The Phone Code for this property is: 40793. Please quote this number when phoning or texting.

Allow us to let the ambience and charisma of this historic heritage house envelope you in a shower of emotions. With its roots going back to 1895, enter through the garden gazebo style entrance cover with its stylish cupola arriving at the double door entry, whilst acknowledging the terraced beds adjacent spilling over with plantings and containing a gorgeous stone period ornamental pool filled with lilies and tropical fish.
Passing into the house we find ourselves in a spacious accommodating hall allowing multiple guest arrival without cramping, take in the stairway to upstairs with its carved balusters enticing you to look further. Relieved of your coats turn to the informal lounge taking in the Victorian fireplace with faux marble surround, Victorian fireplace and 18th century fire surround, The fireplace contains a faux coal real flame gas fired fire. Noting the extensive fibrous plaster detailing to walls and coving and envying the multiple recessed cedar bookshelves. Blessed with not one, but two crystal chandeliers the lighting arrangement can be changed to suit by utilizing multiple lighting circuits and dimming to suit any occasion. Flooring is polished hardwood planking. The cedar door to the left allows entrance to the male themed office/study space finished in cedar detailing and providing extensive book shelving. Here, hidden in a cupboard hides the hot water cylinder. The main internet hub is positioned here and 'socketry' allows for all your IT requirements. According to the owner internal reception for internet is very good throughout the house. Individual wall mounted A/C provides localized comfort and a ceiling fan/light for that traditional touch. Flooring is polished hardwood planking and shelving is all cedar hardwood.
Moving back to the entrance hall we see to the right the elegant dining room replete with huge crystal 'Colour coded' chandelier and discreet hidden downlighting to window curtains. Again, elegant plaster moulding' s provides the finishing touch for a superb dining experience. Seating space allows for at least 10 diners. Again, air conditioning reaches this space to ensure diner comfort. Almost hidden and tucked away in a corner reveals a door which leads to the media room, allowing audio visual pursuits to be had without intruding on the household. Within we see two settees, one on raised level allowing unrestricted viewing of the screen. The owner tells us all A/V equipment including surround sound system and settees will remain. The media room too has individual A/C provision plus fan and four levels of lighting scenarios. We thought that maybe this room could double as another bedroom? A useful hidden 'wardrobe' at the rear can contain a host of stuff. Just before you enter, a space under the stairs allows for useful storage of multiple items.
Moving across the hall, we come to the kitchen, a spacious almost professional installation (and indeed designed by a restaurateur who ran four restaurants) with the brief of allowing the host to connect with her guests while finishing the meal preparation. Two oven/grill cookers (remaining) plus microwave will handle the largest degustation event and worktop space is plentiful. A huge fridge/freezer with ice and chilled water dispenser covers the drinks department (remaining). Naturally, a butler's pantry is tucked away giving the space he or she needs for those dry goods. To help the host, a discreet bar is contained behind folding doors giving him everything he needs for cocktail preparation including dedicated fridge/freezer, (remaining) built-in space for 28 wine bottles and shelves for beer and soft drinks is under the counter. All this area is melamine lined for easy cleaning. The connected 'outer' kitchen allows for kids and mums projects to be left unfinished without hindrance, a useful space for hobbies, crafts, overspill etc., this too has individual A/C for comfort, and allows access to the rear gardens. A full height recessed and shelved melamine lined cupboard does duty as a kitchen equipment store. Just off the main kitchen is the breakfast area, an almost fully glazed space glorying in the morning sun providing an outlook over the pool and rear gardens - seating for 6 at least. Leading from the outer kitchen is a couple of stairs down leading to a superb laundry, almost certainly designed by a woman who uses this space! Both washing machine and dryer remain and built-in cupboards galore to store all those necessary items plus sink and drainer. It has a separate door to the garden. Contained off the kitchen, so useful for pool events and guests, is a toilet together with basin and shower cubicle.
Now we leave downstairs and head up the staircase to the first floor passing an alcove which is a useful space for those ornaments one collects. On reaching the landing we find a really spacious foyer serving the three bedrooms. It has beautiful views of the gardens through full-length opening windows fitted with insect screening, a period fan cools the space, although ducted zoned A/C does take care of heat and cold throughout the house! Two large guest bedrooms are provided, one with en-suite and of spacious size and having built-in wardrobes. Each bedroom has glazed sliding door access to the first-floor veranda, where one can take morning tea while admiring the gardens and bird life below. Both bedrooms are served by a guest bathroom containing a Jacuzzi bath, shower cubicle WC and basin in a vanity unit, a semi recessed full height cupboard allows containment of toiletries. Colonial shutters are fitted to both windows and ceramic tiled flooring. An extract fan keeps it fresh.
BUT, reserved for the best experience is the master bedroom! This beautifully designed and executed huge bedroom has elements of Art Noveau throughout from ceiling plasterwork to detailed window reveals and wardrobe door detailing, the space unfolding to reveal intriguing irregular walls containing built-in wardrobes - certainly not a boring square bedroom! A king-sized bed is swallowed up here! A chandelier with fan and recessed hidden downlighting washes windows and curtains with a gentle illumination.
Off the bedroom is her en-suite providing heated stone flooring, marble tiled walls and built-in twin basin vanity. A/C is provided here too. A generous shower glazed cubicle has automatic extract ventilation, and recessed toiletry recesses. Offset discreetly to one side is the WC.
Within the bathroom itself illuminated recesses allow placement of your own desired objects or statuary. Contained within the bathroom is a useful full height cupboard for those essential toiletries. Passing through, we arrive at madam's walk-in robe providing humongous hanging space and shoe and hat storage, sufficient for any fashion model!
All rooms possess adequate power outlets and are wool carpeted or hardwood floored.
With parking for 20 odd cars in a purpose illuminated car park, entertaining is on another level at this unique tasteful and hidden away gem.
The gardens require a book of their own, providing endless satisfaction in wandering this wonderland of botanicas and aquatics, home to a bewildering collection of flora and fauna, gently canopied by a myriad of mature trees. Remind me to tell you about the huge heritage barn and its possibilities?
Where can you find a property with endless unspoilt views with vision drifting off into the distance with no sign of neighbours or boundaries? Borrowed country landscapes surround this property, not that you'd spend too much time looking further than your own nose because, this jewel of a gardener's paradise is filled to capacity with mature planting, with beds bursting with interest. Weaving in and out are mature trees casting dappled light upon the endless camellias allowing a sheltered restful atmosphere for their growth, protection from the sometimes-harsh sun being a useful by product. Irrigation would be a problem if not for the extensive range of sprinklers piped zones and pumps to make sure this haven remains well irrigated, and do not fear lack of water; a deep bore pumps water daily into the lake also providing a picturesque display as it bubbles and babbles its way down the apparently natural multi-waterfalled tiny creek! Three large fenced paddocks provide for equestrian or similar four-legged stock to live and enjoy close stabling. Alternatively, think of future gardening passion in converting these blank pallets into a new gardener's vison of perhaps mathematical rose beds, a maze of box hedges or further man-made structures under which to sit and enjoy the views? A putting green perhaps?
There are fruit trees so numerous they will surely satisfy any epicurean desires of potential market gardeners and fascinate your visiting friends as they discover these rare species. This garden too, supports a huge diversity of nature's animals, from resident water dragons and hares, visiting kangaroos and, so far recorded, 28 species of native bird life of which the culminating moment must be watching the elusive Azure kingfisher diving for his supper! King parrots, Rainbow Lorikeets and Long tailed Parakeets and Emerald and Woompoo doves abound, listen for Mr Whip bird calling his mate! Fully five species of the finch families regularly eat here!
But we might be forgetting children? This property just begs to have children scamper all over it from silent disbelieving amazement at the fairy house complex under the poinciana to possible delight in over a kilometre of paths to cycle or scoot, and so many trees lend themselves to a tree house! Over the lake the potential for a 'flying fox' has power to create daring displays of bravery and screams of enjoyment as they plunge into the lake beneath! A miniature jumping course in the paddock - birthday parties in the heritage barn or internal playground, endless possibilities abound!
The lake deserves special mention; an amusing 'folly'; an imitation of a ferry stop, complete with 'ticket office' facility, waiting room and the landing stage possesses a small rowing boat to complete the picture. A wonderful spot to enjoy a glass in the afternoon! Various paraphernalia add to the desired period appearance. Extensive planting of aquatic plants including a huge range of lilies adorn the lake edges. Naturally as you would expect, fish abound, and wild ducks are frequent visitors.
The exquisite gardens provide opportunity for a leisurely walk around the garden with your guests on well-prepared paths before lunch or dinner allowing them to sample and enjoy this secretive jewel of an estate.
The illuminated terraces simply beg informal parties strolling around the house of an evening, soaking up its welcoming ambiance, while enjoying your hospitality. They won't leave!
Is this estate miles from anywhere you ask? 5 minutes from Palmwoods main line station, an hour to Brisbane by train, 5 minutes to Palmwoods township itself, home of the famous 'Ricks Café', 20 minutes to Maroochydore with huge shopping mall and many facilities, its gorgeous coastline restaurant and café complexes. 25 minutes from Maleny travelling through Montville and Mapleton on the Blackall range, all picturesque tourist destinations and, should you wish to drive: 55 minutes to Brisbane proper.
The property has benefited from previous owners who have all carefully developed and planted the grounds and mindfully implemented flood alleviation works so your garden is not prejudiced by the sometimes-torrential downpours this part of Qld experiences. For instance, the entrance road, nearly a quarter of a kilometre, is concreted, no washouts here!
But this property offers so much more to a spectrum of buyers; Run a business and want storage for your goods or showroom facilities? A 14 x 14 metre heritage barn can accommodate vast amounts of stuff. Small machine shop manager? The 9 x 6 workshop has three phase power, two roller shutter doors, toilets and lighting, not to simply mention metres of solid shelving and benching. The classic clocktower will let you know the time from all over the property. Toilets adjacent. Other business pursuits could be accommodated such as Yoga, Pilates, Gym, contemplative retreats and the like. Once, a viable wedding venue was run here.
On the barn and garage roof's 22 KW of solar panels ensure you pay no electricity bills and usefully avoids disfigurement of the gorgeous Queenslander main home's roof.
There are two roller-shutter lock up garages with electrical lighting for private cars.
The heritage barn with huge collection of historical and heritage Knick knacks has been home to countless marriages, barn dances, birthday parties and various themed parties not to mention political fund raising and private lectures on various topics. Three themed lighting layouts allow you to alter the ambience. It has also passed its hundredth birthday!
Parking you ask? Yes, space for 17 permanent spaces in an illuminated dedicated hard surfaced car park, with more elsewhere, allowing 25 odd, before a paddock is required, then raising the number to many many more.
This property is not without its heritage provenance either, dating from 1895 when the original farmers - the Rogers - came to start exotic fruit farming. Much homework and research has been carried out to discover and confirm the estates past. Fully half this country's documented heritage period.
The property enjoys the convenience of mains water supplies and three phase power.
The nature of the estate ensures neighbouring properties are substantially far away and would pose no noise problems - for you or them! No local cattle or horses so no flies!
Properties of this nature up on the Sunshine Coast can be counted on the fingers of one hand, they simply are disappearing being given over to cramped nasty little suburban estates.
Properties with the benefit of these mature gardens and collection of heritage camellias might well be counted on the fingers of one hand! And they usually only come up once in a lifetime.
To compound and consolidate the attraction, the property contains over 750 camellia plants some of which are approaching 80 years of age. Some of which are almost lost to cataloguers. Gardens like this simply cannot be reproduced without possibly decades of slow growth. Indeed, the gardens are listed on the 'Gardens of Excellence' by the International Camellia Society. (one of only 6 in Australia!). Should you support a charity, the gardens may be opened to the public annually. To date, it has produced many thousands of dollars towards selected charities.
The house itself
Possibly dating from the 1920s or even earlier (official records are vague), this arch-typical Queenslander with its wrap -around verandas affording views across the gardens and surrounding landscapes sits on the flood-proof ridge of the estate (indeed, it's all flood free!) surrounded by hard surfaced terraces supplanted by brick planters and antique water features, gazebos and covered walkways provide foundation for climbing plants to soften the features. Originally smaller and single storey, careful tasteful extensions has transformed this property into a double storey jewel of a building. Externally it contains all the period features required; powder coated aluminium filigree balustrading encloses spacious hardwood floored verandas, at once conjoining the house internals with the garden, External painted hardwood lapstrake boarding clad the walls. The carcass of the structure is all first growth hardwood impervious to termite attack. Period lighting adorns its walls providing the perfect 'break-out space' for your partying guests. There are in fact 25 seatings incorporated in this area.
Ambient lighting has been extensively and tastefully integrated with the structure providing pleasing ambience of an evening, again drawing the house and gardens into a single delightful entity.
The roof has been replaced with new 'Colourbond' sheeting.
Windows and doors are of the timber multi pane classic type glazing,
To the front terrace a sunken period pond contains an antique fountain with a multitude of resident tropical fish.
The veranda enlarges to accommodate a dining table and chairs for external dining. Served again by a chandelier!
Beside the side of the house a illuminated large saltwater plunge pool has water tumbling down rocks into the pool providing a resort ambience. Close by and smothered with planting and provided with a translucent roof with interesting aluminium lattice work draped with fig, allamanda and sandpaper vines lies a recessed 'swim spa' allowing intensive swim training should it so be desired or, pleasant - almost decadent relaxation whilst enjoying the massaging features of the multiple jets for six seated guests. A beautiful antique chandelier provides tasteful lighting while a unusual terracoata urn gurgles silently with overflowing re-circulated water. The surrounding gardens are discreetly illuminated on several circuits. Space for secluded recliners is provided beside the spa.
Internally:
Kitchen:
Size;
Featuring a galley layout, worksurfaces of granite, two modern fan ovens, gas four burner hob with two extractor facilities, a large refrigerator/freezer, with ice and chilled water dispenser, microwave and the usual undercounter storage cabinets. tinted mirror splashbacks. A glazed cabinet allows for visual display of china. A separate butler's panty with automatic illumination and internally clad with melanin. An appliance melanin lined cupboard is provided. Breakfast dining is provided by an area surrounded on two sides with glazed windows looking out onto the pool and garden. A cabinet houses audio and TV requirements with retractable and extending TV (remaining). A further 'break-out' space of size: ..........allows for those usual hobby's, dressmaking or creative pursuits also containing a hidden bar; with refrigerator and work top and wine racks under. Shelves for glasses at high level, a necessary feature! And leading to a dedicated lower-level laundry space of size: .......... Containing high- and low-level cupboards and washing and tumble dryer machines (remaining) . Laundry sink with mixer. Marble effects work top and splash back. Ventilation grilles are provided so internal drying on high level retractable drying wires can be accommodated. A large integral cleaning cupboard fitted with sockets for charging etc. The outer kitchen has dedicated A/C facilities. Glazed cedar door to outside and sliding cedar windows. WC and shower, size: ....... with hand basin, half tiled walls, integral shower cubicle, fully tiled with sliding screen door. Central ceiling spotlights. Composite tiled flooring (as throughout ground floor kitchen). Main kitchen is on lower AC zone.
Entry Foyer.
Size: ....................
Full height glazed to one side with pelmeted curtains over windows, French door entry, twin crystal globe light fittings on plaster ceiling roses. Dado rail to walls. Ceiling cornice. Composite floor tiling. On AC lower zone.
Leading to kitchen, lounge and dining room. And balustraded, carpeted stairs to upper level.
Lounge.
Size; ...............................
Open entry from foyer, fitted three large, recessed cedar bookcases, detailed plaster work to cornices and ceiling. Dado rail to walls. Formal fireplace of faux marble flanked by two low level solid cedar cupboards under full height cedar windows. Two Bohemian crystal chandeliers set on plaster roses and wall lights and dedicated table lamp circuit all controlled from dimmable wall switches. Gas real flame coal effect fire set within antique cast iron fireplace and featuring a 18th century brass fire guard. Tiled lower hearth. Floor finished in polished timber. On lower AC zone.
Leading to:
Study
Size: ...................
Hardwood door with hardwood steps down into study, featuring wall recess for sculpture or model etc.
Sliding cedar window with insect screen and hardwood windowsill. Contains cupboard with door for hot water cylinder. Separate A/C provided with ceiling light and fan. Built in hardwood shelves. Floor of polished hardwood. Electrical socket outlets and telephone / data socket.
Dining room
Size; ....................
Open entry from foyer with windows to two sides and large multi globe dimmable glass chandelier on central plaster rose, decorative plaster mouldings to ceilings and walls and dado rail to walls. Fitted wool carpet. Electrical socket outlets. On lower AC zone. Discrete LED downwash lighting to window reveals. Useful large storage cupboard with door under stairs.

Leading to:
Media room
Size: .........
Raised rear floor to accommodate settee, (dual head-height vision for audience). full width storage cupboard to rear wall with Zebra skin painted decoration, Double sliding cedar window. Full AV electrical provision for audio and visual devices including rear remote speakers. Dedicated A/C to room, two lighting circuits with dimming and fan with speed controller. Floors of polished hardwood. Electrical socket outlets and telephone / data outlet. This room might easily be changed to a large bedroom, requiring no stair access.
First floor:
Landing;
Size:
Full length cedar windows with views to garden and lake, sliding open with insect guards.
Fitted carpeted floor, period ceiling fan with speed controller, four down-lights on separate circuit.
Electrical socket outlets and telephone / data outlet Plaster cornices. Provides access to all three bedrooms and second bathroom. Full height Laundry cupboard behind door. On upper AC zone.
Master bedroom.
Size; .....................
With walk-in robe, size; .......... with four glazed doors fitted decorative gold film, high level shelving. Recess for dressing table, dedicated lighting over. Ambient lighting to curtain pelmet. Electrical socket outlet. Ceiling light. Sliding glazed door to upper veranda with sliding insect screen. Composite tile floor finish.
Main bedroom has two opening windows with hidden ambient LED lighting to curtain pelmets and sliding door entry. Two small built-in wardrobe cupboards each: 1 x 1 m fitted hanging racks. Central brass ceiling triple globe light with fan, all on dimmer. Electrical socket outlets. Fitted wool carpets. Door leading to en-suite and 2nd walk-in robe, fully built-in vanity unit with two ceramic basins, marble tops, mirrored cabinet over with wall lighting each side. Fully tiled walls with decorative illuminated recesses for object d'art. Large shower cubicle with toughened glass screen and door, fully tiled with recesses for soaps etc, automatic extract fan. WC suite. Towel rails. Full height laundry cupboard. Floor; stone tiled, with electrical underfloor heating. Cedar window to one wall, opening with white shutters. Electrical switch outlets. Underfloor heating controller. Door to walk-in robe size: ....... High level cedar glazed window to one wall, fitted full height shoe and handbag sliding shelf unit. Multiple hanging space at varying levels to remaining walls. Twin automatic strip lights. Polished hardwood floor. On upper AC zone.
Second Bedroom.
Size: ..........
Window on one wall with opening glazed door full insect screen and curtain pelmet. Access to first floor veranda. Two wall recessed wardrobes Central light fitting on plaster rose with fan and dimmer controller. Electrical socket outlets. Fitted wool carpet. On upper AC zone.
Third Bedroom.
Size:
Window on one wall with opening glazed door and full insect screen. Access to first floor veranda. Wall recessed wardrobe Central light fitting on plaster rose with fan and dimmer controller. Electrical socket outlets, fitted wool carpet. On upper AC zone. Sliding door leading to:
En-suite
Built-in vanity unit with ceramic basin and illuminated mirror over. Full height window to one wall with white shutter, full height shelved cabinet with door. Tiled floor, half tiled walls fully tiled shower enclosure with toughened glass screens and door. Built-in bath with Jacuzzi, window over bath with white shutter. Extract fan. Electrical socket outlets. Ceiling light. Fully flush WC suite. Off the en-suite is a large walk-through cupboard (to bedroom three) with shelves and ceiling light.
House Construction:
Foundations; Brick piers
Floors: hardwood joists laid over with hardwood floorboards.
Walls: hardwood plates and verticals, plaster board to internal faces, First growth hardwood ship-lap boards to external faces. Some walls have thermal insulation added.
Roof: hardwood joists and beams supporting hardwood purlins, supporting colour-bond corrugated galvanised steel roofing sheets.100mm thermal insulation laid on ceiling boards.
Ground floor verandas: hardwood plank flooring on hardwood joists.
First floor verandas; painted treated pine floor planks on treated painted pine joists.
Veranda columns; hardwood posts.
Veranda roof joists: painted treated pine.
Note; On renovation works cement fibre boards have been detected behind plaster boards.
Roof construction would be deemed to be compliant with cyclone resisting construction rules with internal strapping/studding identified descending to ground floor wall plates.
Termite detection traps are sited around house perimeter. Also chemical barrier treatment laid 2023 (good for 5 years).
Professional carpenter comment is that house timber is 'Stringy bark'.
Air conditioning:
Main AC unit: Daikin manufacture installation 2004, 10 KW output, R134a refrigerant heat pump reverse cycle allowing heating or cooling. Main fan coil unit is contained in roof void with two zones; upper and lower floors controlled by motorised zone dampers. Insulated flexible ducting. Wall mounted controller at landing level. Condense drain is led to upper roof gutter.
Dedicated AC units are provided to media room, outer kitchen and study. These are Daikin manufacture 2.5 KW to 3.5 KW containing R134a refrigerant and each has local controllers. Condense drains are led to external soak-way's. These units date from 2016. All are reverse cycle types.
Condensers: All condensers are mounted at low level on rear external wall, the main unit and two of the smaller units has a dedicated protective roof.
Note; wall mounted internal units have removable cleanable air filters. The main unit return air filter is set in the upper floor landing ceiling and is hinged /removable for (vacuum) cleaning.
Water piping: All internal water piping is of copper material.
External water piping is composite polythene, renewed from meter to house (200m x 25mm) in 2014 with new isolating stopcock local to house.
Sewer and waste pipes are all plastic, leading to buried septic tank located at rear of property. (Tanker access). Soak away renewed in 2022
Kitchen waste drain (leading to dedicated soakaway) has an accessible grease trap. (Tanker access). Soak away renewed in 2018
All other grey drains are led to dedicated to a soakaway at rear of house. Renewed 2015.
A TV aerial is fitted to main house roof.
A 'whirlybird' roof ventilator is fitted to main roof 2020.
Garden irrigation: A commercial Grundfos multi-stage centrifugal pump (6 l/s) with isolating valves and local three phase electrical isolator and hydraulic accumulator is contained in a purpose-built enclosure local to the lake. Commercial heavy duty farm quality polyethene pipes lead to various stopcock distribution manifolds around the garden, each serving a range of stand-pipe sprinklers. In addition, several auto reel hose reels are sited around the garden to facilitate hand watering. Main's water is led to the shade shed. A float and strainer foot valve float in the lake preventing back flow and touching the bottom. Remote stop/start switch conveniently located in barn.
Garage: 6 x 9m colour bond steel sides and insulated roof, 150 mm concrete base, window, two roller doors, one electric. One access door. Fully lit throughout with hardwood shelving to one complete side and benching to the other. Multiple power outlets. 7 fluorescent lights. Male and female toilets incorporated within. Yard light and infra-red security light.
Barn: 14 x 14m hardwood framing and floor joists on steel stumps, corrugated galvanised steel cladding and roof, hardwood plank floor, 4 windows two large doors, benching, three lighting circuits, power sockets. Three Phase supply.
Two single car garages with corrugated galvanised iron roofs and walls, hardwood framing, concrete floors, independent roller shutter doors and lighting, mains water tap adjacent.
7,5 m x 4.5 m trailer port all heavy gauge steel construction with colour bond roof 150 mm conc base.
The garage roof has 10 KW of mono-crystalline solar panels, local isolator and with dedicated Fronious invertor. Installed 2016.
The barn has 12 KW of mono-crystalline solar panels with local isolator and Fronious invertor. Installed 2019.
Land line telephone line to house.
Internet connection is good and fault free.
Mobile radio signal reception OK
Rates: As a guide the current rateable value payable annually is $

Water: As a guide the current annual water bill is $

Electricity: As a guide you can expect a small surplus resulting in credit returned each quarter. This is of course dependant on actual user lifestyle.














CAMELLIA HOUSE
This elegant double storied period property is evocative of colonial days with its period lacework filigree balustrading to the 8-foot-wide verandas on both levels presenting a wonderful ambiance to the whole and seamlessly dovetails into the surrounding terraces, making it a satisfying centerpiece to these beautifully landscaped mature botanical gardens.
Entry to the property is through two imposing rendered brick columns finial ball topped and integral post box. The estate enjoys concrete roads to the house providing durable low maintenance surfaces. Topiarized hedges line the drive with the adjacent beds well planted.
External to the house is a series of terraces in terracotta pavers with white stone steps and coping stones on differing levels interconnecting to the garden. Each terrace has raised beds and is well planted with a diverse selection of plants. Buried irrigation is provided throughout. The main terrace is graced with a sunken old stone surround with a cast iron fountain, in which tropical fish abound. Antique wrought iron gates lead to the in-ground salt-water pool and heated swim spa in a tiled surround with inset white stone edging. The swim spa seats 6. A safe walk-on cover is provided. The spa is surrounded by matching filigree balustrading. An unusual, latticed roof keeps leaves out but let's dappled light through. A climbing fig weaves its way skyward adding to shade potential. A period chandelier provide light at night. A spot-lit terracotta feature sits by the spa as a water feature. Established orchids and stag horns maintain home in the trees adjacent. Period garden lighting on separate switched circuits enhances and illuminates the terraces and gardens providing an enticing display to owners and arriving guests of an evening. An ancient Frangipani tree graces a side entrance be-smitten with epiphytes. The inviting ambiance begs entertaining on a grand scale.
Towering over the rear of the house is a magnificent 100-year-old Poinciana tree registered in the national tree register as (2022 currently) the largest in Australia, providing shade from the afternoon sun and a stunning foliage display in December, nestling at its base a 100-year-old European statue provides interest and contrast to the stunning roots of this grand old tree. The rear terrace, which is also illuminated, is surrounded by old camellias whose stunning blooms provide an extended flowering period. An antique French wash basin is used to house and display plants. A grand set of stone steps leads guests down into the main camellia gardens and the lake can be viewed from the rear terrace, providing a satisfying backdrop. Four small stone statues sited here represent the four seasons.
The grounds and gardens benefit from 4 generations of horticulturalists and enthusiastic garden specialists spanning over 100 years, resulting in a mature, balanced and well thought out layout of trees, lawns and garden beds bursting with beautiful specimen planting. Camellia House contains possibly the largest collection of camellias in Australia numbering over 750, (at last count!) this makes it an utterly unique and enviable property. All beds are edged in natural stone and heavily mulched, and of course fitted with zoned irrigation drawing water from the lake, allowing continued and inexpensive watering in times of low rainfall. Thousands upon thousands of dollars has been spent to fill these beds with quality plants providing massing, colour and scent all year round. All beds are serviced by wide paths with decorative blue stone surfaces. The lawns are Sir Walter Buffalo type giving extremely good drought resistance and all year colour coupled with a slow growing rate. There are a further two large lawns to the rear of the grounds.
The orchard contains a myriad range of interesting and quite rare fruits and nuts, too many to list, all providing impressive fruit crops, some having topiary shaping to add to visual interest.
Three grassed and fenced paddocks of approximately three acres provide all year-round grazing for 4 ponies or 2 horses. Shade exists in the form of liquid amber and pine trees, which also provide supplies of pine needle mulch for the camellias!
The lake, visible from the house, has been planted up with lilies, marginal and water grasses and trees around the perimeter and includes an enchanting rock stream running into it via waterfalls; by clever connection the waterfall can be made to run at will. A deep bore utilizing solar power is fed to this stream providing top up water to the dam whilst providing the impression of a running creek. The lake is home to numerous native species including ducks, water dragons, and turtles. 4 species of fish inhabit the lake. Of course, there is a duck house! A nautical themed jetty allows lakeside seating and moors a small rowing boat. Decorative bridges provide more interest. Adjacent the lake lies a large-scale chess set layout to test one's gaming skills! 'Playing card' steps led away to a further hidden garden containing a sweet, unusual pergola seat and stone statue.
Substantial buildings are included on the estate and comprise:
A huge heritage barn (approx. 15mx15m) (used annually for the local barn dance!) framed and floored in hardwood, steel stumped, 3 phase power and several arrangements of feature lighting are provided to make any function memorable. A stable adjacent is used to service the barn functions when not occupied with horses or cars. This too is provided with concrete floors is lit and provided with town water and power. Large mulching concrete bunkers are installed at the rear of the barn. The stables are fitted with two roller shutter doors. It also does duty as a two-car garage.
A 9 metre x 6 metre colour-bond shed fitted out with hardwood shelving to two sides, substantial benching, multiple power outlets, general and task lighting. Power roller shutter provides easy access. A separate entrance door gives access to the shed and also a male and female toilet complex, adequate for disabled access. The female contains WC and vanity with basin, the male; WC, urinal, and basin, all tiled, useful for when opening the gardens to the public or entertaining in the barn.
A professional shade shed 5m x 3m cedar shiplap fronted with porch, piped water supply and substantial metal benching, allows one to continue the horticultural heritage. A further car or trailer port is adjacent the garage.
A large range of garden equipment is on offer with the property and comprises:
16 Hp diesel Kubota tractor with 3 point fixing PTO and lawn tyres and 4 in 1 bucket, 1cubic metre HD trailer, 21 Hp Kubota ride-on mower, 13 Hp garden run-around tractor with purpose made trailer, towed weed sprayer outfit with 100 litre tank, retracting hose and pump. Additional trailer for the ride on mower.
Stihl chainsaw, Stihl pole saw, Stihl pole hedge trimmer, hedge trimmer, lawn edger, and whipper-snipper all self-powered.
The grounds are not labour intensive and can easily be maintained by part time gardening.
A large septic tank takes house sewage with the soak-away replaced in 2022. Soakaways to rear laundry and also kitchen were all replaced in 2017. A huge solar panel array on the barn and garage roofs provides 22 KW of solar power virtually eliminating your electricity power bills, whilst not ruining the aesthetics of the main house roof and no annoying hum of the invertor in the house! Dual circuits allow redundancy in case of one circuit failure. Fronius invertors (the best).
The incoming mains electrical service is fitted with replaceable circuit protection against lightning strike, protecting house devices from electrical spike overload in case of lightning strike.
Smoke alarms. The house is fitted with AS 3786-2014 compliant alarms with 10-year batteries and wireless connectivity NFPA 72 compliant.
The house roof colourbond sheeting was replaced in 2022 and the roof thermally insulated with 100mm 'Earth-wool' inert insulation.

Camellia House offers several types of buyers the exceptional qualities they are looking for: (subject to DPA).
The entertainer, giving the owner opportunity to show case this property at night with extensive external illumination, verandas and terraces for guests to wander and seating opportunities galore. Parking for 20 plus, A huge heritage barn offering barn dances, dinners, BBQ's, dance and social gathering for up to 100 people. Pool or spa parties? Bring it on! The limit is really your imagination!
For the shop owner, opportunity to keep their own stocks safe and free of charge in the large outbuildings. Take advantage of bulk buying. Large vehicle deliveries OK.
For the leisure services provision entrepreneur, huge space to assemble one's clientele with local toilet facilities. Exclusive weddings (this was an event wedding Centre once) Gym, Art, dance tuition, exercise, kids, even café and restaurant, you name it, it can handle it!
For the small constructor, a huge lockable construction space with three phase power and huge entrance roller shutter and all the requirements a small manufacturing business requires, divorced from the house. Plus, secure covered space for raw materials. Distanced from neighbours so noise is not an issue. Toilets contained within.
For the wedding venue provider; this property once enjoyed a steady stream of people getting married and wanting the country ambience, it caters for up to 80 people sitting down to lunch. Male and female conveniences are provided adjacent the barn. Part time business?
Huge surfaced and illuminated car park accepting up to 20 cars and provision for many more within the estate. The estate roads can accept large commercial vehicles.
What of its surroundings and neighbor's? Camellia House is mainly surrounded by a fruit farm which results in little agricultural noise or disturbance and having a steel colour bond fence in the car park to limit visual intrusion. (No animal herds mean no flies), Good distance views offer 'borrowed landscapes', verdant lush green tree laden landscapes. Whilst we have neighbors, you will rarely see or hear them! Current neighbours are quiet folk.
The wildlife here, partly due to its isolation, is exceptional, the lake being home to fish, frogs, ducks, water dragons, turtles, monitor lizards and, quite often Cormorants and Herons and sweetly, a resident Azure kingfisher - such a rare treat.
Elsewhere be prepared for Iguanas and Goannas, Wallaby, Hare and Turkey bird. Bird life is quite spectacular with over 30 species having been recorded and almost daily visitors of lorikeets, king parrots and four species of finches. We even once had an eagle! We are blessed with having a colony of long yellow tailed Cockatoos in the nearby pine forest who fly over most evening with their haunting call.
Is it isolated? not on your life! The train service to Brisbane is 7 minutes away and free parking! Journeys to the city take an hour. Nambour shopping Centre is 15 minutes away, Maroochydore 20 minutes, all the major stores and conveniences are provided, Palmwood's, of course, has its local shops (5 minutes). Nambour has a large hospital and Kawana (25 mins away) has a brand-new public and private hospital complex. Nearby Mapleton Malaney and Montville provide lovely destinations for coffee and lunch, not to mention the sweeping Blackall range to explore, all the way to Esk and beyond. Maroochydore offers evening eateries galore. Good schools all abound. Don't even mention the Sunshine Coast beaches! Noosa? Caloundra, Mooloolaba? Sheer heaven!
Isn't 5.5 acres hard to maintain I hear you murmur? Not at all, it's been maintained by the owners themselves alone for years! (In their 70s) You see all the hard work has been done, the design and layout aid easy-care low maintenance. Periodic path blowing and lawn mowing will be the hardest tasks. Irrigation? Not a problem, it has an extensive range of buried irrigation served by a commercial sized pump drawing water from your own lake, so no water shortages there then! A deep bore powered by solar provides top up and at the same time provides a 'babbling brook' for your pleasure. The three paddocks will accommodate a range of many animals, it once was home to six miniature ponies, a current double car garage can be reconverted back into a stable with the addition of straw! Maybe consider some Agistment for income?
But, I hear you say, wouldn't all that equipment to manage it be expensive? Yes, it would, luckily, it's all provided, and comes with the property, saving thousands of dollars.
All we ask is you visit the website with the drone video so you can see for yourself every detail of the splendor and beauty of this exceptional property, but hurry, places like this don't last long on the market. Properties like this are only getting rarer, they can only go up as they become more sought after. A solid investment for the future.
Offers in excess of $4.2 million, by tender.
Arrangements and appointments to visit and view house may be made by making an enquiry.

Disclaimer:

Whilst every care has been taken to verify the accuracy of the details in this advertisement, For Sale By Owner (forsalebyowner.com.au Pty Ltd) cannot guarantee its correctness. Prospective buyers or tenants need to take such action as is necessary, to satisfy themselves of any pertinent matters.