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A Canine Perspective By Cheecka, the Poodle

Bellevue Hill, a suburb known for its millionaire’s mansions and pricey private schools, has a different charm when seen from below the knee. For me, Cheecka, a resident poodle, the real action happens in the parks and on the streets.

Living with my fellow canine, Freddie, and our three humans in Bondi Junction, we find the suburb lacking in dog-friendly spaces. However, a quick walk along Victoria Road takes us to Bellevue Hill, home to our favourite parks in Sydney.

The heritage-listed Cooper Park is a beautiful bushland reserve with walking tracks, tennis courts, cricket nets, and sports fields. Freddie and I love running down the steep stairs from Victoria Road, past the sweaty humans and their personal trainers, and rolling around in the dirt.

**Cheecka and Freddie stroll through Cooper Park with their human**
Photo Credit: Wolter Peeters

Bellevue Park, hidden behind the primary school, offers spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, South Head, and Bondi Beach. It’s also my favourite spot to relieve myself, although the council could provide more dog poo bags and water taps for our convenience.

Bellevue Hill is a haven for dogs, with its grassy and tree-shaded streets. There are a few cats to dodge, especially a ginger tabby on Birriga Road, but Freddie and I can usually scare them away with our bark.

We always receive a lot of attention from shoppers at the Bellevue Hill shops, who stop to pat us and admire our looks. Not all shop owners allow dogs inside, but we sometimes accompany our human to Crave Wares, a homeware store.

Further down Bellevue Road are Gin Heaven and the Bellevue Hill Bottle Shop, popular spots with the humans. Freddie and I prefer The Grumpy Baker, where the staff always leave water bowls and sometimes share a bite of a croissant.

**Meeting some fur friends at The Grumpy Baker**
Photo Credit: Wolter Peeters

The local vet clinic hosts regular puppy parties for youngsters to meet new playmates. The vets are always gentle when they give us vaccinations or worm us, even if one asked my owner about my weight.

In the eastern suburbs, you can never be too skinny or rich, but for us dogs, it’s all about the parks, the pats, and the puppy parties.

Published 16-January-2024

Bellevue Hill Home Sells for $22 Million in Local Property Milestone

A newly rebuilt designer home in Bellevue Hill has been sold for approximately $22 million, setting a benchmark for luxury property sales in the sought-after Sydney suburb.

A Record-Setting Sale

The four-bedroom property, owned by billionaire coal industry figure Quentin Flannery and his wife, Kim, attracted over 130 potential buyers over six weeks before an unidentified local buyer purchased it.

Originally listed with a $20 million price guide, the final sale price reflects the increasing demand for high-end homes in the area. The home, marketed by Gavin Rubinstein of TRG and Ashley Bierman of Ray White Double Bay, was set for auction but sold ahead of the scheduled date.

The Flannerys’ Bellevue Hill property had seen remarkable value growth. It was purchased in 2015 for $5 million, resold in 2017 for just under $7 million, and has reached a value over three times its initial sale price after extensive redevelopment.

A Home Designed for Elegance

Set on a 740-square-metre block, the property features Mediterranean-inspired landscaping by Secret Garden and a complete rebuild by Critharis Constructions. The interiors, designed by Decus, boast a gallery-like aesthetic with a dramatic steel spiral staircase, high-end appliances, and custom cabinetry.

Entertainment spaces include a home theatre, gym, sauna, wine cellar, and tasting room, while outdoor features include a pool with city skyline and harbour views.

The property’s unique combination of modern luxury and architectural sophistication made it a standout in the Bellevue Hill market, catering to a growing appetite for bespoke residential designs.

Flannerys Move to Larger Project

The sale follows the Flannerys’ recent purchase of a $31.75 million unrenovated property at 1 Wentworth Road, also in Bellevue Hill. Mining industry figures Mei Peng and Zhian Zhang previously owned the larger residence.

This new purchase highlights the family’s continued investment in Bellevue Hill, though they face significant renovation work to bring their new property to the same standard as their former home.

Community Spotlight: Bellevue Hill’s Rising Demand

This record sale reflects a broader trend of rising property values in Bellevue Hill, a suburb known for its prestige and proximity to the city. Industry experts have noted increased demand for custom-designed homes with unique architectural features. Local agents attribute the area’s appeal to its blend of natural beauty, luxury amenities, and community charm.

Published 6-Dec-2024

Bellevue Hill Family Shaken by Anti-Semitic Attack Amid Rising Tensions

A Bellevue Hill family returned from holiday to find their home defaced with a swastika and misspelled anti-Semitic graffiti, sparking fresh calls for action against rising anti-Semitism in Australia.

The attack, discovered on 15 December, targeted the home of Lesli Berger, the former president of the Jewish Board of Deputies.

A swastika and the misspelled German phrase “Jew Gate” were daubed on the family’s gate, leaving Berger and his three children feeling unsafe in their community. NSW Police are investigating, using fingerprint analysis and their graffiti tag database.

Mr Berger, whose grandparents were Holocaust survivors, expressed deep concern about the incident, saying it echoed the early signs of persecution they had described. He noted that anti-Semitic acts have surged in the past year, with incidents increasing by 316% since October 7, 2023.

Mr Berger has called for stricter enforcement of existing anti-Nazi laws and tougher decisions from magistrates to deter further hate crimes.

Bellevue Hill anti-semitic attack on family — *Photo Credit: NSW Police Force*

Woollahra Vandalism Spree

The Bellevue Hill attack comes amid another high-profile case of anti-Semitic vandalism in nearby Woollahra. On 20 November, up to 12 cars were defaced, a vehicle was set alight, and anti-Israel graffiti was sprayed on buildings, including the upscale restaurant Chiswick. Police stated that the vandalism specifically targeted Jewish individuals rather than the Israeli government.

Mohommed Farhat, 30, was arrested while attempting to leave the country for Bali. Forensic evidence, including GPS and Uber records, linked him to a vehicle used in the attacks.

During his court appearance on 18 December, the prosecution highlighted Mr Farhat’s prominent Hezbollah tattoo, citing it as evidence of ideological motivation. Mr Farhat’s bail request was denied, despite his family offering a $500,000 surety, as the court deemed him a risk to the community.

Community and Legal Responses

Community leaders and Jewish organisations have condemned the incidents, urging stronger enforcement of anti-Nazi laws, which in NSW carry penalties of up to 12 months in prison or an $11,000 fine. They argue that while such laws exist, they are not applied consistently, reducing their deterrent effect. Intelligence agencies have also warned about growing recruitment efforts by neo-Nazi and extremist groups in Australia.

David Ossip, the current president of the Jewish Board of Deputies, described the Bellevue Hill attack as “profoundly disturbing” and called for tougher judicial penalties to prevent the normalisation of such conduct. Meanwhile, Robert Gregor of the Australian Jewish Association referred to the incidents as part of an “epidemic” of anti-Semitic graffiti, particularly in Sydney.

Both incidents highlight a worrying trend of increasing anti-Semitism in Sydney, with the targeting of Jewish individuals and institutions causing widespread fear and insecurity in the community. Many see these acts as reminders of historical patterns of hate that demand immediate and decisive action.

Published 31-Dec-2024

Pilates Queen Marries CEO in Bellevue Hill Extravaganza

Bernadette Fahey, the owner of a prominent Bondi pilates studio, and Jordan Sukkar, CEO of construction company Buildcorp, were married in a star-studded ceremony at Scots College in Bellevue Hill, followed by an extravagant reception at the Sukkar family’s estate.

The wedding took place on Saturday, 30 November 2024, and was attended by some of Sydney’s most recognisable socialites, business figures, and celebrities. The bride and groom, who have been together for just under a year, celebrated their union in what attendees described as a highly curated and elegant affair.

Bellevue Hill, a suburb known for its wealth and prestige, served as an ideal backdrop for the event. Long recognised as one of Sydney’s top suburbs, Bellevue Hill’s reputation was prominently showcased at this high-profile gathering.

A Bellevue Hill Wedding to Remember

The ceremony at Scots College set the tone for the evening, with the reception moving to the Sukkar family’s multi-million-dollar compound nearby. The location, steeped in luxury, highlighted the social and financial standing of the couple.

Bernadette, 35, wore a satin gown designed by Steven Khalil, featuring layered skirting and intricate lace details. She completed the look with a 1920s-style veil and diamond earrings, keeping accessories minimal. The groom opted for a traditional black tuxedo with a bow tie, complementing the formal black-tie theme.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bernadette Sukkar (@mrsbernadettesukkar)

Notable Guests and Glamour

The guest list read like a who’s who of Sydney’s elite. The attendees included Socialites Jade and Jasmine Yarbrough, model Montana Cox, and media personality Karl Stefanovic. Jasmine, a shoe designer, wore a striking emerald satin gown, while her sister Jade opted for a chic green structured dress.

Model Madeline Holtznagel, pregnant with her first child, arrived late with partner Justin Hemmes. She wore a rust-red gown that accentuated her baby bump, drawing compliments from other guests. Artist Dina Broadhurst made a bold statement in a sheer red dress, while Anthony and Annika Bell, fresh from their own wedding, also attended in elegant attire.

From Greece to Sydney

In July, Jordan proposed during a romantic getaway to the Greek island of Tinos. Bernadette announced their engagement on Instagram, showcasing a diamond ring that quickly caught public attention. Since then, they have shared glimpses of their preparations, including Bernadette’s search for the perfect wedding dress and her unique hens celebration, which incorporated her passion for fitness.

Bernadette, who runs the popular Body By Berner pilates studio in Bondi, is well-known for her fitness expertise and connection to Sydney’s socialites. True to her brand, her pre-wedding celebrations included a workout-themed hens party. She also shared fashion inspiration with guests to ensure a cohesive aesthetic, focusing on vibrant colours and elegant designs. While this approach sparked discussion, it was ultimately praised for adding a creative flair to the event.

Bellevue Hill’s role as the epicentre of the event reinforces its status as a hub for high-profile gatherings. The suburb’s combination of luxury and exclusivity mirrors the success and influence of the newlyweds, who celebrated their union surrounded by family, friends, and the broader Sydney community.

Published 5-Dec-2024

Bombs Uncovered at Bellevue Hill Home Renovation Site

Photo Credit: Tribe Studio Architects

A home renovation project in Bellevue Hill took an unexpected turn when the construction crew uncovered several live, unexploded bombs on the property.

The homeowners, lawyers Rebecca Michelides and Glen Sauer, had hired award-winning architect Hannah Tribe of Tribe Studio Architects to oversee the renovation of their century-old arts and crafts home.

During excavation work to install a required 65,000-litre stormwater tank, the builders discovered what appeared to be a bomb. Authorities were immediately notified, leading to the arrival of NSW Police and Australian Army personnel to assess the situation.

Over the following days, more unexploded bombs, smoke bombs, and mortar rounds were unearthed across the property. In one incident, a disintegrating grenade had to be detonated on-site, requiring a controlled explosion and the evacuation of nearby neighbours.

The source of the arsenal is believed to be a former resident who may have been in the army reserve during World War II and collected the ordnance. Bellevue Hill was previously shelled by Japanese submarines in 1942, leaving a legacy of unexploded shells across the area.

Despite the unsettling discoveries, Tribe says the family’s love for the heritage-listed home’s quirky features inspired a playful design touch – the kitchen island’s legs were fashioned to resemble the unearthed bombs as a tribute to the renovation’s dramatic events.

“We always warn our clients to expect the unexpected during construction,” said Tribe. “No one expected the bombs.”

With the site now cleared by a deep penetration X-ray, the Michelides family can finally move forward with their long-awaited home renovations, albeit with a newfound appreciation for the history buried beneath their property.

Published 11-November-2024

Bellevue Hill Home Sells for $50-Million Profit after Three Years

Food blogger Stephanie Conley-Buhre has sold her extensively renovated Bellevue Hill mansion for approximately $80 million, marking a staggering $50 million increase from its purchase price just three years ago.

The sale occurred in June 2024, with Ray White Double Bay’s Ashley Bierman confirming the off-market deal for the Spanish Mission-style residence, Alcooringa, on Victoria Road. According to a caveat placed on the property’s title, overseas-based expat Hannah Chapman has been revealed as the buyer.

Property Details

The 2000-square-metre home sits on a 1560-square-metre block and has undergone a lavish renovation since its purchase in 2021. The property now boasts an internal swimming pool, three kitchens, a gymnasium, a day spa (converted from a former chapel), and a rumpus room (formerly a ballroom).

Whilst exact renovation costs remain undisclosed, sources suggest more than $20 million was spent on the improvements. Bierman described the scale and finish as “extraordinary,” noting that every part of the house had been touched.

Previous Ownership and Sale History

Conley-Buhre and her venture capitalist husband, Oskar Buhre, bought the property in 2021 for $28.5 million from Dr Louis Klein and his wife Claire. The Kleins had purchased the home in 1993 for $2.9 million and struggled to sell it for six years before the 2021 sale.

Alcooringa was built around 1929 for graziers Mary and Hugh Taylor. It later served as the Tunisian consul until 1965 before passing through various owners. The recent renovation, inspired by a trip to Spain, has modernised the property while preserving its heritage features.

The renovated home recently appeared in Home Beautiful magazine, showcasing its transformation. The property is known for having some of the best views in Bellevue Hill, which the renovation has maximised.

Bierman commented on the transformation: “It was a diamond in the rough to start with and both Steph and Oskar put all their efforts into transforming what was a beautiful heritage home and getting the most out of it.”

Market Context

This sale sets a new record for Bellevue Hill, surpassing the previous high of $76 million set by the Federation mansion Leura a year ago. It also highlights the area’s rapid appreciation of trophy homes, with several other notable sales in recent years.

The buyer, Hannah Chapman, was reportedly introduced to the property by buyer’s agent Simon Cohen. Meanwhile, the couple is searching for their next project with a budget of $40-60 million, also with Cohen’s assistance.

This is not the first successful property flip for the couple. Their previous home, also on Victoria Road, was bought for $17.1 million in 2018 and sold three years later for $30 million after renovations and landscaping.

Ms Conley-Buhre, a fashion designer turned lifestyle blogger, is the daughter of the late aviation pioneer and philanthropist John Conley. Her success in flipping trophy homes has garnered attention in the high-end property market.

Published 26-Aug-2024

Mamamia Founder to Demolish $12M Point Piper Home

Mia Freedman, founder of the Mamamia women’s network, and her husband Jason Lavigne are set to demolish their $12 million Point Piper home. The couple has recently submitted plans for a new dwelling on the site, designed by Roth Architecture Workshop.

The existing property, a non-waterfront house built in 1910, was purchased by Freedman and Lavigne in 2020 for $12.75 million. Located on Wunulla Road near the Royal Motor Yacht Club, the 743-square-meter property currently features five bedrooms and four bathrooms.

According to the lodged plans, the estimated building cost for the new residence is $3.9 million. This development marks a new chapter for the entrepreneurial couple in the prestigious Sydney suburb.

The move to Point Piper came after a legal dispute concerning their previous residence, the Fintry estate in Bellevue Hill. Freedman and Lavigne had occupied the 1930s hillside house under a put-and-call purchasing option. However, attempts to purchase the property in 2019 were thwarted when the landlord withdrew the contract following a disagreement over a $251,000 roof repair bill.

The fallout from the Bellevue Hill dispute continues, with ongoing legal proceedings in the Supreme Court. The couple is currently pursuing action against their former solicitor, with the next court mention scheduled for mid-July.

This property development in Point Piper represents a fresh start for Freedman and Lavigne, as they look to create a bespoke home in one of Sydney’s most coveted neighbourhoods.

Published 27-June-2024

Celebration of Life for Beloved Bellevue Hill Architect Jade Young

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

A sea of vibrant colours flooded the Calyx at Sydney’s Botanic Gardens as hundreds gathered to celebrate the life of Jade Young, the talented architect from Bellevue Hill, who was killed in the Bondi Junction massacre.

The 47-year-old mother of two was among the six innocent victims senselessly struck down during the horrific stabbing rampage at Westfield Bondi Beach on the 13th of April 2024.

A Mother’s Heartfelt Plea

Mourners adorned in bright dresses and coloured shirts fulfilled Jade’s wishes, paying a colourful tribute to the warmth and joy she brought to those around her. Remembered as a “dearly loved and irreplaceable wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and beloved friend to many,” Jade’s kindness and gentle spirit were lauded by all who knew her.

In a powerful eulogy, Jade’s mother, Elizabeth Young, issued a passionate call for lasting change. The heartbroken grandmother, who now co-parents Jade’s two young daughters, expressed anger over fleeting news cycles and shallow political rhetoric after such tragedies.

“I am heart fractured and angry; I am exhausted and scared of the future,” she also wrote. “I want more than five minutes of disingenuous, anodyne words from politicians, I want more than the three days of news coverage, before something else made the headlines.”

Elizabeth vowed to advocate fiercely to address gaps in mental healthcare and ensure her granddaughters grow up in a safer, more secure world.

“On a personal level, I want Jade’s girls to grow up believing there is security, goodness and love in the world.

“But also, on another level, I want politicians, both federal and state, to address the gaps in mental healthcare to make it a safer world, for our girls and all Australians.”

Community Embraces Family

Jade’s 12-year tenure at the award-winning firm Georgina Wilson Associates left an indelible mark on Sydney’s architectural landscape. Her colleagues remembered her as “a beautiful, kind and warm soul” who was considered family. Among the projects bearing her influence are private residences across Sydney’s elite eastern suburbs.

In the depths of unimaginable grief, the Young family has been buoyed by a deeply committed network of loved ones. The Bronte Surf Club, where Jade was an active member, has “held them close” by offering immense support. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $320,000 to assist Jade’s husband, Noel McLaughlan, as he navigates life as a single father.

“Thank you again for all the support for the McLaughlan/Young families. I urge you to please keep sharing this gofundme. Your love and support is incredibly appreciated!” Nicole Roma, the organiser of the fundraising page, wrote on the 8th of May 2024.

Published 12-May-2024

Prestigious Bellevue Hill Strikes Again with $27-M Sale

The prestigious Bellevue Hill continues to see high-value property sales, with capital growth driven by substantial transactions like Taphouse Group managing director David Mattick and wife Georgina’s $27 million home purchase in this affluent suburb.

Read: See Palomar, The Luxury Apartments Set To Rise In Bellevue Hill

The Matticks won’t need to move far, having lived nearby for years. Their new property at Holland Park was previously owned by venture capitalist Michael Seder, who with his wife Kim had purchased it just two years prior for $15 million. This demonstrates the exponential property value increase occurring in Bellevue Hill.

The Matticks join other notable buyers in the suburb, including former Dow Chemical head Andrew Liveris, ACFS Port Logistics chief Anthony Tzaneros, and flower wholesaler Leo Lynch. Demand for Sydney’s high-end real estate continues to surge, as reflected in Bellevue Hill’s market.

The house at Holland Park, Bellevue Hill (Photo credit: realestate.com.au)

David Mattick heads The Taphouse Group, founded by his father Peter Mattick of marketing giant Salmat fame. The group recently sold the Port Macquarie Hotel for $57 million and has listed the Kingscliff Beach Hotel for around $100 million. This illustrates the family’s extensive hospitality portfolio.

With a median house price of $8.51 million and median unit price of $1.58 million, the prestigious Bellevue Hill is Sydney’s fourth most expensive suburb. It leads a prestige area encompassing nearby Tamarama, Vaucluse and Darling Point. The exceptional capital growth and intense demand here looks set to continue.

Read: Art Deco Low-Rise to Be Transformed Into Stunning Three-Level Apartment on Fairfax Road

The combination of harbour views, privacy, prestige schools, and proximity to the city centre entrenches Bellevue Hill as one of Australia’s most desirable neighbourhoods. As demand shows no signs of cooling off, expect more record sales and further capital growth in this harborside haven for the rich and influential.

Published 11-February-2024

Art Deco Low-Rise to Be Transformed Into Stunning Three-Level Apartment on Fairfax Road

Photo credit: Woollahra Municipal Council / woollahra.nsw.gov.au

The eastern suburbs of Sydney could soon see a new three-level apartment building on Fairfax Road in Bellevue Hill, with plans submitted by the Nivana Group.

The proposed $5.5-million development at 3 Fairfax Road, is just 200 metres from the Double Bay town centre and four kilometres from the CBD. Future residents will also benefit from its proximity to a range of amenities including schools and hospitals, as well are dining and recreational destinations.

Art Deco Low-Rise to Be Transformed Into Stunning Three-Level Apartment on Fairfax Road — *Photo credit: Woollahra Municipal Council / woollahra.nsw.gov.au*

Designed by MHN Design Union, the plans feature four three-bedroom apartments and one four-bedroom penthouse, with a focus on flexibility and adaptability to suit a wide range of apartment buyers.

MHND incorporated an articulated facade and ample setbacks in the building’s design to minimise its bulk and scale. And by featuring regular openings, columns, solid panel walls, and clear glass and light bronze metal trims and detail, the design achieves a playful interaction of light and shadow.

Meanwhile, low retaining walls and landscaping soften the barrier along the street footpath, with curved concrete walls mark the entrance to the building.

The first two levels each contain two apartments and will have three bedrooms plus access to a private garden area and to two swimming pools. Each apartment will include balconies or terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows in the living spaces to maximise solar access and cross-flow ventilation.

The four-bedroom penthouse apartment, meanwhile, will feature four en-suited bathrooms and various private outdoor covered terraces, one of which will be located next to the living area with a view of the cliff and rear garden. Another will be at the front whilst the other will be from the master bedroom.

Internal storage areas, including laundry/linen cupboards and secured storage, are provided within each apartment. The one-level basement designed to accommodate parking will also be provided with additional secured storage.

A fresh and contemporary living option in the heart of Bellevue Hill, the proposed development focuses on flexibility and adaptability to suit the demographic mix of families, retirees, and downsizers living within the surrounding area.

Published 3-April-2023