13 Mont Albert Rd, Geelong, goes to auction on September 7.
A Geelong California bungalow with potential links to a popular shipwreck off the southwest coast could be harbouring a piece of region’s maritime history.
New Zealand rimu floorboards and other timbers at 13 Mont Albert Rd are believed to have been salvaged from 19th Century Scottish barque the Falls of Halladale.
The ill-fated vessel ran ashore off Peterborough in November 1908 with the crew making it safely ashore.
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With all sails set, the Falls of Halladale spectacle attracted hundreds of sightseers at the time and is now a popular dive Shipwreck Coast dive site.
The previous owners of 13 Mont Albert Rd uncovered evidence that the home’s original owner, Albert Trewheela, was among those who successfully tendered for the salvage operation.
It’s believed he used some of the timbers – which were added to the ship during repairs after a punishing journey to New Zealand – during the construction of the bungalow.
The Falls of Halladale attracted picnic parties after running around near Peterborough in 1908. Picture: The Argus
Now on the market again, the three-bedroom, two-bathroom house melds those distinct heritage features with modern comforts such as an updated rear living zone.
Fittingly, given its nautical ties, the property just a short walk from Corio Bay.
Compton Green, Geelong listing agent Luen Ford said the prized bayside pocket was key drawcard.
The previous vendors completed the open-plan rear extension.
The kitchen feature modern appliances and a breakfast bar.
A gas log fireplace is focal point in the lounge.
She’s set a $830,000 to $890,000 price guide ahead of a scheduled September 7 auction.
“It’s really the location so close the waterfront,” Ms Ford said.
“It’s a California bungalow and when it sold last time they had renovated the kitchen so we have refreshed the gardens and landscaping and freshened up the paint.”
Stone benchtops and stainless steel appliances lend a modern edge to the home’s kitchen, which forms part of the open-plan rear extension.
The period details are evident in the central hallway.
All the bedrooms have built-in wardrobes.
It links to a covered outdoor entertainment area and leafy back yard with a double garage that could be converted into a studio.
Heritage features such as those rimu floorboards, leadlight windows and timber fretwork are retained in the original front section where the three bedrooms now have built-in wardrobes added.
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