by the bounce of the ball on the goal line Pennant Hills’ third goal of the day came through yet another counterattack Kaitlin Quinlan rebounded off the half-back flank Madison Hare roved on the attacking side of the centre square and her sweeping handball was met in stride by Duguid Alexandra Wade marked just out of the goal square Wade’s shot snuck just inside the goal post to halt the Magpies’ momentum Sheerin’s second goal came just before the halftime siren Half time Inner West Magpies 5.5.35 Pennant Hills Demons 3.0.18 Inner West had the ball hemmed in their forward 50 it didn’t take them long to strike the first blow Kassem’s sweeping handball was chipped inside the forward 50 A handball was squeezed out to McDonnell who snapped around her body The ball was unselfishly allowed to bounce through From a ball up 25 metres directly in front of the Magpies’ attacking goal Demons defender Eleanor Rugg had the initial clearance Sheerin swopped on the loose ball and outran two defenders before she steadied and finished on the run The Demons had another opportunity over the back of the Inner West defence Elly Rudd’s angled kick to Brianna-Lee Wade opened the centre corridor Wade wasted no time and kicked into an open forward 50 Elly Jenkins quickly recovered as the Magpies’ defence flooded back it was Inner Wests’ turn to counterattack Eloise Carey rebounded of half back to the centre wing After the initial entry was cleared by the Demons Tutt’s thumping left foot just had the required journey for her second goal A late end-to-end goal was finished by Gillian Behan to give the Magpies a comfortable 39-point margin at three-quarter time Three quarter time Inner West Magpies 9.5.59 Pennant Hills Demons 3.2.20 Gillian Behan’s second goal came less than a minute into the final term Sheerin burst out of the front of the stoppage and delivered to Eleri Morris who couldn’t take the mark Morris continued her hunt for the football which ended in a kick to space in the forward pocket Behan cleverly kept the ball in before evading an opponent and finished from a tight angle Morris added her second from point-blank range after being dragged out in a marking contest Darwall made it three goals in the opening seven minutes of the quarter The ball spilled out after Sheerin laid a strong tackle split the pack of players and finished from inside the goal square and opened up a 58-point margin A late Inner West goal ended what was a dominant display for the Magpies despite both sides being victorious in their opening two matches Full time Inner West Magpies 13.8.86 Pennant Hills Demons 3.2.20 There was little doubt that Eilish Sheerin was the best player on the ground for Inner West as she excelled inside the forward 50 before moving into the middle of the ground later in the contest Erin Lorenzini’s composure couldn’t be underestimated Whilst Jasmine Smith continued her strong start to the season Hayley Lowe was solid in defence and Madison Hare did well to combat the Magpies’ ruck tandem This is probably not the page you’re looking for LATEST NEWS LATEST STORIES WEST REPORT by Kurt Johnson | Aug 27, 2022 | Energy & Environment, Latest Posts Cumberland State Forest (Image courtesy Forestry Corporation of NSW) It was shovels at the ready as Australia plotted recovery from the economic ravages wrought by the pandemic But hasty decision making is leading to long-term regrets among some affected communities Demolition of office buildings and the clearing of 1253 trees has begun for a 418-home “family friendly community” in Sydney’s West Pennant Hills A black wall more than two metres high has been erected right up to the kerb It blocks neighbours from monitoring the impact on wildlife but they can hear the earthmovers It sounds like “a rumbling … like thunder” says one resident developer Mirvac has agreed to paint the wall a light green to be more visible to passing traffic Developer Mirvac describes this project as one “that sensitively responds to the natural landscape” But the $236 million development adds to the emerging narrative that projects being promoted as part of the post-Covid recovery are overriding communities and councils – environmental safeguards is also being scrutinised as a key example of developers ‘‘sidestepping’’ NSW legislation intended to protect native wildlife In 2019 the proposal to rezone the defunct IBM office complex for residential development was rejected by Hills Council. The community had hoped it would be turned into a park. Then in June 2020, the state government’s Planning System Acceleration Program, tasked with fast-tracking projects that “are shovel-ready, and that provide a public benefit” When it became clear the development may go ahead Hills Council received 4000 letters of objection with the community holding a ‘​​Vigil for the Forest’ It drew a broadside of political opposition at multiple levels with state Labor and the Animal Justice Party together with Greens and Liberal members of the Hills Shire Council Initial concern was for the Blue Gum High and Sydney Turpentine Ironbark forests both critically endangered in NSW Following an arborist’s report revealing blue gum trees within the demolition area Mirvac referred the decision to the then federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley in July last year Ley approved the trees’ removal in September Attention has since shifted from flora to fauna Documents obtained by Michael West Media reveal that numerous animals were discovered during pre-clearance surveys including evidence of protected species such as the ‘‘vulnerable’’ fishing bat southern myotis the endangered Dural land snail as well as microbats have been a particular point of contention one was captured on an infrared camera at the eastern edge of the site This runs contrary to claims by Mirvac development director Adrian Checchin who stated at an early planning meeting there were “no Powerful Owls.” “We have been monitoring them for years and haven’t seen them on our site.” A Mirvac spokesperson told MWM: “Mirvac has undertaken a wide range of initiatives to protect restore and enhance the flora and fauna at Coonara Avenue All fauna related activities on site are undertaken in strict accordance with the relevant consent conditions and the Fauna Management Plan which has been endorsed by The Hills Shire Council.” A Fauna Management Plan (FMP) is a non-standard document that details how a site should be surveyed for wildlife and how discovered wildlife should be managed This process is coming under scrutiny as the legislation allows developers to “sidestep” the strict standards and laws that apply elsewhere “The legislation is failing,” says Licensed Wildlife Rescuer Katrina Emmett “There is no requirement for the Fauna Management Plan to be consistent with the animal welfare standards.” Mirvac employed Cumberland Ecology to produce the FMP for the demolition An early copy released in November 2021 came under criticism with feedback being incorporated in the final version in January has stated “Once a project is approved the management plan is written to a specification that embraces those original ethical approval standards.” Yet according to animal carers such as Emmett the final version still has multiple shortcomings “The FMP has a lot of missing animal protocols for native wildlife that live there like echidnas and gliders and even some protected species like pygmy possums.” Problems were also noted regarding the release of discovered fauna into the adjoining bush particularly for species that are territorial it may just be leaving them to suffer a slow demise through lack of available food or being displaced from their family groups or being released into an area with a too high density of the same species or being released at the wrong time of year.” She notes that in winter some animals such as reptiles are hibernating Animal carers also dispute the effectiveness of some protocols such as: “Trees will be gently shaken by machinery prior to clearing to encourage any animals remaining to leave” it is the Euthanasia Protocol that provokes the greatest consternation It includes a provision that allows injured wildlife to be euthanised if “deemed unlikely to survive travelling to the vet” Wildlife veterinarian Gabbi Tobias states that ecologists “shouldn’t make an assessment of the animal’s health.” The FMP includes “six vet clinics and two of them are open 24 hours and so there’s absolutely no reason for an ecologist to euthanise anything.” The closest West Pennant Hills Veterinary Hospital is just 800 metres away “There just seems to be this huge exemption for development compared to the rest of the people in NSW,” Tobias says Euthanising injured fauna has particularly strict processes in NSW Sick and Orphaned Protected Fauna states: “Rescuers must arrange for fauna to be assessed by a veterinarian or experienced fauna rehabilitator within 24 hours of rescue to ensure accurate diagnosis.” Cumberland Ecology’s David Robertson responds: “Our ecologists are scientifically trained biologists and environmental scientists and always seek veterinary support and assessment if animals are unwell or injured Yet the Fauna Management Plan makes no mention of consulting a vet prior to bringing an injured animal in Instead the plan states: “A judgement is required on injured animals as to whether they are suitable for release transport to a vet or euthanised onsite in accordance with protocols of animal ethics approval that authorise the ecologist to perform this action if required.” The difference between strict official protocols required of animal carers and the general public versus those within the Fauna Management Plan reveals the underlying bureaucratic blind spot that developers can exploit This takes advantage of a complex tapestry of NSW and Commonwealth Laws but one section (2.8(1)(a)) of the Biodiversity Conservation Act provides a special defence for development approvals the managing solicitor of the Animal Defenders Office “Development applications in NSW may be exempt from the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BCA) Once approved by a government body – usually a local council – an action while demolishing land clearing or construction that would be considered an offence under the BCA with regards to how wildlife is handled may be defensible by this exemption if the alleged offender can prove that the action was necessary for the carrying out of development in accordance with the relevant development consent.” The caveat is that “Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (NSW) still applies to approved developments” but “it is the BCA rather than the [1979 act] that contains provisions for handling and researching native wildlife and protected ecosystems…” Ward sums this as “the exemption in the BCA for development applications could allow developers to essentially sidestep biodiversity conservation legislation intended to secure the safety of protected species.” fundamental questions surround Fauna Management Plans regarding enforcement and oversight “Ecologists are not required to write policy when preparing management plans,” states the president of the Ecological Consultants Association of NSW “It is ultimately the determining authority who will approve any [fauna] management plan.” Yet the plans stand-in for official Ward again: “If a development consent condition required compliance with a Fauna Management Plan for that particular project non-compliance with the FMP may still be an offence under the BCA.” Fauna Management Plans such as Cumberland Ecology’s do not reflect this in their language Many of the stipulations are ‘‘shoulds’’ interpreted as recommendations or guidelines rather than ‘‘musts’’ mandatory standards more likely to be enforced There is also the outstanding question: does the local council have the expertise to evaluate an FMP Hills Council responded in an email to a complaint by Emmett that: “The onus is on these ecologists to provide the appropriate level of supervision and reporting.” Hogan states “There is no formal template for such plans as the documents have various purposes and are site-specific.” Yet a set of minimum standards for a Fauna Management Plans could ensure a common framework for evaluation Some politicians are advocating in this direction Greens MP Cate Faehrmann brought a motion to NSW Parliament citing the Mirvac development specifically and trying to mandate Fauna Management Plans for all developments to align them with Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 “Developers have access to a loophole that means they aren’t required to comply with those minimum standards,” says Faehrmann “It’s nothing more than a box-ticking exercise that gives developers a get-out-of-jail-free card to do things however they like.” The motion was blocked a Fauna Management Plan is not a requirement of all developments that could interact with protected wildlife rather it came at the insistence of The Hills Shire Council Subsequent development approvals for the site such as those required to construct the new residences do not require an FMP In these cases wildlife interactions are deferred to the DA itself which require far less rigour Despite all the preclearance surveys it will never be known exactly what the impact of this development and those like it will have on animals Emmett and other wildlife carers we spoke with agree that most animals that die will do so unnoticed As veterinarian Tobias mentions: “The ones that get presented to the vet are the tip of the iceberg – below that are hundreds if not thousands of animals from that site who will be killed and we’ll just never know about it but they’ve got their fauna management plan to feel good about.” Note: MWM spoke with numerous wildlife carers Many would not represent their organisation on the record as not-for-profit animal protection organisations can lose charity status (with implications on donations) if they are seen to be speaking politically Logging Eden: NSW south coast forestry dominated by potentially illegal wood-chipping Kurt Johnson is a writer and critic working with climate He has written one book on the continuing influence of the Soviet Union This website is dedicated to the public interest Our focus is investigations into big business Good sources are critical to good journalism We work closely with our contacts and jealously guard their identities About  |  Contact  |  Privacy An IBM data centre and office in western Sydney may have to make way for a new apartment complex and residential homes Mirvac - which owns the campus-style business park in West Pennant Hills that is leased to IBM - has lodged plans to convert the site into “600 dwellings” The property firm is understood to have originally sought a redevelopment of the site twice that density but scaled back on multiple occasions after being refused permission by The Hills Shire Council The proposal has now been turned over to NSW government planners for approval and potential public consultation later this year Mirvac Capital called the campus in its current form “not viable” “The buildings are redundant,” spokesperson Adrian Checchin told a local paper. “Jobs have been lost and they will not be replaced." A video shows the space was being shopped to prospective commercial real estate tenants around the same time The progression of the proposal to convert the space into residential housing means IBM’s future at the site is now firmly in doubt - though the plan still needs to pass several hurdles before the vendor's time is definitively up The Register reports that IBM’s Cumberland Forest data centre on the site is likely to be closed once the vendor’s lease expires in 2019 iTnews has sought verification with IBM The data centre is housed in several of the buildings onsite: the “main reception and data centre is housed in building A which comprises four levels, while satellite buildings B – G comprise a mixture of offices and data recovery suites”, according to a vendor that upgraded air conditioning at the site in 2008 The site underwent a two-year set of works between 2008 and 2010 characterised as an "end-of-life upgrade" for what was already a 25-year-old facility The project also created "new floor space for [a] business hub and commercial data backup centre". It left IBM with over 4000 square metres of data centre floor space and a further 2000 square metres of "disaster recovery suites" Planning documents say the site has “a business focus on information technology services” and is “classified as one of the only ‘high technology’ commercial functions of the employment precincts within The Hills Shire".