A spectacular European-inspired manor perched on the Murrumbidgee River has emerged on the property market, offering a rare combination of luxury living and aviation access just 20 minutes from Canberra's centre.
An Unrepeatable Riverside Sanctuary
Willowmere, the award-winning creation of builder George Opaczynski and architect Derek Green, represents one of the most significant property offerings to hit the Canberra region in recent years. Built in 1993 on an expansive 80.2-hectare parcel, the estate commands approximately 1.2 kilometres of private, flat river frontage - a feature agent Josh Morrissey of Hive Property describes as unrepeatable in the area.
"When you walk through the front door, there's a huge, single-pane window that looks directly over the gully and towards the private river frontage," Morrissey says. "I picked my jaw up off the floor. It's nearly impossible to put a price on because it's never been available."
European Elegance Meets Australian Landscape
The property's design draws inspiration from Spanish and Italian villas, beautifully executed through architectural elements that include decorative cornices, marble columns, and six handsome fireplaces. The 1750 square metres of internal space encompasses seven bedrooms, all facing north with private balconies or terraces.
Every detail has been carefully considered, from the Tuscan-style swimming pool to the blend of mid-Victorian, Romanesque, Regency, modern Australian and classic American architectural influences. "A nod to old-world heritage with modern proportions comes to mind," Morrissey notes of the property's unique character.
The magnificent layout includes a library, conservatory-style dining area, enormous lounge room with stunning river views, games room, office, sauna, Japanese steam room, gym and health spa, and a speakeasy bar with an impressive 4000-bottle wine cellar.
Beyond the Main Residence
Willowmere's appeal extends well beyond the main house. The estate includes a 100-square-metre, two-bedroom cottage perfect for short-term guests or wedding parties. For entertainment, a chandelier-lit 500-square-metre marquee provides an elegant space for celebrations and functions.
The property also supports commercial operations with facilities for breeding cattle and horse agistment. Equestrian enthusiasts will appreciate the horse stables and riding arena, while sports lovers can enjoy the tennis court and sports field comparable in size to Manuka Oval.
A particularly unique feature is the two-hectare truffle paddock planted with 200 English oak trees, complemented by rose arbours, orchards, and vegetable gardens sustained by the Murrumbidgee River, five dams, a bore, and four large water tanks.
Fly In, Fly Out Lifestyle
For buyers with interstate business interests or aviation passions, Willowmere offers an exceptional advantage: a sealed private runway and aeroplane hangar with offices that can be leased. "You can fly in and fly out," Morrissey confirms. "A property with its own private landing strip is rare."
The estate's location provides both privacy and convenience, situated just 20 minutes from Canberra's heart while delivering an experience Morrissey compares to "somewhere in the Italian mountains." The property frames breathtaking views of the Brindabella Range and offers daily encounters with native wildlife including kangaroos and abundant birdlife.
"Nothing else has ever been on the market with this level of amenity, size, location and lifestyle," Morrissey concludes, emphasising the once-in-a-lifetime nature of this offering that combines European grandeur with the Australian bush in a way never before available to buyers.
