Sprawling estate in Geelong has long history

A sprawling estate in Geelong surrounded by picturesque landscaped grounds, Raith has a long history as the home to a local merchant, a former mayor and a popular AFL star.

Listed via an expressions of interest campaign with McGrath’s David Cortous, the palatial Victorian-era residence on 6434sq m has come to market with a price guide of between $8.5 million and $9.3 million. If it hits the mark, the sprawling property promises to break its own 2021 price record of $6.3m and hold the title of Geelong’s most expensive home.

Raith, located on Raith Terrace in the heart of scenic Newtown, was also formerly known as Malboona and Atlantis Heights during its 160-year lifespan. Erected in stages, the original modest dwelling was designed by Snell and Prowse Architects in 1864 for Frederic Bauer, an importer and merchant.

By 1881, Geelong architect Joseph Watt designed extensive alterations and additions including an encircling iron veranda for JH Grey, a solicitor at Taylor, Buckland & Gates and nine-time Mayor of Newtown and Chilwell. The colourful character later left Geelong and was eventually arrested in Fiji on a charge of misappropriating the funds of his clients. He was eventually brought back to Sydney and faced charges in Melbourne, according to a 1901 article in the Geelong Advertiser.

Decades later, footballer Bob “Woofa” Davis – affectionately known as The Geelong Flier – lived at Raith. The Geelong Cats player represented the team in the 1940s and 1950s and then went on to coach the Cats in the 1950s and 1960s.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and architect David McDonald curated a modern day extension with sympathetic renovations and a commitment to sustainable design principles.

Today the five-bedroom, five-bathroom homestead with a separate three-bedroom cottage is an idyllic representation of a Victorian estate, blending country elegance with  contemporary class.

When it comes to great first impressions, Raith takes the architectural cake. Upon entry there is a grand cathedral ceiling which sets the scene for the remainder of the stately home. All the hallmarks of yesteryear have been carefully retained with stained glass windows, ornate fireplaces and iron lacework.

With such a significant footprint, the house has multiple living zones for either intimate family living or large-scale entertaining.

At centre stage, the open-plan living and dining space houses a state-of-the-art kitchen with stone surfaces, a vast eat-at island, and a big butler’s pantry.

A substantial entertainer’s pavilion opens out to manicured gardens with an additional glasshouse-style wellness zone that is home to a heated 25m swimming pool, plus a sauna, spa, and gym.

In the main bedroom there is a large walk-in wardrobe as well as a luxury ensuite.

A separate wing means children have their own space, complete with a games room and three bedrooms, each featuring walk-in wardrobes and ensuites.

Added extras include a newly renovated office, a music room or fifth bedroom, and an expansive underground wine cellar, hydronic heating and air conditioning throughout, an integrated multi-room Sonos sound system, video surveillance, two four-car garages plus two large storage sheds.

For visitors, or an additional income stream, the property also has a self-contained three bedroom guest house with private veranda.

Raith Terrace is close to Fyansford Common, Queens Park, Elderslie Reserve and local schools.

Raith at 2a Raith Terrace, Newtown is listed with McGrath Geelong agent David Cortous. The price guide is $8.5 million to $9.3 million via an expressions of interest campaign closing on July 21.