A unique and remarkable lifestyle beckons
Private from the outside world and only accessible by a short ferry trip, French Island is a unique and remarkable location. Originally a hunting ground for the Bunurong tribe, the island was settled by European farmers around 1850 exporting salt, chicory, seaweed, vegetables, meat and milk to the mainland.
A prison was opened in 1916, operating as a self-sustaining farm until it closed in 1975.
This pristine natural environment is now approximately 70% national park, incorporating wetlands, a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna as well as a marine park along the northern shore.
The remainder of the island is privately owned by a tight knit community, dedicated to the well being and preservation of the environment. Properties are rarely offered for sale so this 100 acre holding known as ‘Eleanor Estate’ is an exciting prospect for the buyer seeking an extraordinary lifestyle opportunity.
As unique and remarkable as the landscape, the bespoke two level farmhouse blends harmoniously within its setting, ideally positioned on the property to capture the glorious vista of Dragon Bay and the surrounding farmland. Reclaimed materials give the interior a time worn ambience although the residence is just five years old. Recycled bricks, salvaged timbers and gorgeous 100 year old leadlight windows add character and a sense of history. There are three bedrooms, including the main bedroom with a generous walk-in robe, one bathroom with the connections in place for an ensuite, stunning provincial style kitchen, dining area and cosy living room. Multiple sets of French doors connect the interior to the outside, including the three bedrooms on the second level to a large wrap around balcony. Country profile cabinetry, stone work surfaces, period style hardware and a double apron front ceramic sink give the kitchen its old world ambience. Quality appliances, comprising a 900mm cooker with canopy rangehood and a Bosch dishwasher, are modern conveniences for the home chef.
The bathroom continues the traditional theme with a decorative timber vanity, claw foot bath with overhead shower and period style floor tiles.
Two Fujitsu reverse cycle air conditioners and a slow combustion wood fire maintain climate control. A stand alone 5kw solar panel system with a 48 volt battery storage unit ensures a reliable off-grid power supply, backed up with a 7.5kva diesel generator. Water is supplied by a 110,000 litre rainwater storage tank.
With no utilities costs, council or water rates, ongoing expenses are minimal. Additional improvements include four large sheds and space for an expansive vegetable garden. The fertile acreage has been meticulously maintained, free of super phosphates and chemicals and currently has a variety of livestock as well as a home to native wildlife and rare plants. To add further appeal, the property is also offering the well established business, ‘French Island Glamping’ a highly commended accommodation experience. Five luxury bell tents, (with an existing permit for seven) are beautifully furnished with queen size beds, quality linen and a pot belly stove. There is also a fully equipped communal kitchen, two ensuites, separate barbeques and a fire pit. French Island has a general store, post office, primary school, hall and sports ground and is accessed by a passenger ferry from Stony Point or by car barge from Corinella.
For an extraordinary self sufficient lifestyle with the opportunity to continue and expand a successful business, number 59 Barge Access Road, French Island truly unique. Additional information may be obtained from the marketing agent Jackie Shearer of Elders Real Estate Yarragon on 5644 3230 or 0437 966 769.
Price on enquiry.
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