Business as usual for $3b Toondah project after sudden death of property tycoon Lang Walker

The man with the money behind the controversial residential and commercial overhaul of one of the state’s largest passenger ferry terminals has died. Here’s what it means for the $3 billion project he was bankrolling.

Property developer Lang Walker loved his family but also creating incredible places.

A $3 billion overhaul of one of the state’s largest passenger ferry terminals will continue despite the death last month of the mastermind behind the project, property tycoon Lang Walker.

Mr Walker, who was worth an estimated $5.3 billion, died peacefully at his Woolloomooloo home in Sydney on January 27.

He was the man with the money behind Cleveland’s controversial Toondah Harbour residential and commercial overhaul.

Environmental groups have long claimed the project would destroy pristine Ramsar wetlands.

An artist’s impression of the proposed Toondah Harbour, which will be built on reclaimed land into Moreton Bay. Image: Walker Corporation

His family said he loved “creating incredible places where people can live and work”.

“But he loved his family more than anything else in the world and his generosity and affection had no boundaries,” they said.

Mr Walker played a crucial role in sealing the deal with Redland City Council, meeting with mayor Karen Williams at the ferry terminal more than a decade ago, where his vision for the project grew.

Weeks after the billionaire’s death, loyal staff who were with Mr Walker when the project was first initiated more than a decade ago have continued to supervise the harbour redevelopment.

Walker Corporation’s Nick Marshall-McCormack and Peter Saba with an artist’s impression of the Toondah high-rise residential units.

Walker Head of Communications, Marketing and Brand, Nick Marshall-McCormack, will continue to oversee the company’s corporate strategy while managing important stakeholder and government relations.

Peter Saba, who has been with the Walker Group since 1994, will continue to manage the execution and delivery of the large masterplanned project.

The Toondah proposal, which included 3600 units above luxury waterfront restaurants and cafes, is currently before federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek who is assessing its possible environmental ramifications.

A company spokesman said Mr Walker’s death would have no impact on Walker Corporation’s commitment to the Toondah Harbour project.

“We are waiting for the decision on the environmental approval for Toondah.”