The father of Oscar Piastri has bought up in Lysterfield Formula One ace Oscar Piastri’s father Chris has been revealed as the buyer of a glamorous Lysterfield mansion that sold for $3.8m who helped steer Oscar’s career from a Melbourne go-karting prodigy to global motorsport star purchased the award-winning home late last year He also co-founded a company specialising in automotive tuning software and hardware RELATED: Inside Lewis Hamilton’s secret $250m empire Woolworths selling abandoned Victorian house behind rival after neighbours complain Cannabis mogul lists unused mega-mansion for $47m Chris won the 2024 Pearcey Victorian Entrepreneur Award presented by the Pearcey Foundation that’s dedicated to raising the profile of the Australian IT and telecommunications industry The award recognises an individual who makes a difference and inspires others in the industry Following in the footsteps of his car-loving dad has gone on to become one of Australia’s most exciting Formula One talents Australian F1 driver Oscar Piastri and his father Chris After winning three consecutive junior titles — the Formula Renault Eurocup and FIA Formula 2 Championships from 2019 to 2021 — he was signed as a reserve driver for Alpine before making headlines with his high-profile move to McLaren in 2023 he stunned the grid by finishing on the podium twice clinching second at the Japanese Grand Prix and third in Qatar — where he also won the Sprint Race making him the first rookie to do so since 2016 The grand living and kitchen area in the Piastri property Chris’s Lysterfield property was designed by Louis Chiodo Architects a Housing Industry Association award-winning studio that’s based in Collingwood Set on a landscaped block in the Carrington estate the residence features a 14m-long travertine-lined pool and spa sauna and steam room and an entertainer’s wet bar with stacker windows opening to a luxe alfresco lounge There’s also a five-car basement garage with a gym space and wine cellar — well suited to a family immersed in the world of high performance The petrolhead-fanatic family will have room for a vehicle or two in the big garage Italian marble and a triple-shower ensuite with a dressing room deliver serious wow-factor guest suite and a designer kitchen with Miele appliances and butler’s pantry Barry Plant Rowville director Chad Warden declined to comment on the buyer but public records show Chris is the owner Mr Warden said demand in the Carrington estate remained exceptionally strong Drivers arrive at Melbourne Walk for the fans McLaren driver Oscar Piastri poses with the crowd of supporters Oscar Piastri in action during the 2025 Australian Grand Prix “All homes are selling at the moment — especially in Carrington,” Mr Warden said and everything that’s been listed there has sold.” drawn to the privacy and lifestyle on offer “There are only about 17 to 20 sales a year here,” he said “That sense of exclusivity is a big part of what makes it so desirable.” Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: Extra $7k that’ll come as rude shock to Melb buyers An extra $50 scores Cheltenham home at auction Three first-timers compete for Bentleigh apartment third parties have written and supplied the content and we are not responsible for it completeness or reliability of the information nor do we accept any liability or responsibility arising in any way from omissions or errors contained in the content We do not recommend sponsored lenders or loan products and we cannot introduce you to sponsored lenders We strongly recommend that you obtain independent advice before you act on the content realestate.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd. By accessing or using our platform, you agree to our Terms of Use. Looking for a new fitness challenge to conquer Trail running is a great way to improve your fitness and try something different to running on city streets The main difference with trail running is the surface you're running on The surface isn't always even so you need to think about where you place your feet.  Melbourne’s extensive network of Urban parks offer a variety of trail running opportunities for all ages, fitness levels and abilities. Get into nature with a picturesque jog or power walk along the Yarra River and into Yarra Bend Park where in some areas you can also run your dog on a lead.  A great place to start is the lake circuit at Albert Park. Beat your personal best with laps around the lake – a convenient way to keep fit in nature. The 4.7km loop is a good stable running surface with a flat gradient. For those you like running with other people, Albert Park is the most popular parkrun parkruns are held at a number of parks managed by Parks Victoria and other locations across the world Forest runs and the lake circuit trail at Lysterfield Park are popular trails for runners of all abilities.  For a more challenging rocky ascent the Granite Peak Trail summit at Trig Point affords a spectacular view of Melbourne.The Granite Peak Trail is a rigorous 6km (each way) trail that starts at Beach Carpark at Lysterfield Lake and follows the old granite quarry tramline route climbing 200m uphill through native forest to Trig Point Lookout At the top you’re rewarded with 360-degree views of the city Port Phillip Bay and Dandenong Ranges making all that hard work worthwhile Enjoy breathtaking views from the summit over granite rock platforms of Melbourne and across the bay and subscribe to receive the latest nature inspiration and news straight to your inbox Victoria’s networks of parks and reserves form the core of Aboriginal cultural landscapes Parks Victoria acknowledges the continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these landscapes and recognises their ongoing role in caring for Country on which we learn Melbourne Edelweiss Choir hosted a vibrant Australia Day celebration at Lysterfield Park drawing hundreds of community members to share in the festivities Themed “We Are Also in the Australian Story” the event celebrated the spirit of togetherness This marked the Choir’s fifth Australia Day event supported by funding from the Australian government With the Chinese Spring Festival just around the corner embraced the festive atmosphere to create an inclusive celebration The celebration featured a dynamic mix of cultural performances and interactive games The Melbourne Edelweiss Choir moved the audience with a heartfelt performance of “Edelweiss” The White Horse Dance Group performed their dance “Ascending the Spring Mountain” and presented a sign language performance of “A Grateful Heart” The Choir’s group dance “Sleepless Tonight” added an extra spark to the day Guests also enjoyed a variety of interactive games The grand finale united everyone in a lively group dance to “Waltzing Matilda” A significant challenge this year was the tight timeline to secure a permit compounded by ongoing bushfire emergencies the Victoria Park staff worked tirelessly to expedite the process ensuring the event could proceed as planned @media print{.css-1k371a6{position:absolute!important;}}@media print{.css-1k371a6{position:absolute!important;}}House on the HillThis large sprawling and sloping site Designed for a couple with two young children it was the site’s irregular-shape and aspect that provided the starting point for this large home of approximately 480sqm Enclave internal.jpg This large sprawling and sloping site, with unimpeded views of Lysterfield Park, was ripe for a brand-new house. Designed for a couple with two young children, it was the site’s irregular-shape and aspect that provided the starting point for this large home of approximately 480sqm. Initially presented with a basic rudimentary floor plan by the owners of what was required, the site demanded considerably more. “The initial plan that was shown to us didn’t really take in the aspect or the unique topography,” says Architect Madhusha Wijesiri, one of three Directors of Enclave Architects, pointing out the views of both the valley directly ahead and the nature reserve behind. A couple of weeks later, the client was presented with not just schematics but a 3D model of what could be achieved by Enclave Architects. While the design certainly impressed the client, it was clear from the outset that the allocated budget couldn’t be aligned - well at least in the client’s mind given the monumental conception. However, while some architects work on the principle of ‘design then construct’, at Enclave Architects these two aspects are finely intermeshed from the outset of any project. When walls or skylights are designed, for example, the practice starts from the premise of knowing how to make these structural elements, as much as designing them. Constructed in aerated concrete panels and in concrete-rendered masonry, the multi-level house closely follows the contours of the land. Conceived as a series of interconnected pavilions that range from single to three-storey, there’s a sense of containment within each zone together with a clear delineation of spaces into both more public and private areas. Accessed via a gentle promenade of stairs flanked by garden beds, entry into the home is via a dramatic lobby with generous wall space to display art. Enclave Architects’ use of highlight celestial windows/skylights also adds a sense of drama to the home. With a clean and minimal palette of materials, including dark-stained timber floors, a reductionist approach to joinery and a number of angular walls, each space can be personalised by the clients. The kitchen, for example, with its stone bench and marble splashback, is framed by two-pack painted joinery that conceals the kitchen appliances. But there’s also an impressive walk-in pantry/butler’s kitchen that allows the kitchen to remain minimal rather than cluttered or strewn with dishes. Forming part of the open plan dining and living area, this wing is skewed in form to embrace the northern aspect as much as the views over the valley. This five-bedroom house, with its finely articulated windows and skylights, was conceived to allow each view to be slowly revealed rather than presented all at once. The House on the Hill is more than just a large modernist home that ignores its surrounds. It responds to both the impressive views as much as creating unique and highly bespoke spaces that allow the owners to enjoy the interior spaces as much as the garden. And rather than simply being a house of the moment, it is a place that will be pleasure for the owners for decades to come. “It’s not an overly fussy house or overly worked. But there is a sense of the hand crafted which is certainly what our practice is about,” says Wijesiri. Sign up to our newsletter for the latest industry news, products and inspiration. After extensive searching since late week a young woman from Pakenham named Peta has been found deceased The 28 year old was found passed away on Saturday 20 July and police are treating the death as non-suspicious Peta had been reported missing and was last seen at about 11pm on Wednesday 17 July in last seen in Eastbourne Crescent in Pakenham and it is understood she travelled to Lysterfield in the early hours of Thursday 18 July Police had located her vehicle and mobile phone in Lysterfield on that Thursday afternoon and appealed for public assistance as they continued to search the vicinity of Lysterfield Lake uniform officers and SES searched the surrounding area with assistance from marine units Police and family had concerns for Peta’s welfare due to her health conditions and the length of time she was missing and investigators had released an image of Peta in the hope that someone could assist finding her Police will now prepare report for the coroner There are many epic mountain biking trails right on Melbourne’s doorstep with options for beginners and adrenaline seekers alike boasts 24km of trails catering to all skill levels with flowing singletracks and no hardcore descents from family-friendly loops at Kurrajong Plantation to steep Advanced riders will love Arthurs Seat’s serious climbs Read on to learn more about five mountain biking areas close to Melbourne that guarantee an epic day of riding For more detailed information on each trail, check out Trailfork for maps and comments on each available track.  The You Yangs offers diverse mountain biking with 20km of trails at Kurrajong Plantation providing both family-friendly loops and endurance challenges For a tougher ride, the Stockyard’s area features steep, rocky descents and technical cross-country trails. Designed for sustainability, the park’s trails balance adventure with conservation, so stick to designated tracks to keep them open for all. The You Yangs Mountain Bike Club has maintained many of these trails since 2010 and is part of a passionate community of riders in this area Exhilarating views await you at the You Yangs It's always safest to ride with a friend managed by volunteers who also enjoy mountain biking Download the Lysterfield Park mountain bike fact sheet and trail map for more information Please note: Some areas will be closed for maintenance through to May 2025, so be sure to check the notices of each area for the best experience.  There's a ride for everyone at Lysterfield park Arthurs Seat State Park offers over 20km of mountain biking trails through peaceful bushland and rocky terrain Riders can start from three main trailheads: Seawinds Carpark on Purves Road Arthurs Seat Road Carpark for easy eastern trail access Trail information is available at each location, with facilities varying at each, so bring your own water where needed. The Red Hill Riders are the local mountain biking group in this area and are passionate about everything biking.  The Arthurs Seat State Park mountain bike fact sheet has more information Make sure you wear appropriate safety gear when riding Teams work hard to ensure trails are maintained for the best experience The Silvan area of Dandenong Ranges National Park offers 13km of dedicated mountain bike trails and a network of management tracks Managed by Parks Victoria with support from Yarra Ranges Mountain Bikers (YRMTB) the trails provide a mix of singletrack and scenic forest rides Riders can enjoy the trails solo or with friends and those interested in trail building or maintenance can volunteer with YRMTB Download the Dandenong Ranges mountain bike fact sheet for detailed trail maps and more information Shepherds Track at Kinglake National Park has an extremely difficult double black diamond rating,  perfect for experienced thrill-seekers craving steep descents this intense ride at Bowden Spur area demands a full-suspension downhill or enduro bike it remains one of Melbourne’s most extreme mountain biking experiences For more detailed information, check out our link to Bowden Spur Mountain Bike Area You'll need some heavy-duty suspension on these roads and should only be done with full protective equipment as rain or maintenance work can affect safety and rideability Ride with a mate for extra support and stick to trails that match your skill level to ensure a fun and safe adventure where we are privileged to live and operate with plans to bulldoze and rebuildAlesha Capone proved popular with buyers at a Saturday auction A Lysterfield property home to two dilapidated dwellings sold for an impressive $320,000 above expectations on Saturday Ten bidders registered for the auction of the 3ha address at 11 Cornish Rd, in Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs Previously used as short-term rental accommodation three-bedroom house and a combined horse stable and residence including a loft studio equestrian arena and feed and storage room RELATED: Lysterfield entertainer hits the market for the first time in more than two decades Forest Hill: home seller advertises reserve in move that gets six bidders, $100k premium Family sell Fawkner house after more than six decades, buyer faints in shock A partially-built infinity pool shell has also been installed on the land Barry Plant Wantirna director Daniel Cripps said the property It was listed with a $1.5m-$1.65m asking range “We had 120 groups through during the campaign which turned out to be about 200-and-something people as most came in groups of two or more,” Mr Cripps said He described the property as “dilapidated with incredible opportunity” Although 10 bidders registered for the auction only three buyers had the chance to take part Mr Cripps said the opening $1.6m bid was “very close to the reserve” The Lysterfield property has two residences The combined residence and stables has a rustic charm while the ground floor includes a bathroom a feed and storage room and an arena suited to dressage Two bidders ended the auction in the fierce competition with each other six figures above the advertised range’s upper end “The buyers plan to rent out it for a couple of years then bulldoze and build their dream home,” Mr Cripps said “They loved the outlook from the main house at the top of the block the incredible views over Lysterfield Valley.” Between 80 to 100 people watched the auction plus an open-plan living and dining area lit by plenty of sunshine Also on Saturday, a Cape Cod-style house at 4 Wendy St, Forest Hill, sold for $1.405m under the hammer Ray White Mt Waverley’s Max Turner said two out of four registered bidders participated in the auction for the four-bedroom pad “This property has always captivated many passers-by with many locals knowing the family “The bidding started at $1.15m and then it jumped up quickly in front of a crowd of more than 100 people.” “After 25 years they are moving to the country and a young couple are moving in,” Mr Turner said MORE: Thornbury: Family won over by house less than 300m from the world’s coolest street Netwealth billionaire Matthew Heine behind super fast $20m McGann, McConnell Toorak sale Australian rental crisis: 22 Aussie areas where renters now have a lot more choice | PropTrack Rising from the southern foothills of the Dandenong Ranges Lysterfield Park is the perfect place to explore nature with friends with a huge variety of recreational activities Spot kangaroos while walking or jogging the 6km Lake Circuit Trail ride 24km of mountain bike trails or relax at the lakeside picnic areas Lysterfield Park is a great place to get active while runners love the network of gravel bush tracks It is also home to one of Australia's busiest mountain biking trail networks – including the State Mountain Bike Course which was a venue at the 2006 Commonwealth Games easy green trails and action packed black diamond trails for experienced riders Lysterfield is a great place to see kangaroos and wallabies in the wild close to Melbourne so please ensure you leave your dog at home and don't disturb the local wildlife The kangaroos and wallabies are most active during the mornings and evenings Walk or jog the Lake Circuit Trail to catch a glimpse As rivers, lakes and reservoirs are natural environments, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at Lysterfield Park is a safe and enjoyable one Follow Ranger Sandie as she uncovers the rich history of Lysterfield Park and describes what makes this a special place for her Download the Lysterfield Park visitor guide for more information about the park and the plethora of experiences to be had within its borders.  Please note: dogs are not allowed in Lysterfield Park.  After the increased rain of winter and early spring the mountain bike trails of Lysterfield are at their best. Explore the network of trails within Lysterfield Park spring wildflowers bloom and joeys are ample among the kangaroos Planning a trip to Lysterfield Park over the summer Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited Sign up to receive the latest inspiration, information and news delivered right to your inbox. Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates. We aim to ensure that our valued parks, and the natural assets and cultural heritage they hold, can be enjoyed now and by future generations. The Western Port and South-east Melbourne Conservation Action Plan provides directions for environmental conservation management across the diverse landscape, including Lysterfield Park. This covers the varied ecosystems across the area which range from heathlands to woodlands, wetlands and other marine environments. Connect with us, and subscribe to receive the latest nature inspiration and news straight to your inbox. Victoria’s networks of parks and reserves form the core of Aboriginal cultural landscapes. Parks Victoria acknowledges the continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these landscapes and recognises their ongoing role in caring for Country on which we learn, explore and live. Parks Victoria Information Centre. Phone 13 1963 © Parks Victoria Police are appealing for public assistance as they continue to search the vicinity of Lysterfield Lake for missing woman Peta. The 28-year-old Pakenham woman was last seen on Eastbourne Crescent about 11pm on Wednesday, 17 July. It is understood she headed to Lysterfield in the early hours of Thursday, 18 July. Police located her vehicle and mobile phone in Lysterfield yesterday afternoon. Mounted Branch, the Dog Squad and uniform officers are currently searching the surrounding area with assistance from marine units, Search and Rescue and the Air Wing. Police and family have concerns for Peta's welfare due to her health conditions and the length of time she has been missing. Investigators have released an image of Peta in the hope that someone recognises her and can provide information on her whereabouts. She is descried as being of medium build with long dark brown hair. Anyone who sights Peta is urged to contact Triple Zero (000) Anyone with information that may assist police is urged to contact Pakenham Police Station on (03) 5945 2500. After extensive searching since late week a young woman from Pakenham named Peta has been found deceased. The 28-year-old’s body was found on Saturday 20 July and police are treating the death as non-suspicious. Peta had been reported missing and was last seen at about 11pm on Wednesday 17 July in Eastbourne Crescent in Pakenham and it is understood she travelled to Lysterfield in the early hours of Thursday 18 July. Police had located her vehicle and mobile phone in Lysterfield on that Thursday afternoon and appealed for public assistance as they continued to search the vicinity of Lysterfield Lake. Mounted branch, the dog squad, uniform officers and SES searched the surrounding area with assistance from marine units, search and rescue and air wing. Police and family initially had concerns for Peta’s welfare due to her health conditions and the length of time she was missing. Police will now prepare report for the coroner. Three men from across the Outer East have been charged after drugs and guns were located at various properties. Croydon Divisional Response Unit, with assistance from Echo taskforce and Knox detectives, conducted simultaneous search warrants on Monday 5 August in Kilsyth, Croydon and Lysterfield. At about 5.45am, a 23-year-old man was arrested at a property located on Janette Maree Court in Kilsyth. He has been charged with driving related offences and has been bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 4 October. Police also executed a search warrant on Rosemary Avenue in Croydon Hills and allegedly located two sawn off shotguns and significant quantities of ammunition. A 27-year-old Croydon Hills man was arrested at Doncaster East and has been charged with firearm related offences. He has been remanded to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 9 August. During the third search warrant, officers allegedly located a large quantity of cocaine, steroids, prescription medication and a large amount of cash. A 21-year-old Lysterfield man was arrested at the scene and has been charged with drugs and proceeds related offences. He has been remanded to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 4 October. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au With just under a month left before fundraising closes on 30 June, the team behind Lysterfield’s Mother’s Day Classic are urging the community to continue their support for the cause. “Our event is a very popular one and it’s always one of the first to sell out in Australia,” event coordinator Carol Bosward said. “We used to go to the city event and it was just so overcrowded, so we thought, ‘we’ve got a beautiful lake right here, why don’t we register and see if we can get this event up and running.’ and we did. “The first year we had about 300 people, and this year we sold out and had to turn people away.” Since launching the Lysterfield event in 2012, Carol and co-organiser Sandra Rotunno, along with the support of their volunteers, have brought the community together to raise more than $220,000 for life saving breast cancer research, while the 1.6 million participants of Classics across the country have raised a cumulative $44 million. “We usually raise over $20,000 each year from the event, and last year it was over $30,000,” she added. “This year we have raised funds from registrations, a mini market day and a raffle, which alone raised over $3000. “But the total amount raised is out of our control, unfortunately. It’s up to the people that come along to the event to decide what they do with their fundraising.” When individuals and groups register for the Classic, they can continue to raise funds by sharing their fundraising page or holding events like morning teas and ticketed dinners. Breast cancer survivor and 2024 event ambassador Wasana Fernando, has been a prime example of the difference individuals can make when they come together for a cause, joining with 36 of her nearest and dearest to raise more than $5000 as Team Tiny. “The Mother’s Day Classic isn’t just a walk; it’s a beacon of hope, resilience, and unity in the fight against cancer. You’re making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals and families affected by this disease,” Wasana said. “That’s why I’m all in for the Mother’s Day Classic – because every person battling this beast deserves a champion in their corner.” One common thread tying these fundraising efforts together is the sense of community and support that they foster, bringing together survivors and loved ones to remember and celebrate the strength of those affected. “Myself and my girlfriend have both seen the devastating impacts of breast cancer on close friends and on people we have worked with over the years,” Carol said. “But we’ve also seen the difference these funds have made for people trying to survive breast cancer, and we want to make that same difference for those diagnosed with ovarian cancer. “For ovarian cancer, there are 1800 people diagnosed every year, but there are 1000 who don’t survive.” Currently, the average five year survival rate for ovarian cancer is just 49 per cent, with treatment, early detection, and preventative medical research advances having been limited. Meanwhile, support from fundraising achieved through the Mother’s Day Classic has contributed to the increase in the five-year survival rate for breast cancer from 84 per cent to 92 per cent since the Classic started in 1998. “Our funds have gone towards reducing the number of lives lost to breast cancer, due to improved treatments and early detection, and events like this also serve to raise awareness throughout the community. “Equally important is the opportunity the Classic provides for people to bond over their grief and their success stories. “The Mother’s Day Classic is also an opportunity for people who have loved ones going through breast or ovarian cancer to do something that they know can go towards making a difference.” Mother’s Day Classic fundraising is open until 30 June, and donations can be made directly through the https://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au. All proceeds from the Mother’s Day Classic will be donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) and the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), and to funding important research projects. To get involved as a volunteer or a sponsor, visit the Mother’s Day Classic Lysterfield Facebook page. Roads across the Yarra Ranges remain impacted by flooding, with closures still in place from Belgrave to Lilydale and Yellingbo. In the Dandenong Ranges, Station Street, near the McNicol intersection in Belgrave and Old Coach Road in Olinda are closed. Across the Yarra Valley and Upper Yarra, flooding has closed Victoria Road in Wandin North at Stringybark Creek, Tarrango Road in Yarra Junction, Coldstream West Road in Coldstream, River Street in Healesville, St Huberts Road in Yering, Macclesfield Road, at the intersection of Parslow Road, and the other end of Parslow Road Yellingbo. John Street in Lilydale at the Olinda Creek bridge near the Lilydale Marketplace remains flooded, while Victoria Road, near the Melbourne Gun Club is also closed. As at 4pm on Tuesday 16 July, Swansea Road between Cambridge Road in Montrose and Marne Road in Mount Evelyn remains underwater, with closures for both directions. Mountain Highway, between Mount Dandenong Tourist Road in Sassafras and Forest Road in The Basin was still closed because of multiple trees down blocking the road. Drivers are urged to seek an alternate route. Lysterfield Road, between Napoleon Road in Ferntree Gully and Wellington Road in Lysterfield remains closed in both directions. A detour down Kelletts Road has been established, with traffic signs in place. Melba Highway between Coldstream and Yarra Glen remained closed due to flooding, with commuters asked to detour via Healesville and to follow the directions of emergency services. The decision to refuse a proposal for landfill to be ‘dumped’ at a site in the Lysterfield Valley has been taken to VCAT. In October 2023, Yarra Ranges Council refused a permit or the use of land for fill disposal (innominate use), alter access to a road in Transport Zone 2, earthworks and associated vegetation removal at 465 Lysterfield Road, claiming the proposal does not ’adequately protect’ the receiving waterway, Monbulk Creek. It also posits the proposal is contrary to Clause 51.03, the purpose of the Green Wedge Zone, the Significant Landscape Overlay, the Land Subject to Inundation Overlay and the planning policy framework, and will result in the ’destruction of vegetation’ contrary to Clause 52.17, Clause 51.03, the Significant Landscape Overlay and the planning policy framework. The refusal document also claimed the propose did not ’recognise, protect and conserve green wedge land for its agricultural, environmental, historic, landscape, recreational and tourism opportunities’. The land, listed in the Victorian Heritage Database by National Trust, is owned by Salesian Society Inc, and is currently home to the Don Bosco Retreat Centre. Friends of Glenfern Green Wedge spokeswoman Johanna Selleck said people were “shocked“ the works would be so visible from their houses in Upwey and surrounds. “It’ll be highly visible from all the surrounding viewpoints and roads,“ Ms Selleck said. Don Bosco Retreat Centre director Father Shane Reade said the plan is to build a scenic lake with a “few rocks“ on the site. “We’re going to roll the top soil back, fill the valley up with with the certified soil; It’ll be legally required and up to speed and then we just roll the top soil back across that, so it’ll be as it was except it’ll be a higher piece of land, it won’t be a valley so to speak,“ Fr Reade said. “It’s a good site, there’s a lot of people, a lot of schools lot of parishes, has a great reputation and people love its location so they won’t be doing anything turns of dismantling…we will try and do our best to make it renovated and up to speed and make it as attractive as we can.“ Fr Reade said there was “no intention“ of changing the landscape. “All we want to do is fill the valley up, roll the top soil over, have a little nice landscape lake or small lake, not a big one, just a small lake, and this does make a very artistic and also compatible and complementary to the landscape,“ he said. “The biggest hurdle is getting the permit and allaying the fears of the locals to say that we’re going to do a crazy job; we’re not doing a crazy job…[it] should be a very proud compliment to the area for what we’re doing.“ Fr Reade also said works would not take place near Monbulk Creek. “We’re aware of that and we’re working with the council to put in the new local natural trees along the creek… we understand there’s a platypus population and the first recorded platypus is from the Monbulk Creek; we know all that so we’re really respectful of that environment,“ he said. “It’s about trust really trusting us to comply with the standards and the agreements and what’s expected of us, it’s about trusting us to cooperate and we’re doing that very much. “There’s no capital gain at all from all this. It’s about offering our side for a continued meditation yoga group, and obviously we’re getting paid for the soil and that finance will be going back into renovating and keeping this place up to speed.“ An application to review Yarra Ranges Council’s decision was submitted to VCAT by ESG Lysterfield Pty Ltd in December 2023, arguing that the council’s grounds of refusal on the basis that the proposed ‘innominate’ clean fill disposal use is ‘refuse disposal, nested under industry and prohibited in the Green Wedge Zone’ was incorrect. “The proposed use of the land for land fill disposal is an innominate use and thus requires a permit under Section 2 of the Table of Uses to the Green Wedge Zone,” the applicant’s document read. “Even if it were to be defined as refuse disposal (which is disputed), the use is not prohibited but is a Section 2 Use in the Table of Uses to the Green Wedge Zone. According to the document, the land use of land for land fill disposal is “temporary” and will “not affect the on-going existing use of the land for a religious retreat and college”. “The proposal will not result in stormwater runoff impacts that are detrimental to the environmental values, biodiversity or amenity of the area,” the document said. “The proposal will not have a detrimental impact on the Monbulk Creek or any platypus population. “Dust, noise or odour arising from the Proposal (if any) will be managed via sustainable site management practices including a site management plan.” The application also said the proposal would not result in soil degredation, the contamination of the land or the introduction of weed species and would protect and conserve biodiversity values within the surrounds. It said the proposal would not have unacceptable traffic impacts on the surrounding area. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) An online petition of more than 1400 signatures is opposing a new application for a controversial proposed school near Lysterfield Lake Park PARED Victoria lodged a ministerial planning permit application on 15 December 2023 after two previous proposals for a new private boys’ school Lysterfield Lake College were declined by both Casey Council and VCAT which is proposed to be developed at 19-23 Horswood Road was rejected by VCAT due to the site’s unsuitability and incongruence with state and local planning policies intended to protect the Casey Foothills which is expected in the second half of 2024 and that “the school is working with the relevant areas of government to ensure the success of the application.” It noted that VCAT had stated the school is “beneficial in planning terms as it meets state policy seeking “a diversity of primary and secondary schools” – which receives in excess of 500,000 visitors and tourists annually – local opponents argue the school would result in visibly intrusive urban development near the park and a disregard for the rural expanse of green wedge land and its wildlife “It’s a shocking situation,” local resident and environmental advocate Karen Cavanagh said “The green wedge policies are just so weak there’s nothing stopping them from reapplying to expand the school because financially there are a certain number of students you need to make running a school financially viable “So it’s important that the school is refused now because once you’ve got a small school on the site Home to a plethora of wildlife in its natural habitat the proposed site is a “haven” for animals like the kangaroo and the endangered swift parrot along with seven other endangered species that rely on the park’s environment for survival “The land needs to remain undeveloped to serve as a buffer zone between the town and the park so it has always been the plan for the animals of the park to be able to overflow into pastures and properties surrounding the park.” Opponents have also raised concern about the school’s proposed “Kangaroo Management Plan.” the plan proposed the culling and relocation of the kangaroos from their natural habitat so my main concern is the kangaroos,” Sue Johnson of Sue’s Roo Kangaroo Rescue-Rehab-Release said “I rescue and release kangaroos into Lysterfield all the time so if this proposal goes ahead and then the proposed management plan goes ahead that means all kangaroos on that site will be killed “I understand it’s not their land – the national park is – but they’ve been grazing that land for years the kangaroos are free to go on that property and the next property and the next… but if that is blocked off for them then that will push them more onto Horswood Road.” This sentiment was echoed by the petition’s signers one of which noted in their comment that “humans do not have the right to interfere with the wildlife just because they are ‘in our way’.” “It’s so overdue for us to learn that without nature and healthy ecosystems we cannot exist,” they wrote locals also take issue with traffic implications With the school publicly advocating for parents to transport their children to school and with no viable connection to public transport available it would add to the traffic from private vehicles They say it goes against the Victorian Government strategy which promotes a reduction in vehicle emissions and a focus on accessible The potential influx of school-related traffic may disrupt park visitors and endanger wildlife the school’s presence is likely to worsen existing traffic congestion on a road that is already heavily congested and contribute to increased traffic volume on nearby arterial routes notably Belgrave-Hallam Road and Heatherton Road petitioners are also arguing that a school development on the site will mean significantly higher volumes of wastewater and stormwater flowing downhill from the site “The old Narre Warren North Township Strategy talks about making sure that land north of the township is not developed because the land is not capable of servicing septic systems,” said Ms Cavanagh “You’re talking about hilly land and granite boulders all around the ground The objectors are also concerned by the location of a school at the end of a dead-end road with only one entry and exit lane in a high-risk bushfire area which is at odds with both Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) policies and the 2009 Royal Commission recommendations It will also test Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny’s commitment to strengthening protections for green wedges going against one of the key Labor Party promises to hold strong on the Urban Growth Boundary and restricting growth beyond the boundary As the matter is currently before the Minister PARED stated it was “not appropriate” to provide further comment at this time A biochar facility commenced operations at Lysterfield Waste Transfer Site late-2023 The biochar produced will be available for sale to farmers Biochar is a form of charcoal for addition to soil providing many benefits including: By making biochar from woody waste and other plant material we are stabilising carbon that was absorbed from the atmosphere through photosynthesis when the plants were growing preventing it from re-entering the atmosphere as a greenhouse gas while improving the soil The process of plants capturing carbon during their growth and then locking the carbon up as biochar in soil can be used as a carbon draw-down mechanism to mitigate climate change Biochar at the Lysterfield facility is made from woody materials such as chipped prunings and fallen branches The process of turning woody materials into biochar is known as pyrolysis which has been traditionally used to make charcoal the organic material is heated in an oxygen-limited environment up to 500 °C This removes volatile gaseous and liquid components while stable carbon remains in form of biochar After a short initial heating period that requires external energy pyrolysis is a self-sustaining process that releases more energy as heat than it uses (exothermic reaction) Biochar is a carbon-rich solid made from organic waste such as tree prunings or agricultural waste are heated in an oxygen-limited environment at high temperatures Biochar can be used to enhance growing conditions for plants in poor soils by improving soil structure Council may use biochar for street tree plantings in poor and compacted roadside soils biochar can be used by farmers and gardeners to increase soil carbon and increase microbial life in soils with associated benefits for better plant growth and climate change mitigation There are numerous benefits in converting organic waste into biochar for use as a soil amendment.  Soil improvement - Biochar can improve poor and degraded soils with significant improvements to plant growth Carbon draw-down - Biochar made from woody waste and other plant material stabilises the carbon that the plants absorbed from the atmosphere through photosynthesis this stabilised carbon is locked up long-term preventing it from re-entering the atmosphere as a greenhouse gas as identified by the IPCC scientists in their recent report (IPCC report) Air-quality improvement- In plantation forestry large amounts of woody waste are regularly burnt off after thinning or harvesting trees By converting this waste material into biochar through controlled pyrolysis poor air quality caused by the smoke from open fires can be avoided and the contained carbon in the woody biomass can be retained as a valuable soil enhancer benefiting our environment Economic benefits - Biochar and other by-products of pyrolysis (i.e. Syngas or Wood Vinegar) are valuable products that can provide revenue from waste streams long-term sequestration of carbon as biochar in soils is recognised as a carbon offset mechanism and can be traded as carbon credits purchasable by public and private entities to offset greenhouse gas emissions.    Renewable energy - The pyrolysis of organic matter into biochar and its by-products is an exothermic reaction meaning that it produces usable excess heat the excess heat is used to dry the feedstock material to ensure a clean and efficient pyrolysis process in the first instance An excellent summary of further reaching benefits of biochar and future industry direction can be found in the ANZBI (Australian New Zealand Biochar Initiative) Roadmap Yarra Ranges Council is committed to implement innovative solutions that help mitigate and adapt to the negative impacts of climate change on our community and the pristine environment we all share Council’s Liveable Climate Plan and the accompanying Action Plan outline Council’s endorsed path towards net-zero emissions by 2040 A key action is the establishment of the Biochar Facility (Action 1.2 - Biomass Carbon Capture Facility) Taking woody material out of the waste stream and converting it to biochar not only prevents the carbon stored in the wood to be emitted as greenhouse gas but provides a mechanism to actively draw-down carbon from the atmosphere adding biochar to soils increases their water retention that can be used by plants during periods of drought horticulture and roadside plantings more drought resilient and ensure the long-term viability of agriculture in the Yarra Ranges and beyond It is expected that approximately 1000m3 of biochar can be produced each year This amount is enough to regenerate about 11 hectares (approx 6 MCG's) of degraded farmland with an average of 2% carbon content back to pre-colonialisation levels of 5% carbon content Emissions are extremely low and are within EPA guidelines there aren't any odours from the biochar facility The noise from plant and machinery is not noticeable outside the Waste Transfer Station Normal operating hours are from 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday The facility is not operational during the weekend Council reserves the right to allow weekend operation in accordance with the current permissible operating hours of the waste transfer station Approximately two truckloads per day are expected to bring woody material to the site we are fine-tuning the pyrolysis process and rely on tree maintenance operators to provide a consistent quality of chipped woody biomass in the future we plan to extend the biochar facility with a pyrolysis unit capable of converting unchipped woody material into biochar which will enable public drop-off of woody prunings This initiative was funded with $500,000 from the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund with Council matching this amount The Lysterfield Resource Recovery Centre (Waste Transfer Station) is strategically located at Wellington Road on the intersect between local government areas of Yarra Ranges Shire and in proximity of the Monash Freeway (M1) This ensures easy access for trucks to drop off feedstock without the need for detours which would cause more traffic and greater carbon emissions Biochar created at the Lysterfield facility can be purchased at the following places: Yarra Ranges residents are eligible for a discount on biochar purchases through the above sellers Please use the code ‘yarraranges’ at the checkout Always mix it with a nutrient-rich substance like compost You can combine and soak these together before application Yarra Valley ECOSS is trialling and developing the best methods for biochar application. For more information on how to use biochar visit: https://ecoss.org.au/nursery/ Yarra Valley ECOSS run regular biochar educational workshops for the public.  To check what workshops are currently being offered visit: https://ecoss.org.au/events/ For more information about the biochar facility please contact the Patricia Bozyk via 1300 368 333 or mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au Yarra Ranges resident can park for free with a permit - Apply Online ' + noBrDesc.replace(/(\r\n|\r|\n){2}((\r\n|\r|\n)+)?/g A potential landfill site in the Lysterfield Valley is being debated and local action groups and residents alike are rallying to stop it With a preliminary hearing set for 27 March at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) the hearing will determine whether a development application for the 400,000 cubic metres of clean fill to be deposited in the Lysterfield Valley is required and therefore President of the Friends of Glenfern Valley Bushland Group Jackson Ellis said “The clean fill proposal was originally refused by Yarra Ranges Council last October prompting the applicant to then put a submission into VCAT to have that case contested.” “We’ve been working really hard to put a case together to make sure that Lysterfield Valley is protected from these sorts of landfill sites and specifically this one being a fifteen hectare site.” “The fill is going to be a massive pile of dirt coming from unknown locations to within 200m of Monbulk Creek where our famous 24-year-old platypus was identified only earlier this year and we are really concerned that the sediment run-off from this development will impact those environments,” Mr Ellis said Save the Dandenongs League and the Green Wedge Coalition are just some of the groups that are banning together to object to the case “We are hoping that the tribunal will be able to define what types of permits are required for this type of development and if the applicant wishes to pursue those permits then we might be meeting them again in VCAT after they put those relevant applications into council.” “We hope that the planning office and the tribunal next week can take this in hand with our case and with future cases going forward to make sure that green wedge areas in peri-urban environments around melbourne are protected from these sorts of developments,” Mr Ellis said The Green Wedges and Agricultural Land Action Plan for 2024 stipulates that the Victoria Department of Planning and Transport will be imposing tougher trigger requirements for permits over green wedge land The fill that will be deposited at the proposed site is known as Clean Fill which is classified by the Environment Protection Authority as having a ‘limited or no amounts of dangerous contaminants,’ meaning it is intended to be a non-toxic component “We know from other cases and specifically in and around the infrastructure developments happening currently that there are high risks of contamination.” “The shame of it is that they have deep pockets and we are a bunch of volunteers who are putting up a really strong fight against this with community fundraising to support us,” Mr Ellis said The 400,000 cubic metres of fill will be delivered by over 50 trucks per day for the span of three years “There will be the pollution from trucks themselves as well as invasive species weeds and vermin which inhabit the site inevitably as a result of that again threatening the environment which includes Lysterfield Park on two sides of the site.” It may be time for Knox locals and visitors to retreat from a local retreat as plans are proposed to replace the haven with a landfill in the area A planning application that has been submitted to the Yarra Ranges Council which proposes the installation of a landfill at 465 Lysterfield Road which is currently the site of the Don Bosco Retreat Salesian Society Inc (who currently own the land) the landfill would be used for the disposal of fill including from state government projects and earthworks of approximately 400,000 bulk cubic metres (BCM) and associated vegetation removal at the site The project is proposed over a period of three years distributed across an area of approximately 15 hectares The site in question also has heritage value as the land forms part of the Auxilium College grounds Salesian Society Inc have identified that the two-storey college building was formerly a residence constructed in the 1880s and used as the college since the mid-1960s It is now used as a retreat centre for a school with no works proposed to the site or surrounding gardens The application suggests truck movements along Glenfern Road Benrock Park Drive and Lysterfield road are estimated to be 40-50 deliveries per day with no more than six deliveries per hour (12 vehicle movements per hour for entry and exit onto Lysterfield Road) and will operate for three years from 7am to 4pm Monday to Friday locals are concerned with the proposal saying there are several issues that need to be taken into consideration According to Friends of the Glenfern Green Wedge president Jo Selleck the proposal to dump 400,000 cubic metres of landfill from unknown sites across Melbourne into the Lysterfield Valley is contrary to the Green Wedge Zone (Schedule 6) “It is contrary to the Significant Landscape Overlay and Heritage Overlay and the site is registered by the National Trust as a Significant Landscape,” she said The site is said to have been the subject of VCAT case in 2018-2019 where VCAT decided against the developer and affirmed the landscape biodiversity and agricultural values of the site Ms Selleck said this proposal goes against this VCAT finding the member decided against having that land subdivided to protect the green wedge values – the environment “It’s inconsistent with the green wedge to not prioritise those values,” she said Ms Selleck said not only will the suggested landfill damage the beautiful landscape and biodiversity of the area it also poses risks to wildlife in the area “The land in question plays host to migratory birds called the Cattle Egret which are protected by federal law under the Environment Protection Biodiversity Act (EBPC Act) in an agreement with Japan and China “Flocks of them can be seen in that particular area “The landfill also poses risk to the Monbulk creek and some of the last remaining platypus in the Dandenong ranges “It will change the hydrology of the site and present increased risk due to the Land Subject to Inundation overlay,” she said Her hope is that the council “straight out refuse” this application and focus on protecting the landscape and biodiversity that remains in Knox Knox Environmental Society (KES) president Richard Faragher said this isn’t the purpose of land under the Green Wedge overlay “The land in question is right on the edge of residential land suburbs and we have seen the push to use these spaces for “better purpose” has become stronger and stronger He said environmental impacts are often not known until it happens until they then have to deal with the consequences KES are concerned there may be a repeat of what happened with waste from the West Gate Bridge in 2022 where the Victorian Ombudsman was said to criticise the Environmental Protection Authority over accusations of the toxic soil The planning application appears to show no reason as to why the applicant is seeking to install such a landfill on the site in question “We can’t really tell why the application has been submitted but it appears to be some kind of money making exercise “The retreat is pencilled in to be removed and the land to be subdivided and that is the question that locals deserve to have answered “There appears to be a drainage line on the site which is there for a reason and provides a direct line to water He said council should know that the land is an important area and reports saying there are still platypus in the area which could be impacted should the application be approved His recommendation is that the council doesn’t allow the landfill to be installed “This is not the idea for green wedge land to be a soil dump “It will create an eye-sore for a long time and we have no idea what the open space is supposed to be “The space is supposed to be a calming and relaxing corridor on the edge of the suburbs not something we can just develop or dump on “It’s meant to be an open space and conservation area for the Knox community,” he said Other concerns that have arisen from locals are the risks of noise which has allegedly been raised by Melbourne Water including large transport trucks negotiating the narrow winding road The application also describes some of the fill that will be taken to the site as ‘innominate’ which has sparked concerns among several locals Heritage and Significant Landscape Overlay Vegetation Protection overlay and Environmental overlays According to Ferntree Gully CFA’s Graham Crighton the best views of the land in question are at the top of Birdsland Reserve He said the installation of a landfill on the proposed site would remove the beautiful views that locals and visitors experience on the walk The application remains under review with the Yarra Ranges Council and locals can send in submissions before a final decision is released in the coming months Lysterfield Park is a great place to spend those long summer days Renowned as having one of the state’s best lakes to swim in the park is a favourite for families during the warmer months With two large picnic areas equipped with toilets it’s the perfect place to enjoy a snag or two in bread with family and friends after taking a dip The lake has two protected swimming bays with sandy shores gentle waters and a gradual increase in water depth kayaking or even try stand-up paddle boarding the lake is also a place for non-powered boating and sailing There’s boat trailer parking and a boat launching and rigging zones If you are venturing into the water take care – the lake is not patrolled by lifeguards and kids must be supervised at all times Even if you aren’t keen for a splash you’ll find plenty to do at Lysterfield Park It’s a great place to see kangaroos and wallabies and you may even spot a koala or an echidna The park is also home to some amazing birdlife check out the tracks and trails for walking and mountain biking It’s a popular trail as it’s pretty much flat offers scenic views and can be done in 1.5 hours If you are feeling a little more adventurous it’s worth tackling Granite Peak Trail The 6km trail takes you uphill to Trig Point where you can enjoy 360 degree views of Melbourne If you enjoy views then make sure you hang around until sunset as the lake is a stunning sight when the sun goes down It’s a great way to wind up a summer’s day You’ll find Lysterfield Park on Horswood Road (off Belgrave-Hallam Road) Fashion designer Bella Brown at her Lysterfield house which has a pool and separate guesthouse Fashion designer and nurse Bella Brown was drinking gin with her girlfriends while her house in Melbourne’s southeast went under the hammer on Saturday Ms Brown had plenty to celebrate when the house at 3 Hester Place, Lysterfield sold for a whopping $210,000 above her $2.2m reserve The pink-haired mother of three said she was “super excited” by the $2.41m sale result which occurred while she and her friends were inside the five-bedroom Carrington Estate house RELATED: ‘Bizarre’ marathon Lysterfield auction features 143 bids, multiple lucky ‘888’ offers Tuscany-inspired mansion with swim-up bar tipped to smash Lysterfield house price record Lysterfield record house price: Luxury pad set for benchmark Ms Brown served as project manager while the house was renovated seven years ago “It was a bit like being on The Block,” Ms Brown said The renovation included the kitchen and bathroom plus installing a gas log fireplace and wooden fans detailed cornices and sleek timber flooring underfoot The pool guesthouse gives visitors their own space The 2650sq m property also has an in-ground pool near a deck a fire pit and guesthouse with its own kitchen laundry and living areas “ideal for entertaining” said she was planning to focus on her Embracing Bella fashion label following the home’s sale Ms Brown donates 2 per cent of her revenue to White Ribbon She studied fashion at school but decided to become a nurse The kitchen has a marble-topped island and Caesarstone bench tops The main bathroom is fitted with a freestanding claw bathtub Ms Brown recalled nursing in Kenya during 2014 at a “hairy time” when suicide bomb attacks were common The next year she volunteered in Nepal following an earthquake and was in the country when a second quake hit Ms Brown put a halt to her fashion business when the Covid-19 pandemic hit and she worked in a hospital emergency ward Space for children or extended family to spend time Rene Mawad of Ray White Ferntree Gully said about 50 groups inspected Ms Brown’s house during a three week sales period with many families loving the land size and pool guesthouse Four bidders competed for the house during the auction “A young family from Oakleigh with one child and another on the way purchased the property,” Mr Mawad said The property was previously owned by a family originally from Echuca A firepit is another drawcard of the outdoor area where more than 100 guests have joined birthday celebrations at the house He said the leafy Carrington Estate was a popular area and viewed as “the bee’s knees” by many househunters Ms Brown said she was “very happy” with the sale “It’s nice to know kids will be growing up in the house again,” she added MORE: Historic pink Carlton building for sale for first time in 37 years with rooftop garden terrace Victoria’s top 50 real estate young guns Mornington Peninsula: House bought for $36,000 in 1980s sells for $4.55m in ‘ripper’ auction Lysterfield has been listed for the first time in nearly 15 years An entertainer’s dream home that hosted its vendors’ 180-person poolside wedding has hit the market in Lysterfield Kelli and Tommy Mcdonald bought the 16 Regency Tce pad in 2007 for $720,000 and have completed various renovations since the 2018sq m property has now been listed with a $1.99m-$2.189m price tag RELATED: Fashion designer’s Lysterfield house sells for $2.41m following ‘The Block’-like reno Berwick beauty that transformed into nightclub for 100 wedding guests looking for special someone Tuscany-inspired mansion with swim-up bar tipped to smash Lysterfield house price record The facade at the spacious 2018sq m property An entertainer’s dream: complete with a bar all of which can be packaged up with the sale Listing photos show the entertaining area decked out with an exposed brick bar complete with stools gas log fire and plenty of hanging sports memorabilia “Every guernsey means something,” said Ms Mcdonald “We’ve travelled the world and gone to a lot of different places and collected them … and some are AFL guernseys — I go for Essendon and my husband is Hawthorn.” Ms Mcdonald said she was happy for buyers to “package up” other pieces from the bar with the sale She said the home came with the bar when they first bought it which was originally sourced from a commercial bar in the Cranbourne area “Even the windows have things written on them from the bar a glamorous pool area that wouldn’t look out of place in a resort was the location of the couple’s 180-person wedding more than ten years ago we thought we’d spend (it) on the pool area,” Ms Mcdonald said “We’ve got gas heating in the pool as well so you can turn it up to spa temperature which is really nice … when we’ve had people over we turn it up and can swim in it under the stars.” The expansive property also features a large chook pen plenty of fruit trees and an organic vegetable garden out the back with listing photos showing numerous sports memorabilia hanging from the ceiling The spacious living area also features a gas log fire Ray White Ferntree Gully agent Jack Rickard said he had known the couple since they first moved in as he grew up in the house across the street He said it would likely suit a growing family due to its size or an entertainer who appreciates the amenities “It has had a reputation as the party house over the last 15 years,” he said Mr Rickard added that there weren’t many properties that came onto the market in Lysterfield as “people park their cash and stay there for a long time” The home is being auctioned at 5pm on Saturday Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: Heatherbrae: Original Caulfield mansion set for record price Canberra Hotel: Ballarat ‘slice of history’ up for grabs after $1m renovation Victorian house price record: First look inside $65m-$70m Toorak home is up for sale with impressive $5.5m-$6m price hopes This Lysterfield home was built to be the owners’ private “piece of paradise” about eight years ago Now the sprawling 5668sq m hideaway is priced to become the outer suburb’s most expensive residence The seven-bedroom house at 5 Carrington Court has been listed with a $5.5m-$6m price tag which would surpass the recent $5.63m record sale of 670 Wellington Rd CoreLogic record indicate the previous record holder was a $4.8m sale of a farm at 511 Belgrave-Hallam Rd in 2018 RELATED: ‘Fast and Furious’ and ‘Transformers’ star Tyrese Gibson lists entertainer’s dream home ‘Funky’ Point Leo pad for sale put together ‘like Lego’ Melbourne prestige property: Spike in sales at market’s top end following onset of Covid-19 The sweeping staircase is paired with porcelain flooring for a luxury feel There’s no shortage of entertaining space here Hoskins Donvale’s David Alvares said the expansive family pad was in the “prestigious” Montalto Estate where “big properties like this don’t come up very often” “It’s shrouded in privacy,” Mr Alvares said He said the vendors built the bespoke residence after struggling to find their dream home “They had looked for a lot of properties in Warrandyte and Park Orchards but they wanted something extremely luxurious with a view,” Mr Alvares added “They had a vision to build something outside of the box and this is their own piece of paradise It has absolutely stunning views overlooking the estate and the hills and it’s never going to be built out there.” Mr Alvares said the family was selling to downsize after their children moved out of home The listing boasts very high ceilings and 7.4m void towers in the grand foyer complete with gold-plated crystal chandeliers and porcelain flooring And a home cinema with plush red carpets and matching recliner seats paired with an impressive kitchen made the pad “an entertainer’s paradise” The home was built around a huge pool with six of the bedrooms enjoying access to its tropical garden surrounds Buyers from Queensland and locals who “knew the estate exceptionally well” were already circling the grand abode Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox READ MORE: Mark LoGiudice: Ex-Carlton president buys fire-damaged Preston bank French Bavarian home for sale in Donvale has ‘castle’ fireplace, conservatory and garden oasis Big sales amid record auction week in Melbourne is expected to set a new record price for the suburb Originally conceived as a slice of Tuscany on the outskirts of Melbourne a superb Lysterfield house has given new meaning to la dolce vita The sweet life at the remarkable residence at 4 Bergner Court covers cocktails at the swim-up bar visits from teppanyaki chefs to the outdoor kitchen and enough travertine paving to evoke comparisons to ancient Rome After buying the home almost two decades ago the owners set about a no-expense spared overhaul adding water features groves of trees and even bringing in the original architect to ensure a seamless expansion of the interiors RELATED: Lysterfield record house price: Luxury pad set for benchmark From ‘cow paddock’ to garden paradise: Coomboona’s Yackatoon Gardens blossoms Beautiful Beaumaris pad built 300m from the beach brings the outside in The result is expected to reset the local house price record by close to $3m It includes glass-capped pyramid roofs that soar above key living spaces inside and out and an avenue of liquidambars that provided the backdrop to the owners’ wedding vows as they tied the knot surrounded by their incredible labour of love Barry Plant’s Brenton Wilson said after selling the home to the current owners 18 years ago he barely recognised what now sits at the end of the home’s long Inspired by Tuscan estates in Italy the home was transformed after the Italian family who originally owned it moved on The home’s remarkable main living space is surrounded by stacker doors and capped with a glass-pyramid roof “The house doesn’t reveal itself until that last turn and then it’s just sitting there right in front of you and the only word you have is ‘wow’,” Mr Wilson said The original owners had links to Tuscany and built the home in the style of a grand estate in their homeland including a tennis court and a double-storey Tuscan-barn-style garage The current owners added the 25m pool and teppanyaki bar completely rebuilt the kitchen to 2.5 times its original size extended the home by adding a remarkable double-height living space with a glass-pyramid skylight above it and an impressive amount of stone flooring The outdoor entertainment space’s teppanyaki bar has been visited by teppanyaki chefs The sprawling estate offers a resort-style life in Melbourne’s south east “This might be the most extensive use of travertine paving outside of (ancient) Rome,” Mr Wilson said “They’ve also shown some really forward thinking and planted groves of liquid ambars and they are all uplit so at night not only is the house and the alfresco lit up — but the grounds are too.” Eight stacker doors open the home’s main living space up to the outside on three sides for an entertainment space that would “comfortably fit 300 guests” The home’s extensive tree groves are up-lit so that they can shine after dark as well as during the day The vendors were wed at the end of an avenue of liquidambars in the garden “But then you close all that up and you have a very very comfortable family living area,” he said Even surrounded by the home’s array of impressive outdoor spaces it’s a clear standout anchored by a kitchen replete with high-end appliances from Liebherr to Subzero sitting room and rumpus room across its ground level Upstairs five bedrooms each have a walk-in wardrobe and direct access to a bathroom or ensuite The spacious main bedroom features balcony spaces for fresh air The home has a double-storey Tuscan-style barn garage in the gardens “It has the wow factor and the resort-style entertaining but a family of four could live there quite comfortably and it is warm and inviting,” Mr Wilson said With an $8m-$8.5m asking price the home is poised to top a $5.63m house price record set for the suburb at 670 Wellington Rd in October last year by close to $3m Even the lavish bathrooms throughout the home have flourishes that set them apart The tennis court was part of the original home Mr Wilson said he was expecting inquiry to come from “anywhere” as people see the home who didn’t know what they have been looking for was in Lysterfield MORE: Joe and Renae Ingles score more than $8.9m for their Brighton house Shaun Atley: Retired Kangaroos defender lists in Moonee Ponds 147-year-old Italianate mansion built for Lord Mayor of Melbourne up for grabs 11 Sheldon Court, Lysterfield is now among the suburb’s most expensive sales LYSTERFIELD has added another whopping seven-figure sale to its belt after a jaw-dropping modern mansion changed hands Interest came from as far as South East Asia for 11 Sheldon Court, Lysterfield it was a buyer just a couple of suburbs away who splashed big bucks on the architect-designed home according to Barry Plant Rowville sales manager Anthony Johnson “We had interest coming from all over the place and even as far as Hong Kong,” Mr Johnson said modern style that you really don’t see all that often.” RELATED: Dandenong North joins Melbourne’s million-dollar belt Sea Lake house could be Australia’s cheapest at $19,000 The lavish lounge room at the front of the home including a coffee machine and plate warmer the home is supposedly inspired by the modernist movement of Hollywood Hills and is set against the hills of Lysterfield Mr Johnson explained that demand in Lysterfield was strong because it offered a point of difference “It’s probably one of only very few locations where you can buy lifestyle properties and not be too far from the city,” he said “If you go just one or two suburbs closer in you’ll get much less for the same amount of money “Buyers are taking advantage of the rise in house prices in neighbouring suburbs and are now able to consider lifestyle properties in Lysterfield.” RELATED: Victorian beach homes still a shore buy as markets show changing tides South Melbourne cottage with caved-in roof, rotten floors seeks a cashed-up buyer One of the outdoor areas is decked out with a suspended fireplace 11 is now the four most expensive sale in the suburb At the top of the list is 124 Kerrs Lane which sold for an eye-watering $3.75 million in October CoreLogic data showed Lysterfield’s median house price grew 11.8 per cent to $959,000 across the 12 months to December SUBURB PROFILE: Lysterfield multiple lucky ‘888’ offersAlesha Capone Lysterfield involved 143 bids on the weekend including many ending in “888” A “bizarre” auction involving a buyer’s advocate who only bid numbers ending in “888” concluded with the property selling $197,000 over reserve on Saturday EYS Auctions’ managing director Fabian Sanelli said the hour-long auction for 44 Heritage Way, Lysterfield featured “a whopping 143 bids” from three “very competitive” would-be purchasers Mr Sanelli said the buyer’s advocate submitted at least 15 bids finishing with “888” – “potentially trying to buy for a Chinese client and would have liked to secure a price with a lucky number” RELATED: House linked to Andre Agassi scores $1m over reserve at auction Craigieburn, Mornington hit records in concrete auction result Tuscany-inspired mansion with swim-up bar tipped to smash Lysterfield price record Tears flow after renovated Newport house sells more than $180,000 above reserve After the five-bedroom house was called on the market at $1.915m another bidder “refused to give me any other bid than $200,” Mr Sanelli said In another impressive result, a five-bedroom house at 15 Loch St, St Kilda West sold for $1m above its $6.75m reserve St Kilda West was hotly contested by bidders Marshall White Port Phillip director Oliver Bruce said the renovated home A four-bedroom house at 25 Glen Court, Glen Waverley also defied expectations after selling $430,000 over its $1.8m reserve Ray White Mount Waverley area manager Nicholas Richards said the property attracted five bidders including an Australian permanent resident who watched the auction online from China a couple from Victoria’s southeast claimed the keys the house is filled with contemporary artwork collected by vendor Caren Lubofsky Closer to the city, a 1910s era three-bedroom house at 6 Meryl St, Armadale passed in at auction but ended up selling for $3.961 Kaye & Burton partner Darren Lewenberg said this was above the $3.6m-$3.9m asking range Vendor Caren Lubofsky said she loved the home’s private car park entrance Victoria recorded an 83 per cent clearance rate from reported results last week A room at the Lysterfield abode is perfect for musicians – and Collingwood supporters There are 1486 homes scheduled to go under the hammer this week Real Estate Institute of Victoria president Adam Docking said the “craziness” the state’s market experienced 12-18 months ago “has passed” “I’m starting to see a cooling down back to normal levels more than everything selling hundreds of thousands over reserve,” he said MORE: Heritage-listed mansions in need of TLC for sale in Northcote, St Kilda Housing affordability a ‘crisis issue’ ahead of federal budget Nick Riewoldt lauds charity auction in potential March auction record week 11 Sheldon Court, Lysterfield,sold for $3.5 million with interest from interstate and international buyers PRESTIGE homes and serene surrounds have lifted Lysterfield into Melbourne’s million-dollar club outer-eastern suburb has joined the ranks of Melbourne’s million-dollar suburbs with a median of $1.05 million While locals upgrading into larger homes have mainly been behind this rise buyers from nearby suburbs and further out have also been snapping up the area’s million-dollar homes Strong demand coupled with traditionally tight supply has seen sales in Lysterfield surge this year The stunning design and lifestyle offerings of 11 Sheldon Court led to a strong sale MORE: Big payday for Nunawading reno Buyers get upper hand, vendors need to adjust Boutique living with Marilyn Monroe style there were 24 house sales of $1 million and above compared with 18 over the same period in 2017 “While the market peaked last year and has since tightened in the region we see prices have risen in Lysterfield,” Barry Plant Rowville agent Anthony Johnson said “We have also had several sales above $2 million and two in the $3.5 million range this year alone.” He noted that the higher end of the market had drawn interstate and international buyers 25 Heritage Way, Lysterfield, sold recently for $1.711 million Harcourts Rowville has closed 14 deals above $1 million this year “We have sold more homes above $1 million this year compared with 2017 and are seeing buyers willing to pay more when they find a quality home,” Mr Sweerts said “While Lysterfield used to be seen as just mainly farmland it has prestigious Carrington Estate and buyers realise it is also close to amenities.” SUBURB PROFILE: LYSTERFIELD Lifestyle offerings such as 25 Heritage Way are popular with buyers looking at Lysterfield Lysterfield has around 1600 homes and joins Wantirna South as the only million-dollar suburbs in the Knox municipal area It had 49 house sales above $1 million in 2017 The median house price rose a strong 59 per cent over a three-year period This is probably not the page you’re looking for Illegal trailbike riding in parks across greater Melbourne will be targeted in a new operation by Parks Victoria Parks Victoria Authorised Officers will be patrolling on trailbikes to raise awareness of the safety risk and damage posed by illegal trailbike riding on walking and management trails Recent years have seen a spike in reports and observations of trailbikes in Lysterfield Park and Churchill National Park Operation OXIDE will step up patrols in these areas as well as Bunyip State Park and Kurth Kiln Regional Park which have been impacted by illegal trailbike activities since the 2019 bushfires Illegal trailbike riding can be a safety risk in popular urban parks like Lysterfield damage valuable habitat for native species cause soil erosion impacting on waterways and sensitive vegetation and potentially impact on Aboriginal heritage (cultural) sites Parks Victoria will work in partnership with the Conservation Regulator and Victoria Police for safety and compliance on public land The details of those riding unregistered or unlicenced will be shared with Victoria Police Patrols will continue over the coming months targeting peak riding times during the longer summer daylight hours and weekends Enjoying the Victorian bush from a motorbike seat is a unique experience but to ensure everyone enjoys their time in nature there are some things to remember when planning to ride on public land: please contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or Victoria Police Any identifying information of the bike or rider is appreciated but you should not put yourself at risk to get this information For more information about trailbike riding on public land, visit the Explore Outdoors webpage: https://www.exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au/where-to-start/trail-bike-riding-in-state-forests “The use of motorbikes in busy urban parks like Lysterfield Park is dangerous and irresponsible We’ve been able to build up a picture of when and where these illegal activities are occurring- we could be out there at any time evenings and weekends- offenders should expect to be caught.”  “Parks Victoria encourages people to get out and enjoy parks but it is important for the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and the health of the environment that you stay within the law.” Parks Victoria Authorised Officers on trailbikes patrolling Lysterfield Park You can now click/tap WATCH to start the live stream You can now click/tap LISTEN to start the live stream You can now click/tap LATEST NEWS to start the live stream A woman has survived an attempted abduction at Lysterfield Lake The 36-year-old parked in the Army Track main carpark and was walking through Churchill National Park on Saturday afternoon when she was attacked Police say she was grabbed around the waist a hand was put over her mouth and she was dragged to the ground at about 4.15pm The Dandenong North woman struggled free and ran off before calling Triple-0 She was not physically injured in the frightening incident Detectives are describing her attempted abductor as 183 centimetres tall Police have released a computer-generated image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au A paddle boarder has been found dead at Lysterfield Lake on Saturday 4 March The 38-year-old man from Clayton was last seen in the water off Logan Park Road just after 2.30pm Search and Rescue divers and Victoria Police Air Wing searched the lake for several hours His death was not being treated as suspicious Lysterfield Lake’s water quality has improved and is now within safe levels for swimming Parks Victoria confirmed on 24 January that testing at the lake had produced positive results Due to unsafe levels of bacteria in the popular swimming spot the lake was temporarily closed from December onwards ON the Parks Victoria website it stated that “swimming was temporarily not recommended in Lysterfield Lake at Lysterfield Park as recent monitoring showed high bacterial readings in the lake.” a resident posted in the Hills and Dandenong Facebook Page citing her concern after her family got sick from swimming in Lysterfield Parks Victoria has confirmed today that the lake is now safe to swim in A huge block has hit the Lysterfield market giving buyers a chance to live like they’re in the Hollywood Hills The sprawling 2ha land at 23 Logan Court is up for grabs in an exclusive spot CVA agent Daniel Phillip said there were elements of the rare listing that made it feel like it was in California’s glitzy Hollywood Hills RELATED: Lysterfield listings to Knox your socks off Ringwood Residences brings New York to Melbourne’s outer east Knox apartments ‘like nothing that’s ever been offered’ The huge elevated block has a $3.8-$4 million price guide “It’s a very interesting spot which is elevated to give you the sense of higher-end living,” Mr Phillip said “You’ve got plenty of space but you’re only 32km out of the CBD with easy access to the major arterial roads.” The hilltop position offers incredible vistas and there’s enough room for all the extravagant features a house in the famous American suburb would have The hilltop property overlooks the suburbs and the city beyond … “There are a number of huge quality homes out here and this is an opportunity to build an estate with large gardens a pool and a tennis court,” Mr Phillip said The outer-east suburb has a number of luxury farms including the 124 Kerrs Lane which became Lysterfield’s most expensive property when it sold for $3.75 million Lysterfield is the most expensive house in the suburb It could offer inspiration to the buyer of 23 Logan Court Another modern masterpiece at 11 Sheldon Court sold last year for $3.5 million Prestige homes have lifted Lysterfield to a $966,250 median house price with 23.7 per cent growth in the past three years It also shows that if the block of land sells within its price guide it will be a record-breaking sale for the suburb It also sits on a huge block with a massive lake The block also has an approved permit for a subdivision which would allow for three houses to be built on the land Mr Phillip said there had already been significant interest from homeowners and developers “The area is more on the radar for buyers than it has been in the past because of the appeal of having a larger land holding and lots of space,” he said “So far the inquiries have been very good.” The property could be split into three by a developer The vacant block is owned by a Melbourne resident and sits completely empty with the exception of a dam It’s for private sale with expressions of interest due to close on May 30 SUBURB PROFILE: Lysterfield READ MORE: Former Swan Hill police station still hoping to nab buyer six months on Restored Beaumaris mid-century marvel turning heads Melbourne home price falls worst on record, but easing up, CoreLogic finds A seven-bedroom home sits on a large blocks at 16 Forrest Hill Grove SEVEN bedrooms in a large home on a spacious Lysterfield South block should fit any family size Ensuring space and flexibility for one large household or even two families, 16 Forrest Hill Grove has plenty leftover for those who enjoy entertaining “This is a rare offering because it has a self-contained two-bedroom unit attached to the main five-bedroom house,” selling agent Alexia George said lounge area and bathroom and many families look for such self-contained accommodation for extended family and older children Relax and entertain with a pool and tennis court at 16 Forrest Hill Grove Lysterfield South “What buyers love about the property is the quiet and peaceful location and the fantastic outdoor areas with a tennis court and swimming pool,” Ms George added A paved area provides access to the solar-heated inground pool and championship-size tennis court with lots more yard space for the children and pets to roam The home of 15 years is well maintained with three large and open living zones and a position in Churchill Park estate The spacious open-plan kitchen and dining areas at 16 Forrest Hill Grove The residence on a 2390sq m block also features an impressive open-plan kitchen complete with granite benchtops and quality appliances There are two ensuites in the main house together with a third bathroom plus ducted heating split system airconditioning and solar panels SEE SUBURB PROFILE LYSTERFIELD SOUTH An upstairs attic provides ample storage space inside and there is more room in the shed and workshop at the rear of the triple garage The many attractive features of the home is complemented by an appealing street presence and landscaped gardens plus the easy access to the Monash Freeway and EastLink This is a rare offering because it has a self-contained two-bedroom unit attached to the main five-bedroom house What buyers love is the quiet and peaceful location and the fantastic outdoor areas with a tennis court and swimming pool The layout delivers seven bedrooms and four bathrooms at 16 Forrest Hill Grove Internationally renowned bird vet Colin Walker at his Lysterfield home with one of his racing pigeons THE Lysterfield nest of one of Australia’s top bird doctors has been listed for sale with expectations of a $2.3-$2.53 million sale long-time operator of the Melbourne Bird Veterinary Clinic secured a surprise flight of fancy some years ago when he was called upon by Sheik Khalifa — president of the United Arab Emirates and Emir of Abu Dhabi — to treat his hunting falcons It was a trip that he wound up repeating a number of times Even a visit with a Sheik mightn’t be enough to tempt some away from this home MORE: Chris and Bec Judd list luxury home Melbourne clearance rate at four-year low Moose toys boss’ property splash Their home at 18 Dianella Way, Lysterfield but they’ll take memories like the Sheik’s request with them Dr Walker recalls being left all atwitter when one of the Sheik’s aids called him late one night with a request to fly to the middle east that weekend followed by an email with plane tickets attached the next morning to prove it wasn’t a hoax “I was just working away one night and my phone rang,” he said UK and New Zealand to work for bird owners and governments The home’s broad block and greenery is a haven for local birdlife Dr Walker wouldn’t be drawn as to how his home compared to the Sheik’s palace but said the home did attract a broad range of birdlife “17 different species of parrot can be seen on the property from cockatoos to lorikeets and rosellas,” Dr Walker said He and wife Meredith’s well-feathered nest comes with sandstone sourced from near Uluru in the Northern Territory and timber features sourced from the Fremantle Wharf in Western Australia The mix of natural materials provides for an attractive entertainment setting Mr Walker’s wife Meredith wanted the turret included with the home saying that the view was quite spectacular from its top “We had come from a very modest little weatherboard when we first married and started thinking about what our ideal home might be,” she said “It’s not like any other house in Lysterfield.” Timber lined ceilings add to the home’s charms The five-bedroom home on a 2810sq m allotment is named Quabothoo — which means call of the pigeon After 25 years at the home the pair have relocated to a new home with more convenient access to Dr Walker’s racing pigeons’ quarters Mr Babalis said he believed the house would be almost impossible to replicate today “You wouldn’t even contemplate using those materials these days it’s just not financially possible,” he said Attic-style rooms provide character on the home’s upper level