Newcastle Unlocked

Newcastle Unlocked – Lake Macquarie's Growth, Density & Development Future with Mayor Adam Shultz Lake Macquarie is one of the fastest-growing regions in the Hunter, with an additional 38,000 people forecast by 2046 and a clear strategic direction now shaping how that growth will unfold. In this episode, Brent Sinclair sits down with Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz to unpack the region's planning framework, housing challenges, and the opportunities emerging for developers and investors. From housing diversity and density to infrastructure, incentives and major growth corridors, this conversation provides a clear view of where Lake Macquarie is heading over the next decade. What we cover: Population growth trends and why Lake Macquarie continues to attract migration How shifting demographics are driving demand for new housing type Council's Local Strategic Planning Statement and what it means for development Developer contribution reductions and incentives to stimulate housing supply Key strategic centres including Charlestown, Glendale, Belmont and Morisset Emerging growth areas like Cockle Creek and the north-west corridor The role of infrastructure, including transport-oriented development and rail Repurposing former mining land and what it unlocks for future development How Council is working with State and neighbouring regions to support growth Why Lake Macquarie presents a compelling opportunity for developers and investors The 10-year outlook and what success looks like for the region Hit play to stay ahead of the curve in Lake Macquarie and the broader Hunter region. Join Brent on Instagram as he shares regular content from his podcasts, along with up to date news on the Commercial Property space in the Hunter.  Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Newcastle Unlocked – Inside Newcastle's Hotel and Tourism Future with Dr Jerry Schwartz As Australia's largest private hotel operator and a long term investor in Newcastle and the Hunter, Dr Jerry Schwartz has played a major role in shaping the region's accommodation and tourism landscape. In this episode, Brent Sinclair sits down with Jerry to unpack the performance of the hotel market post COVID, major development projects, and the outlook for investment across the region. What we cover: How Jerry built one of Australia's largest privately owned hotel portfolios Post COVID recovery across leisure and corporate travel How Newcastle's occupancy and room rates compare with other regional and metro markets The impact of inflation, interest rates and global uncertainty on tourism demand The personal and commercial toll of COVID on the hospitality industry The current status of the Newcastle Post Office redevelopment Jerry's long term vision for the Post Office and its role in activating the CBD Working with Council and navigating development timing Wharf Road holdings, future hotel opportunities and the conditions needed for delivery Whether Newcastle has reached a new level of market maturity The five to ten year outlook for hotel, tourism and development activity in the region Hit play and stay ahead of the curve in Newcastle property. Join Brent on Instagram as he shares regular content from his podcasts, along with up to date news on the Commercial Property space in the Hunter.  Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Newcastle Unlocked – 2026 Commercial Property Market Outlook with Dan Barry & Matt Shaw After a calmer 2025, the Newcastle and Hunter commercial property market is entering a pivotal year. In this episode, we break down the stabilisation of last year and the emerging opportunities for 2026. What we cover: • Why 2025 was steady, and why that was a good thing • Tenanted investment performance, including key sales and yield trends • Industrial land demand at Heatherbrae, Black Hill and Mayfield West • Vacancy, incentives and supply dynamics • Major developments: One National, Chapter Apartments, The Store, Dairy Farmers and the NGM 10,000sqm lease • Market sentiment as we enter 2026 • Inflation, interest rates and the "insurance hike" narrative • Construction cost movements and returning feasibility • Why built stock is trading 30–40 percent below replacement cost • Buyer behaviour above $3M and $5M • Growth in strata, medical and value‑add opportunities • Increase in receivership sales Hit play and stay ahead of the curve in Newcastle property. Join Brent on Instagram as he shares regular content from his podcasts, along with up to date news on the Commercial Property space in the Hunter.  Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Welcome to Newcastle Unlocked. Host Brent Sinclair sits down with Sam Kennard, rich lister and CEO of Kennards Self Storage, the family-owned pioneer of self-storage in Australia since 1973.  Under Sam's leadership, Kennards has scaled to 126 locations across Australia and New Zealand, offering ~101,000 storage spaces and ~920,000 m² of rentable space, including a recent $400M NZD acquisition of 13 sites in Auckland. We unpack: 1. How Kennards started as a side hustle and became a national powerhouse 2. Sam's journey to CEO at 25 and lessons from decades of growth 3. Development DNA vs acquisition: what makes a site "Kennards quality" 4. The state of the self-storage market (competition, oversupply risk, digital marketing, dynamic pricing) 5. Why Kennards is investing in the Hunter (6 local sites) and how vertical storage is evolving 6. Macro trends: housing constraints, life-event demand, resilience across cycles 7. The next 5–10 years: overbuilding risks, institutional capital, and long-term outlook   Hit play and stay ahead of the curve in Newcastle property. Join Brent on Instagram as he shares regular content from his podcasts, along with up to date news on the Commercial Property space in the Hunter.  Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

In the latest episode of Newcastle Unlocked, Brent Sinclair sits down with one of Australia's most recognised real estate figures, Mat Steinwede, Partner at McGrath Central Coast Group and ranked among the Top 25 agents nationally. From being homeless as a teenager to building a multimillion-dollar business and personal brand, Mat's story is one of discipline, purpose, and resilience. Together, we explore: The evolution of the Central Coast prestige market How mindset and health fuel high performance The role of social media and personal brand in modern real estate What's next for the market over the next five years This episode also marks a milestone partnership between Knight Frank and McGrath - an alliance designed to elevate real estate nationally. Hit play and stay ahead of the curve in Newcastle property. Join Brent on Instagram as he shares regular content from his podcasts, along with up to date news on the Commercial Property space in the Hunter.  Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

In this episode of Newcastle Unlocked, Brent is joined by Nuatali Nelmes, former Lord Mayor of Newcastle and now Hunter & Central Coast Director for the Property Council of Australia. Nuatali has been at the heart of Newcastle's transformation for over a decade. In this episode, she shares: What she's working on in her new Property Council role Why the Broadmeadow Place Strategy is a once-in-a-generation opportunity The push for Sydney–Newcastle fast rail Reflections on a decade leading the city through major change How Newcastle and the Hunter remain one of Australia's most exciting investment markets Whether you live here, work here or are looking to invest, this episode is packed with insights on where Newcastle is headed and how we can all help shape its future. Hit play and stay ahead of the curve in Newcastle property. Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

In this episode of Newcastle Unlocked, we wrap up the 2025 financial year with a deep dive into the Hunter's commercial, industrial, and residential markets. Brent Sinclair is joined by Dan Barry, Director of Industrial, and Matt Shaw from our Commercial Sales team to unpack a pivotal few weeks — including the latest 25 basis point rate cut from the RBA and a federal election that surprisingly didn't slow transaction activity. We explore: Key movements in commercial leasing, industrial sales, and development land Investor confidence post-election How recent RBA decisions may signal the start of a new market cycle With yields holding firm and enquiry levels steady, is the Hunter ready for a rebound in FY26? Hit play and stay ahead of the curve in Newcastle property.   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Join us on the latest episode of Newcastle Unlocked as Brent Sinclair sits down with Kate McArthur, Executive Manager of Business Development at the Port of Newcastle. Kate shares her insights on the Port's strategic vision, its role in driving economic growth in the Hunter region, and exciting development opportunities, including leasing surplus land for commercial projects. If you're interested in commercial property or the future of the Port, this episode is a must-watch! Subscribe and stay tuned for more insights into Newcastle's thriving business landscape.   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Dive into the latest episode of Newcastle Unlocked as we sit down with Luke Berry, co-founder of Thirdi Group, a powerhouse in innovative property development. With a $3B+ international project pipeline, Luke shares exclusive insights on transformative projects like Dairy Farmers Towers and the Merewether Golf Club redevelopment in Newcastle. Discover national housing trends, buyer behaviour, and how Thirdi is shaping the Hunter region's future amidst industry challenges. From urban redevelopment to tackling housing supply, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in property and Newcastle's growth!  Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Welcome to Newcastle Unlocked! In this episode, we sit down with Gavan Reynolds, Development Director at EXP Capital. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, EXP Capital has cemented its status as a powerhouse in the Hunter region's property market. From the strategic acquisition of 117 Bull Street to the transformation of Maryland Shopping Centre with Woolworths as a key tenant, Gavan reveals the vision, strategy, and confidence driving EXP's success. Discover what's next for this industry leader and why the Hunter remains their investment stronghold. Watch now and stay tuned for more updates from Newcastle Unlocked! Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Welcome to Newcastle Unlocked! In this episode, we dive into the future of urban development in the Hunter and Newcastle regions, exploring key initiatives, infrastructure investments, and sustainability strategies shaping the property market. Joining us is Hon. Stuart Ayres, CEO of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) NSW. With an extensive background in government and urban planning, Stuart shares exclusive insights on: Major development projects in the Hunter and Newcastle Sustainable growth and planning initiatives The $420M infrastructure investment proposal The economic potential of a Greater Sydney Megaregion Reducing red tape and improving housing affordability Whether you're a property investor, developer, or local resident, this episode is packed with valuable insights on the region's growth and how you can be part of it.   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Welcome to the latest episode of Newcastle Unlocked! Join host Brent Sinclair as he sits down with Matt Shaw, Head of Valuations, and Dan Barry, Director of Industrial here at Knight Frank Newcastle, to review the remarkable resilience of the Hunter's commercial property market in 2024. Despite the challenges posed by elevated interest rates, the market has shown stability with industrial properties yielding between 5.5-6.5% and office buildings returning between 6.5-7.25%. Tune in as they discuss key market indicators, standout transactions, and the return of cranes to the Newcastle skyline, signalling renewed optimism for major projects. In this episode, Brent, Matt, and Dan also explore the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for 2025. They delve into proactive strategies for landlords, the performance of industrial investments, and the impact of rental reversion on property values. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just curious about the commercial property market, this episode offers valuable insights and predictions for the coming year. Don't miss out on this comprehensive market analysis and expert discussion   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

In this week's episode we are joined by Stephen Hunt, CEO of Hunt Hospitality and all-round business mogul. From transforming a $100 backyard bar into a $100 million pub empire, Stephen's journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and community spirit. A market leader in the hospitality industry, Stephen shares his insights on building successful venues like The Kent at Hamilton, the Imperial at Maitland, and the Seabreeze Hotel in Nelson Bay. We delve into his book, Find, Build, Sell, uncovering the principles that guided his remarkable success. Tune in to hear about the challenges he overcame, the strategies he employed, and his vision for the future of the pub industry. This episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiring stories. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation with one of the industry's leading figures! Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated with the latest from Newcastle Unlocked.   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

In this episode of Newcastle Unlocked, Brent sits down with Graham Burns, a prominent investor and developer in the Hunter region. Graham shares his early career journey, the business philosophy that has driven his success, and the strategic decisions behind his significant investments in the Hunter, highlighting the region's economic profile, key industries, and its attractive features compared to Sydney. We delve into the Hunter Business Park project, exploring its journey from initial stages to nearing completion, and the impressive increase in land value. Graham provides insights into current trends in construction costs, the anticipated impact on the pipeline of new commercial and industrial buildings, and the challenges and opportunities in delivering new dwellings as outlined in the NSW Government's Hunter Regional Plan. The conversation also covers the increasing focus on ESG targets, the future of coal in the market, and the transition to renewable energy. Graham shares his perspective on the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone and the growing defence industry in the Hunter region, including the recent announcement of a new missile factory at Williamstown and its potential for job creation and economic growth. Join us for an insightful conversation as we unlock the potential of the Hunter region with Graham Burns.   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

In this episode of Newcastle Unlocked, host Brent Sinclair sits down with Keith Stronach, the visionary behind the Stronach Group - a family business spanning four generations. With roots dating back to 1923, the Stronach Group has played a pivotal role in shaping Newcastle's landscape. From iconic landmarks like the Civic Theatre and Christ Church Cathedral Tower to transformative projects such as the Honeysuckle Precinct, Keith shares insights into urban renewal, challenges faced by developers, and the market's evolution.   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

In the latest episode we talk with Gavin Rose, a former investment banker working in Sydney, who identified a niche for consolidating healthcare assets within the fragmented market. Motivated by a desire to return to his roots in the Hunter region and driven by his vision to develop a healthcare focused fund, he co-founded GPV Property. This Hunter-based fund, enhanced by in-house construction and planning capabilities, has successfully developed and now oversees a portfolio exceeding $300 million, spanning 11 properties primarily in the Hunter, with extensions into Port Stephens and the Blue Mountains. Our conversation delves into the dynamics of investor and lender appetite for healthcare assets, raising capital from investors in the current economic climate, and recent projects including developing in Scone, the largest equine hospital in the southern hemisphere, and a new $80 million mixed modality hospital in Charlestown. Furthermore, we explore the hurdles developers face amid rising interest rates and heightened construction costs, consideration for alternative asset classes, and Gavin's forecast for the market in the upcoming year to two years.   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

Amidst a widespread affordability crisis, Newcastle's property market stands out with ten homes fetching over $4.5 million in the past year alone. Highlighting this trend is a record $11.05 million sale at Bar Beach. Discover the upscale neighbourhoods redefining Newcastle as Brent Sinclair sits down with Lyndall Allan, a leading residential agent and principal from Salt Property, to explore the dynamics of the city's high-end housing market in our latest episode.   Find Lyndall & Salt Property at: Instagram Youtube Salt Property Website   Find Knight Frank Newcastle at: Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Knight Frank Website   Videography & editing courtesy of BC Images Instagram BC Images Website

In this episode of Newcastle Unlocked, Brent catches up with Hilton Grugeon, prominent property developer and investor in the Hunter Region. Hilton shares his insights on how COVID has affected the Hunter economy, the challenges and opportunities for the construction industry, and the trends and prospects for residential and industrial property sectors. We also delve into Hilton's opinions of the role of councils, the state of housing affordability, and the potential impact of fast rail and light rail projects on Newcastle's connectivity and livability. Tune in to hear from one of the most experienced and influential figures in the Hunter's property market. Knight Frank Newcastle Instagram Knight Frank Newcastle LinkedIn Knightfrank.com.au

Welcome to Newcastle Unlocked, the podcast where we explore the latest trends and challenges in Newcastle's property market. In our first episode, we have a frank conversation with host Brent Sinclair, Head of Agency, Dan Barry, Director of Industrial, and Matt Shaw, Head of Valuation at Knight Frank Newcastle. They share their insights and predictions on how the market will perform in 2024, after a turbulent period of growth, inflation, and price corrections. How will residential, industrial and commercial sectors cope with the changing dynamics? What are the opportunities and risks for local private owners? How can you navigate the market with confidence and clarity? Find out in the informative first episode of Newcastle Unlocked. KFN Q4 2023 House Views Report Knight Frank Newcastle Instagram Knight Frank Newcastle LinkedIn

Introducing Newcastle's newest podcast, giving you the inside scoop on all things commercial, industrial, and residential across the Newcastle property landscape. Hosted by our very own Brent Sinclair, hear from industry experts as they delve into the current trends, challenges, and opportunities facing the Newcastle and Hunter Region markets heading into 2024 and learn what this means for our local economy. Newcastle Unlocked is the ultimate source of information and inspiration to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in Newcastle's real estate market.