Historic Kiama masterpiece hits the market after 64 years

A stunning piece of history perched high above Kiama's township, this heritage-listed bluestone villa-style residence has stood as a beacon of Victorian grandeur for nearly 150 years.

The storied Kiama home has been listed through Ray White Kiama’s Michele and Matthew Lay with a price guide of $4.4 million to $4.9 million.

Purchased by Joan and John Fraser in 1961, Mount Vernon has been meticulously restored to its former elegance, retaining its period charm while seamlessly integrating tasteful additions.

Over the years, the Fraser family preserved the home’s architectural integrity and cultivated its grounds, with daughter Christine Fraser now placing the residence on the market following the passing of her parents.

“Growing up in this home was an absolute joy - it was my childhood home, filled with love and laughter,” Christine said.

“Some of my fondest memories are of family Christmases, birthdays, and special gatherings shared within these walls. It’s been incredible to see the next generations, from grandchildren to great-grandchildren, continue to enjoy the home and create their own memories here.

“This home has always been a cherished family legacy, and I hope it brings as much happiness to its next owners as it has to us.”

Christine’s mother Joan was born in Kiama and attended school at what is now the Anglican Church Hall. Her father John was also a Kiama local, having been born in the town before growing up on the family dairy farm, Killalea.

The couple began their married life at Killalea before moving to Mount Vernon in 1961. When they first purchased Mount Vernon, the property was covered in lantana bushes, with no trees in sight.

Joan devoted herself to restoring Mount Vernon and creating a beautiful garden that complemented the heritage property. Meanwhile, John built all the stone walls throughout the garden.

“It really was a labour of love for them both. Over time, they painstakingly cleared the land and transformed it into the lush and picturesque garden that remains today,” their daughter Christine said.

“When the National Trust visited in the 1970s, they commended my mother on her garden, noting how the carefully selected trees and shrubs reflected the era of the house.”

The Frasers spent the rest of their lives at Mount Vernon, apart from the final three years of John’s life, when he required full-time care. They were also the original founding members of the Alpine Club of Kiama, contributing to the region’s vibrant community spirit.

Constructed in 1874, Mount Vernon was commissioned by Kiama police magistrate Henry Connell. The villa-style property, built from locally quarried basalt, is one of only two of its kind in Kiama.

The estate originally boasted uninterrupted views of Kiama Harbour, where Mr Connell oversaw the busy shipping activity. Today, the elevated position offers sweeping vistas of the ocean and township, reaffirming Mount Vernon’s status as one of Kiama’s most distinguished homes.

The property’s Victorian Italianate design is defined by its expansive wrap-around verandahs adorned with intricate cast-iron columns and handcrafted timber railings. Inside, locally milled cedar joinery, two Italian Carrara marble fireplaces, and soaring ceilings further amplify the home’s period elegance. The grand central hallway, 450mm thick basalt walls, and ornate cornices complete the home’s timeless charm.