Marshall White Open - Coast **

READING BETWEEN THE LINES

If you followed the headlines alone, you’d have a very different picture of what is actually unfolding across Melbourne’s premium property landscape. The narrative has leaned heavily towards caution, yet the results we’re achieving tell a different story altogether.

Activity remains consistent, with a healthy pipeline of off-market opportunities continuing to generate strong engagement from qualified buyers. This is a market that is far from stagnant. It is measured, considered, and still very much in motion.

Property markets are inherently fluid, and the adjustments we are seeing are simply part of the cycle. Price sensitivity has been present for some time now, and vendors have had to adjust their expectations in certain pockets. But this shift has not been uniform. Well-located homes with strong fundamentals, quality finishes and broad appeal are continuing to achieve results that reflect their true value. The properties that present well and meet the market where it stands are still attracting competitive interest.

For buyers, particularly those looking to upgrade, this is a landscape worth engaging with. The current environment offers scope to secure a home that may have been out of reach twelve months ago, while the underlying strength of Melbourne’s premium market provides confidence for the long term.

If you’d like to explore what’s available, whether on or off market, our teams would welcome the conversation. ■

By John Bongiorno

INCONVERSATIONWITH

NGV

MOTHER: STORIES FROM THE NGV COLLECTION

PROJECTS

Coastal Sanctuary

61 BARKERS ROAD FLINDERS

Set across 20 acres on the Mornington Peninsula, this reimagined Flinders estate by architect Stephen Akehurst delivers a refined coast-meets-country lifestyle of exceptional scale and privacy.

Commanding sweeping views across rolling pasture to Westernport and Phillip Island, the residence is defined by its Grand Hamptonsinspired design, with American Oak flooring, soaring ceilings and French doors opening to terraces and gardens.

“An exceptional Mornington Peninsula estate that balances refined coastal living with the space and amenity of a true country retreat.”

STEPHEN BASTER MARSHALL WHITE DIRECTOR,

AUCTIONEER

Expansive living and dining domains are anchored by a statement kitchen and scullery, equipped for large-scale entertaining, while multiple accommodation zones include a luxurious main suite and additional guest quarters.

Beyond the main home, a converted stable, manager’s cottage and alfresco pavilion extend the estate’s versatility. A mosaic-tiled pool and spa, manicured gardens and fenced paddocks complete the setting. Positioned moments from Flinders and Red Hill, this is a landmark property combining rural beauty with refined living. ■

Set within South Melbourne’s leafy lakeside pocket, Clementine brings a relaxed yet refined approach to modern dining. This Moreton Bay Bug Benedict reflects that balance, offering an elevated take on a classic by layering delicate seafood with rich, considered flavours. Perfect for a Mother’s Day brunch at home, it is a dish that feels both indulgent and effortlessly composed.

INGREDIENTS

Bug:

2 large Moreton Bay bugs

2 slices sourdough bread

2 handfuls spinach, sautéed

4 tablespoons hollandaise

4 poached eggs

Sauce:

1 tsp chopped onion

½ tsp chopped garlic

1 tsp chopped gherkin

½ tsp chopped capers

1 tsp Dijon mustard

¼ cup diced potato

1 tsp chopped tarragon

1 cup heavy cream

¼ cup brandy

Herb Crumb:

⅓ cup parsley

⅓ cup dill

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 tbsp olive oil

METHOD

1. Prepare the Bug

Steam the Moreton Bay bugs for approximately 12 minutes (alternatively blanch in boiling water), then refresh in ice water. Remove the shell from the underside and carefully extract the meat. Lightly oil the shell, return the meat, then top with the prepared sauce and herb crumb. Bake at 180°C for 5 minutes until lightly golden.

2. Make the Sauce

Sauté the onion, garlic and diced potato until lightly golden. Deglaze with brandy, then add the cream and simmer until thickened. Stir through the tarragon, Dijon mustard, gherkin and capers. Season to taste and set aside.

3. Herb Crumb

Blend parsley, dill, breadcrumbs and olive oil until combined.

4. To Assemble

Toast the sourdough and layer with sautéed spinach. Top with poached eggs and spoon over hollandaise. Serve alongside the baked Moreton Bay bug.

VICTORIA WHITELAW IN CONVERSATION WITH

We spoke to Victoria Whitelaw, celebrated Melbourne florist and founder of Victoria Whitelaw Beautiful Flowers, about the art of giving flowers and why small, considered gestures carry such meaning on Mother’s Day.

How do you see gestures like giving flowers on Mother’s Day playing a role in how people express care, appreciation and connection within modern families?

Flowers have a unique way of expressing what words sometimes cannot. In modern families, where life is often busy and layered, a simple gesture like giving flowers becomes a moment of pause and a way to acknowledge care, gratitude and connection in a tangible, heartfelt way.

It’s not about the scale of the gesture, but the intention behind it. Flowers can quietly say “I see you,” “thank you,” or “I’m thinking of you,” and that sentiment resonates across all types of families and relationships.

From your experience, how have definitions of family and motherhood evolved in recent years, and how is this reflected in the way people choose to celebrate occasions like Mother’s Day?

We’ve seen a beautiful shift in how people define both family and motherhood. It’s no longer confined to traditional structures and now embraces blended families, chosen families, single parents, same-sex parents, grandparents and maternal figures in all forms.

This is reflected in Mother’s Day celebrations becoming more inclusive and personal. People are celebrating not just mothers, but anyone who has offered care, guidance and unconditional support. It’s less about tradition for tradition’s sake, and more about recognising the people who have shaped our lives.

Mother’s Day can mean different things to different people. How can individuals approach the day with sensitivity, particularly when navigating more complex family dynamics?

Mother’s Day can hold a mix of emotions, and I think it’s important to approach it with gentleness. Sensitivity comes from recognising that everyone’s experience is different. Sometimes the most meaningful

approach is simply acknowledging that, whether through a quiet gesture, a conversation, or choosing not to participate in the traditional sense. There’s no right or wrong way to honour the day. It’s about what feels respectful and authentic to your own circumstances.

What advice would you give to those wanting to acknowledge maternal figures in a thoughtful and meaningful way, beyond the gesture itself?

The most meaningful gestures are those that feel considered and personal. It might be sharing a memory, expressing something you’ve never said before, or taking the time to truly be present. Flowers are a beautiful starting point, but it’s the sentiment behind them that creates a lasting impact. A handwritten note, a quiet moment together, or a simple acknowledgement of someone’s influence can mean far more than something elaborate. Ultimately, it’s about showing someone that their role in your life is seen and valued.

In your work, you often support clients through significant life transitions. How important are small, considered gestures, like gifting flowers, during these moments?

In times of transition, it’s often the smallest gestures that carry the greatest weight. When people are navigating change, a thoughtful gesture can provide comfort, reassurance and support. Flowers have a quiet way of softening difficult moments. They don’t demand anything, but they offer presence, care and a reminder that someone is thinking of you. These gestures remind people that even in challenging times, there is kindness and connection around them. ■

MOTHER: STORIES FROM THE NGV COLLECTION

From cave walls to ancient tombs, Renaissance frescos to contemporary film, the depiction of mother and child stands as one of the oldest and most enduring themes in art history. Now, the NGV is turning its full attention to the subject with MOTHER, the most comprehensive thematic exhibition exploring motherhood ever staged by an Australian art institution.

The exhibition draws on more than 200 historical and contemporary works from the NGV Collection, traversing geographies, cultures and mediums to unpack both the universal and deeply personal experiences of motherhood. Think transformation and joy, invisible labour and societal expectation, mythology and religious iconography, and the profound connection between motherhood, nature and Country for First Nations communities.

The artist list reads as a who’s who of creative voices past and present. Louise Bourgeois, Tracey Emin, David Hockney, Patricia Piccinini, Francisco Goya, Rembrandt van Rijn and Tracey Moffatt sit alongside First Nations artists including Iluwanti Ken, Yvonne Koolmatrie and Djerrkŋu Yunupiŋu, with works spanning painting, weaving, decorative arts and moving image.

Among the highlights are several NGV debuts. Ruth O’Leary’s Flinders Street, 2017, a series born from transforming the photobooth at Flinders Street Station into a makeshift studio after the birth of her first child, captures the moment motherhood and artmaking moved from conflict into dialogue. Kate Just’s knitted works, including a chain-mail armour crafted for her adopted child, explore resilience, loss and renewal through the metaphoric equivalency of knitting and skin. And two newly acquired David Hockney works, My mother sleeping, 1982, and My mother with a parrot, 1973-74, offer an intimate view of one of art’s most celebrated figures through the quiet lens of family.

The exhibition is structured around three chapters that mirror a life cycle. Creating explores conception, birth and nurturing. Giving turns to the complexities of caregiving, invisible labour and the myths of the ‘Bad Mother’ versus the ‘Supermum’. Leaving addresses loss, the legacy of the Stolen Generations, and the exchange of knowledge between mother and child.

Following the success of Queer and Cats & Dogs, MOTHER is the third major thematic exhibition to explore the NGV Collection through a singular, focused lens, curated by Sophie Gerhard, Katharina Prugger and Eva Christoff.

This is an exhibition that promises to move, challenge and celebrate in equal measure.

Now at the Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia, until 12 July 2026. ■

LEARN MORE

URBAN REFINEMENT

162 PAGE STREET MIDDLE PARK

Designed by Paul Conrad and executed by Cobild Construction, this award-recognised Middle Park residence delivers a refined interpretation of contemporary living behind a traditional Edwardian façade.

Framed by Jack Merlo-designed landscaping, the home unfolds through a series of sculptural interiors, where Hakwood chevron flooring, Signorino stone and bespoke joinery create a cohesive and elevated material palette.

“This is a standout offering for Middle Park, combining architectural excellence, premium

finishes

and a

seamless indoor–outdoor connection

in a truly lifestyle-centric location, moments from everything Port Phillip has to offer.”

BEN MANOLITSAS PARTNER, AUCTIONEER, LICENSED ESTATE AGENT

A dramatic entry sequence leads to expansive living and dining domains, anchored by a floating marble hearth and seamless connection to a landscaped courtyard with integrated barbecue and heated pool. The kitchen is equally considered, featuring a bookmatched marble island, concealed Gaggenau and Miele appliances and a butler’s pantry with internal garden.

Accommodation includes a luxurious main suite, additional bedrooms and a self-contained studio, offering flexibility for modern living. Positioned moments from the village, beach and parklands, this is a residence defined by design integrity and quiet sophistication. ■

IN CONVERSATION WITH

We recently spoke to Bonnie Ashley, co-founder and Creative Director of Australian textile brand Bonnie and Neil, about the art of living with colour and pattern. From hand-painted artworks to layered styling and future collections, she shared how thoughtful design can bring everyday joy into the home.

Bonnie and Neil is now a much-loved name in Australian design. How did the brand first come to life?

Bonnie and Neil began quite organically. Neil and I were both working in creative fields; I was a textile designer, and he was in furniture, and we shared a love for making things by hand. We started out printing small batches of textiles from our home in Melbourne, experimenting with colour, pattern and printmaking. What began as a handful of handprinted cushions grew into a full collection, and from there, a brand built around the idea that artful design can bring joy into everyday life.

Can you share a bit about your creative process — from concept and inspiration to the final product?

It always starts with painting. Each collection begins as a series of original artworks, whether florals, motifs, or abstract forms, that I create in our studio. From there, we translate those paintings into textiles. Colour is a huge part of the process; I often spend weeks refining tones until they feel perfectly balanced. Once the designs are finalised, we work closely with our makers to bring them to life across various mediums, from cushions and table linens to ceramics, bedding, and bathmats.

What are some of your favourite ways to style your pieces, especially when layering patterns and colours?

For me, it’s about creating a story through texture and tone. I like to start with one hero piece, perhaps a floral cushion or a patterned tablecloth, and build from there using complementary colours and textures. Mixing bold motifs with finer details creates balance and depth. Most importantly, I think styling should feel playful and intuitive, not overly considered. I always encourage people to trust their instincts and create spaces that make them feel happy.

If someone is new to Bonnie and Neil, what’s a great entry piece to start with?

A cushion is always a lovely place to begin. It’s such an easy way to introduce colour and pattern into your home and get a sense of our aesthetic. We design every piece to mix and match, so you can slowly build a collection that feels personal and effortless.

What’s next for Bonnie and Neil? Are there new directions or collaborations on the horizon?

We’re in such an exciting phase of growth. We’ve been expanding our bedding range, something I’ve wanted to explore more deeply for years, and it’s been incredible to see how our linens, prints and palettes translate into that space. We also have a special drop of textiles coming later this year, a collection that feels personal, playful and full of meaning. 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet, with new categories, collaborations and creative projects in the works, and I can’t wait to share what’s ahead.

9 O’SHAUGHNESSY STREET KEW A 3-4 B 2-3 C 2-3 From $3,350,000

DEVELOPED BY

BUILT BY

ARCHITECTURE BY GARDENS BY

PROJECT MANAGEMENT BY

THE LOCAL EDIT

2026 MORNINGTON PENINSULA CLASSIC AT THE DUNES GOLF LINKS

26 APRIL - 1 MAY 2026

335 Browns Road, Rye, VIC 3941

MACEDON RANGES AUTUMN FESTIVAL

UNTIL 30 APRIL 2026

Southrock Road, Woodend, VIC 3442

COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS AT THE KITCHEN

1 MAY 2026

1917 Point Nepean Road, Tootgarook, VIC 3941

MAYTIME FAIR

2 MAY 2026

Xavier College, 135 Barkers Road, Kew, VIC 3101

WOODEND COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET

2 MAY 2026

High Street & Forest Street, Woodend VIC 3442

HILL AND RIDGE COMMUNITY MARKET

2 MAY 2026

184 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill, VIC 3937

KINGSTON FARMERS MARKET

2 MAY 2026

3 Jean Street, Cheltenham, VIC 3192

PORT FAIRY FARMERS MARKET

2 MAY 2026

21 Victoria Street, Creswick, VIC 3363

WOMEN PHOTOGRAPHERS 1900-1975:

A LEGACY OF LIGHT

UNTIL 3 MAY 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

LET’S PARTY! FASHION FOR KIDS:

DESIGNED BY DANIELLE BRUSTMAN

UNTIL 3 MAY 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

ART TRAILS & OPEN STUDIOS

3-4 MAY 2026

Various Studios in Macedon and Mount Macedon

HAWKER 88 NIGHT MARKET

UNTIL 6 MAY

Queen Victoria Market, Queen Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000

HEIDE MARKET

9 MAY 2026

7 Templestowe Road, Bulleen, VIC 3105

BOROONDARA FARMERS MARKET

16 MAY 2026

484 Auburn Road, Hawthorn, VIC 3122

TRENTHAM FARMERS MARKET

16 MAY 2026

27 High Street, Trentham, VIC 3458

MORNINGTON RACECOURSE MARKET

10 MAY 2026

320 Racecourse Road, Mornington, VIC 3931

MOTHER’S DAY TEA AND TOUR AT DULDIG MUSEUM

10 MAY 2026

92 Burke Road, Malvern East, VIC 3145

STONNINGTON PICNIC SERIES: ROCKLEY

GARDENS

17 MAY 2026

Rockley Gardens, 346 Toorak Road, South Yarra, VIC 3141

MACEDON VILLAGE FARMERS MARKET

30 MAY 2026

67 Smith Street, Macedon, VIC 3440

PICCOLO TEATRO: MAGIC THEATRE

UNTIL 30 MAY

5 Rankins Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000

LIVE AT TOORAK: LUCAS DEBARGUE

2 JUNE 2026

Melbourne Hebrew Congregation, 2/8 Toorak Road, South Yarra, VIC 3141

POINT NEPEAN PORTSEA MARKET

6 JUNE 2026

Point Nepean Quarantine Station, Coleman Road, Portsea, VIC 3944

MELBOURNE WINTER MASTERPIECES: CARTIER 12 JUN - 4 OCT 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

LIGHTSCAPE: WINTER WONDERLAND

12 JUN - 2 AUG 2026

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens, Melbourne, VIC 3004

BASEMENT COMEDY CLUB: WEEKEND SHOWCASE UNTIL 27 JUN 2026

Basement Comedy Club, 120 Exhibition Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000

TOP ARTS 2026: SHOWCASING EMERGING

ARTISTS ACROSS VICTORIA

UNTIL 19 JULY 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

MOTHER: STORIES FROM THE NGV COLLECTION

UNTIL 12 JULY 2026

Ian Potter Centre, Federation Square, Melbourne, VIC 3000

CAMPBELL GROVE, HAWTHORN EAST

YOUR INVESTMENT IS OUR PRIORITY

We offer superior personalised service tailored to elevate both the value and experience of your rental property.

Discover the benefits of our client-focused approach in maximising your investment property’s potential with a complimentary rental appraisal.

OUR OFFICE LOCATIONS

ALBERT PARK

110 Bridport Street, Albert Park, VIC 3206 (03) 9822 9999

ARMADALE 1111 High Street, Armadale, VIC 3143 (03) 9822 9999

BALWYN

Level 2/379-381 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn, VIC 3103 (03) 9822 9999

BRIGHTON

Level 1/225 Bay Street, Brighton, VIC 3186 (03) 9822 9999

FLINDERS 10/33 Cook Street, Flinders,VIC 3929 (03) 5931 1000

HAWTHORN

Level 1/801 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn, VIC 3122 (03) 9822 9999

MOUNT ELIZA

98 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza, VIC 3930 (03) 9787 6650

SORRENTO 60 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento, VIC 3943 (03) 5981 3000