Australia’s first four-tower vertical stair climb challenge is set to debut in 2025, with Towers 4 Change aiming to raise over $400,000 – or $100,000 per tower – at Far East Consortium's West Side Place precinct in the Melbourne CBD.

As Australia’s largest stair climb charity event, and with the highest tower exceeding 80 levels and 1400 stairs, Towers 4 Change not only offers a physical challenge but also provides a powerful way for individuals and groups to ‘Step Up For Charity’ and raise money to support a charity that they connect with.

Each of the four towers at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">West Side Place</a> will be dedicated to raising much-needed funds for a different and deserving cause, including building homes for women and children escaping family violence, supporting those living with life-altering conditions, and vital medical research.

<ul>
	<li>Tower 1: Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation</li>
	<li>Tower 2: Friedreich Ataxia Research Association (fara Australia)</li>
	<li>Tower 3: Good Friday Appeal</li>
	<li>Tower 4: The Victorian Homeless Fund</li>
</ul>

<img alt="West Side Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1443c90-8098-433a-9c7c-5e7251502425" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/West%20Side%20Place%20Towers.jpg?VersionId=hL563J70gxDdhXbtDWtu_ZG9cKDjTT2A" />

Lauren Sheldon, Director of Marketing and Sales at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>, said the developer is excited to contribute to Melbourne’s vibrant event scene and raise awareness for these worthy causes.

"This four-tower climb exemplifies our commitment to fostering a vibrant community. By bringing people together for this unique event, we aim to benefit everyone involved, from residents to participants and beyond,” Sheldon said.

EVENT DETAILS 
What | Towers 4 Change 
Where | West Side Place, 250 Spencer Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Date | Sunday 30th March 2025 
Time | 7am – 1pm

<h2>ABOUT THE CHARITY PARTNERS</h2>

<h2>Good Friday Appeal</h2>

Since 1931, the Good Friday Appeal has been dedicated to fundraising for The Royal Children’s Hospital so that it can continue to provide world-class care for children in Victoria and beyond. Funds from the Good Friday Appeal go towards ground-breaking research, state-of-the-art equipment and technology, education and family-centred care programs. GFA funds over 28 different projects each year - some are across multiple years, others one-off purchases.

“We are thrilled to be selected as a charity partner for the West Side Place Towers 4 Change, a unique and challenging event," Rebecca Cowan, Executive Director of the Good Friday Appeal, said.

"These funds will have a profound impact on funding state-of-the-art equipment, research, training, and patient- and family-centred care programs to continue the world-class care provided by The Royal Children's Hospital."

<h2>Friedreich Ataxia Research Association (fara Australia)</h2>

fara raises funds for research into treatments and a cure for Friedreich Ataxia (FA). FA is a rare genetic and progressive neuro-muscular disorder that is typically diagnosed in children or teens. It leads to loss of muscle coordination, fatigue, vision impairment, hearing loss, slurred speech, and then a serious heart condition which in many cases turns fatal by the mid-thirties. One in every 30,000 in Australia is affected. One in 90 people are carriers. There is currently no cure and no approved treatment in Australia.

Brad Hyde, Chief Executive Officer of fara Australia, says&nbsp;Friedreich Ataxia robs you of muscle strength, mobility and the ability to do even the everyday things we might take for granted.

"At fara, we are a small, rare disease charity with no government funding, raising funds for FA medical research. Being a partner of West Side Place Towers 4 Change will deliver the single greatest boost to awareness and fundraising beyond our own community. Every step climbers take will Lend Some Muscle to those living with FA and get us closer to finding that cure.”

<h2>Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation</h2>

The Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) supports vital research across the country that will help better detect, treat and prevent ovarian cancer. The OCRF is Australia’s largest independent funder of ovarian cancer medical research. Ovarian cancer is the most lethal women’s cancer with a five-year survival rate that has barely changed in decades, languishing at under 50 per cent. Addressing health disparity and funding inequity in cancer research is fundamental to achieving higher survival rates for ovarian cancer.

“West Side Place Towers 4 Change is a great new event that symbolises the heights we can achieve when we unite together for a cause, " Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation CEO&nbsp;Robin Penty says.

"Every step up, and every dollar raised, will directly support our vision of a healthy future for those impacted by ovarian cancer. This challenge is a powerful statement of hope, resilience, and the belief that each of us can make a difference. We are deeply grateful to the climbers and supporters helping OCRF achieve a step-change for women’s cancers, both figuratively and literally!"

<h2>The Victorian Homeless Fund</h2>

The Victorian Homeless Fund (VHF) is a Melbourne-based charity committed to providing safe and stable long-term housing for women and children escaping family violence. By building homes on unused residential land, the VHF offers families a fresh start and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. At its core, the VHF believes that everyone deserves a safe place to call home.

 
Colleen May, Victorian Homeless Fund Chair, says domestic violence is the single biggest cause of homelessness in Australia, and it's such a&nbsp;significant problem, it can't be solved by one group.

"If individually we all give a little, then collectively, we can change people’s lives. Every home we build is about extending a helping hand to those most in need, and providing a family with more than just a home—they gain hope and a future."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1270]

Joel Robinson

Far East Consortium's charity push in Australia’s biggest stair climb challenge

Busy developer Princeton has achieved a key milestone at its new South Sydney apartment development, Marque Rockdale.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/princeton">Marque</a> is the only new apartment development in Rockdale currently on the market, and it is also the only one in the local government area to offer the new 10-year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) policy from Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136442]

Located just 200 metres from Rockdale Plaza and under one kilometre from Brighton-Le-Sands beach, Marque combines thoughtful design in an ideal location that takes advantage of the coastal lifestyle, as well as the convenience and connectivity <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/rockdale-nsw-2216">Rockdale</a> offers.

A recent sale of a one-bedroom apartment for $700,000 highlights buyer confidence in the project, a confidence which is further bolstered by the LDI policy.

Ray White WS Managing Director Mark Bernberg says the team behind Marque Rockdale has seen it achieve a strong level of success, even in a market where continued high interest rates are pushing down demand.

"The development is going from strength to strength, hitting key milestones and strong sales as a result of Princeton's standing in the development industry, the reputation of iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/coplex">Coplex</a>, and the all-important Latent Defects Insurance," Bernberg says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=278616]

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/princeton">Princeton</a>, which is funding the project itself through its capital arm, has been active in the new development space in recent years.

They have just completed a row of eight terraces in St Peters, which are achieving stellar results, and they are now putting the finishing touches on Eurangi, their ultra-luxury development on Bondi Beach’s prestigious Campbell Parade.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=278367]

Marque comprises 58 apartments, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations, as well as a handful of SOHO apartments that blend residential and workspace uses.

The development has been designed with owner-occupiers in mind, featuring contemporary interiors, expansive glass walls for natural light, and premium finishes such as Caesarstone benchtops and engineered timber floors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=277074]

A communal rooftop space offers over 100 sqm of amenities, including a herb garden, barbecue area, children’s play zone, and pergola-shaded dining areas.

Coplex is set to complete Marque in late 2025, offering an attractive price point in an undersupplied local market.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136442]

Ray White WS Managing Director Mark Bernberg says the team behind Marque Rockdale has seen it achieve a strong level of success, even in a market where continued high interest rates are pushing down demand

Princeton tops out Marque Rockdale as development team and Latent Defect Insurance drives sales

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;village&nbsp;is set to undergo further transformation, with new plans revealing more shoptop housing on Knox Street.

Scali furniture boss Anthony Scali is behind the plans for a five-level development on the site currently occupied by the Savoy Hotel at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/35-45-knox-street">35-45 Knox Street</a>. Scali paid a reported price of around $35 million for the 616 sqm in 2021.

The lease to the Savoy Hotel has expired - paving the way for redevelopment to create nine apartments above three ground-level retail spaces - no doubt a potential new space for the Nick Scali furniture empire in the heart of one of Sydney's most affluent shopping suburbs.

<img alt="39-41 Knox Street DOUBLE BAY" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7125a8ff-e053-4e0f-a92e-f5ebc8f2d48b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Plan%20-%20Photomontage%20-%20DA2024%20546%201%20-%2039-41%20Knox%20Street%20DOUBLE%20BAY.JPG?VersionId=KxFL5jxNq.xqt61llbJlwcGIJGh4YWzP" />

The $31 million development has been designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/mhn-design-union">MHN Design Union</a>&nbsp;who has chose a light brick and metal clad&nbsp;façade to integrate with the area's established character, which includes a combination of inter-war and contemporary mixed-use buildings.

Plans are for six two-beds, two three-beds, and one four-bed apartment, each with balconies and living areas which have been oriented to achieve maximise natural light and ventilation.&nbsp;

The project has been designed to suit a diverse demographic, including families, retirees, and downsizers, reflecting market demand for flexible and functional living spaces, the documents submitted to the Woollahra Municipal Council say.

The development provides 20 parking spaces across two basement levels, accommodating cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.

<img alt="41-45 Knox Street, Double Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="186c47d7-a0fa-48a2-84fb-429a9774e0d7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Double%20bay.png?VersionId=HdatkgUJU8wHfXN.VBVGiu9fcf2h2u1r" />

&nbsp;

Double Bay is undergoing a huge redevelopment everywhere you look.

Late last year plans were submitted for the InterContinental Double Bay, also on Knox Street, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/intercontinental-hotel-double-bay-to-become-1-billion-lifestyle-precinct">to turn it into a $1 billion mixed-use precinct</a> with a new high-end retail and dining precinct, cinemas, landscaped open spaces, a new boutique luxury hotel, and a health and wellness centre, and 29 apartments across the top seven levels.

Shortly before that, more <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-double-bays-cross-street-transformation-to-continue">plans were filed with the local council on Cross Street</a>, where the well-known&nbsp;Florida dry cleaners, womens clothing store Alex &amp; Harry, and cafe Bar Lanziano, will make way for more shoptop housing, with six luxury apartments planned above two more fashion outlets and a cafe.

Construction is well underway at Top Spring Australia's Ode Double Bay, where suburb records have tumbled in recent years. The penthouse sold for $25 million in 2022.&nbsp;

Double Bay makeover to continue as Scali furniture boss plots new luxe apartments

Prime Edition has kicked off 2025 with one of the first major projects of the year in Melbourne.

They’ve unveiled <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/33-queens-parade-clifton-hill-33-queens-parade-clifton-hill">33 Queens Parade</a>, a new development offering just 40 exclusive residences in the heart of Clifton Hill. The project is ideally situated between Edinburgh Gardens to the west and Darling Gardens to the east.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134228 project_image_fid=322175]

The design, created by renowned local architecture firm <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, caters to a variety of buyers. The development includes 32 residences, comprising two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as six townhouses and two luxury penthouses.

Each residence features spacious, open-plan living and dining areas with floor-to-ceiling windows that maximise natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134228 project_image_fid=322189]

At the heart of each home is a kitchen equipped with premium Miele appliances, complemented by natural stone benchtops and splashbacks, timber laminate cabinetry, custom shelving, and a dry bar.

The master bedroom has been designed as a private retreat, with its own opulent ensuite and walk-in robe, while additional bedrooms are generously sized and have their own dedicated bathrooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134228 project_image_fid=322185]

The design has also focused on seamless indoor-outdoor living. Every apartment and townhouse includes outdoor spaces, whether in the form of a balcony or a landscaped courtyard.

Beyond the residences, the development incorporates thoughtfully curated amenities, including EV charging stations, bike storage, and dog wash facilities, catering to the needs of modern urban living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134228 project_image_fid=322176]

Once a working-class suburb within the City of Collingwood, Clifton Hill’s transformation was propelled by the expansion of Melbourne’s tram network and the industrial growth along the Yarra River.

Today, it stands as one of the city’s most sought-after locales, renowned for its lush parklands, prestigious schools, and thriving café culture. Residents of 33 Queens Parade will enjoy unparalleled access to these amenities, all within a short distance from home.

The development also addresses a significant gap in the local property market, with fewer than 25 percent of Clifton Hill’s dwellings being apartments. As the first new development in the area in years, 33 Queens Parade represents a rare opportunity to secure a home in this tightly held suburb.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/prime-edition">Prime Edition</a> has been developing across Melbourne's most affluent suburbs. Led by Eric Loi and Alistair Taylor, the firm has recently completed <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/arbour-park-352-358-canterbury-road-surrey-hills">Arbour Park</a> in Surrey Hills and is currently developing two other projects: Avoca, featuring five luxury full-floor apartments in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a>, and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/como-toorak-2-bruce-street-toorak">Como</a>, comprising 16 exclusive residences in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak</a>.

With 33 Queens Parade, Prime Edition continues its legacy of creating homes that redefine modern living while honouring the unique character of their surroundings.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134228]

With 33 Queens Parade, Prime Edition continues its legacy of creating homes that redefine modern living while honouring the unique character of their surroundings

Prime Edition launches rare Clifton Hill apartment development, 33 Queens Parade

ICD Property has a penchant for grand-scale, mixed-use developments, with a focus in recent years in its native Melbourne, Adelaide, and most recently Sydney.

The latest play by the Matt Khoo-led developer is in Brisbane, its first foray into the Queensland market. They've picked up a prime&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/west-end-qld-4101">West End</a>&nbsp;site from R&amp;F Property, spending just under $50 million on the 1.68-hectare riverfront plot which cost R&amp;F $82.5 million in 2014.

Currently home to Riverside Corporate Park, the site, which borders Donkin and Buchanan Street, is currently occupied by&nbsp;three low-rise commercial buildings.&nbsp;

ICD has yet to reveal its own plans for the A-grade block of land, but previous approvals have been for seven buildings with around 1,000 apartments, a retail plaza, and a riverside walkway.

<img alt="ICD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="035146a7-0cb7-4dba-80a9-c222c7143235" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-01-21%20at%201.50.40%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=_Zi1F4QY8u6JKkcuE7voWdNUxI_g3qbw" />

ICD has already established a joint venture to work on the project, much like their upcoming Sydney CBD development, Sydney House. They're working with&nbsp;Singapore-listed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/first-sponsor">First Sponsor</a>&nbsp;on the redevelopment of&nbsp;the landmark City Tattersall building on Pitt Street in the Sydney CBD.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/richard-crookes-constructions">Richard Crookes Constructions</a>&nbsp;has already started the build of the striking new tower that will emerge above the heritage-listed former club that will be restored and converted into heritage hospitality venues.

Sales are expected to commence soon for the 241 one, two and three-bedroom apartments that will be spread across a new 50-level tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12428 project_image_fid=312149]

ICD is also working with the Adelaide City Council on Market Square, a $400 million mixed-use project with apartments, a hotel, offices, and a childcare centre, as well as a significant retail precinct and a park.

Completion for Market Square is slated for 2026.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104946 project_image_fid=218790]

ICD's latest project joins the ranks as yet another planned for the Brisbane River, which is going under somewhat of a precinct boom.

Across the road from ICD's recently acquired site, Heidelberg Materials is <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/qld/multi-tower-precinct-planned-for-south-brisbane-riverfront">proposing three 50-level towers</a> with 620 apartments, above&nbsp;a food and beverage plaza and a 5,400 sqm public park.

Apartments are still under construction at Queens Wharf, Brisbane's landmark riverside development, while <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe">Tenneriffe Banks</a> by Kokoda Property has been a hit with buyers since it launched to market.

ICD has yet to reveal its own plans for the A-grade block of land, but previous approvals have been for seven buildings with just around 1,000 apartments, retail spaces, and a riverside walkway.

Newcastle, Wollongong soaking up Sydney market stragglers: BIS Shrapnel 2018

Michael Crawford

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News