Good afternoon,

The building sector hovered around record levels last year as total activity hit $318bn, amid a surge in investment in energy infrastructure, data centres and apartments, according to the Rider Levett Bucknall’s latest construction market update.

Sydney’s sprawling The Oaks Hotel, which was listed for sale four years ago with an eye-watering asking price of $175m, has finally sold to a well-known publican family.

Celebrity chef and long-time Qantas collaborator Neil Perry has warned we will be paying $12 for a cup of coffee in the next five years as interest rates and wages continue to climb.

The Gold Coast’s new apartment market delivered a record-breaking performance last year, with more project launches, higher sales volumes and peak prices.

Let me know what you think - wilmotb@theaustralian.com.au