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Inside the Former Sydney Bayfront Estate of Russell Crowe

Berthong, the trophy estate once owned by Oscar-winner Russell Crowe, was also Rupert Murdoch’s home address

In the art world, provenance enjoys a certain cachet—who owned what masterpiece and when can be a significant touchstone for value and appeal. This concept applies in equal measure to luxury real estate, where deed searches often produce a chain of title that is a veritable who’s who of high-profile ownership.

It’s no surprise, then, that one of Sydney, Australia’s most storied estates would claim multiple pedigrees. In the city’s desirable Elizabeth Bay enclave, this residence, christened Berthong after the hometown of one of its early owners, stands out as a rare trophy.

An outdoor courtyard is ideal for receptions and looks out on the lawn and waterfront.
An outdoor courtyard is ideal for receptions and looks out on the lawn and waterfront.

Reportedly built as a women’s college in the late 1800s, the residence is one of only a few original freestanding waterfront homes remaining in the enclave, and just happens to be situated right next door to Boomerang House, yet another iconic Sydney manor, and one of its most expensive. For many years Berthong remained in the family of sheet-music tycoon Frank Albert and was later sold to advertising magnate Michael Ball, who in turn sold it to the Murdoch family in 1995.

The home’s openness is evident in this airy view through the lounge room to the yard and bay beyond.
The home’s openness is evident in this airy view through the lounge room to the yard and bay beyond.

Fox media empire mogul Rupert Murdoch used the residence as his Sydney base, sharing it with son Lachlan and family but living in separate wings. The Murdochs occupied the property for six years, selling it to actor Crowe in 2001, fresh off his Academy Award win for “Gladiator.”  Crowe has since moved on to a tony penthouse in Woolloomooloo, but Berthong remains an understandably sought-after address.

Says Ken Jacobs, whose firm is an exclusive Affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, the appeal of the property comes from its historic charm, its prime bayfront location (close by to Sidney’s Central Business District) and its significant upgrades. “It has been greatly improved but at the same time nothing has been taken away,” he adds.

The estate’s swimming pool is sheltered and private—one of Berthong’s hallmarks.
The estate’s swimming pool is sheltered and private—one of Berthong’s hallmarks.

Berthong consists of five bedrooms and six full baths and comprises more that 1,600 square meters of land in this prime enclave of Sydney.  When the Murdochs owned the home, they engaged sought-after Sydney decorator Leslie Walford to oversee initial renovation. In 2005, the current owners engaged Corben Architects to restore the 130-year-old, two-story main residence. The firm won a prestigious Master Builders Association design award for its efforts, which included the creation of a new entry hall, rebuilt stairs, relocation of the kitchen and butler’s pantry, and all current bathrooms. A large paved terrace and stairs were added to connect the main residence to the waterfront.

Beautiful floors and ceilings open out to a veranda through spacious doors and windows.
Beautiful floors and ceilings open out to a veranda through spacious doors and windows.

Expected to fetch as much as AU$40 million, this sumptuous property—like at least one of its famous occupants—is literally an award winner. Among its highlights are a central kitchen of Calacatta marble, five ensuite bedrooms, an expansive dining room with intricate stained-glass windows, a regal formal lounge room, and a separate two-story guest house. Uninterrupted harbour views encompass the Garden Island naval base and Clark Island—creating an amazing backdrop.


The grand dining room is accentuated with stunning stained glass windows.

Boats moored in the harbor seem virtually a part of the property in this poolside view.

What’s more, the residence is walking distance to the Royal Botanic Gardens as well as Sydney’s Central Business District. While former resident Crowe may have earned three consecutive Academy Award nominations, Berthong can look forward to yet another consecutive buyer of discriminating taste. Berthong, in short, is certainly a home to Crowe about.

Twilight at Berthong serves to accentuates its lush, tropical landscape design.
Twilight at Berthong serves to accentuates its lush, tropical landscape design.