The luxurious Sydney mansion belonging to TV presenter Lisa Wilkinson and her husband, former Wallaby and author Peter FitzSimons, was passed in at a bid of $24.5 million during a private auction held in Cremorne on Sydney’s lower north shore. Despite four parties attending the auction, none made a successful bid for the five-bedroom property, known as Ingleneuk. Following the auction, the attendees engaged in private negotiations with the vendors.
Listed with a guide price of $23 million, the couple’s estate was co-listed by Monika Tu and Jad Khattar from Black Diamondz, alongside Brad Pillinger of his eponymous agency. The auctioneer, Briannan Davis from Cooley Auction house, presided over the event. The couple, who have lived in the Cremorne estate for nearly 30 years, are looking to downsize now that their three children—Billi, Jake, and Louis—have moved out.
Wilkinson and FitzSimons purchased the property in 1998 for approximately $2.95 million, moving from a nearby marital home in Mosman that they sold for $1.66 million. Over the years, they expanded the estate by acquiring two adjoining lots that had been subdivided off, restoring the landholding to its original size of 3,214 square metres with dual street frontage.
Architectural Heritage and Modern Amenities
The mansion, built in 1903, was designed by renowned architect Henry Wilshire, the son of Sydney’s second mayor, James Wilshire. Originally commissioned for Sydney merchant Charles Crossman, this landmark property will only be offered for sale for the third time, having changed hands in 1951 and 1998. Wilkinson, a former co-host of the Today Show, was attracted to the character of the original condition mansion, which boasts panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline.
Collaborating with heritage architect Clive Lucas, Wilkinson meticulously restored many original features of the Edwardian home. Updates included the restoration of fenceposts, fretwork, and even a maid’s bell, while modern extensions enhanced the living space. The estate features a parents’ retreat with a sunroom and dressing room, a gourmet kitchen, a library, and multiple fireplaces, both gas and wood-burning.
Additional amenities include a heated pool and pavilion, surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens designed by landscape architect Will Dangar. A development application for a triple garage with studio accommodation and a garden room, designed by architectural firm Lucas Stapleton Johnson, is also in place.
A Venue for Celebrated Gatherings
Wilkinson and FitzSimons have a history of hosting high-profile gatherings at their home, including election parties and their annual Australia Day bash, which they have playfully dubbed “Independence Day” in a nod to the campaign for changing the date. The estate has welcomed numerous celebrities, journalists, athletes, and politicians, including Hugh Jackman, Nigella Lawson, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Among the recreational features is a championship grass tennis court, where FitzSimons has entertained sporting legends such as Mark Bosnich, Brett Lee, Cooper Cronk, and Greg Alexander. This blend of architectural significance and vibrant social history has made Ingleneuk a notable property on Sydney’s north shore.
As negotiations continue for the mansion, the future of this iconic estate remains to be seen.
