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Competitive Bidding Drives Hunters Hill Price Tag Well Above Expectations

A family from Sydney’s inner west paid a stunning $6.89 million for an “untouched” cottage in prestigious Hunters Hill, exceeding its reserve by more than $2 million. The significant sale occurred at auction on Saturday, the property’s first time on the market in 64 years.

A Rare Acquisition

The property, located at 19 Gale Street, had been guided at $4.5 million with a reserve set at $4.8 million. The bidding opened at the guide price and quickly escalated. Out of four registered bidders, three actively participated, driving the price well beyond expectations.

Nicole Robertson of BresicWhitney Hunters Hill noted that the property’s unique nature, given how rarely such homes become available, generated considerable excitement among buyers. The successful Inner West family plans extensive renovations to the home.

About ‘Blond Cottage’

Known as ‘Blond Cottage,’ this single-level, three-bedroom house is described as being virtually unchanged for generations and lovingly held by one family for over six decades. It sits on a substantial 844 square metre garden block, boasting rare dual street frontages on both Gale and Hunter Streets.

The listing highlighted its original condition and its potential for redevelopment into a dream home, subject to council approval, due to its generous dimensions of 18.29 metres by 45.72 metres.

Desirable Harbourside Location

The appeal of ‘Blond Cottage’ is significantly boosted by its location within an exclusive and tightly held harbourside peninsula enclave. Residents enjoy immediate access to local amenities and natural beauty spots.

The home is just moments from Clarke’s Point, harbour foreshore parklands, and scenic walking trails. It also offers convenient access to the ferry, local sailing clubs, Woolwich Baths, a variety of local dining options, and top schools, providing a sought-after harbour lifestyle at its doorstep.

Strong Market Performance

The extraordinary sale price reflects the strong demand for unique properties in the Hunters Hill area.

Domain data shows that the median house price in Hunters Hill has seen an 8.6 per cent increase in the year to March, reaching $4.4 million. The property was one of 965 scheduled to go to auction across Sydney this past week, underscoring a busy real estate market.

Published Date 14-Jun-2025

April Group Acquires Hunters Hill Private Hospital for $28 Million

Photo Credit: April Group

Asset manager April Group has purchased the Hunters Hill Private Hospital from Australian Unity’s Healthcare Property Trust for $28 million. The deal for the property at 9 Mount Street reflects a 5.4 percent net passing yield and concludes a nearly two-year sales process that began when Australian Unity listed the asset in February 2023.

The hospital is located approximately nine kilometres west of Sydney’s CBD in the suburb of Hunters Hill.

Hospital Details and Tenant

Originally developed in 1922 and extensively refurbished in 2010, the three-level facility features:

39 wards with 40 beds (15 inpatient surgical and 25 rehabilitation)
Nine day chairs
Four operating theatres
Hydrotherapy pool and gym
Commercial kitchen
30 car parking spaces

The property spans 3,648 square meters with three street frontages, making it one of the largest non-heritage landholdings in Hunters Hill.

Ramsay Healthcare occupies the facility on a lease expiring in 2035, with options to extend until 2050. The tenant pays over $2 million annually in rent.

Strategic Value

April Group Capital Head Jim Robertshaw stated: “This acquisition was in response to strong investor demand, focused on a prime landholding with a secure income profile.”

The company analysed local healthcare demand before proceeding with the purchase, noting Hunters Hill’s aging demographic. In 2022-23, deaths outstripped births by 113 in the suburb, the fourth-highest such figure in Sydney.

Market Context

The transaction occurs as the private hospital sector faces increasing wage costs, inflation affecting supplies, and constrained insurance revenues. Healthscope, Australia’s second-largest hospital operator, has recently put itself up for sale and is looking to streamline its hospital portfolio due to rising medical costs.

Australian Unity’s Healthcare Property Trust sold the property as part of its strategy to “selectively divest properties with proceeds being used to reduce debt initially before deployment,” according to AU general manager, Healthcare Property, Chris Smith.

Chris Veitch and Shirley Fan of Stanton Hillier Parker brokered the deal. Australian Unity had previously acquired the property for $6.95 million in 2000, and it was valued at $31.5 million when listed two years ago.

April Group previously purchased Sydney CBD’s Lisgar House from Brookfield for $32.5 million approximately three years ago.

Published 16-April-2025

How a Hunters Hill Apartment Sparked the Birth of Google Maps

Photo Credit: Pexels

A simple whiteboard in an apartment in Hunters Hill was the starting point for one of the most transformative digital tools in the world—Google Maps.

In the early 2000s, a small Sydney-based startup, Where 2 Technologies, worked on a new way to navigate the world. Led by Australian software engineer Noel Gordon, the team developed the foundational technology for Google Maps. Their ideas and designs were first mapped out on a whiteboard in a spare room in an apartment in Hunters Hill.

Noel Gordon — *Photo Credit: Australian Museum/X*

By 2004, Google saw the potential of their work and acquired Where 2 Technologies. They incorporated their innovation into what is now known as Google Maps.

Google Maps: 20 Years of Global Impact

Since its launch, Google Maps has transformed how people travel and explore. In 2024 alone, the platform provided directions covering 1 trillion kilometres—equivalent to Earth orbiting the sun over 1,000 times.

Beyond navigation, Google Maps has evolved to help users track bushfires, check air quality, compare petrol prices, and even plan trips using augmented reality. More than 500 million users contribute to its accuracy each year through reviews, ratings, and real-time updates.

Australia’s Most-Reviewed Places on Google Maps

To mark its 20th anniversary, Google Maps released a list of the most-reviewed locations in Australia. The rankings, based on user reviews, highlight the nation’s favourite eateries and attractions.

Caption: Most reviewed restaurant in Google Maps (Australia).
Photo Credit: Dosahut Harrispark/Instagram

Most-Reviewed Restaurant: Dosa Hut, Harris Park, NSW (14,600 reviews, 4.61 rating)
Most-Reviewed Café: Andonis Cafe & Bar, Yeerongpilly, QLD (8,200 reviews, 4.68 rating)
Most-Reviewed Visitor Attraction: Darling Harbour, Sydney, NSW (58,700 reviews, 4.64 rating)
Most-Reviewed Park: Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Perth, WA (26,200 reviews, 4.8 rating)
Most-Reviewed Museum: Melbourne Museum, Carlton, VIC (16,900 reviews, 4.63 rating)

These rankings provide a unique insight into the preferences of Australian locals and tourists, showcasing a mix of iconic attractions and hidden gems.

Legacy of Hunters Hill’s Role in Google Maps

The most reviewed attraction on Google Maps (Australia). — Caption: The most reviewed attraction on *Google Maps (Australia).*
*Photo Credit: Darling Harbour/Instagram*

The story of Google Maps’ origins in Hunters Hill is a testament to Australian innovation. The platform has grown into a global tool. It helps users find their way, supports businesses, enhances urban planning, and improves disaster response efforts.

As Google Maps celebrates its 20th anniversary, the significance of that simple whiteboard in a Sydney apartment remains a reminder of how big ideas often start in small places.

Published 19-Feb-2025

Home Invasion Attempt Adds to Hunters Hill Security Concerns

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A failed home invasion at radio personality Kent “Smallzy” Small’s multimillion-dollar Hunters Hill property has highlighted ongoing security concerns in the affluent suburb.

Four masked individuals armed with large hunting knives attempted to break into the Nova presenter’s $3.7 million five-bedroom home at 2:30am Tuesday. The intruders, captured on Ring doorbell camera footage, were unable to gain entry to the property where Small and his partner Zach La Cava were sleeping.

The incident adds to Hunters Hill’s growing security challenges. The exclusive suburb, known for its heritage-listed properties and wealthy residents, has seen an increase in targeted break-ins. Small reported that the same group also attempted to enter a neighbor’s property the same night.

This attempted burglary follows a broader trend across Sydney. According to NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research data, more than 8,000 homes across Greater Sydney experienced break-ins during the last financial year, with over 20,000 incidents reported statewide in the 12 months to March 2024 – marking a four-year high.

Small purchased his Hunters Hill property at auction in March 2020. The radio host has since used his platform to warn listeners about home security, urging them to “lock it down like Fort Knox” following his own frightening experience.

A NSW Police spokesperson was unable to confirm specific details about the incident when contacted by media.

Published 10-February-2025

Hunters Hill Sandstone Home Blends Heritage Charm with Modern Living

Photo Credit: Domain

Nestled in the heart of Hunters Hill, this 160-year-old sandstone cottage offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Sydney’s rich heritage. Built in 1866, it once served as the local post office before transforming into a unique family home that blends heritage charm with modern convenience.

With its exposed sandstone walls, period features, and versatile layout, this property is perfect for buyers seeking a unique home or investment in one of Sydney’s most sought-after suburbs.

A Home with a Rich Story

This property isn’t just a house—it’s a historic gem. James Stephen Stanner, a local blacksmith and postmaster, built it as a post office, creating a vital hub for the Hunters Hill community. For years, he distributed mail and operated a telegraph station from the building. Though the post office moved in 1879, the home still carries its rich history in every sandstone wall.

Hunters Hill’s Heritage Meets Modern Comfort

Set in a leafy Hunters Hill street, this three-bedroom home sits on a 359sqm block. Here’s what makes it stand out:

-Original sandstone walls that create a warm, inviting atmosphere

-A spacious shopfront with a geometric façade, ideal for a third bedroom, home office, or small business

-Period details, including rose-patterned wallpaper, intricate cornices, and a wrought-iron chandelier

-Open-plan living areas, featuring a cosy lounge that flows into a light-filled kitchen and dining space with stunning timber ceilings

-A large outdoor deck, perfect for entertaining, surrounded by a lush, well-kept garden

-One bathroom in the main house with an outside toilet

Endless Possibilities for Buyers

This home offers unmatched flexibility. Downsizers, families, or professionals seeking a work-from-home setup will find it ideal. Convert the former post office into a guest room, art studio, or office, or even extend the property to add more value (subject to council approval).

Beyond the home itself, Hunters Hill remains one of Sydney’s most sought-after suburbs. The Parramatta River, village cafés, restaurants, and boutiques are just a short walk away. Plus, families will love the proximity to Hunters Hill Primary School.

Why This Home Stands Out

-Own a piece of Sydney’s history

-Enjoy a versatile layout for living, working, and entertaining

-Live in a prime Hunters Hill location with easy access to transport, parks, and the waterfront

-Move in right away with modern amenities, including a new kitchen, bathroom, and laundry

Don’t Miss This Rare Opportunity

This Hunters Hill sandstone cottage offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a property with historic charm and modern comfort. Listed at $2,300,000, this home isn’t just a place to live—it’s an investment in Sydney’s architectural heritage.

If you’re interested in taking a closer look, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Nicholas McEvoy of BresicWhitney Hunters Hill for more information or to arrange a viewing.

Published 4-Feb-2025

Gladesville Attack Preceded Police Officer’s Alleged Data Breaches

Suspended NSW Police constable John Paul Vassallo, charged with multiple data breaches, suffered a stabbing attack in Gladesville that preceded the majority of his alleged unauthorised database access, Penrith Local Court heard on Monday.

The November 2021 Gladesville incident, where Vassallo was stabbed in the head by Zubair Joarder while responding to a siege, was highlighted during his bail hearing. Court documents show that following this attack, Vassallo allegedly accessed the NSW Police COPS database without authorisation approximately 600 times.

His attorney Hisham Karnib presented evidence of Vassallo’s ongoing PTSD treatment stemming from the Gladesville attack. Joarder was sentenced in August 2023 to six years imprisonment with a three-year non-parole period.

The 29-year-old officer faces 11 charges, including misconduct in public office and unauthorised access to restricted data. Prosecutors allege he searched for information about bikie gang members, persons of interest in a Marrickville shooting, and various personal associates.

Magistrate Brian van Zuylen granted bail with conditions including a $10,000 surety and restrictions on accessing police systems. The case continues at Sydney’s Downing Centre in March.

Published 13-January-2025

Tree Vandalism Raises Environmental Concerns in Hunters Hill

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Residents and environmental authorities in Hunters Hill are working to save poisoned trees, including a century-old Port Jackson fig, following a recent act of vandalism at Horse Paddock, Woolwich.

The Harbour Trust learned on 2 January 2025, that eight trees had been purposefully poisoned and about 30 others had been chopped down at Horse Paddock, which is next to Alfred Street in Woolwich. The affected trees include a 100-year-old Port Jackson fig and a Sydney blue gum. This incident follows a recurring pattern of tree vandalism in Sydney’s lower north shore suburbs, including Castle Cove and Lane Cove.

Tree vandalism Hunters Hill — *Photo Credit: The Harbour Trust/Instagram*

Past incidents, such as the illegal removal of another century-old fig tree at Goat Paddock, have raised ongoing concerns about environmental protection in the area.

Efforts to Save the Poisoned Trees Underway

The Harbour Trust, in collaboration with arborist contractors and Hunters Hill officials, is actively attempting to treat the poisoned trees using Seasol, a liquid seaweed concentrate known for aiding plant recovery. While six she-oak trees could not be saved and were removed, efforts continue to salvage the remaining trees.

The damaged cut trees have been pruned back, leaving their lower trunks intact in the hope they will regenerate over time.

Community Reaction to the Vandalism

Local residents and environmental groups have expressed deep disappointment over the incident. Lisa McLean, leader of the community group Save Our Shores, described the act as a “calculated attack” on public assets and natural heritage.

Resident Beverley Bennett shared similar sentiments, emphasising the cultural and environmental importance of these trees to the Hunters Hill community, highlighting their role in maintaining the area’s green and pleasant character.

Poisoned tree at Horse Paddock, Woolwich — *Photo Credit: The Harbour Trust/Instagram*

Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps

The Harbour Trust has reported the incident to NSW Police, and investigations are ongoing. Temporary signage has been installed at the site to raise awareness about the vandalism.

Authorities urge community members with information to come forward and assist with the investigation. The Harbour Trust will continue treatment efforts and consider further steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Locals can contact The Harbour Trust through engagement@harbourtrust.gov.au for more information.

Published 8-Jan-2025

From St Joseph’s to Vaires-sur-Marne: the Rowing Odyssey of Jack Hargreaves

Jack Hargreaves has become one of Australia’s premier rowers, with a journey that began in the small town of Nyngan. His path to success led him through St Joseph’s College, where he first dipped his oar into competitive rowing. Now, he is set to represent his country once again in Paris 2024 at the picturesque Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium.

Read: Top-Rated Restaurants Near Hunters Hill

Rugby roots to rowing triumph

A talented rugby player, Hargreaves only took up rowing to maintain fitness during the summer months. However, his decision to focus on rowing after high school has proven to be a game-changer.

Joining Sydney University Boat Club, Hargreaves quickly made his mark in the sport. Hargreaves’ international career began in 2013 with his debut in the men’s eight at the World Rowing Cup I and U23 Championships.

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A post shared by Rowing Australia (@rowingaustralia)

Despite missing selection for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, Hargreaves redeemed himself spectacularly. He claimed consecutive gold medals in the coxless four at the 2017 and 2018 World Rowing Championships, earning the FISA Male Crew of the Year award in 2018 alongside his teammates.

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A post shared by Jack Hargreaves (@jhargreaves93)

The pinnacle of Hargreaves’ career came at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Alongside Alexander Purnell, Spencer Turrin, and Alexander Hill, he clinched gold in the men’s coxless four. This victory was particularly sweet as it ended Great Britain’s five-Games winning streak in the event.

For his achievements in the sport, Hargreaves was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2022.

Jack Hargreaves in Paris 2024

Now, Hargreaves faces a new challenge. He has been named in the men’s coxless eight for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where he will join his Tokyo 2022 teammates Spencer Turrin and Alexander Purnell alongside Kendall Brodie, Ben Canham, Angus Dawson, Josh Hicks, Jack O’Brien, and Angus Widdicombe—in a bid to secure Australia’s first gold medal in the event.

“The Eights are the nation’s boats. We’re a proud nation. We’re a proud nation of Eights as well,” Rowing Australia’s Paul Thompson said.

Read: Top Events In Hunters Hill

The team’s journey begins with the heats on July 29, five days after his 31st birthday. This is followed by potential repechages on August 1 and the medal event on August 3.

Published 19-July-2024

163 Year 12 Students in Hunters Hill Boarding School Vaccinated by Mistake

Some 163 boys from St Joseph’s College, a Hunters Hill boarding school, got their first jab of the Pfizer vaccine by mistake. The vaccine was only intended for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students but all of the Year 12 boys who went to the vaccine hub at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital were given their first dose.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard confirmed in a statement that the Year 12 boarders were inoculated “through an error.” He issued an apology along with local chief health officer Kerry Chant, who said that the vaccination had been “a misunderstanding, a miscommunication, a misstep.”

St Joseph’s College headmaster Ross Tarlinto said that the school approached the Sydney Local Health District in May 2021 about the vaccination since they have a large number of students who belong to rural, remote, and indigenous communities. In NSW, only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people could get the Pfizer vaccine if they are above 16 years old as they are the priority groups.

The Hunters Hill boarding school, one of the most expensive and largest Catholic boy’s schools in Sydney, has nearly 1,100 students but only four percent are Indigenous, per the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. Of Year 12 students who were supposed to have the Pfizer vaccine, fewer than five identify as Indigenous.

*Photo Credit: St Joseph’s College/Facebook*

Teresa Anderson, the local health district’s chief executive, said that they agreed to vaccinate Aboriginal students. They initially believed that the 163 students coming in from St Joseph’s College were Indigenous but realised this wasn’t the case when the boys arrived at the hub. Reports cited that the staff who had to administer the vaccine could not turn them away.

Amber Flohm of the NSW Teacher’s Federation said that the community is outraged about the mistake as it shows society’s inequality. Ms Flohm said that this behaviour should not be tolerated amidst a pandemic.

NSW Health assured the public that no other private schools in Sydney have had the same experience. However, King’s School in Parramatta, another boarding school, has approached NSW Health regarding the possibility of vaccinating their students. They have to receive approval.

Mark Your Calendars! Exciting New Events Coming to Hunters Hill

Looking for a little excitement this June? Hunters Hill and neighbouring areas are about to become hotspots for a slew of events.

Henley Growers Market – June 19

Henley Green Market — Photo credit: The Happy Hens

From 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the 19th of June 2021, an artisan market hosted by the Happy Hens Social Enterprise will be held at the Henley Green Community Garden. Market-goers will be able to treat themselves to some fresh weekly produce from growers as well as some locally-made coffee and food.

The event makes for a scenic way to shop, and many stalls from previous instances of the event will be returning to sell their goods once again. Aus Beverages offers a range of drinks including plain and flavoured mineral water, as well as a variety of fruit juices. Boomerang Bags, on the other hand, sells locally handmade shopping bags.

The Henley Growers Market can be found at the Henley Green Community Garden in 2A Crown St, Henley, and it will be open to any and all — free of charge.

Sip & Swap – June 24

Sip & Swap at Hunters Hill — Photo credit: The Clothing Exchange

Hosted at the YARN is Sip & Swap, an exciting event that gives Sydney residents the chance to update their wardrobes while simultaneously treating themselves to some light refreshments. Mounted by the Clothing Exchange, the event is scheduled to take place on the 24th of June 2021 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Here, event-goers will be able to swap their clothes in exchange for others, allowing them to change their wardrobes without growing them, helping people save money and space. People will also be able to meet like-minded locals and give their old clothes new homes.

The Yarn is located at 64 Gladesville Rd, Hunters Hill. While the event is free, booking is mandatory. Those interested in taking part can contact the hosts at people@huntershill.nsw.gov.au, or by calling them through his number: (02) 9879 9400.

Storytime – Wednesdays

Storytime at Hunters Hill — Photo credit: Hunter’s Hill Council

Every Wednesday, from 11:00 a.m. onwards, parents will be able to bring their children to the YARN, an innovative library and community space, for some exciting sessions of storytelling aimed at preschool-aged children and their carers.

The YARN can be found at 64 Gladesville Rd, Hunters Hill, and these weekly sessions are open to anyone interested — no booking necessary.

Baby Bounce – Fridays

Baby Bounce at Hunters Hill — Photo credit: Hunter’s Hill Council

Much like the previous event, Baby Bounce is hosted at the YARN. This event has been scheduled to take place every Friday from 11:00 a.m. onwards. Parents will be able to bring their children to the library for some stories, songs and nursery rhymes. Unlike Storytime, this event caters to children between the ages of zero and two and their carers.

The YARN can be found at 64 Gladesville Rd, Hunters Hill, and booking will not be required for this event.