The Blog

Dear Valued Clients and Friends, As the Holiday Season approaches and the sun sets on 2023, we are looking forward to spending precious time with our family.  In this edition of Real Estate Insights, we delve further into the intricate tapestry of the Mornington Peninsula real estate market, and explore the nuanced factors shaping our local property landscape. In this newsletter, we aim to provide you with a quick understanding of the current market dynamics and the anticipated trends that will define 2024. The Sideways Shift Post RBA Interest Rate Rise: In the aftermath of the recent Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) interest rate rise, our local market is experiencing a lateral movement, indicating a cautious equilibrium between buyers and sellers. The interest rate adjustment has certainly influenced the borrowing capacity of potential homebuyers, prompting a thoughtful and measured approach to property transactions, from both full time relocators and holiday makers, alike. However, it's crucial to note that this lateral movement doesn't diminish the inherent allure of the Mornington Peninsula. We are high on the list when it comes to lifestyle and access, for downsizers and investors. The stunning coastal landscapes, vibrant communities, and unique lifestyle offerings continue to make our region an attractive and relatively affordable destination for those seeking a home by the sea. 2024 Trends: A Lateral Perspective: Looking ahead, the property trends expected in 2024 are expected to move sideways on a local level, with the trajectory influenced by various parameters. Price point, the condition of the property, its position, and the overall standing of the suburb will play pivotal roles in shaping our markets direction. This expected lateral movement underscores the need for tailored advice and strategic decision-making to navigate the complexities of our diverse real estate landscape, so please reach out to myself or one of the team for more advice. Post-Christmas Surge: An Optimistic Outlook: After a relatively subdued December characterised by lower sales and buyer interest, we anticipate a surge in stock volume post-Christmas. The early months of 2024 are projected to bring a bevvy of new property listings, offering an array of options for potential buyers. If you've been contemplating a property move, this period may present favourable conditions to finally make the Peninsula your home. Auction vs. Private Sales: Shifting Dynamics Unveiled: The dynamics between auctions and private sales are shifting on the Peninsula. While local auction clearance rates are showing a decline, private sale transactions are revealing more robust results for our vendors. This shift indicates a growing trend of buyers and sellers exploring traditional avenues to secure successful property transactions, aligning with our area. Your Trusted Real Estate Partners: As your dedicated real estate partners, we remain committed to understanding and navigating these market dynamics. Our experienced team is here to provide personalised guidance, ensuring that your unique needs are met in this ever-changing landscape. Thank you for choosing Crowders Mornington Peninsula Real Estate Insights as your source for local property updates. For personalised advice or to discuss your real estate goals, our doors are always open. Wishing you all a joyous Christmas break & here's to a prosperous and fulfilling 2024!   Warm Regards, Sam, Narelle, John & Crystal

Let’s be honest, who is thinking of how to entertain the kids on school holidays! Once the fun and frantics of Christmas and New Years are over, you’ll get the questions piling in every day... “what are we gonna do today”?! So we have decided to give you a list of some family fun activities that are sure to keep everyone occupied! Image: Alex McKinnon  Gunnamatta Trail Rides You have so many different rides to choose from, Bushland Adventures, Beach rides, Early Bird or Twilight rides, Slow & Steady or Adrenalin Charged!. All rides range in time, however, we have no doubt you will enjoy all of each ride's hidden treasure to explore and discover. Website: https://gunnamatta.com.au/ Call: 03 5988 6755 Enchanted Adventure Garden This place has something for everyone! From Nippers Tree Surfing for the littlies to Grand Tree Surfing for the bigger kids. The Big Zip which will take you flying across the formal gardens and enchanted lake. Canopy Walk to take you amongst the treetops, Tube Slides for that exhilarating rush as you zoom down the hills and so many different mazes you will be lost over & over & over again! Spend the whole day with a picnic area for a ‘BYO’ lunch or dine in at the cafe. Website: https://www.enchantedmaze.com.au/ Call: 03 5981 8449 Image: The view from Arthurs Seat Eagle  Arthurs Seat Eagle Arthurs Seat chair lift is soaring again high above the Mornington Peninsula with scenic views across Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne City Skyline and beyond. The gondola ride takes you between the Base Station in Dromana to the summit of Arthurs Seat. Enclosed and Open Cabins are available to cater for all. Wheelchair & Pram friendly, as well as catering for the disabled, elderley and toddlers this experience is something the whole family can enjoy and remember memories for years to come! Website: https://aseagle.com.au/ Call: 03 5987 0600 Moonraker Seal & Dolphin Swims Experience the ultimate adventure onboard the Moonraker today! Unique Aquatic Tours on the Mornington Peninsula, Moonraker Seal & Dolphin Swims offers Sightseeing Adventure Cruises as well as Seal & Dolphin Swim Tours for the young and old. The newly purpose-built vessels include cafe facilities, sun decks and inside lounge areas so for a once in a lifetime experience meeting Australian Fur Seal, Port Phillip Bay Dolphins and even catch a glimpse of the Weedy Seadragons beneath the waves jump on board today! Website:  https://www.moonrakerdolphinswims.com.au/ Call: 03 5984 4211 Dromana Drive-In With a mix of the latest movie releases & some oldies but goodies, pack your snacks and blankets and head on down to the Dromana Drive-In for a fun-filled night for all the family. With an authentic 50’s style, American Diner to satisfy your food cravings and the movie sound delivered directly to your vehicle via the FM car radio you can snuggle in on a cold night in the comfort of your own vehicle or set up your favourite camp chair in the warmer months and take in the experience of your favourite movie on the BIG screen! Website: https://www.dromanadrivein.com.au/ Call: 03 5987 2492 Image: Picking berries at Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm   Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm Why not go and take the kids to pick their own berries at the Sunnyridge Strawberry Farm! With Strawberries, Blueberries and Raspberries all on offer to pick during January and February. A great family activity that can be done in between visiting local wineries or food emporiums. And once you are finished picking why not reward yourself at the cafe. Website: https://sunnyridge.com.au/ Call: 03 5989 4500   Kid-friendly Winery Take the whole family out for lunch or dinner at the Stillwater at Crittenden. With a menu that reflects the best seasonal produce that is sourced locally and organic! A relaxed atmosphere that provides dining with a view to inspire just at the foot of Red Hill. Website: https://stillwateratcrittenden.com.au/ Call: 03 59 81 9555   Holey Moley Golf Club Get ready to putt your stuff, at Holey Moley Bayside! With two different courses to choose from, you’ll putt your stuff around 18 uniquely themed holes. Take a seat on the couch at 742 Evergreen Terrace, turn things topsy-turvy in the Upside Down and lay your claim to The Nine Iron Throne. A great activity that everyone in the family can enjoy! Website: https://www.holeymoley.com.au/locations/bayside Call: 03 7003 9201 Image: Hand feeding Wallabies at Moonlit Sanctuary   Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park Moonlit Sanctuary is Melbourne’s award-winning wildlife park. Go and visit and get an up-close look at Australia’s amazing animals. Explore our bush-land while feeding kangaroos and wallabies, petting friendly koalas and enjoying encounters with colourful birds, reptiles, dingoes and many other animals including endangered species. More than 70 Australian species are waiting to meet you. Website: https://moonlitsanctuary.com.au/ We hope these activities will keep you and the kids entertained over the summer. Stay tuned for part two of our holiday activity suggestions. Looking to sell your home, purchase your next dream home or invest in the ideal location on the Peninsula? Head to crowdersre.com.au for all of our current listings or to get in touch with us on 03 5983 3038 to get a valuation on your property’s worth today.

Property investment is an effective way to grow wealth - but it also requires ample preparation and financing. Real estate investment often involves planning as there are several costs that have to be taken into account before making a purchase. Making the correct investment decisions are always the number one priority of any investor and accepting what expenses that may be incorporated goes a long way to helping. The checklist below clarifies the different initial upfront and ongoing costs involved with investment property. Upfront Costs Deposit - The deposit is a percentage of the property’s value that investors need to pay to the vendor. Generally, residential properties require a 20% deposit while commercial properties require 30%. Loan Establishment Fees - A loan establishment fee, also called an application fee, covers the cost of preparing documents of a new mortgage. There are some banks and financial institutions that are willing to waive this one-off payment, however, it can cost between $200 and $700 depending on the loan. Lenders Mortgage Insurance - Lenders require LMI if the deposit is less than 20% of the property price. This one-off fee protects lenders financially if a borrower defaults on their mortgage. This LMI estimator can help calculate the amount needed to pay for a chosen property. Stamp Duty - Stamp duty covers the cost of changing the title and ownership of a property. The amount differs depending on the state where the property is situated. The property’s value and purpose also determine how much stamp duty should be paid. Investment properties generally have higher stamp duty costs than those who have principal residence. This stamp duty calculator can provide an estimate. Connections - These are fees covering utilities and services, including electricity, water, and gas, that need to be installed before the property is ready for occupancy. Legal Fees - These include solicitor or conveyancing fees, which cover the legal transfer of the property’s ownership. The amount varies depending on the lender, fees can start at $100 and, in some instances, exceed $1,000. Title transfer may also require search processing fees, which can cost about $50 per search. (Image Source: Unsplash) Ongoing Costs Loan Repayment - The cost of monthly mortgage repayments is calculated by the amount borrowed or principal, type of loan, loan term, and interest. An estimate can be provided by this mortgage repayment calculator. Land Tax - State governments, excluding Northern Territory, levy yearly taxes to landowners. The cost differs depending on the state or territory and does not include properties constructed on the land: land tax calculator. Council Rates - Council rates are a type of property tax that also changes from state to state. Local governments collect these on a quarterly or yearly basis, for the property maintenance of the council area and cover garbage collection, plumbing, electrical, and other services. The costs are often indexed against the property’s value and can reach thousands of dollars every year. Body Corporate Fees - Also called strata fees, body corporate fees are rates charged on properties located in the shared block such as apartments, townhouses, units, and flats. These cover the management of the block and maintenance of common areas. The cost is dependant on the condition, size and location of the property, and can range between $50 and several hundred dollars per week. Building and Landlord Insurance - Building insurance provides cover to the buildings on the property and its contents from unforeseen damage such as natural disasters i.e. fires and flooding. Landlord insurance protects property owners against loss or damage arising from tenancy issues, including theft, loss of rental income, vandalism. It is advisable to have these policies, however, they are not always required. Annual premiums vary per state but typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,000. Property Management Fees - Some investors choose to outsource the day-to-day management of their property. A property manager overlooks the daily operations of rental properties from collecting rent to maintenance and repair. They could cost between 5% and 8% of the monthly income. Plus a letting fee once a tenant is secured which can vary from one-week rental to 2.5 weeks rental plus GST. Advertising - To generate income, rental properties need tenants. The internet is filled with real estate websites that owners can use to attract potential renters. Advertising on these platforms usually costs a few hundred dollars. Repair and Maintenance Costs - A landlord is responsible for ensuring a property is in a livable state for tenants, so it is recommended to put aside a yearly budget for costs and repairs. (Image Source: Pexels) Investment properties return a multitude of benefits, among these is the potential for sturdy financial returns. Careful thought and planning are required when venturing into real estate investment. The key is not to rush in purchasing a property and consider all the costs involved. For more information on Investment Property, whether you’d like to buy or sell, contact the team here at Crowders Real Estate. Phone: 03 5983 3038 Email: property@crowdersre.com.au Visit: 2375A Point Nepean Road, Rye VIC 3941 Appraisal Request: crowdersre.com.au/appraisals Disclaimer:  This article is a general overview and not in any way purports to be financial advice.  We are not authorised to provide any financial advice.  We recommend on seeking financial advice tailored to your individual needs from your Accountant, Financial Advisor and Bank for formal advice on investment properties.

When people visit the Mornington Peninsula they think of family-friendly beaches, fishing, amazing dining, delightful wineries, stunning scenery and golf! Yes, that’s right, people love to swing the irons on the fairway down here on the peninsula and we are most certainly fortunate to have some of Melbourne’s best public golf courses right on our doorstep. During our current COVID-19 lockdown, golf is an activity that is still allowed and why wouldn’t you get out and enjoy what the peninsula has to offer. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so we will be looking at our top public golf courses here on the peninsula, but we don’t think you can go wrong with any choice the next time you play. The Dunes Golf Links What more could you ask for than Victoria’s number one public access golf course and one of Australia’s top 20 golf courses! Set on 300 acres of gently rolling sand dunes, the 27-hole golf facility caters for all abilities. The Dunes Course Tour is an 18-hole championship course which is true links golf, designed by Tony Cashmore. If you’re struggling for time though, you can go around on one of Australia’s best 9-hole courses the Cups Course. Make sure your game is one point with 300m driving range, pitching and putting greens plus practice bunker, for those who spend a bit of time in the sand! After the days play is done, why not relax and enjoy a meal in the cafe or a refreshing beverage in the bar with views of the course. Location: 335 Browns Road, Rye VIC 3941 Opening Hours: Everyday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Book a Game: 03 5985 1334 Website: https://www.thedunes.com.au/ St Andrews Beach Golf Course Ranked Australia’s 5th best public access course by Golf Australia Magazine, this course was designed by renowned golf architect Tom Doak. Nestled near the thundering surf of Gunnamatta Beach, the Gunnamatta Course brings elements from the famous links courses of the UK and Ireland. Since opening this course to the public in 2009 St Andrews Beach has maintained its position as the number one public access course on the Australia mainland. A fully licensed rustic style clubhouse featuring al-fresco decking that offers snacks and light meals, it has everything you need for a top-up on your way around or once you’ve finished. Location: 209 Sandy Road, Fingal VIC 3939 Opening Hours: Everyday 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM Book a Game: 03 5988 6000 Website: https://standrewsbeachgolf.com.au/ Moonah Links Golf Resort You just cannot resist playing on Victoria’s largest golf tourism development consisting of two world-class 18 holes courses. Moonah Links is certainly a golfers paradise. The Open Course was designed for the Australian Open and is one of the longest courses in Australia. With exceptional views for spectators and golfers, this course is designed to challenge the modern-day golfer and can be played at many different lengths depending on the tees selected. The Legends Course was is a more friendly golfing experience for players of all ages and abilities. Following a valley through a variety of landscapes from both Moonah woodlands to open links, you’ll enjoy your game even if it’s not going your way. Moonah Links clubhouse provides for all occasions, with accommodation, conference facilities, bar, members lounge and Pebbles restaurant. Location: 55 Peter Thomson Drive, Fingal VIC 3939 Opening Hours: Everyday 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM Book a Game: 03 5988 2000 Website: https://www.moonahlinks.com.au/ Bay Views Golf Course How can you not enjoy a game of golf when you have panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay! Bay Views Golf Course (formerly known as Carrington Park Golf Course) is an 18 hole course that offers Santa Anna couch fairways in excellent condition, along with lovely manicured greens, year-round! The newly refurbished deck area offers a great place to relax and unwind post-round with a cold drink or snack whilst soaking in the magnificent views! This course is ideal for social groups and offering very affordable green fees, it should be on your next-to-play list, as this one is a hidden gem! Location: Elizabeth Drive, Rosebud VIC 3939 Opening Hours: Everyday 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM Book a Game: 03 5981 2833 Website: https://bayviewsgolf.com.au/ Well, there you go. We hope you like our top public golf courses here on the Mornington Peninsula, and if you haven’t been to any of the above, why not give them a try today. If you’d like to know more details on other golf courses here on the Peninsula check out Visit Mornington Peninsula. Like all golfing handicaps, we want to see them improve over time, just like our property prices! To get an up-to-date and accurate appraisal on your property check out crowdersre.com.au to register your interest. References: https://www.visitmorningtonpeninsula.org/ThingsToDo/GolfCoursesResorts.aspx https://bayviewsgolf.com.au/ https://www.moonahlinks.com.au/ https://standrewsbeachgolf.com.au/ https://www.thedunes.com.au/

The Quarantine Station Precinct at Point Nepean - Image Source: Parks Victoria   The federal government announced on the 14th July 2020 that they would be investing $25 million into the construction of a marine and oceanographic research and education centre on the historic site of the Quarantine Station Precinct at Point Nepean, Victoria. Federal Member for Flinders, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP was thrilled with the announcement, having been a long time advocate for the centre to being established in the region. “I have fought passionately over many years and alongside many members of the local community to revitalise the old quarantine buildings in Point Nepean National Park for a marine research centre, and I am delighted that this long-held vision is now a step closer,” Mr Hunt said. “This project brings a long-term, sustainable environmental use to the buildings, two higher education institutions to the Mornington Peninsula and a world-class marine and coastal research facility to Victoria and Australia.” “It is my deeply held belief that in decades to come, the National Centre for Coasts, Environment and Climate will become one of the world’s great marine and oceanographic research centres.” The research and education centre will be a joint venture between the University of Melbourne and Monash University, in which a four-year agreement has now been finalised. The universities are now in the process of developing a business case and proposal in partnership with Parks Victoria and all levels of government, that aligns with the Victorian Government’s masterplan for the Quarantine Station Precinct. The existing buildings at the Quarantine Station Precinct will be refurbished. With the centre to champion interdisciplinary research on marine and coastal ecosystems, climate science and environmental management, with its location at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay ideal for researchers to observe the ocean, coast and atmospheric conditions. Talking about updates, have you recently refurbished your home with some renovations, and looking to find out its current value? Contact Crowders Real Estate today via crowdersre.com.au/appraisals or give us a call 03 5983 3038. References: https://www.greghunt.com.au/25-million-delivered-for-national-centre-of-coasts-and-climate-at-point-nepean/ https://www.mpnews.com.au/2020/08/10/universities-get-down-to-business-at-pt-nepean/

Image Source: Virtual Sorrento In what is the largest property owned and run by the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, with the 8-hectare heritage precinct co-owned with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), The Briars will undergo changes to keep what is already loved and bring in some new, carefully considered experiences that allow more people to enjoy the Briars. The Briars consists of a wildlife sanctuary, heritage buildings, significant Aboriginal sites, nursery, school camp, a children’s workshop and a restaurant. A draft plan was placed on public exhibition in May last year and received a big response, with much of the feedback from the community was very positive and built excitement for the project. Image Source: Mornington Peninsula Shire   In what is already an engaging space, see below for some amendments and upgrades to the property: Visitor Centre adding a dedicated education space and cafe. Amending accessible picnic spaces with a Tichin-Gorourke Children’s Garden (Tichin-Gorourke is the Boon Wurrung word for voice of many frogs), All abilities access and added barbeque areas. Additional 13ha of vineyard allowed for vines. Wildlife Sanctuary will receive 20ha for wildlife encounters and 40-50ha of the broadacres will be revegetated to extend the Sanctuary which will include additional walking track. Additional accessible track to be created around the wetlands Tree-top boardwalk (Sky Walk) will be added Restoration of the Heritage Homestead, with artefacts, furniture and other interpretive elements will be added to improve the experience. Expansion to Josephine’s Restaurant Briars Nursery to receive improve retail and growing space The Community Forrest to receive a possible extension - to be further explored post-2030 Mayor Cr Sam Hearn expressed his gratitude to all involved “I would like to thank all those who provided their thoughts during the consultation process. These conversations will continue throughout the next stages of the process, as we continue to work together to ensure that the Briars is a place of retreat and rejuvenation that lifts the spirits and delights the hearts of our community for many generations to come!” Image Source: Visit Victoria In what is already a welcoming space for native flora and fauna, the new vision for The Briars will certainly make it space for everyone to enjoy, not only today but into the future as well. For more details on The Briars Masterplan visit the link here. Have you had your own master plan come to fruition? Done some renovations and are thinking how much value it’s added to your property? Then get an appraisal done by our team today!

The Rye Township will soon be a once again a vibrant thriving hub of activity for locals, holiday makers, and those who like to enjoy a road trip down to the peninsula on a lovely summer’s day.  Image: Rye Township Plan The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council adopted the ‘Rye Township Plan’ in December 2017 which will see the Towncentre, Streetscape, and Foreshore areas upgraded. This will see the town reinvigorated and really become the place that locals and tourists will be able to enjoy for years to come. The township plan identified the following areas as key projects; Foreshore Promenade, Foreshore Park, Town Square, Point Nepean Road, Rye Camping, Napier Street Plaza, Campbell Lane, Bimble / Collingwood / Sullivan Streetscape, and the Gateway into Rye.  FORESHORE PROMENADE The Foreshore Promenade will see a physical and visual extension of the pier. This will further improve one of the key attractions for the town, relating back to days when a railway ran from the pier past the bowls club to the big kiln. Alongside, there will be urban furniture and lighting to fit in with the landscape also helping frame views of the bay and creating areas of respite, play, and social interaction. Image: Rye Township Plan The key principles outlined in the ‘Township Report’ are listed below: Create a sense of arrival through the use of public domain elements and integrated architectural form. Design for a high-quality pedestrian environment. Provide public domain elements that will not restrict visual and physical desire lines. FORESHORE PARK One of the current main attractions within the Rye foreshore is the Foreshore Park. Currently, the park is surrounded by mainly car parks, making its usability a little less attractive. With redefined greening of the park, improvement to the pier, and its surroundings, this space will once again provide a recreation hub for formal and informal events with plenty of recreational and leisure opportunities, including a proposed splash park!  Image: Rye Township Plan The key principles outlined in the ‘Township Report’ are listed below: Provide a well defined open green space to allow for different passive and recreation activities. Foster community engagement and understanding of the site’s history/ site interpretation. Ensure safe and legible connections are made between the town centre and the foreshore - Provide safe pedestrian crossings at key entry points into the park. TOWN SQUARE This newly created space will become the heart of the township. Located adjacent to the current town hall this Town Square will comprise a park that will be a communal space with a range of outdoor activities which includes a skate park to support a growing youth population. The Town Square will front an activated laneway to the north connection it to the Napier Plaza. This space will also provide opportunities for commercial activities and outdoor dining.  Image: Rye Township Plan The key principles outlined in the ‘Township Report’ are listed below: Activate frontages with fine grain commercial activities with opportunities for outdoor dining. Provide flexible and functional spaces, that can be programmed to accommodate multiple events types and programs. Provide a mix of passive and active uses. POINT NEPEAN ROAD Carrying all traffic through Rye and at the same time accommodating large numbers of pedestrians, Point Nepean Road certainly needs to accommodate everyone and their activities. Improvements like reduced traffic lanes, cycle links, additional signaled pedestrian crossings, and reduced traffic speed will all enhance the functionality of the town making it a more accessible and safe township. A seasonal parking scheme will also be implemented, to assist with increased pedestrian numbers during the warmer months. Image: Rye Township Plan The key principles outlined in the ‘Township Report’ are listed below: Improve connectivity between town centre and foreshore. Improve connections for pedestrians and cyclists. Provide for a high activity streetscape environment. RYE CAMPING The foreshore campground has always been a popular holiday destination and has increased significantly since its beginning in the 1940s. With the campground sitting so close to Point Nepean Road it acts as a barrier to the bay. In order to address concerns and balance the needs of campers, holidaymakers, and the community it’s proposed to relocate and consolidate with the other campsites.  Image: Rye Township Plan Top key principles outlined in the ‘Township Report’ are listed below: Providing functional open spaces programmed to cater to the needs of the campers. Ensure safe and legible connections are made between the township and the campground and the beach - provide safe pedestrian crossings at key entry points into the campground. Provide dense planting along Point Nepean Road to act as a buffer to the main road. NAPIER STREET PLAZA Napier Street Plaza will become the main pedestrian promenade within the township. It forms the extension of the historic pier/foreshore promenade to create a plaza space linking the township and existing community facilities back to the foreshore. The plaza will be framed by mixed-use development creating an active interface with the public domain. This plaza space could function both as an open-air market, event space, or outdoor dining zone/ eat street, complimenting the program in the adjacent town square. Image: Rye Township Plan Top key principles outlined in the ‘Township Report’ are listed below: Provide a plaza by removing kerbs and road surface markings to enhance pedestrian environment. Activate frontages with fine grain commercial activities within opportunities for outdoor dining. Provide flexible and functional spaces, that can be programmed to accommodate multiple events types and programs. CAMPBELL LANEWAY, BIMBLE / COLLINGWOOD / SULLIVAN STREETSCAPE Campbell Laneway is the proposed share way that extends as a pedestrian/cycle link to Woolworths. Providing an alternate route and shelter from the winds and sun in the warmer months. To be used for outdoor dining, commercial activities, and local pop-up events.  Bimble, Collingwood, and Sullivan Street are the alternate route for people during peak times and upgraded streetscapes to create safer options for not only motorists but pedestrians and cyclists.  Image: Rye Township Plan Top key principles outlined in the ‘Township Report’ are listed below: CAMPBELL LANEWAY Provide a shared zone by removing kerbs and road surface markings to enhance pedestrian environment. Activate frontages with fine grain commercial activities within opportunities for outdoor dining. BIMBLE / COLLINGWOOD / SULLIVAN STREETSCAPE Provide traffic calming measures to support a high balance of function for vehicular traffic whilst providing adequate and safe movement functions for pedestrians and cyclists. Create widened footpaths and safe and legible pedestrian crossing points to promote walkability. GATEWAY INTO RYE A gateway into Rye can be a sculpture or form that signifies arrival or frames an important aspect. This has the potential to add to the identity and character of Rye in a broader context and create a memorable feature along the journey through the peninsula. Image: Rye Township Plan Top key principles outlined in the ‘Township Report’ are listed below: Provide a gateway entry statement that contributes to the identity and character for Rye Establish a strong connection to the Bay. There are very exciting times ahead for the township of Rye over the next decade.  With improvements to major attractions like the pier and foreshore park, and also to back streets to provide an alternative area to explore, relax, eat, and socialise. Needless to say, these will be welcomed updates to the town, which we are very excited to hear about at Crowders Real Estate. Providing the community and holidaymakers a township that has something to offer everyone, Rye will become the go to destination.  Looking to sell your home, purchase your next dream home or invest in the ideal location on the peninsula? Head to crowdersre.com.au for all of our current listings or to get in touch with us on 03 5983 3038 to get an idea of your property is worth. Click the link If you would like to know more about the Rye Township Plan  References: https://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Building-Planning/Strategic-Planning/Strategic-Planning-Projects/Rye-Township-Plan

Aquatic Centre to be completed by end of 2020 Watch: Time-lapse of the Aquatic Centre construction The Aquatic Centre will offer so much to the health and wellbeing of the Southern Peninsula community, with an estimated 400,000 visitations per annum. Some of the beneficiaries of the Aquatic Centre will be schools, older aged members of the community, allied health services, families, sporting clubs, community groups, visitors to the peninsula and local business. After 10 years of planning and now building, the light at the end of the tunnel can be finally seen. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic across the globe, this project has still been able to move ahead, on time, and on budget with the project to be completed by the end of 2020. Picture: artist impression of the Aquatic Centre from Besgrove Street (Source: Mornington Peninsula Shire) Watch: Mayor Sam Hearn’s update on the Aquatic Centre Located on the corner of Boneo Road and Besgrove Street in Rosebud, the Aquatic Centre will provide the Southern Peninsula community with a top-class facility that includes: The main pool with 25-meter and 50-meter options Wellness centre featuring steam room, sauna, spa Warm water pool which will be great for rehabilitation of injuries Consulting rooms for specialist services such as massage, physiotherapy, relaxation, older adults, and sports recovery Fun for the family begins at the learn to swim pool for the little ones, and toddler pool with the aqua zone to be a sure hit for all families being a year-round activity. The cafe will be offering high-quality food service, and there will also be a party room and meeting rooms available for use. Access ramps will be on the main pool, learn to swim, and warm water pool with wheelchair access also available to the spa. On top of all that, the second storey will have a full gymnasium, with a spin room and two other program rooms. Picture: Ground level plans for the Aquatic Centre (Source: Mornington Peninsula Shire) So make sure that you are ready to make a splash this summer! To read more on the Aquatic Centre visit: https://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/About-Us/News-Media-Publications/Initiatives-and-Current-Issues/Our-Aquatic-Centre