Clarendon Towers in Southbank celebrates its 25th anniversary in style

On Thursday, November 13, more than 80 delighted lot owners and distinguished guests gathered in one of Melbourne’s largest apartment building lobbies to celebrate the first 25 years of this iconic and beautiful apartment building.

The event was attended by Lord Mayor Nick Reece; the building’s developer Stewart Baron; Liz Sheil and Paul Fredrickson from Multiplex, which constructed Clarendon Towers, and Southbank Residents’ Association president Tony Penna also joined the celebration.

In addition to general merriment and revelry, the event included some excellent speeches, which were very well received by attendees.

Mel McLennan, whose family were the first to move into the building and who has been the longest serving of the four chairmans, spoke about what it was like being the first resident and even more enthusiastically about the experience of living in Clarendon Towers, which people heartily agreed with.

Mr Baron described the thinking behind the development of Clarendon Towers – he was looking to build a highly specified, superior building and insisted on the spectacular lobby, large apartment floor plans, including laundries and high ceilings, and all completed with luxurious finishings that stand the test of time.

The building is as spectacular below ground as it is above, with Mr Baron ensuring the strong foundations were suitable for the marshy environment and at the same time providing earthquake protection.

Selection of the architect and builder was a critical ingredient in the building’s success, leading to several design awards. The assembled cohort were very appreciative of the history Mr Baron provided.

Lord Mayor Nick Reece complimented the building on its success and for setting the standard in the Southbank precinct. He shared his commitment to improving security and safety for Melbourne residents and bringing back the “garden” to what was once the “Garden State” starting with Southbank, to a corresponding cheer from those assembled.

The Lord Mayor went on to say that he had appointed garden designer Paul Bangay to lead the effort of greening Melbourne, starting with the Southbank precinct.

The formalities were concluded following the cutting two magnificent anniversary cakes made especially for the event.

Clarendon Towers has only had four chairmen in its 25 years and three were present to cut the cakes.

Like all successful celebrations it continued well into the evening as owners and guests toasted such a wonderful building, but more importantly, home. •