72-78 Barkly Street

Most heritage homes have a story to tell, and this one is one of the best. The stone building erected in 1858 was the Post Office during the gold rush. After the Post Office outgrew the building, it was relocated, stone by stone, to its present site in 1867. Renowned architect William Vahland, involved in the reconstruction, added a grand room on the northern end. (Now affectionately known as the 'opera room' due to its almost perfect acoustics). This home, cherished by one family for 35 years, showcases its generous proportions from the moment you arrive, with broad entry steps leading up to an expansive return verandah. Inside high ceilings, polished timber floors, a central hallway the length of a cricket pitch (66ft) and multiple living/dining rooms provide the perfect setting for family life and large-scale entertaining. The striking opera/dining room features a Waterford crystal chandelier, a marble open fireplace, elegant French wallpaper and French doors to the front verandah. The winter lounge (formerly the sorting room) features tall windows, bookshelves, and an open fireplace, adding a cosy ambience. The light-filled summer lounge (den or playroom) features plantation-shuttered windows and French doors opening to the rear courtyard. The home's culinary credentials will impress the family chef with its stone benches, a suite of premium Miele cooking appliances and dishwasher matched with a wall of cabinetry,including a Hafele system pantry. Accommodation includes four bedrooms, all with robes, and two bathrooms thoughtfully updated in keeping with the home's European influence. The large main bathroom features a bath, a corner shower, a marble-topped vanity, a bidet and a toilet. The walk-through laundry includes good storage and a drying rack. Outdoors, a brick-paved courtyard and rear verandah offer alfresco options from relaxed brunches to evening cocktail parties. The rear garden features a laurel bay arch to sweeping lawns bordered by fruit trees, lush greenery and a sculpted fountain centrepiece. And tucked away in the corner, the converted stable is now a self-contained two-bedroom cottage perfect for multigenerational living or an accomodating visitors retreat. Ample off-street parking is available in the gated semi-circular front drive, a double carport and a garage accessed via a long, tree-lined and wisteria-draped driveway off Harley Mews. Practical details include central heating, split-system air conditioning units, an underground cellar, a hen or dog run, garden sheds, underground water tanks, a garden irrigation system, and internal/external security systems. Set in one of Bendigo's most distinguished addresses, it is a short walk from Rosalind Park, the Arts Centre, Bendigo Health, the CBD, schools and lifestyle amenities. Every detail of this heritage property reflects enduring quality and timeless design. So much more than a home; it is a Bendigo landmark ready for new custodians. DISCLAIMER: Any floorplans, room measurements, and land sizes provided on our property listings/marketing are approximate and for illustrative purposes only. Buxton makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any floorplan, drawing, or rendering used in the advertising materials. Buxton disclaims any liability for errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the depiction of the land, property, or any described features. Prospective purchasers should conduct their own due diligence and seek independent professional advice to verify all information.