123 Wattle Street Bendigo VIC

Central has been among Bendigo’s finest homes since its construction in 1874. The palatial Victorian was a gift of millionaire mining investor JB Watson to his sister. Watson was one of the earliest arrivals on the diggings. He found wealth with a line of reef just behind this address. His interests in mining, property and transport throughout Australia made him one of the country’s richest men. Central still epitomises the realisation of grand goldfields dreams. Over three sprawling floors, garden, garage and loft it comprises two kitchens, three living zones, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a studio and car spaces. It also graces one of Bendigo’s most beautiful streets, in the heart of the arts and heritage precinct. Veranda views take in the Queen Elizabeth Oval on one side, Mount Alexander on the other. Imagine the sunrises, sunsets and festive fireworks. The meticulous, discerning renovation was rewarded with a City of Greater Bendigo Heritage Award. Authentic restoration of original timber fittings, staircase, stained glass, and marble fireplaces compliment grand and sweeping soft furnishings, wall papers and modern bathrooms to create a statement of timeless style. Entertain downstairs in the formal lounge/dining room. Relax into family life in the upstairs living, kitchen/dining. The all-timber kitchen is a beautiful work of joinery, with tall pantry, 1000mm freestanding stove, hidden dishwasher and refrigerator space. The four bedrooms have a touch of relaxed drama thanks to luxury drapes and blinds. The master suite has a walk-through robe to the ensuite. The family bathroom features a clawfoot bath and European laundry. The brick and sandstone basement boasts a wine cellar, plus a polished concrete floor and structural arched brick ceiling. Outside, Mediterranean-style paving frames a tiled 4 x 9 metre salt-chlorinated pool with in-floor cleaning. A gorgeous vine-covered pergola shades the summer kitchen and pizza oven. Apricot, fig, lemon, orange, nectarine, pear and apple trees are well established. Above the brick garage is a studio with timber ceiling and exposed trusses, perfect for a fifth bedroom, rumpus or office. Walk to Girton Grammar, Catherine McAuley College, Bendigo Health, Bendigo Art Gallery, and the View Street restaurants and cafés from this quiet, welcoming neighbourhood. A rare opportunity to own a breathtaking piece of boom town Bendigo. Central was a gift back then, even more so today for its next discerning owner.