It has been another massive year in real estate for the Tweed Coast, Southern Gold Coast and Byron Shire. We have enjoyed bringing you stunning cover homes, introducing you to leading industry figures, exploring the market with expert analysis and insights, reporting the latest news and discovering great design ideas for coastal homes.
In this edition, we explore a spectacular cover home with breathtaking ocean views in Cabarita Beach, meet Zach Morrison from Allera and reflect on this year’s market trends with an analysis piece by buyers agent Kurt Sorensen from Rose & Jones.
IN THIS EDITION
CREDITS
Publisher Alice & Co Media and Communications
Alice Coote - hello@aliceandco.com.au
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Aspen Stone Construction’s Michael Sergi explains how to select the right stone for your home in the design feature, and we have all the latest market statistics from Cotality.
As we approach the festive season, we would like to thank our readers, advertisers, contributors and suppliers for their support throughout the year.
We hope you have a wonderful holiday period celebrating Christmas and the New Year.
Alice Coote EDITOR
Designer Nicole Horbury
nick@marqcreative.com.au
Cover Home Photographers Pete Hogan - Media Drive
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COVER HOME Beachside Beauty in Cabarita Beach
4 SPOTLIGHT Meet Zach Morrison from Allera
BEACHSIDE BEAUTY IN CABARITA BEACH
COVER HOME SUMMER
This iconic Cabarita Beach residence commands attention with its striking presence and uninterrupted, panoramic ocean views.
Situated beachfront with direct access to spectacular Cabarita Beach via a nature reserve, the home offers luxury living and endless entertaining opportunities on a grand scale.
The residence – one of few that enjoy views of the famous Norries Headland – has been perfectly designed to capitalise on its unique location, with breathtaking ocean vistas able to be enjoyed from many vantage points.
Location is just one of many impressive attributes of this residence designed by Scott Carpenter from Create Architecture and built by Steve Kerr Homes.
A large glass door provides a welcoming entry to the home, leading to a sitting area that flows effortlessly to an outdoor entertaining space featuring a heated magnesium pool and paved entertaining patio.
Three luxurious and generously-sized bedrooms are located on the lower floor, which features a practical, polished terrazzo floor. Address
8 Palm Avenue, Cabarita Beach
Sotheby’s International Realty Byron Bay
Denzil Lloyd Will Phillips
A kitchenette on this level allows guests to prepare meals and beverages, while two of the bedrooms enjoy a shared balcony to sit and relax.
Venturing to the first floor, you discover an open-plan layout with bespoke kitchen, living and dining areas and floor-toceiling glass. This space perfectly captures the natural light, framing the incredible ocean views at every opportunity.
The chef’s kitchen offers premium Miele appliances, a concrete breakfast bar and walk-in pantry.
Located directly off these living areas is a sun-drenched, north-facing balcony, ideal for entertaining guests while taking in the vistas.
Soaring ceilings and a large, double-level void that extends from the entry up to the kitchen, add to the sense of space and grandeur.
Perfectly suited to its coastal environment, this residence combines a mix of organic materials including concrete and timber, to ensure a modern, minimalistic appearance.
The second floor offers even more expansive ocean views, which capture attention at every turn. On this level is an enviable master retreat, featuring an ensuite with freestanding bath, walk-in-robe, sunlit balcony and an adjoining study.
In addition to direct beach access, the property is only moments away from all that Cabarita Beach has to offer, including shops, cafes and award-winning restaurants.
Taking advantage of its unique and highly desirable oceanfront location, this home presents sophistication, alongside the natural beauty and quintessential laid-back coastal vibes of popular Cabarita Beach.
SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY BYRON BAY
MAKING WAVES
MEET ZACH MORRISON FROM ALLERA
Coastal Buys talks to Allera Managing Director Zach Morrison about the inspiration behind the company and the projects they are bringing to market.
What services does Allera offer?
Allera is a specialist residential developer focused on delivering highquality boutique apartments, premium residences and development advisory services. We manage the entire development lifecycle, identifying sites, structuring acquisitions, securing planning approvals, designing intelligently, managing construction, and delivering a finished product that we’re proud to put our name on. We also run a development management arm that assists landowners and partners through the entire process with complete transparency and accountability.
What sets Allera apart from other developers?
Integrity is everything to us. Purchasers put a huge amount of trust in a developer, often the largest financial decision they’ll ever make. We take that seriously.
We promise what we can deliver, and we deliver what we promise.
We’re also deeply hands-on. Every detail matters, and because we intend to be around for decades, we build with a long-term reputation mindset, not a “quick-win” mindset. In this industry, you’re only as good as your last project, so our standard never slips.
What was the inspiration behind Allera?
Allera was born from a desire to do development properly: thoughtful design, honest communication, and quality that stands the test of time. We wanted to build a business where people, purchasers, investors, consultants and neighbours
actually trust the developer. That meant building a culture around integrity, transparency and pride in the finished product.
How long have you worked in this industry?
Allera is 5 years old this year. I’ve been in the industry for 15 years across development, construction, planning and delivery. As a business, over that time, we’ve been involved in everything from boutique apartments, townhouses, industrial projects, complex rezonings, and advisory work for landowners and capital partners.
What do you enjoy most about the development process?
Turning a blank or underutilised site into a home someone loves. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing people walk into a finished project and feel proud of where they live. We also genuinely love the problem-solving, stitching together planning, design, finance and construction to create something enduring. It’s a privilege to shape the places people call home.
Tell us about the projects Allera is working on in Northern NSW. What makes them unique?
We’re currently delivering Marine & Pearl in Kingscliff and CABA Residences in Cabarita Beach on the Tweed Coast. Two boutique apartment projects designed to reflect the relaxed, refined coastal lifestyle of the region. What makes them unique is the scale and the intent: deliberately smaller, quieter buildings when compared to the Gold Coast market, with higherquality design, generous layouts and a strong focus on craftsmanship. These projects are intimate, owner-occupier-focused homes designed with longevity in mind.
“OUR GOAL IS SIMPLE: BUILD PLACES WE WOULD HAPPILY LIVE IN OURSELVES, AND ENSURE EVERY PURCHASER WALKS INTO THEIR NEW HOME KNOWING WE STOOD BEHIND EVERY PROMISE WE MADE.”
- Zach Morrison
How do you feel the current market is performing and what are your predictions for next year?
The market in Northern NSW has remained resilient. Demand for highquality, owner-occupier product is strong, especially in coastal locations where supply is naturally limited. Looking ahead, we expect the same trend: well-designed projects in prime locations will continue to outperform. Buyers are more discerning, but they’re also willing to pay for quality, certainty and trust in the developer, which is why integrity has never mattered more.
What do you believe this area offers buyers?
It offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match: walkable coastal towns, great food and coffee, beautiful beaches, national parks, and a genuine sense of community, which we feel every time we are here. For many buyers, it’s the perfect balance, all the natural amenity of the Tweed Coast and Byron region, with easy access to the Gold Coast Airport and all its services.
To read about Zach’s favourite things to see and do in the Tweed Coast, Byron Shire and Gold Coast regions, visit coastalbuysmagazine.com.au.
STRONG BUYER DEMAND EXPECTED TO CONTINUE
Rose & Jones Buyers Agent
Kurt Sorensen reflects on how the real estate market performed in 2025 and what to expect in 2026.
The 2025 property landscape across the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers echoed much of 2024, with strong buyer demand outpacing limited stock. Many homeowners remain hesitant to sell without clarity on where they’ll move next.
Even with several RBA rate cuts providing financial breathing room, the cost of upsizing continues to hold people back. As a result, a large portion of owners are choosing to renovate rather than relocate.
Our team has seen a rise in clients seeking guidance on selling and buying concurrently, helping them manage timing, reduce stress, and secure their next home with confidence.
Entry-level buyers facing tough competition
The most competitive segment of the market has been the $500,000 to $1.5 million range. The 1 October First Homeowner
Grant changes have fuelled sharp price growth — 5 to 10 per cent in just a few months across many suburbs, particularly between $500,000 and $1 million.
“STOCK LEVELS ARE EXPECTED TO REMAIN TIGHT THROUGHOUT 2026. ALL EYES ARE ON THE RBA, WITH SOME ECONOMISTS NOW FORECASTING ONE OR TWO RATE INCREASES NEXT YEAR — MOVES THAT WOULD IMMEDIATELY INFLUENCE BUYER SENTIMENT AND BORROWING POWER.”
Investors are also active, driven by tight vacancy rates and rising rents, intensifying competition. This pressure has pushed many buyers into the $1 million to $1.5 million bracket, often adjusting location or property type to secure a foothold in the market. To succeed, buyers need to be wellprepared and ready to act quickly when the right opportunity appears.
Looking ahead to 2026
Stock levels are expected to remain tight throughout 2026. All eyes are on the RBA, with some economists now forecasting one or two rate increases next year — moves that would immediately influence buyer sentiment and borrowing power. Sellers can still expect strong prices and buyers shouldn’t anticipate major discounts. However, we expect continued emphasis on flexible terms and smooth transition periods to help vendors move confidently into their next home.
Helping clients in this market
Alongside our core Buyers Agency services, we’ve seen a notable rise in clients engaging our Vendor Advocacy Service. This offering allows us to appoint the ideal selling agent for each property and work closely with them to secure the best possible result. Importantly, it gives us full visibility and influence over the timing of the sale, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with our clients’ next purchase. Without this guidance, buyers and sellers can easily make costly decisions and add unnecessary stress to an already complex process.
To get in touch with Kurt, call 0415 734 247 or email kurt@roseandjones.com.au
A Burleigh Heads home secured by Rose & Jones for interstate clients.
A Pottsville home secured by Rose & Jones for a local family.
MAJOR REFRESH OF PLANNING RULES PROGRESSES
Community invited to provide feedback on draft planning changes
Plans to update Tweed Shire Council’s Development Control Plan (DCP) are continuing, with changes set to be considered as early as February 2026 following public consultation.
The plan sets out the guidelines for development and includes changes to minimum habitable floor levels for new projects on flood liable land.
Tweed Shire Council Mayor Chris Cherry said the draft DCP was designed to be easier to use and more responsive to planning challenges.
“I love that this update reflects the character of our towns and villages while also protecting the environment and planning for safer development in flood-prone areas,” Mayor Cherry said.
Community feedback was initially open until 3 December but was likely to be extended until late January.
Once public consultation closes, submissions will be reviewed and updates will be made to the DCP, which will then be presented to Council in February or March 2026.
Visit yoursaytweed.com.au/DCP for more details.
Boutique Byron Bay development approaches completion
The finishing touches are being made to a luxury hotel-apartment development in the heart of Byron Bay town centre.
Featuring 41 residences, The Bonobo by Raes, located at 116 Jonson Street, Byron Bay, is a collaboration between developer Podia, Raes and architecture firm Richards & Spence.
Podia Head of Sales John Melville said part of the vision for the project was that it would offer more than accommodation, with a rooftop pool and a strong wellness focus along with a food and beverage and retail precinct on the ground level.
“We have 7 of 41 residences remaining, with current pricing ranging from $2.75 million to $4 million, showing really strong demand for this hybrid lifestyle investment opportunity,”
Mr Melville said.
“Construction is tracking well; internal apartment fit-outs are close to completion and with Raes we’re targeting a grand opening in April 2026.
“The project brings a ‘private apartment plus Raes hotel service’ model to Byron Bay — owners get a true second home experience with luxury hospitality wrapped around it.”
A display suite is now open with private inspections and construction tours of the site available by appointment.
Visit thebonobo.com.au to discover more about The Bonobo by Raes.
SOLIS villas launch in Pottsville
Construction has been completed at a new bespoke residential development in Pottsville.
Known as SOLIS, the project features eight three-level villas, which enjoy views of Mooball Creek, the ocean and the hinterland.
Alasdair Baker, director of Omira, the developers of SOLIS, said he was proud to see the project completed.
“SOLIS has been years in the making and to see it finally completed exactly as we envisioned is incredibly rewarding,” Mr Baker said.
“Our goal has always been to create homes that connect people to the beauty of Pottsville, and this project captures that spirit in every detail.
“With SOLIS now complete, buyers can truly appreciate its unmatched location on Elanora Avenue. Opportunities like this are incredibly rare, and the longterm value here is undeniable.
“Every detail has come together exactly as we imagined, delivering a new benchmark for coastal living in Pottsville.”
Visit solisvillas.com.au for more information about SOLIS.
To stay up to date on all the latest real estate news, visit coastalbuysmagazine.com.au.
SOLIS in Pottsville
Artist’s impression of The Bonobo by Raes
Artist’s impression of The Bonobo by Raes
NATURAL STONE FOR COASTAL HOMES
Aspen Stone Construction Director Michael Sergi explores the important elements to consider when selecting stone for your coastal home.
Stone is a timeless raw material, used in construction for thousands of years. As stonemasons, we’re privileged to shape and craft it into custom finishes for curated homes and projects across the coast of South East Queensland and Northern NSW.
Types of stone
When designing any architectural residence, careful consideration must be given to stone selection. Traditional Queensland homes have long favoured sandstone and solid bluestone, while in the Northern Rivers, local basalt fieldstone has been the natural choice. In recent years, the international stone market has opened the door to a broader palette sourced from Italy, Greece, Turkey and beyond. This allows architects, designers, builders and their clients to specify stone to match the brief.
On a recent project designed by Chris Clout and built by GRAYA, we installed a marble cladding, laid in a random, dry-joined format. The material complemented the brutalist, subtropical residence co-existing seamlessly with the raw concrete to form an architectural stone masterpiece.
Location
In the approach of designing a coastal home, we find the areas that are sun-drenched with natural light, provide a perfect area for the stone to be showcased. This natural light can accentuate the texture and shadow lines of the stone, along with amplifying the colour to create an exquisite showpiece.
Practical considerations
From a technical perspective, particularly in coastal environments, proper sealing, waterproofing, and the correct selection of products are vital to ensure the stone endures and withstands salt exposure and the elements.
When installing solid stone, engineering considerations come into play. The sheer weight of natural stone requires appropriate structural planning for load-bearing performance. These engineering solutions also provide opportunities to introduce solid stone lintels over doors and windows, allowing stone to become both form and function.
Stonemason
Sourcing the right stonemason is just as important as selecting the stone itself. Every stonemason or stonemasonry firm carries its own style, discipline and creative approach.
These must align with the design brief, and open communication is essential to achieving the intended outcome. Stone is a natural raw material used on coastal homes as a modern finish, not only for its organic beauty but for its functionality and durability to withstand the sun and surf that come with coastal living.
Aspen Stone Construction
Aspen Stone Construction is a multi-award-winning, Brisbanebased stonemasonry company specialising in luxury stone projects and developments. Email info@aspenstone.com.au or visit aspenstone.com.au
Builder - GRAYA. Stonemason - Aspen Stone Construction
Builder - Artefact. Stonemason - Aspen Stone Construction
Builder - GRAYA. Stonemason - Aspen Stone Construction
ON THE MARKET
Agents Nick Witheriff Carol Witheriff
Agents Nick Witheriff Rocco Rachiele
Agents
Artist’s impression
Explore the latest property values and rental prices at a glance with Cotality’s market snapshot.
WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Visit coastalbuysmagazine.com.au for our latest articles and extended analysis.
