Friday 13th November

Melbourne's 'Dunraven' on the Market

Dunraven is iconic, not only for it's imposing physical presence but also for it's history in the social life of Melbourne’s high society. This grand estate was the residence of the late World War II hero Martin Clemens and his wife, Anne, who both died in their 90s this year. This mansion has played host to Prime Ministers, Royalty and some of Melbourne’s finest social events.

Kept in impeccable condition, it was designed in the 1960s by leading architects Yuncken Freeman. The mansion has four grand reception rooms, all leading off the stunning marble entrance hall. Upstairs the grand main bedroom faces north and includes a dressing room suite and bathroom.  A further seven bedrooms, two bathrooms and laundry complete the first floor. The mansion is set with a grand terrace overlooking the idyllic, sweeping lawns and gardens.

This truly is an estate of impeccable pedigree, unrivalled in proportions, design and a sense of history, offered for the first time since 1923.

For further information, find it on www.Millionplus.com.au

Murdoch sets the record with 'Le Manoir'

Lachlan Murdoch has set the record for Sydney house price of the year, paying a grand sum of $23 million for the French 'Le Manoir'. The Bronte-based Murdoch and his wife, Sarah, who are expecting their third child in April, have been inspecting private family friendly houses for much of the past year, and seem to have fallen in love with Le Manoir.

Although they were rumoured to tour the mansion, Russell Crowe and his wife, Danielle Spencer were not present at the auction. Prospective buyers had to lodge a pre-auction refundable deposit of $50,000. With bidding opening at $18 million by stockbroker Walter Lewin.

The previous record price for Sydney this year was $18million, which James Packer and his wife, Erica, paid for a Vaucluse property. Le Manoir featured for sale in Rich Pickings this September. The property was previously owned by the French Government and has high security, six bedrooms, a pool and tennis court. Held by the French for a long time, it last sold for £25,000 in 1955.

Soar above the Rest – 'On Eagles Wings'

Set high up on rolling hill country, ‘On Eagles Wings’ has stunning 360degree views of the lakes, mountains and Moreton Bay. This classic American style home is full of light, with stunning areas of three-story interior, featuring expanses of glass and high ceilings, soaking up the surroundings.

Perfectly suited to an indoor-outdoor lifestyle, step outside to expansive entertainment areas, decks and landscaped gardens. Relax in the sun, looking across to the mountains from the beautiful infinity pool. Also on the property is a two bedroom, two bathroom Caretaker’s cottage with gym.

This home is substantial with 10 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, guest powder rooms and upstairs sitting room with kitchen. Relax in the indulgent master suite with his and her walk-in closets, a twin shower, and a luxury spa. With exquisite details including four gas fireplaces, four flat screen TVs and imported chandeliers. Not to mention a basement theatre, two cellars and ample parking.

For further information, find it on www.Millionplus.com.au

Escape to the elements in Queenstown

Spend your winter skiing in Queenstown and cosying up next to the fire with this beautiful property at Bendemeer Country Estate. Flights are cheap and direct, the dollar is good and this is the perfect Queenstown winter retreat. With it's rustic style and cosy interior, surrounded by the rugged, natural landscape, this home is naturally spectacular.

No. 8 is an award winning home designed by architectural firm Warren & Mahoney. The home is styled after local farm buildings and crafted of beautiful schist stone and cedar. The sophisticated interior is designed by Susie Paynter and has featured in NZ Life & Leisure Magazine.

The northerly aspect combines prominent Wakatipu vistas while achieving full winter sun. The interior consists of a living area with large open fire and open plan kitchen, three spacious bedrooms and bathrooms, master suite with study, dressing and wardrobe room, and luxuriously appointed bathroom.

As part of the Bendemeer Farm Estate, this home has the added privilege and use of the entertainment pavilion, tennis court, access to the Lake Hayes walking trail and shared ownership of the surrounding 130ha.

Marketed for NZ$4.95million, for further information, find it on www.Millionplus.com.au