What’s On in Docklands in July

Christmas In July

The Docklands Community Association in conjunction with the City of Melbourne, presents ’Christmas in July’. A chance for Docklands residents to meet and mingle with neighbours and Docklands locals in a fun, friendly atmosphere at the HUB Community centre. A traditional spit roast will be served, and patrons are welcome to BYO drinks.

For catering purposes, bookings are essential for this unique community event. Please RSVP before 4th July.

Time : Friday 11th July at 7:00pm
Where : The HUB Community Centre
17 Waterview Walk Docklands

Corner Bourke Street and Harbour Esplanade
Cost : $25.00 per person $5:00 for children under 12    <top of page>

What’s On in Docklands in June

Ignite at Docklands


New Quay at the Docklands, will come alight this winter with a spectacular performance constructed by five internationally renowned performing artists. The display will feature twice nightly, from June 20th until 29th transforming the waterside precinct into a magical fire garden featuring fire, warmth, music and performance lighting.

Presented by the City of Melbourne, Ignite at the Docklands will be on show for Docklands residents and visitors to experience this winter. Numerous restaurants will participate in the unique winter festival, offering specifically designed dishes and cocktails . Don’t miss out on this unique sensory experience this month at Melbourne Docklands.

Location : New Quay
Date : 20th June until 29th June
Time : 6:00pm till 11:00 pm.

Merchant Street Completion

Explore Docklands’ new retail precinct this month, with the completion of the Merchant Street development. Come and sample the wares of the retailers and celebrate this exciting edition to the Docklands precinct. In conjunction with the winter festival, Ignite will be illuminating the shopping street with a range of feature performances.

Location : Merchant Street, Victoria Point
Date : 26th June
Time : 11:00am till 3:00 pm

Click on the following link to read more about the Docklands this month. This month’s edition of Docklands Community News includes a real estate article featuring comments by Lucas Real Estate.

http://www.docklandsnews.com.au/archive/DCN32_SCREEN.pdf
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Lucas Real Estate in the media - Melbourne Living Magazine

Marshland to Wonderland

The unique Melbourne Docklands waterfront development is located on Victoria Harbour at the city’s western end. Spanning 200 hectares of land and water, Docklands includes seven kilometres of waterfront promenades.

Stretching from Spencer Street to the east and the Bolte Bridge to the west, Footscray Road to the north and Lorimer Street to the south, Docklands is literally an extension of Melbourne’s CBD with iconic main streets Collins, Bourke and Latrobe running through to the water.

The area is being developed in stages over the next 10 to 15 years with the idea of creating a sustainable mixed use community of residential, retail, leisure and commercial activities in nine interlinked precincts.

Since the first residents unpacked their bags in 2002, an estimated 6000 now call Docklands home across 15 modern apartment buildings. And by 2020, the expected completion date, it’s projected that 17,000 people will live in 8000 to 9000 apartments and 40,000 people will work in Docklands.

Glen Lucas is the Director of Lucas Real Estate in Docklands, which has an extensive sales division and a property management department with approximately 400 rental apartments under management. He believes one of the features that sets Docklands apart globally is the access it provides to an amazing transport hub that includes "tram at your doorstep, Southern Cross train station a 10-minute walk, City Link runs around you, the airport is 20 minutes away".

The marina also provides the option of water taxi and a Yarra River shuttle service. For those who like to cycle, the area is well networked to cycling routes. "It’s a different type of living to suburban living, with a very vibrant and active community," says Glen, who’s also a resident. Initially, he observed that young professionals were quick to pick up on the lifestyle and the close proximity to work in the CBD offered by Docklands, although an influx of the baby boomer demographic has been a strong trend seen to emerge during the past 12 months. The apartment and townhouse style of living provides those who like to travel or spend time at several abodes with a hassle free lock and leave situation, he says.

At the Yarra’s Edge precinct (which has a fifty-fifty investor and rental/owner-occupier mix) Glen says, as a guide, "The starting price for a one-bedroom apartment is low 300s, a two-bedroom apartment ranges from $400,000-$600,000 and a three-bedroom is $700,000 upwards."

At the top end of the market, there’s quite a few property sales well over $1 million. A recent off the plan sale occurred in a Mirvac low-rise townhouse development for approximately $5 million.

The rental market appears very strong with Lucas Real Estate reporting a less than 1 per cent vacancy rate. A two bedroom unit commands an average rental of $500/wk.

He says the "enforced minimalist" lifestyle imposed by apartment living has provided a liberating opportunity to pare down "stuff" hoarded over the years and freedom from home maintenance jobs like cleaning gutters and mowing lawns.

Words by Marg Hearn    <top of page>

What’s On in Docklands in May

FREE Twilight Movie Nights

Twilight movie nights are being held at the Docklands Park in Victoria Harbor.

The series of four free community events will be held on 3rd May, 17th May, 31st May and 13th June, with films commencing at approx 7:30pm. Gather a group of friends, relax with a picnic dinner whilst you enjoy the outdoor entertainment.

Time: 7:30pm onwards

Entry cost: FREE!

Location: Docklands Park, Victoria Harbor

Docklands Community News

Click on the following link to read more about Docklands, in this month’s edition of Docklands Community News.

http://www.docklandsnews.com.au/archive/DCN31_screen.pdf
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Lucas Real Estate in the Media

Section: Entrepreneur- 3008 Docklands Magazine


Why real estate?

It was during my 20’s that I developed a desire to manage my own future. Real estate provided the opportunity and I have been very fortunate to follow this path. A real estate career has allowed me to be an active part of people’s dreams of owning their own home, an investment property, or simply providing them with advice. The pleasure I get from this career is in the knowledge that I have been able to create some great friends and share their joy.

How long have you been in business in Docklands and what were the deciding factors that led you here?

I first started in Docklands in 2000 with MAB at NewQuay, well before the first residents moved in to the Arkley. I decided to open Lucas Real Estate in 2003 as a means to providing an alternative real estate agency, one which covers the whole of the Docklands area, not just one development. Many vendors and landlords wanted a choice of agents, and we have been able to fulfil their needs.

How have you found the Docklands real estate market over the years?

Over the past few years the Docklands certainly has had its detractors however, as Docklands has further developed, it is now seen as a world-class urban development and we are very fortunate to be a part of its growth. It’s very satisfying to now see Docklands accepted by the wider community as an alternative destination and a place to live. The last 12 months have seen significant increases in sale prices and rental yields and have now proven that Docklands is an attractive investment.

What makes a good real estate agent and agency?

Integrity and passion are two qualities that I believe are integral to a successful agency. To have the ability to listen to what your clients are saying, along with a professional approach in meeting their needs. Maintaining high levels of customer service and creating innovative methods of marketing property are what we strive for at Lucas Real Estate.

As a resident of Docklands, in your opinion what are its greatest attractions and what needs improvement?

Docklands greatest attraction is its ever-changing landscape, which is constantly evolving and growing. There is not many areas that you could live and experience the growth that we see here daily. Living in Docklands provides a fabulous lifestyle with all the convenience of the CBD at your doorstep.

What plans do you have for the future of your company?

Lucas Real Estate will continue to grow along with Docklands. We are blessed with a fantastic team of people who love working within the Docklands area. We are always looking at ways to improve the delivery of quality services to our clients. We wish to establish Lucas Real Estate as the number one choice for real estate services.
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Docklands Ice Skating Rink

Sat 22 Dec 07 - 15 August 08

Ice skating is fun but skating on real ice is even more fun! Experience the effortless feeling of gliding and the sheer exhilaration that it brings. The Waterfront City Pavilion is home to the fabulous Stars On Ice touring ice rink, open 7 days over the School Holidays & Public Holidays* and Wednesday to Sunday all other times. Don’t miss the disco skates on Friday and Saturday nights where you can skate to the grooviest tunes under the disco lights. Enjoy a fun day out with the family or grab a few friends for a chill out session on the ice and complete your day at one of our fabulous waterfront restaurants, bars or cafes. The 600sq.m of frozen pleasure is presented with sessions of an hour and a half and is designed for all ages from 2-85 years and fully supervised by experienced attendants. The ice rink is also available for functions and parties and catering is available. So come and enjoy the fun during the limited season from December 22 to June 29, 2008. Visit www.waterfrontcity.com.au For Bookings call the Box Office on 03 9602 5620 Open Hours School & Public Holidays* 7 days 10am - 9.30pm Balance of season Wednesday - Sunday 10am - 9.30pm *Closed Xmas Day Venue Waterfront City Pavilion Waterfront City Docklands Drive Melbourne Docklands VIC 3008 Melways 2E D4 Transport Free city circle tram, Tram 30 (via La Trobe Street) OR Tram 48 (via Flinders Street) OR water taxi OR plenty of parking is available Cost $3 Spectator $3 Skate Hire $7 5 years and under $12 6 - 15 years $15 16 years and over    <top of page>

New Year’s Eve 2007 Celebrations !

31/12/07

Come into the city and celebrate the dawning of the New Year at Melbourne’s largest free public celebration! There will be live entertainment at five city venues and two spectacular fireworks displays at 9.15pm and midnight. Venues include Alexandra Gardens, Birrarung Marr, Southgate, Federation Square and Docklands. A full entertainment program and information on the event will be launched on www.thatsmelbourne.com.au from 1 December 2007. On the night plan ahead and use public transport. New Year’s Eve (NYE) 2007 is an alcohol free event. This event operates Monday from 3pm to 2am.    <top of page>

Docklands Twilight Markets

26/10, 9 & 23/11, 7 & 21/12

The Waterfront City Market makes its long awaited return to the Docklands! The market plays host to many unique stalls with original products, all Australian designed and made. From fresh seasonal produce to great gift ideas and accessories, the market caters for everyone. Live entertainment compliments the stunning backdrop of the waterfront and why not try out one of the many places to eat after you have finished shopping. Fridays 4pm- 8pm October 26 Novemeber 9 & 23 December 7 & 21 Waterfront City Piazza & Promenade, Docklands Drive.    <top of page>

Docklands Community Safety Day

28/10/07

As part of Community Safety Month, Docklands is holding its annual Community Safety Day incorporating the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, Metropolitan Ambulance Service, SES, Australian Customs, Life Saving Victoria and Victoria Police. Activities include: * Learn to Sail on Yachting Victoria’s Sailability access dinghies * Power boat handling demonstrations & practise sessions * Life Saving Victoria - community education campaign (water safety, first aid, CPR etc) * Mobile coffee cart - tea/coffee & hot chocolate on sale * Mini-train service through Victoria Harbour construction site * Site tours of Victoria Harbour * Construction display Location: Waterfront City Piazza, New Quay Promenade and Victoria Harbour 11am-4pm   <top of page>

Docklands Observation Wheel!

October 2007

The Observation Wheel is one of the most exciting new tourism projects planned for Melbourne - a stunning addition to the Melbourne landscape that will boast some of the most spectacular views over Melbourne and beyond. Located at Waterfront City in Melbourne’s Docklands, the Observation Wheel features 21 airconditioned and enclosed glass cabins that will showcase views stretching as far as Geelong. The Observation Wheel is only the second of its kind in the world after the hugely successful London Eye. Whilst the cabins are similar in design, the Observation Wheel features a unique state-of-the-art star-like structure whereas the wheel of the London Eye is similar to a bicycle wheel with spokes. Construction has began at Waterfront City with the spoke being erected. The Observation Wheel is expected to open to the public pre-Christmas next year.    <top of page>

Bridal Expo moves to Docklands!

13 & 14th October

In 2007, the Bridal Expo moves to the Docklands! There will be over 200 exhibits, free hair and make up trials, free mini facials and the biggest ever car display. The first 100 brides at each bridal parade session, held at 10 am, 12 & 2 pm daily will receive a free gift bag, as well as seeing the latest "Bride to be" fashions. 10am-5pm Shed 9, Central Pier, 161 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands. www.bridalexpos.com.au   <top of page>

Slow Sundays Winter Dining

August 2007

Every Sunday during August experience a range of chef taster plates and accompanying glass of wine for only $15 per selection! Choose between Italian to Cambodian, Japanese, Turkish or even desserts while enjoying breathtaking views and live jazz at Melbourne’s most exciting waterfront dining precincts. Every Sunday in August, 12-5pm. $15- Chef selection and wine. For Slow Sundays venues and menu, visit: www.newquay.com.au or www.waterfrontcity.com.au    <top of page>

3008 Community News August

August

Get your copy of 3008docklands Magazine August issue out now! Turn to page 27 to see the feature on Lucas Real Estate! Also featuring the events happening in and around the Docklands in August, restaurant review of Bhoj, and a tantalising tease of the ’Slow Sundays’ menus and venues offering the $15 Chef Selection plates and glass of wine. Why not try all the restaurants!   <top of page>

The Amazing Human Body Exhibition

1 Jul - 1 Oct 2007

New to the Docklands!! The Amazing Human Body is the original educational exhibit of the inner workings of the human body that is intended to provide audiences with a unique and visually informative perspective via a view of real human specimens. The exhibition displays 400 real human specimens, including 18 whole bodies and individual organs from China’s Tianjin Natural History Museum, that depict the details of disease, pathology, physiology and anatomy in a unique way to that of standard models or textbooks. Since 1997, similar exhibitions have attracted more than 20 million people worldwide and have become the most successful type of touring exhibit. The Amazing Human Body has begun its Australian / New Zealand tour and has enthralled nearly 300,000 visitors across Australia in recent months, with the exhibition travelling to Waterfront City in Melbourne’s Docklands at the end of June. Tickets are available at the door and can also be booked through Ticketmaster on 136 100. Open Saturday-Thursday 10-5 Friday 10-8 For bookings, call Ticketmaster on 136100. Waterfront City Pavillion Docklands Drive DOCKLANDS VIC 3008 Melway: 2E D4    <top of page>

Lucas Real Estate nominated for Agent of the Year!

July 2007

Lucas Real Estate has been nominated for Agent of the Year, with special mention to Glen Lucas. Rental Panic Made Good Like so many others living in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, when given a month’s notice to find new dwellings, we panicked! With the property market running hot, we had heard stories of rapidly rising rental returns, full year’s rental payments in advance and ’auctioning’ tactics to get the highest rental price for landlords. Although Lucas Real Estate had over 25 people showing up to every open for inspection and apartments being leased well before the previous tenant had moved out, Glen Lucas and his team bent over backwards to help us find a beautiful apartment as quickly and painlessly as possible. After not even receiving return phone calls from most other agents, we were incredibly grateful to receive such a high level of service, typified by Glen lending us his own electric screwdriver and offering to help us put together our new furniture! Like so many of his clients known to him on a first name basis, we consider Glen to be a friend and are thrilled to have an agent we can rely upon and trust. Alex P., Vic Read the Other nominations here: http://blogs.realestate.com.au/agentoftheyear/    <top of page>

Nominate your agent of the year now!

July 2007

Go to: http://www.realestate.com.au/agentoftheyear And nominate your Real estate Agent of the year now!   <top of page>

City of Melbourne to welcome Docklands!

1 July 2007

On 1st of July 2007, Docklands becomes part of the City of Melbourne municipality. From this date Docklands residents and businesses will also be City of Melbourne residents and businesses. Services offered and delivered will now be extended to the Docklands. The City of Melbourne will be taking over services such as; street cleaning, waste and water management, park maintenance and a new maternal and child health service. For the past twelve months, City of Melbourne has been contracted by VicUrban to undertake many of these activities, so a smooth transition is envisaged. All ratepayers will also be eligible to vote in Melbourne City Council elections, the next of which is in November 2008. VicUrban was previously responsible for the municipal management of the Docklands and will remain as both the development agency and a key stakeholder in the management of the precinct. In early July, Docklands residents can expect to receive a ‘Welcome Pack; which will include all information needed to assist in the transition. If residents have any further questions, please call the City of Melbourne on 9658 9658 or visit www.melbourne.vic.gov.au    <top of page>

Mirvac Developing Yarra’s Edge

April 2007

Mirvac will commence construction of its medium density townhouse style dwellings, mid-2007. Releasing to the market will happen in late 2007.   <top of page>

Waterfront City Development!

April 2007

Waterfront City is undergoing some exciting development. Due for completion by late 2008, Waterfront City will incorporate a purpose built- direct to public outlet shopping centre, called Harbour Town. This exciting development will also include world class public entertainment area, a cinema and the Southern Star Observation Wheel!   <top of page>

Football at Docklands 2007 Season

March 30 2007

Football is back with the commencement of the AFL 2007 Season! Jump onboard your team and head down to Telstra Dome to experience the atmosphere and excitement. While in the precient, why not indulge in one of the many cafes, bar or restaurants or check out some of the local properties.    <top of page>

New Restaurants At Yarra’s Edge

18th March 2007

Yarra’s Edge is the perfect place to experience the tastes of Melbourne. See the "Docklands Living" section of our website for a list of restaurants in the Docklands Vicinity.    <top of page>

DOCK 5 PROGRESS

12th December 2005

News article text to go in here. Ideally the text for each news item will run around a photo or photos that add interest and are relevent to each item presented.

The articles should be updated regularly and be topical and of interest to a wide demographic to encourge return visits and to foster the idea that the website is a great source of informaton about all aspects of the Docklands precinct.   <top of page>