As the crisp air of winter settles over our scenic Noosa Hinterland, we embrace a season of reflection, celebration and the warmth of community connection. This edition of Noosa Country Style mirrors the serene and sunny winter days of our region and is packed with content designed to inspire, inform and engage.
In this issue, we explore the dynamic world of art in our community, diving into the creative fervour of the Noosa Open Studios event, where local artists open their doors to the public from Friday 30 August to Sunday 8 September. This gives us all a unique opportunity to witness creativity in its most personal and inspiring settings.
Celebrating a significant milestone, we recount the 35th anniversary of Hinternoosa. We reflect on our journey of growth, from humble beginnings to the leading and most awarded agency of choice in the region, with a deep-rooted commitment to the Noosa Hinterland.
This edition delves into the interesting phenomena of how the choices we make in property can reflect our personalities and how experienced agents observe buyers and sellers are often very similar in this regard. We also highlight the benefits for enhancing property investment returns through a tax depreciation inspection. Additionally, we offer a guide to the best winter activities on the Sunshine Coast, ensuring you can make the most of the season, whether you are a local or a visitor.
Turning our attention to the robust Australian real estate market, the landscape continues to thrive despite fluctuating economic factors. According to CoreLogic’s latest data, the Home Value Index increased by 0.8% in May, indicating strong market activity and continued growth. This resilience is particularly pronounced in mid-sized capitals like Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, all experiencing noteworthy increases in median dwelling values due to extremely low supply levels.
Editor's Letter Sirah
Interestingly, Brisbane has made remarkable strides, achieving a historic rise in median dwelling values and now ranking above Melbourne for the first time since June 2008. This trend suggests a promising flow-through effect for our local market. Meanwhile, Sydney’s market shows signs of a strong recovery, returning to previous record highs of January 2022 after a significant -12.4% drop post-peak. This recovery is part of a broader trend, where the
more affordable market segments show stronger growth conditions, reflecting the shift in demand towards middle-and-lower-priced properties due to affordability constraints and reduced borrowing capacity.
A recent REA (realestate.com.au) survey reveals buyer and seller hesitancy, linked to uncertainties about future interest rate movements. One in four homeowners surveyed were considering selling within six months. This suggests the market anticipates more listings, yet will remain under-supplied, creating potential for upward pressure on prices if demand continues to outstrip supply.
These trends are evident in the Noosa Hinterland market, where Hinternoosa’s expertise and strategic campaigns are significantly impacting results. Over the past year, we have seen a steady increase in our average sale price and a notable uptick in market activity, with a 33% rise in appraisals and a 45% increase in new listings. Our success in securing premium outcomes through effective strategies saw us conduct 176 open homes last month, painting a clear picture that demand remains robust.
As the Principal, Director and your trusted advisor, I extend my deepest gratitude to you, our readers and clients, whose trust allows us to excel and innovate continually. This edition not only celebrates our 35-year journey, it also highlights the important contributions you play in our ongoing success. As you turn these pages, may you find both inspiration and practical advice to enhance your winter season.
Sirah Robb Noosa Country Style Editor Hinternoosa Director and Principal
Sincerely,
Prepare For 10 Days of Art With Noosa Open Studios
For 10 days, from Friday 30 August to Sunday 8 September this year, Noosa artists will once again open their studios to visitors.
pg 9
What Does Your Property Choice Say About You?
In property sales, an experienced agent sees clues in every detail - right down to the personalities of buyers and sellers.
Hinternoosa Marks 35 Years With a Grand Celebration
Hinternoosa, the leading real estate agency in the Noosa Hinterland, proudly celebrates its 35th anniversary this year.
pg 11
pg 16
Whether you are experienced or new to property investment, see how leveraging tax depreciation inspections and reports can enhance your profitability.
pg 17
Winter on the Sunshine Coast is a truly enchanting season. Discover a few of the top things you won’t want to miss.
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Prepare For 10 Days of Art With Noosa Open Studios
For 10 days, from Friday 30 August to Sunday 8 September this year, Noosa artists will once again open their studios to visitors.
Now in its ninth year, the Noosa Art Trail will see Noosa artists open their studios to visitors for 10 days from Friday 30 August to Sunday 8 September. It is a unique opportunity to peer into the daily life of our creative locals, and the volunteer committee and participants are excitedly looking forward to a fabulous event.
Held throughout Noosa Shire, visitors can experience a personal and intimate experience through meeting artists in their creative spaces. They can see artists at work, ask questions about their process, and gain insight into the inspiration behind their artworks.
An open studios art trail can be interesting for visitors for several reasons. Visitors have direct interaction with artists, while open studios often feature a diverse range of artists working in different mediums and styles, from painting and sculpture to photography, ceramics, textiles and beyond. And of course, this variety appeals to a broad audience with different artistic tastes and interests, with visitors often discovering talented local artists and unique artworks that they wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. Also, open studios provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work alongside more established names.
Exploring these spaces adds an element of adventure and discovery to the art trail experience. Many artists’ studios are located in interesting or unusual settings, such as historic buildings, industrial warehouses and rural residential areas not often visited.
By attending open studios and purchasing artwork directly from artists, visitors can directly support local creatives and contribute to the vibrancy of the local arts scene. Some artists present workshops during the period and this connection between artists and patrons enhances the value and significance of the artwork.
Immersing oneself in an environment filled with art and creative energy can be inspiring and invigorating. Visitors may leave the art trail feeling energised to explore their own creativity or to integrate more art into their lives.
Overall, an open studios art trail offers a dynamic and immersive experience that engages visitors on
multiple levels, from aesthetic appreciation and discovery to community connection and artistic inspiration.
Copies of the trail guide are available throughout the Noosa Hinterland, including from the event’s major sponsor, Hinternoosa, at 30 Maple Street, Cooroy and 777 Eumundi Noosa Road, Doonan.
Hinternoosa Marks 35 Years
With a Grand Celebration
Hinternoosa, the leading real estate agency in the Noosa hinterland, proudly celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. Currently under the stewardship of Sirah and John Robb, Hinternoosa has grown from its humble beginnings to become the most awarded and longest-standing agency in the hinterland.
Hinternoosa has grown from its humble beginnings to become the most awarded and longest-standing agency in the hinterland. Recently, a special soirée was held at the Cooroy Butter Factory to commemorate this significant milestone, bringing together clients, professional service providers and the Hinternoosa team.
Director and Principal Sirah Robb, alongside her husband John Robb, welcomed the attendees with a heartfelt speech acknowledging the agency’s journey. “To fully appreciate the significance of this 35-year milestone and where we are today, it helps to reflect back on where we have come from,” said Sirah. “Thirty-five years ago, in 1989, Murray and Lyndal Brown started Hinternoosa on Garnet Street in Cooroy. Hinternoosa soon became known as the go-to hinterland agency, leading the field in terms of market share and specialising in small to large hinterland acreage and prestige properties.”
The Robbs have carried forward the legacy of the Browns, emphasising growth and innovation while maintaining the core values of client service, results and community contribution that have defined Hinternoosa for over three decades. In her speech, Sirah highlighted significant milestones, such as a 21-year-old Alisa Wythes starting her real estate career at Hinternoosa in 2004. Alisa’s mum, Trisha Wythes, who had a long-standing and successful real estate career of her own, joined forces with Alisa at Hinternoosa soon after. Jeanette Catalano joined in 2005, Heather Fleming in 2009 and Kess Prior in 2010, becoming a partner in 2014.
The inception of Wythes Real Estate by Trisha and Alisa Wythes took place in 2010, with Warren Berry joining in the first year. Sirah Robb started her real estate career the same year, transitioning from a career in health. All are still integral members of the team today, highlighting its longevity.
John and Sirah’s subsequent acquisitions and mergers shaped the current team at Hinternoosa. “In November 2017, in the lead-up to Trisha Wythes’ retirement, John and I purchased Wythes Real Estate,” Sirah recounted. “Acquiring Noosa Lifestyle Real Estate at the same time instantly doubled the size of the Wythes business. Alisa Wythes continued on as an agent, increasing her focus on sales.
In December 2018, we acquired Hinternoosa when the Browns were retiring, and appointed Kess Prior as Principal. We continued to run both businesses as competing agencies, focusing on results, change management and culture in order to grow. In 2019, we acquired Fiona Winter Realty as Fiona moved into retirement. We rebranded the agency to Wythes, adding a Doonan office to our offering.”
The agency’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions has been a cornerstone of its success. Sirah detailed the challenges and triumphs faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that tested the resilience and ingenuity of the real estate industry.
Pictured: Sirah Robb, Director and Principal of Hinternoosa, alongside her husband John Robb.
“The initial couple of months of the unknown soon turned into a transition of all three offices to work from home, daily team communications on new guidelines, and a frantic frenzy of buyers with FOMO,” Sirah explained. “Even in the hectic pace of the pandemic years, we held steadfast to our commitment to client service and continued to achieve the best results in the market.”
Looking ahead, Hinternoosa remains committed to its mission of raising the bar in the real estate industry. Sirah emphasised the agency’s core values around clients first, culture, community and innovation, which continue to guide their operations. “Our vision is to be the leading agency of choice in our region,” Sirah said. “Our core values are evident in everything we do, and when I look back at our predecessors, these values shine through in their approach too.”
The celebration was also an opportunity to express gratitude to clients, professional service providers and the dedicated Hinternoosa team. “Thank you to our clients for choosing us. Thank you to our professional services network for supporting our clients in the best possible way. And a heartfelt thank you to all our team members,” Sirah said. “Your commitment to growth and dedication to our clients is unquestionable. Each day, at least one of you inspires me to be my best to help you on your journey.”
In closing, Sirah recognised the role of the past in shaping the future. “I would like to make a toast to an incredible 35-year journey of what has evolved into the new look Hinternoosa of today,” she said. “Here’s to everyone who has become part of that journey over the years and paved the way before us. Here’s to the positive impact our current team is making, the professional service network that supports us so well, and to our clients who ultimately allow us to shine by choosing us.”
The celebration continued with a cake-cutting ceremony, marking a sweet end to a night of reflection, gratitude and optimism for the future.
Hinternoosa is a premier real estate agency specialising in Noosa Hinterland sales and property management, offering expert services in small to large acreage and prestige properties. With a legacy spanning 35 years, Hinternoosa is dedicated and proven to deliver exceptional results with the highest standards of client service.
For more information, please contact: Hinternoosa Real Estate
For further details, please visit www.hinternoosa.com.au
What Does Your Property Choice Say About You?
In property sales, an experienced agent sees clues in every detail - right down to the personalities of buyers and sellers.
When sellers handed Sirah Robb a comprehensive, two page list of their property’s features, she instantly knew the type of buyer it would appeal to.
“They had recorded details like 6kW of solar and the specific brands of every appliance,” says Sirah, who owns Hinternoosa with her husband John. “But what was on the list wasn’t as significant as the list itself. It was the very fact they had taken the time and effort to compile the list that highlighted to me the type of person who would love this home.”
While her many years of real estate experience give Sirah a keen edge when matching buyers and sellers, there are signs that sometimes make this easier. Over the years there has been a clear pattern emerge of buyers and sellers of a particular property having very similar personality types.
“In this case, the list suggested the sellers were highly detail-oriented,” she says, “and the property would suit someone with similar leanings.” And she was right. “The people who ended up buying the home asked lots of specific questions about every property we showed them. They ultimately chose this one, buying most of the furniture as well,” she adds.
“They valued the extra effort the owners had taken to create a top-quality, meticulously finished home that people who were less detail-oriented may not have appreciated as much.”
Head buyers and heart buyers
Sirah says this is an example of one basic type of ‘property personality’: those who buy mostly with their head. These buyers tend to be logical, practical and focused on the function of a home.
They often have a list of everything they want, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, location, and things like a fireplace, veggie garden, air-conditioning and pool. “The property that ticks the most boxes on their list is the one they will buy,” Sirah says, adding that this type of buyer is often drawn to contemporary homes with clean lines.
At the opposite end are those who buy with their hearts. These are the people who walk into a home and “know immediately it is the one for them,” she explains.
When she had a challenging home to sell, many people focused on its unapproved granny flat and main road position. But heart buyers fell in love with it from the get-go.
“The couple were a bit eccentric and garden lovers like the sellers. But things dropped into place when they showed me pictures of the property they were moving from – it was almost identical. To them, this property just felt like home.”
Heart buyers may have a list, Sirah says, but will ultimately choose what just feels right to them.
Personality cues for your next purchase Sirah has some tips for people looking for a property. “Think about what is most important to you,” she says. “For example, do you love big family gatherings or entertaining? Look for something with plenty of open plan living space and room for kids to roam.”
“If you prefer peace and solitude, you might want something with cosy rooms you can retreat to, maybe a tranquil garden outlook where you can curl up with a book.”
Light, space and temperature are key to a home’s mood, she adds, so take note of these. “For example, if you love that light, cool and spacious feeling, look for a home with soaring ceilings and plenty of windows.”
Maximising Your Returns: The Power of Tax Depreciation Inspections
At Hinternoosa, we focus on maximising your property’s returns. Whether you are experienced or new to property investment, leveraging tax depreciation inspections and reports can significantly enhance your profitability.
At Hinternoosa, we understand the importance of maximising returns and optimising your property’s potential. Whether you are a seasoned investor or just starting your property journey, it is crucial to make sure you are leveraging every opportunity to enhance your investment’s profitability. This is why we are excited to introduce you to the significant benefits of tax depreciation inspections and reports— a powerful tool in your investment strategy that can significantly impact your bottom line.
What is Tax Depreciation?
Tax depreciation is a deduction that allows owners to recover the cost of depreciation on an investment property. As buildings age, they naturally wear out and lose value—a process that can be claimed as a tax deduction. Essentially, it is a way to acknowledge that your property is an asset with components that reduce in value over time. By recognising this depreciation, you can claim tax deductions, thereby reducing your taxable income and increasing your overall returns.
How Does Tax Depreciation Work?
When you purchase an investment property, various components—such as the building itself, fittings and fixtures—begin to depreciate. The Australian Tax Office (ATO) allows you to claim deductions for this depreciation over the effective life of the asset. This means that each year you can claim a portion of the cost of the building and its assets, which can substantially lower your taxable income.
Why Opt for a Tax Depreciation Inspection?
Boost Your Returns: Identifying all depreciable assets within your property allows you to claim additional deductions, ultimately increasing your financial returns. This translates to more money in your pocket at tax time, enhancing the overall profitability of your investment. The cumulative effect of these deductions over the life of your property can be substantial, significantly improving your investment’s performance.
Enhance Cash Flow: A detailed tax depreciation report provides a clear roadmap for your financial planning. By understanding the deductions you are entitled to, you can manage your cash flow more effectively throughout the year. This foresight enables you to allocate resources more efficiently, reduce unexpected expenses and ensure a steady and optimised financial plan.
Insight Into Property Improvements: Tax depreciation inspections offer more than just tax benefits; they provide a thorough evaluation of your property. These inspections can highlight areas that may require maintenance or upgrades, ensuring your property remains in top condition. By addressing these issues proactively, you can maintain and even increase the property’s market value, safeguarding your investment in the long term.
Ensure Compliance and Accuracy: Compliance with tax regulations is crucial for any property owner. A professional tax depreciation report provides accurate and compliant information, which you can confidently submit to the tax office. This reduces the risk of errors or omissions that could lead to audits or penalties, providing you with peace of mind and protecting your financial interests.
Achieve Peace of Mind: With a comprehensive depreciation report in hand, you can rest assured that you have maximised your investment’s potential. It is a proactive approach to managing your property portfolio, ensuring you have explored all avenues to enhance your returns. This thorough understanding of your investment’s tax benefits allows you to make informed decisions, contributing to a more secure and prosperous financial future.
Leverage Professional Expertise:
Engaging professionals for a tax depreciation inspection means tapping into their expertise and knowledge. These specialists are well-versed in the latest tax laws and regulations, ensuring that you receive the maximum allowable deductions. Their insights and recommendations can also help you identify further opportunities for tax savings and investment growth.
Long-Term Financial Strategy: Tax depreciation inspections play a crucial role in your long-term financial strategy. By understanding the depreciation schedules and the associated tax benefits, you can better plan for future expenses and investments. This strategic approach ensures that you are not only optimising your current returns but also setting the stage for sustained financial health and growth.
Increased Property Appeal: For rental property owners and property investors, a well-maintained property that has undergone regular inspections can be more attractive to tenants and buyers. The insights gained from a tax depreciation inspection can guide you in making improvements that enhance the property’s appeal, potentially leading to higher rental income and a more favourable resale value.
Comprehensive financial reporting: A tax depreciation report provides a detailed breakdown of your property’s assets and their respective depreciation values. This comprehensive documentation supports better financial reporting and management, making it easier to track your investment’s performance over time. It also facilitates better communication with your accountant and financial advisors, ensuring that your financial strategies are aligned and effective.
Why Choose Hinternoosa?
When it comes to tax depreciation inspections, trust is paramount. At Hinternoosa, we partner with experienced professionals who specialise in property tax depreciation. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of investment property ownership, ensuring you receive the best advice and service.
Take Action Today
Don’t miss out on potential deductions and increased returns. Contact Hinternoosa to schedule your tax depreciation inspection and unlock the full financial potential of your investment property. Let us work together to build a prosperous future for your investments.
For more information, please email rentals@hinternoosa.com.au or call us on 5447 7000.
Be Seen With an Award Winning
Property Management Team
Thank you for choosing us! Because of you, Hinternoosa continues to be recognised as the leading agency in the Noosa Hinterland and the Sunshine Coast, celebrated for top-tier management, outstanding service and dedication.
If you would like to discuss the next steps in your investment property journey contact Hinternoosa today.
Warren
No empty promises... just Stellar service!
Buying and selling property is the biggest investment most people will make in their lifetime.
At Stellar Conveyancing you will find the most experienced Conveyancers in Queensland. Whether you are a first time home buyer or an experienced investor, we will ensure your transaction runs smoothly and is stress free.
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Winter Wonders on the Sunshine Coast
Winter on the Sunshine Coast is a truly enchanting season, with its crisp mornings, clear skies and a plethora of exciting activities and destinations to visit. Here are a few of the top things you won’t want to miss.
Imagine feeling the salty breeze whip through your hair as you ride horseback on the beach, breathing in fresh mountain air on a forest hike, relishing in sweet and savoury treats in the Hinterland and floating peacefully in a hot air balloon. All of this awaits you on the Sunshine Coast this winter.
Enjoy a Horseback Ride on Rainbow Beach
Experience the salty breeze whipping through your hair as you trot along the golden sands with Rainbow Beach Horse Rides, with the Pacific Ocean rolling on in on one side and spectacular dunes on the other.
Learn to Surf
Surf’s up year-round on the Sunshine Coast, from the glassy waves of Noosa (a World Surfing Reserve) to one of Australia’s longest waves at Double Island Point. Looking to improve your skills?
A lesson with Coolum Surfing School will have you hanging ten in no time.
Unleash Your Creativity in Eumundi
Eumundi is a haven for local creatives, offering everything from shopping at The Original Eumundi Markets to finding your next great read at Berkelouw Book Barn. Plan your visit around the markets held every Wednesday and Saturday, and don’t forget to stop by Matso’s across the road for a chilled glass of their classic ginger beer.
Discover Your Inner Artist
If you prefer to stay indoors, dive into creating a unique pottery masterpiece at The Pottery Studio. Learn to wheel-throw like a pro or enjoy a clay and wine class (BYO wine). Unleash your inner artist while enjoying your favourite drink at a Sip n’ Paint class at Frida’s, with studios in Noosa and Mooloolaba.
With a BYO wine and nibbles in hand, follow the step-by-step process to create your own masterpiece, inspired by the iconic Frida Kahlo.
Kayak Through the Everglades
Turn off Spotify and let the local birdsong be your playlist. With over 40 percent of Australia’s bird species residing in the pristine Noosa Everglades, this area is a must-visit for nature lovers. One of the best ways to explore the serene waters is by kayaking with the experienced team at Kanu Kapers.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Our crisp winter mornings are perfect for hot air ballooning. Bundle up warmly and enjoy the tranquility of an early start as you watch the pastel sunrise over the region with Sunshine Coast Ballooning.
Spot Dolphins and Turtles
There is something magical about seeing dolphins in their natural habitat. With Noosa Oceanrider, you will experience this wonder firsthand on their Dolphin Safari or Whale Watching tours, bringing you up close with the ocean’s majestic creatures.
Soar Above the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Buckle up for breathtaking views with a scenic helicopter flight over the coast and hinterland with Oceanview Helicopters. You can even opt for a Fly ‘n’ Dine experience, which takes you to picturesque destinations by air for unforgettable meals.
Explore the Glass House Mountains on a Hike
Experience a deep connection to nature as you take in the stunning Glass House Mountains, a formation of 11 ancient volcanic peaks over 25 million years old. Sunrise from the summit of Mount Ngungun is especially spectacular, while McCarthy’s Lookout in Maleny offers a breathtaking view of the mountains without the need for a hike.
Indulge in a High Tea
Everyone loves a little self-indulgence now and then, so why not enjoy a luxurious high tea experience at Aimee Provence or Flaxton Gardens? Treat yourself to a mouthwatering selection of sweet and savoury delights.
Taste Noosa Hinterland Gin
Hop in the car and head inland to the Noosa Hinterland, an enchanting region filled with natural beauty, country charm and culinary delights. Be sure to stop by Pomona Distilling Co for a taste of their local gin.
The Sunshine Coast is the ideal destination to embrace the warmth and charm of winter.
Photo: Hot air ballooning with Sunshine Coast Ballooning
Photos: Kanu Kapers, Noosa Everglades, Great Sandy National Park
