Media Release
9th Sep 2008

Nine New Display Homes at Battle of the Builders River Parks

Leading Queensland developer Devine Communities has opened the first nine homes at its Battle of the Builders Display Village at the $350 million River Parks community at Dunlop Street, River Parks to overwhelming buyer response.

The Village, which will eventually display 18 homes from nine builders, currently features G.J. Gardner Homes, North Haven Homes, Lifestyle Constructions NQ, DJ Jones Constructions and Grady Homes.

Further displays from Glenwood Homes, Devine Homes, Ron Jones and Lancini Homes will open throughout September ahead of the official launch of the Display Village in October.

Battle of the Builders Chairman Jim Shapcott said the Battle of the Builders concept was unique to Devine Communities and was designed so homebuyers could compare and contrast a variety of styles and costs, forcing each builder to become more innovative and competitive.

"By putting builders up against each other in direct competition we have found the quality of design and finishing of every house goes to a whole new level," he said. "Each of the builders' designs has a special point of difference so there is something to suit every taste and budget."

Devine has stepped up construction activity at the landmark project recently opening the first of many major community parks ahead of schedule and stage one is nearing completion very quickly.

Stage One of River Parks, which will also include the River Parks Display Village, will have a total of 112 homesites, ranging in size from 450 sqm to 750 sqm. The final release in Stage 1 is now on the market and being well received by Townsville residents.

Set over 72 meticulously-planned hectares on completion, River Parks will be home to more than 1,000 families surrounded by sculptured landscaping, promenades of trees, abundant parklands, open spaces, walking and cycling tracks, a neighbourhood convenience store and a beautiful parkside cafe for Kelso residents.

River Parks is close to the Riverway precinct, primary and secondary schools as well the Townsville Hospital, James Cook University and the Willows Shopping Centre.

The design of River Parks has focused on reflecting Townsville's growing population base with a range of lot sizes and home designs which are suitable for young couples, large families or even those retiring with so much amenity close at hand.

The investment market continues to be one of the major drivers of sales with buyers looking to capitalise on strong price growth over the next few years. Leading analyst BIS Shrapnel recently forecast a 22% increase in Townsville's median house prices from 2008-2011.