Cossackdale Circa 1865 History, Luxury and Lifestyle
Step beyond the gate and into a property where history and modern luxury exist in perfect harmony. Circa 1865, this striking red brick residence has been thoughtfully renovated and extended to create a home that honours its heritage while delivering every comfort and indulgence today's lifestyle demands.
The home carries the name 'Cossackdale' and a history as rich as its architecture. Built and lived in by three generations of the Fly family, the property remained in their hands until the mid-1980s. The Fly family's story is itself part of Bendigo's history, with the brothers travelling from England via Melbourne in search of gold, before turning their hand to building and establishing the well-known Fly Brothers' Builders. Following the family's long tenure, the home was carefully restored and extended, blending its original character with comforts suited to contemporary living.
From the moment you enter, the home's character is unmistakable. An impressive arched doorway, bordered by stained glass either side, hints at the craftsmanship that awaits within. Soaring high ceilings, ornate ceiling roses and beautifully exposed brickwork speak to a bygone era of craftsmanship, while the considered renovation introduces a flow and finish that feels effortlessly current. It's a home that doesn't choose between old and new, it celebrates both.
Designed for those who love to entertain and unwind in equal measure, the home offers two distinct living areas along with a dedicated study, giving you the flexibility to host on a grand scale, work comfortably from home, or simply retreat to a quieter corner at the end of the day. At the heart of it all is the kitchen, dining and living area, featuring white gloss cabinetry, sleek Caesarstone benchtops, Miele and Ariston appliances, a generous island bench perfect for gathering around, and a walk-in pantry that keeps everyday life beautifully organised.
Accommodation is generous, with four bedrooms in total. The luxury continues into the main bedroom, where a cast iron fireplace and decorative carved wood mantel create a wonderful sense of ambience. From here, a walk-through robe of genuine showstopper proportions, quite simply the largest we have seen, leads through to the ensuite. It's a private sanctuary within the home, and one of several thoughtful touches that elevate this property well beyond the ordinary. One of the remaining bedrooms offer floor to ceiling built-in robes, with another featuring its own cast iron fireplace, mirroring the charm of the main suite. Throughout all four bedrooms, decorative ceiling roses, ornate cornicing and high ceilings combine to create a sense of grandeur and space. Three bathrooms in total, including the dedicated ensuite in the main suite, and a spa bath for the ultimate in relaxation in the third bathroom offer excellent everyday function, with scope for those looking to add their own contemporary touch down the track.
History buffs and entertainers alike will delight in the cellar, a unique feature that adds both character and function, ideal for the wine enthusiast or anyone wanting a point of genuine difference.
Step outside and the lifestyle on offer truly comes to life. Set on a generous 1424 square metre allotment, there is space to enjoy both the gardens and the entertaining areas without compromise. A large salt-chlorinated inground pool invites long summer days spent swimming and lounging, while the large alfresco area, complete with its own chimney fireplace, sets the scene for entertaining year-round, think long lunches in the warmer months and cosy gatherings fireside through winter. This is outdoor living designed for every season.
Practicality and peace of mind have also been well considered. Direct access from the rear street leads into the double garage, complete with automatic roller doors, with further direct access through to the home itself, a thoughtful design feature that makes day-to-day life that much easier. An electric roller gate and security system add an extra layer of convenience and security, while sixteen solar panels, gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling and a gas hot water system ensure year-round comfort without compromising on efficiency. Even the gardens are cared for with ease, thanks to a rain jet irrigation system.
The location is every bit as impressive as the home itself, set among one of Bendigo's most prestigious and historic pockets, where grand period homes line streets such as View Street and Barkly Terrace. Positioned with easy access to Bendigo's CBD and Bendigo Health, this is a setting that suits a range of lifestyles, while families will appreciate the proximity to highly regarded schools including Girton Grammar and Catherine McAuley College. Sporting and recreation needs are well catered for with Queen Elizabeth Oval close by, and for those who love culture and community, the View Street Arts Precinct is just moments away, offering galleries, cafes and a true sense of Bendigo's creative heart.
This is more than a home, it's a lifestyle opportunity rarely found. A circa 1865 residence that has been reimagined for modern living, without ever losing the character and soul that makes it truly special. Properties of this calibre, in this location, with this level of charm and luxury combined, simply don't come around often.
