Real Estate FROM COAST TO COUNTRY
A slice of paradise at Condong By Jonathon Howard ONE OF the most significant historical properties in the Tweed Shire is on the market with MANA Real Estate. The spectacular former manager’s residence of the Condong Sugar Mill is for sale at 121 McLeod Street in Condong. Steeped in history, this magnificent property has more than one story to tell – and not just about the residence itself, but its vital role in the region’s history. Owner Perry Snodgrass has a long-lasting love affair with this property having lived in the manager’s residence many years ago when she was married to her late-husband who was then the manager at the Condong Sugar Mill. “We were young and it was a very social time, hosting parties on the verandah, barbecuing by the river while family fished and water skied,” she said. When Perry’s husband died suddenly, she moved out of the
History and comfort at McLeod Street
region, seeking new beginnings. Five years ago, when Perry was living in Adelaide, her daughter phoned to say the former manager’s residence was up for sale. It didn’t take long for Perry and her husband Craig to jump on a plane and fly back to see it. “It was just as I remembered it. It had stood the test of time and has been extremely well maintained,” she said. “Standing in the garden, listening to the river and feeling the serenity… the urge to return was so strong, I couldn’t resist!” Perry and Craig bought the property and moved in. The Condong Sugar Mill, built in 1880, is the second oldest sugar mill in Australia. The manager’s residence was built in the same year and played an important role in the success of the business and bringing the community together. It was where the head office managers would gather to have discussions around the dining room table about the industry and make plans for the future. “From my research, I discovered that tennis parties were popular here. There were originally two tennis courts on the property,” Perry said. “It was a special event to be invited to the manager’s residence
Open Homes
to play tennis.” Table tennis has replaced the tennis tournaments. And the heritage listed rotunda, the haven for refreshing drinks or afternoon tea after the games, is still standing. While times have changed, the romance of the property stands strong. On the edge of the majestic Tweed River with lush flat lawns and established gardens, it is a sight to behold. The striking Queenslander has its original ornate detailing, high ceilings, bay windows, airy spacious bedrooms, and closed in and open verandahs Perry and Craig have kept up the tradition of using the space to entertain. “We’ve catered for a few amazing events in recent years, including weddings,” she said. “The lawns are perfect for marquees and the main living area holds 60 people, while the large verandahs can have about 100-150 people. “There are still the old-fashioned coloured light bulbs decorating the verandah – they were here from before we moved in the 1970s.” There are many business opportunities with the property (STCA). There is a self-contained two-bedroom cottage which
Manager's Residence at Condong has old world charm with modern comforts
Perry offers to guests, however it had been used by previous owners as short-term and holiday accommodation. An artist, Perry has a studio on the property in which she paints. She insulated it and there is a large concrete-covered area where they often host parties. “It’s a beautiful, tranquil space to paint. The only noise are the birds that come to visit. The birdlife here is exquisite, ranging from kookaburras to ducks,” she said. The studio would make a fabulous home office or wellness centre for yoga or Pilates. Growing up in the Tweed region, Perry has loved returning. “Murwillumbah is a thriving artistic and cultural community,” she said. “Condong is still as quaint as I remember, but the original Post
Office across the road is now also a cafe, Stamp & Grind serving delicious brunch and lunch six days a week. And the Condong Bowling Club has a jazz night once a month that’s a huge event.” Perry and Craig are staying in the area but have decided it’s time to downsize. “We want someone with a true appreciation of the incredible history of this house to keep its legacy going,” she said. “We chose MANA Real Estate because of Julie-Ann Manahan’s profound engagement and active participation within the local community.” Don’t miss the opportunity to own an incredibly rare piece of local history. To arrange an inspection please call (02) 6680 5000.
506 Tweed Valley Way, Sth Murwillumbah 10:30-11am
Schmith Estate Agents
Saturday, September 2
81 Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora, 11-11.30pm
Tate Brownlee Real Estate
JET Real Estate
51-53 James Street, Murwillumbah 11:30-12pm
DJ Stringer Property Services 53 Laceflower Parade, Casuarina ‘Buyers Range $1.495
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-$1.545M’ 9-9.30am
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We all live and work here in the beautiful Northern Rivers and we’re serious about doing right by our community. We value the relationships we form with our clients and potential buyers and personally communicate all the way through the sales process. After all, we’re going to be neighbours.
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