Post on 22-Jul-2016
description
1
2
CONTENTSABOUT 4
A MESSAGE FROM THE MANAGING DIRECTOR 6
STATEMENT OF CAPABILITY 8
VALUES & PHILOSOPHY 12
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY 14
COMMUNITY & SPONSORSHIP 16
DIVISIONS 20
PROJECTS 22
HOTELS 36
LEADERSHIP 42
STRUCTURE 47
RECOGNITION & AWARDS 50
CONTACT DETAILS 54
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF THE VIEW FROM A ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT AT
WAYFARER APARTMENTS.
3
GEOCON is an integrated
property development,
construction and hotel
management company focused
on residential apartments and
hotel development. In addition
to our core focus, we have
developed a range of projects
including office, retail, childcare
and housing works.
What building Canberra means
to GEOCON is building places
to live, places to stay and
communities to be a part of.
We have been described as
innovators and, although we
are amenable to the title, what
we are doing is more grounded
and calculated and far less of a
novelty than the meaning of such
a label may suggest.
We are one of the few integrated
development and construction
companies in Canberra which
allows us to increase efficiencies
and deliver a higher level of
sophistication in the affordable
sector.
As important as the projects
we deliver is our philosophy
for why we do it. Our point of
differentiation lies in our vision
for the execution of affordable
products. What most of our
competitors consider to be
innovative, we consider our basic
offering. This includes price,
inclusions, sustainability, client
service and project execution.
The hotel division of the business
was incorporated into our
offering four years ago, to service
a gap in the market. Abode – The
Apartment Hotel provides the
Canberra accommodation sector
with a product that offers all the
amenities of home in town centre
locations, at a price that meets
market demand for this type of
accommodation.
GEOCON is currently well
positioned in the Canberra
market with substantial land
holdings. We have a pipeline of
approximately 650 residential
apartments and will increase our
hotel offering under the Abode –
The Apartment Hotel brand by 2
– 3 hotels in the coming years.
AT GEOCON, WE’RE PROUD TO BE BUILDING CANBERRA.
4
ABOUT
GEOCON’S NEW HEAD OFFICE, LOCATED AT THE PURPOSE-BUILT FRINGE AT EPICENTRE.
5
It has been an exciting year with
a long list of achievements we
are proud to put our name to.
We were awarded the Property
Council’s 2013 ACT Business of
the Year, opened Australia’s first
Green Star and National Australian
Built Environment Rating System
(NABERS) rated hotel in Woden,
commenced construction works at
stage one at Observatory Living
and released a number of new
residential apartment projects,
including Chelsea in O’Connor,
Newtown at Crace and the second
stage of Observatory Living in
Wright. Our big bang came in
March when we released our
largest project to date, Wayfarer
Apartments, and saw near sell-out
results.
Located in the Belconnen Town
Centre, Wayfarer is a 27 storey
project which, standing at 88m tall,
will be Canberra’s tallest residential
tower. The development includes
235 residential apartments, 96
hotel apartments and retail space.
It also features an infinity pool at
level 27 and has been endorsed
by world renowned Australian
chef and Electrolux ambassador,
Tetsuya Wakuda.
All of our projects have satisfied
presale requirements for
commencement and we are
proud to report that stage one
at Observatory Living has almost
sold out, eight months prior to
completion. Our market risk has
been mitigated and the focus
of the business is growing our
expertise and progressing a new
strategic senior management
structure which will enable future
growth and successful delivery
of our $450 million pipeline of
projects over the next two years.
One of our newest additions to
the team is David Newling, in the
role of Chief Financial Officer.
David’s extensive experience
across both finance and executive
level roles within the property and
financial services industries, will
be key in establishing the senior
leadership team, advisory board
and the creation of our next level
of corporate governance. David
will play a major role in the growth
strategy for the business and
be an extremely important part
of the delivery of our current
projects ensuring, as always, they
are executed in line with the high
GEOCON standard.
As well as our internal growth,
our focus on what we deliver to
the Canberra community, in both
the residential and hotel sectors,
is top of mind. With a significant
amount of game changing projects
in the pipeline, we are constantly
reassessing the group’s social
and environmental impact, have
a vision to further densify our
town centres and are driven to
deliver social outcomes that are
sustainable, desirable with a level
of quality and design that exceeds
the expectation of our progressing
city.
6
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF THE CENTRAL COURTYARD AT
OBSERVATORY LIVING.
A MESSAGE FROM THE MANAGING DIRECTOR
The year has also demonstrated
we are industry leaders and can
successfully push boundaries. The
first registered Green Star and
NABERS rated hotel in Australia –
Abode Woden – has demonstrated
our commitment to sustainability
and innovation. The approval
of Canberra’s tallest residential
tower and second tallest tower in
Canberra showcases our ability in
planning, community consultation
and driving progressive social
outcomes. The focus on our
people within the business to grow
and develop a culture that sets us
apart from others will be our focus
over the next year.
Our future acquisitions will have
more rigour around their fit for the
group and this is where David and
the advisory board’s experience
will be crucial. We will be more
strategic in the way that we
acquire opportunities and look for
options that meet our feasibility
criteria, deliver on our company
ethos and align with our integrated
residential/hotel model.
I am also very proud to be a
finalist in The EY Entrepreneur Of
The Year program for 2014. The
program is considered one of the
world’s most prestigious business
awards and is held in more than
145 cities and over 60 countries
worldwide.
7
Company name: GEOCON Group
Geographical coverage: Canberra and the surrounding region.
Business summary: GEOCON is a Canberra-based property development and construction company, focusing
on residential apartments and hotel development.
Project summary:Currently developing Canberra’s tallest residential tower in the Belconnen Town Centre
Abode Woden property will be Australia’s first registered Green Star & NABERS rated hotel
Developing the largest Greenfield site in the Molonglo Valley infill suburb of Wright
Negotiating the development of one of the largest residential sites in the Gungahlin Town Centre
Planning the development of three new hotel properties for the group
Capabilities:Property development
Residential construction
Commercial construction
Refurbishments and refits
Hotel management
Asset management
Senior leadership team:Nick Georgalis, Managing Director
David Newling, Chief Financial Officer
Peter Micalos, General Manager – Development
Damon Smith, General Manager – Construction
Rien Donkin, General Manager – Hotels
Rhiannon McClelland, Group Communications Manager
Eddie Khaw, Group Financial Controller
Manish Shrestha, Group Analyst
Industry licences/certifications:Construction Occupation Licence Class A
Membership, Housing Industry Association of the ACT
Membership, Master Builders Association of the ACT
Membership, Property Council of the ACT
Membership, Green Building Council of Australia
Membership, Australian Hotels Association
Membership, Canberra Convention Bureau
ISO 9001:2008
Quality Management Systems
ISO 14001:2004
Environmental Management Standard
AS/NZS 4801:2001
Health & Safety Management Standard
8
STATEMENT OF CAPABILITY
THE CENTRAL COURTYARD AT THE COMPLETED VUE THE RESIDENCE.
9
10
CONSTRUCTION OF GEOCON’S OBSERVATORY LIVING DEVELOPMENT IN WRIGHT, HIGHLIGHTED
BY THE PINK TOWER CRANE.
11
Our philosophy is to make an exceptional offering business as usual. We believe the client’s input in the development process cannot be underestimated and strive to employ excellence in every exchange with stakeholders.
We value every step of the
development process; from
initial engagement and how we
communicate our offering to the
market through to finalisation
and delivery of our finished
products. We proactively engage
in community consultation and
have an excellent track record in
seeking public opinion during the
development approval process.
One of our most notable
achievements, which highlights
our consultation with the
community, is the approval of
Canberra’s tallest residential
tower in Belconnen. We not
only managed the approval
process in-house but did it in
a commendable manner which
focused around engagement
with the public, the business
community and government.
Crucial to the success of our
delivery of high-quality products
is our general manager of
development, who manages the
development application process,
feasibility studies, and works
with our communications and
construction teams to ensure
that what we market is what we
deliver at the completion of a
project. We do this because we
know it is the client who defines
demand for future GEOCON
products.
Our commitment to quality and
satisfaction is underpinned by
the internal implementation
of the group’s core policies.
These policies set out our
intentions and commitments
and contain fundamental
objectives to encourage project
success. Core policies cover
occupational health and safety,
quality assurance, environmental
management, workplace
rehabilitation and return to work
support and mutual respect.
We acknowledge and accept
an obligation to preserve
and protect the environment.
Through the commitment and
involvement of management
and employees, the group is
dedicated to the provision
of built outcomes that are
environmentally responsible to
customers, the workplace and
community.
12
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF A TYPICAL APARTMENT AT
NEWTOWN AT CRACE.
VALUES & PHILOSOPHY
13
Our commitment to sustainability has sound, solid proof that we take the environmental impact of the group very seriously.
We not only acknowledge and
accept an obligation to preserve
and protect the environment
but we place a particular focus
on being the best at bringing
environmentally sustainable
products to the market. This
is best demonstrated by the
group’s recently completed
Abode Woden. With its adaptive
reuse and our integrated
delivery model, Abode Woden
will become Australia’s first
registered Green Star and
National Australian Built
Environment Rating System
(NABERS) rated hotel.
Our vision for the environment is
to pursue continual improvement
in our environmental
performance and achieve
closer integration with process
management and apply
reasonable practices across the
business in order to protect and
enhance our reputation and
meet the expectations of our
stakeholders.
To ensure we continue delivering
on our environmental vision,
we conduct all our operations
in accordance with relevant
legislation, provide adequate
information and training
to enable environmental
impacts and opportunities
to be identified, prioritised
and managed effectively, and
communicate initiatives and
achievement to our customers,
the workplace and community.
We also conduct yearly
audits to ensure that internal
environmental targets are being
met.
14
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
GEOCON’S THIRD HOTEL PROJECT AND FIRST REGISTERED GREEN STAR &
NABERS RATED HOTEL, ABODE WODEN.
15
GEOCON is a supporter of Canberra and the wider community. We are a proud sponsor of the Canberra Raiders through the Abode – The Apartment Hotel brand and will continue this partnership under a three year arrangement.
The Canberra Raiders
partnership has provided a great
platform for national brand
recognition due to the Abode –
The Apartment Hotel logo being
in such a prominent position on
the front of the playing jersey.
This provides a strong level of
awareness for our hotels.
Our integrated property
development model allows us
to play an important role in
progressing services in local
communities after construction is
complete. We do this by retaining
commercial property within
our developments and seeking
small business operators that
can provide services required
by the community. This not only
provides amenity but increases
the value of each of our multi-
unit developments. An excellent
example of this model is at VUE
The Residence in Tuggeranong;
we have used our retention of
commercial property to bring
the community a Subway, hair
salon, beauty salon and barber,
with a plan to continue to grow
amenities.
We also play an advocacy role
by maintaining important and
influential relationships with
industry associations within the
sectors that we operate in. These
include the Property Council,
Master Builders Association, the
Housing Industry Association and
the Australian Hotels Association.
16
CANBERRA RAIDER’S PLAYERS IN THEIR JERSEYS.
COMMUNITY & SPONSORSHIP
17
18
THE ENTRANCE TO GEOCON’S THIRD HOTEL PROJECT, ABODE WODEN.
19
The core business divisions at GEOCON are development, construction and hotels. The main function of the group is property development. The majority of the workforce at GEOCON are employed and work under the corporate business, including administration, finance and communications.
An overview of each division is
outlined to the right.
Development
Development is the primary
function of the group. The
execution of each project has
clear steps which are managed
by the general manager of
development. The development
division is responsible for
feasibility, project design,
engagement with the in-
house communications team,
management of internal and
external sales consultants,
release to the market, liaison
with construction and delivery
to the market.
Construction
Construction services GEOCON
as the contract builder for all
construction projects. The
team is managed by a general
manager of construction who
has extensive experience in
construction and is dedicated
to a safe and healthy working
environment. The team has
experience in new building
projects, refurbishments,
adaptive reuses and refits.
GEOCON has a good track
record with industrial relations,
community groups and local
contracting groups, which is a
direct result of the processes
the company employs and
requires all team members to
adhere to. The scale of the in-
house construction team allows
GEOCON to be at the forefront
of reducing build time without
compromising safety or quality.
20
Hotels
Hotels deliver affordable
hotel accommodation to
Canberra via the Abode –
The Apartment Hotel brand.
The group’s hotel offering
now includes three hotel
properties; an offering which
will double by 2017. The team
is managed by a general
manager of hotels who has
extensive experience in the
tourism and hotel sector
to lead a team of hotel
managers, reception and front
office staff, reservations and
housekeeping. DIVISIONS
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF THE VIEW FROM AN APARTMENT AT THE
TOP OF WAYFARER APARTMENTS.
21
PROJECT LOCATIONS
22
PROJECTS
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF THE VIEW FROM THE INFINITY POOL
AT WAYFARER APARTMENTS.
23
WAYFARER APARTMENTS
Wayfarer Apartments is a 88m high, 27 storey residential development located in the Belconnen Town Centre. Set to be Canberra’s tallest residential tower, this high-profile development includes 235 residential apartments, a 96 room Abode – The Apartment Hotel and a provision for commercial space at ground level.
The development includes an impressive façade, a grand entrance featuring six metre high ceilings, residential apartments from levels six to 27, an infinity pool on levels 26 and 27 and a sky lounge entertainment area on level 25.
The first four levels have been dedicated to car parking which is cleverly hidden within the façade. From level six upwards is where the magic begins; this podium level features a collection of beautifully appointed terraces with up to 160sqm of outdoor living, partially protected from the elements with pergolas. Apartments on levels seven to 27 boast convenient sized balconies up to 35sqm in size, with uncompromised views.
One of the most unique features of the project is the dream kitchen, inspired by Electrolux ambassador, Tetsuya Wakuda. The kitchen occupies the central space in most apartment types and includes an Electrolux 600mm single electric oven, combination steam and multifunction oven, 700mm induction cooktop, 600mm built-in dishwasher and built-in microwave oven with convection and grill.
Located in the Belconnen Town Centre, Wayfarer Apartments is only minutes’ walk to Westfield Belconnen, CISAC, multiple government departments and the University of Canberra. Residents will be conveniently located close to Belconnen’s waterfront precinct featuring restaurants, bars, cafes and popular picnic areas around the lake. The project is also a short car ride from the Australian National University, city centre and the inner north.
PROJECT ADDRESS CNR EASTERN VALLEY WAY & AIKMAN DRIVE, BELCONNEN
PRODUCT DETAILS 235 RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS, 96 HOTEL ROOMS AND COMMERCIAL UNITS AT GROUND LEVEL
PROJECT VALUE $130 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE EARLY 2017
24
ELECTROLUX AMBASSADOR, TETSUYA WAKUDA, INSPIRED THE DREAM KITCHENS AT
WAYFARER APARTMENTS.
25
OBSERVATORY LIVING
Observatory Living is a 2.2 hectare Greenfield development located in the Molonglo Valley suburb of Wright. As the single largest development for the area, Observatory includes 270 residential apartment and 6000sqm of central garden space for shared use.
Observatory is positioned on the highest point in Wright and will offer views to Parliament House, Lake Burley Griffin and Telstra Tower.
The central garden spaces, designed by internationally renowned landscape designer and project ambassador, Jamie Durie, are a feature on their own. From places to cook and eat, an exercise circuit and places to simply relax. Underpinned by all the amenity is the significant amount of detail that’s gone into selecting plants, fruit trees, ground covers and grasses that will not only survive in Canberra but will give Observatory so much visual appeal.
Observatory Living offers one, one plus study, two and three bedroom apartments, ranging in size from 73sqm one bedroom apartments with 32sqm of outdoor living to 126sqm three bedroom apartments with a 45sqm outdoor room.
Beyond spacious layouts and grand views, each Observatory resident will be spoilt with the very best finishes. Most apartments feature walk-in robes in the main bedroom while all homes will include built-in wardrobes and make the most of natural light, solar corridors and smartly utilise natural airflow.
A central location means convenience will always be at hand. Wright – the first of 13 suburbs to be developed as part of the Molonglo Valley project – is just minutes from the city as well as Woden, Belconnen and the modern amenities of Weston Creek.
PROJECT ADDRESS JOHN GORTON DRIVE, WRIGHT
PRODUCT DETAILS 270 RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS
PROJECT VALUE $105 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE MID-LATE 2015
26
WORLD-RENOWNED LANDSCAPE DESIGNER, JAMIE DURIE, IS THE PROJECT AMBASSADOR
FOR OBSERVATORY LIVING.
27
CHELSEA
Chelsea is a 23 apartment urban renewal project, located in the established and inner north suburb of O’Connor. This project will see the redevelopment of two existing homes located on Macarthur Avenue.
The development includes beautifully appointed gardens, a shared vegetable garden for residents and a 12,000L water tank to ensure maintenance of the shared facilities.
Chelsea aims to offer buyers a terrace-style product similar to that found in Sydney, Melbourne and some European countries. The product mix ranges from one bedroom study apartments through to two and three bedroom terraces with street access, high ceilings and spacious courtyards and balconies.
The location of Chelsea perfectly bridges the gap between being close to the action and making the most of the outdoors. Mount Ainslie, Black Mountain Tower, the O’Connor wetlands and open spaces are within walking distance to Chelsea, as is the Canberra city, the buzz of the newly redeveloped suburb of Braddon and the Lyneham and O’Connor shopping centres. The Belconnen Town Centre is also only a short drive down Belconnen Way.
PROJECT ADDRESS 77 & 79 MACARTHUR AVENUE, O’CONNOR
PRODUCT DETAILS 23 RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS WITH A SHARED GARDEN FOR RESIDENTS
PROJECT VALUE $9 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE MID-LATE 2015
28
NEWTOWN AT CRACE
Newtown at Crace is a 50 unit residential development located in the Gungahlin suburb of Crace. Centrally located within the suburb, the development is adjacent the newly-opened Crace Central shopping precinct.
The philosophy of Newtown is to provide the market with a development designed to reflect the inner city style of Braddon and the Canberra city matched with larger apartment layouts and more affordable pricing of Gungahlin and a suburban environment.
Residents will enjoy a central courtyard space for shared entertaining which includes places to sit and relax, areas for shelter and barbeques to cook with friends, family and other residents. Newtown also offers the benefit of internal lift access which is a point of differentiation in comparison to other multi-unit developments in the suburb.
Set over three levels, Newtown includes a selection of one, two and three bedroom apartments, some with study, spacious balconies and courtyards and is priced to ensure all apartments are under the ACT Government’s $20 stamp duty threshold.
Newtown is located within walking distance to the Crace shops which has amenities such as Supabarn, Club Lime, Coffee Guru and District Bar. This exciting new suburb has an abundance of parks and open space while only being a short 10 minute car ride to the Canberra city.
PROJECT ADDRESS CNR REDRUTH & HILLCREST STREETS, CRACE
PRODUCT DETAILS 50 RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS AND CENTRAL COURTYARD SPACE
PROJECT VALUE $16 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE LATE 2015
29
GATEWAY
Gateway was originally designed as a commercial development including five buildings – ranging from two to 12 storeys – plus a multi-storey car park, all based around a central open plaza design.
Due to market changes, GEOCON has since revised the proposal for the park to be a mixed-use residential development. GEOCON is currently seeking to change the use to a residential offering and develop four towers each consisting of 600-700 apartments.
GEOCON has already completed works on a childcare centre (Australia’s largest childcare centre), located on the site, which will be the first offering available at the park. The site has now been subdivided and the childcare centre has been sold to a fund’s manager.
The vision for the revised project is a three to four year release strategy, depending on market demand. The original park-feel will likely be retained. This is a major pipeline project for the group, which, depending on the approval process and design phase, is planned to be released in 2015.
Gateway is located in the Gungahlin Town Centre on Anthony Rolfe Avenue, adjacent GEOCON’s Abode –The Apartment Hotel project. The development is within walking distance to the existing town centre amenities. The Gungahlin Town Centre is located less than 10 minutes from the Canberra city and Belconnen Town Centre.
PROJECT ADDRESS ANTHONY ROLFE AVENUE, GUNGAHLIN
PRODUCT DETAILS TBA
PROJECT VALUE TBA
COMPLETION DATE 2017
30
COOMBS RESIDENTIAL
GEOCON recently purchased 19 cottage blocks in the new Molonglo Valley suburb of Coombs. These homes are able to be sold to the market as house and land packages or under the ACT Government’s land rent scheme, which is a selling point, given the number of homes left to be developed under this scheme is now limited.
On offer to the market is a range of four and five bedroom homes which include a high level of inclusions and desirable features such as walk in robes, walk in pantries, rumpus rooms, separate living and dining areas, alfresco dining and full landscaping. The benefit of the land rent scheme, for those who qualify, is that a 187sqm 5 bedroom family home on a 510sqm home, can be rented from as little as $135 per week.
PROJECT ADDRESS WOODBERRY AVENUE, COOMBS
PRODUCT DETAILS 19 COTTAGES
PROJECT VALUE $13 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2015
31
FRINGE AT EPICENTRE
PROJECT ADDRESS 24 IRON KNOB STREET, FYSHWICK
PRODUCT DETAILS COMMERCIAL PROPERTY INCLUDING 18 RETAIL AND OFFICE UNITS
PROJECT VALUE $10.5 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2013
CENTRO APARTMENTS
PROJECT ADDRESS ANTHONY ROLFE AVENUE, GUNGAHLIN
PRODUCT DETAILS 41 RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS AND 11 COMMERCIAL UNITS
PROJECT VALUE $19 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2012
VUE THE RESIDENCE
PROJECT ADDRESS 150 ANKETELL STREET, TUGGERANONG
PRODUCT DETAILS 145 RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS, 82 SERVICED APARTMENTS AND 13 RETAIL SUITES
PROJECT VALUE $93 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2012
COMPLETEDPROJECTS
32
HOME AT CRACE
PROJECT ADDRESS COCOPARRA CRESCENT, CRACE
PRODUCT DETAILS 46 THREE AND FOUR BEDROOM FREESTANDING AND ATTACHED HOMES
PROJECT VALUE $22 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2014
KINGSTON FORESHORE
PROJECT ADDRESS 84-88 DAWES STREET, KINGSTON
PRODUCT DETAILS 2 LUXURY HOMES, 4 RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS AND ONE COMMERCIAL UNIT
PROJECT VALUE $7.2 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2010
CAVAN AT WRIGHT
PROJECT ADDRESS DAVID FLEAY CRESCENT, WRIGHT
PRODUCT DETAILS 10 FREESTANDING COTTAGES AND 15 TWO STOREY ATTACHED TERRACE HOMES
PROJECT VALUE $15 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2013
33
ABODE GUNGAHLIN
PROJECT ADDRESS ANTHONY ROLFE AVENUE, GUNGAHLIN
PRODUCT DETAILS 61 APARTMENT HOTEL ROOMS
PROJECT VALUE $14 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2010
ABODE TUGGERANONG
PROJECT ADDRESS 142 ANKETELL STREET, TUGGERANONG
PRODUCT DETAILS 82 SERVICED APARTMENTS
PROJECT VALUE $32 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2012
ABODE WODEN
PROJECT ADDRESS 10 BOWES STREET, WODEN
PRODUCT DETAILS 151 APARTMENT HOTEL ROOMS, CONFERENCING FACILITIES AND 162SQM RESTAURANT SPACE
PROJECT VALUE $34 MILLION
COMPLETION DATE 2013
COMPLETEDPROJECTS
34
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF THE CENTRAL COURTYARD AT
NEWTOWN AT CRACE.
35
HOTEL LOCATIONS
36
HOTELS
THE SMALLGOODS STORE, ABODE PANTRY, LOCATED AT
ABODE WODEN.
37
Abode – The Apartment Hotel is a brand developed by GEOCON to bridge the accommodation gap in Canberra. Our hotels offer quality accommodation at an affordable price.
The offering is designed to meet consumer demand
for town centre locations, less than 10 minutes
from Canberra city, with all the amenities of home.
Abode Gungahlin, Tuggeranong and Woden are
all conveniently located within walking distance
to grocery stores, restaurants, gyms and medical
centres. Each room is stylishly appointed with a
king or queen bed, espresso machine, refrigerator,
microwave, flat screen TV, washer, dryer and ensuite
bathroom with Peter Morrissey products.
We are very excited that the Abode brand is
growing. From our initial flagship project in
Gungahlin to the most recent project in Woden,
and our exciting new commitment in Belconnen,
we now service approximately 400 rooms across
Canberra. In addition to hotel rooms, we also
provide conferencing facilities, restaurants, bars
and other commercial offerings in most of our
properties, including our innovative concept –
Abode Pantry – which provides guests with a one-
stop small goods shop within the hotels.
Abode Hotels has its own management team and
24 staff, responsible for the main functions of the
business, with oversight by senior executives of
GEOCON.
Our management, finance, operations and
communications teams have streamlined processes
which allow scalability across our operating model,
and ensure the design, construction, branding,
campaign and opening of a new hotel follow a
strict model. We continually build, grow and refine
this model to remain competitive.
The future strategy of Abode – The Apartment
Hotel is to continue to grow on the brand, offering
and philosophy that has been built over the past
four years.
Our operating model allows for 50-200 room
hotels and depending on demand, we will grow our
offering by 2-3 more hotels under the brand within
the next few years. Once the Canberra demand
has been satisfied, a strategy to grow outside of
Canberra will be developed, focusing on regional
cities in Australia.
38
ABODE TUGGERANONG
Abode Tuggeranong was the second hotel to be opened under the Abode – The Apartment Hotel brand and is an outstanding example of the success of the group’s integrated delivery approach. By amalgamating residential apartments and hotel apartments within the same development, we have developed a catalyst for a more activated development and provided a more holistic delivery of services and amenity.
Tuggeranong is an established area of south Canberra, on the way to the Sapphire Coast, the popular snow region of Thredbo and less than 20 minutes from the Canberra International Airport. Abode Tuggeranong is located close to popular wedding venues and major employment centres.
As well as 82 apartment style hotel rooms, the property at Tuggeranong includes 142 privately owned residential apartments, a planned bar and restaurant, day spa, hairdresser, barber and Subway.
ABODE GUNGAHLIN
Abode Gungahlin is located in the rapidly growing Gungahlin Town Centre; at the entrance to the capital when travelling from both Sydney and Melbourne. As well as being just minutes from the Canberra city, Abode Gungahlin is located close to popular wedding venues, Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), the wine and truffle growing regions and Lonsdale Street in Braddon; Canberra’s answer to Fitzroy’s Brunswick Street.
The property was the group’s first hotel and opening in 2010, is Abode’s flagship project. Featuring 61 apartment style hotel rooms, Abode Gungahlin offers on-site parking, our smallgoods store – Abode Pantry – and has an on-site restaurant and bar.
ABODE WODEN
Abode Woden is the third property developed by the group and features 151 apartment style hotel rooms in the Woden Town Centre. Not only is the property the most centrally located and minutes to Parliament House and major Canberra attractions, but it is an ambitious refurbishment and adaptive reuse of an unused commercial building.
The environmental initiatives included in the development of this property will make Abode Woden Australia’s first registered Green Star & NABERS rated property in Australia. The development of this property has also had a significant impact on revitalising the character of the street and the area around it due to the life that a hotel brings.
Abode Woden is conveniently located adjacent Westfield Shopping Centre, the Hellenic Club and features the group’s trademark smallgoods store – Abode Pantry.
ABODE BELCONNEN
Located in the heart of the Belconnen Town Centre, Abode Belconnen will be the fourth hotel for the group and is due to open in 2017. Like Abode Tuggeranong, the Belconnen site will be attached to a residential development, Wayfarer Apartments, utilising the group’s integrated approach to development.
The residential component of this project development was released to the market early this year and the whole development is due to commence construction in 2016. Standing at 27 storeys and 88 metres tall, Abode Belconnen will feature 96 hotel rooms and a commercial offering at ground level.
Abode Belconnen is located at the corner Eastern Valley Way and Aikman Drive in Belconnen and will be Canberra’s tallest residential hotel.
39
40
A TYPICAL ROOM LAYOUT AT ABODE – THE APARTMENT
HOTEL IN GUNGAHLIN.
41
The success of GEOCON is underpinned by its people. This includes a highly capable management team with extensive hands-on project experience in all facets of property development.
Each member of the GEOCON
team is part of the group due
to their expert knowledge
and expertise in their field. As
well as the core development,
construction and hotel teams,
the group has a competent
support team including a
team of qualified accountants,
communications and marketing
professionals and efficient
administrators.
Each of the people that hold
key management roles in the
group are outlined on the
following page.
42
LEADERSHIP
THE SHARED BREAKOUT SPACE AT GEOCON’S HEAD
OFFICE IN FYSHWICK.
43
Nick GeorgalisManaging Director
Nick is the creator, driving force and vision behind the GEOCON Group and Abode – The Apartment Hotel brand. After a successful start to his career in the construction sector in project management and leadership roles, Nick recognised the need for a player in the residential housing market that was going to make an exceptional offering business as usual and deliver it to the market at an affordable price. The areas that Nick vowed to focus on were price, inclusions, sustainability, customer service and delivery. Nick provides the strategic direction for the group, with a focus on expanding the group’s interests in hotels, commercial acquisitions and development.
David NewlingChief Financial Officer
David provides the strategic financialdirection for the group, oversees the daily operation of the business and various departments and manages corporate governance and the ongoing development of the culture of the group. David brings a wealth of experience to his role, having held financial and executive roles across small and large organisations, both publicly and privately owned. David holds a range of professional qualifications and memberships, across business, finance,management and governance disciplines.
44
Rien DonkinGeneral Manager -Hotels
Rien leads the direction of Abode – The Apartment Hotel and its delivery to the Canberra market. From current projects to the execution of new acquisitions, Rien is responsible for how the brand and product are delivered to the industry and consumers. Rien’s experience and knowledge of hotel operations, refurbishments and re-fits, food and beverage, conferencing and brand delivery and positioning make him the perfect leader for Abode Hotels. Rien holds a professional membership with the Accommodation Association of Australia and eCornell Alumnae and is a founding member of the Australian Hospitality Professionals’ Network.
Peter MicalosGeneral Manager -Development
Peter manages the performance and successful delivery of GEOCON development projects, ensuring that design goals are achieved in the end product delivered to the market. Peter is a property development project manager with an excess of 10 years’ experience in the industry in both the private and public sectors. Peter has advanced project feasibility and strategic capabilities and extensive multi-sector property market knowledge. Peter holds a Diploma of Building and Construction Management.
Damon SmithGeneral Manager -Construction
Damon manages and controls all construction works for the group including project management, performance and successful delivery of assigned projects. Damon has extensive experience in major residential and commercial development works which gives him the experience required to successfully manage Geocon Constructors’ commercial projects and larger-scale developments. Damon is an outstanding manager of Project Control Groups (PCG), industrial agreements and issues at a senior level. Damon holds a Bachelor of Construction Management.
45
Rhiannon McClellandGroup Communications Manager
Rhiannon is a communications professional with extensive experience in the property and real estate sector and lobbying and representative groups. Rhiannon leads the in-house communications team and manages all facets of communication for the corporate GEOCON brand, residential and commercial projects and the hotels group. Rhiannon’s expertise encompasses overall communications strategy, property marketing, public affairs and media liaison, stakeholder engagement and community liaison and event management. She holds a BA Communication, a graduate diploma of management and is a full member of the Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA).
Eddie KhawGroup Financial Controller
Eddie oversees the group’s finance operations and is responsible for day to day financial operations for the development, construction and hotel divisions. Eddie manages the group’s in-house finance team and also works with the group’s external accounting firm. Eddie has held senior roles and has a vast amount of experience working of hotel groups and developers in Australia and overseas. Eddie holds a Bachelor of Economics (Monash) and is a member of CPA Australia.
Manish ShresthaGroup Financial Analyst
Manish measures and analyses the group’s current financial situation and assists in managing finance operations. He has experience working for chartered accountants and banks internationally and in the Australian hospitality industry. Manish has a strong corporate background and understanding of business administration, accounting practices and reporting. Manish holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and is a member of CPA Australia, Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal (ICAN).
46
STRUCTURE
THE OPEN-PLAN WORKSPACE AT GEOCON’S HEAD OFFICE IN FYSHWICK.
MANAGING DIRECTORNICK GEORGALIS
DEVELOPMENT
GENERAL MANAGER -DEVELOPMENT PETER MICALOS
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICERDAVID NEWLING
CONSTRUCTION
GENERAL MANAGER -CONSTRUCTION DAMON SMITH
HOTELS
GENERAL MANAGER -HOTELSRIEN DONKIN
GROUP
GROUP FINANCIAL CONTROLLEREDDIE KHAW
GROUPCOMMUNICATIONS MANAGERRHIANNON MCCLELLAND
GROUP FINANCIAL ANALYSTMANISH SHRESTHA
47
48
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF THE EASTERN VIEW OF WAYFARER APARTMENTS.
49
GEOCON is an award-winning group. This can be attributed to the implementation and ongoing development of core values and principles which govern everything we do. We pride ourselves on the delivery of affordable residential and hotel accommodation which exceeds consumer expectations, offers measureable sustainable initiatives and represents a high level of quality. GEOCON’s specific achievements are outlined below.
Winner – 2014 ACT Master Builder’s & CBUS award for Commercial Buildings $5m - $20m (for Fringe at Epicentre, GEOCON’s head office)
Winner – 2013 ACT Property Council Business of the Year
Winner – 2013 ACT Master Builder’s & CBUS award for Commercial Sustainable Construction (for Abode Woden)
Finalist – 2013 National Master Builder’s award for Commercial Sustainable Construction (for Abode Woden)
Finalist – 2013 HIA CSR Housing Awards, Apartment Complex of the Year (for VUE The Residence)
Finalist – 2013 HIA CSR Housing Awards, Affordable Home of the Year (for VUE The Residence)
Finalist – 2013 HIA CSR Housing Awards, Display Home of the Year (for Home at Crace)
50
RECOGNITION & AWARDS
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF THE SKY LOUNGE AT WAYFARER APARTMENTS.
51
52
AN ARTIST’S IMPRESSION OF GEOCON’S URBAN RENEWAL
PROJECT, CHELSEA AT O’CONNOR.
53
GEOCON HEAD OFFICE
Level 1, 24 Iron Knob Street
Fyshwick ACT 2609
PO Box 5425 Kingston ACT 2604
P 02 6255 0430
F 02 6241 2706
www.geocon.com.au
54
CONTACTDETAILS
55
56