Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch are reportedly expanding their property portfolio in Bellevue Hill, Sydney, with speculation surrounding their potential acquisition of the historic mansion known as Fernlee. The residence, which dates back to the 1930s, was sold for over $21 million to an overseas buyer in August 2023, although the Murdochs have not confirmed their involvement in the purchase.
Fernlee sits in a prime location, directly opposite the Murdochs’ own Le Manoir estate, where they frequently host influential figures from Australian business and politics during their annual Christmas gathering. The property’s recent sale price exceeded the original guide by $7 million, indicating a competitive bidding atmosphere at the private auction.
The Murdochs have a history of acquiring neighboring properties in Bellevue Hill, with a focus on enhancing their view and privacy. Since 2009, they have been developing Le Manoir, initially purchasing the former French consulate for a record $23 million. Following a substantial renovation costing $11.6 million, they have quietly acquired additional properties in the area, including two homes for $2.63 million and $4.4 million.
While the identity of the new owner of Fernlee remains undisclosed, it was purchased through a trust, a structure the Murdochs have previously used for other acquisitions, such as a $38.5 million boathouse on Wunulla Road in Point Piper. The sale contract for Fernlee was signed by a lawyer, further obscuring the buyer’s identity.
The Murdochs have refrained from commenting on the speculation surrounding Fernlee, leaving property enthusiasts to ponder the implications of these recent purchases.
Political Landscape Shifts with Bridget Archer’s Return
In other news, former Tasmanian Liberal MP Bridget Archer made a notable return to Parliament House, where she was seen interacting with Allegra Spender, a teal independent MP. Archer had previously faced criticism from some conservative colleagues for her willingness to cross the floor, particularly in her opposition to the Albanese government’s teenage social media ban. Despite losing her seat of Bass in the May elections, Archer has landed a new role as the health minister in Tasmania, indicating a soft landing compared to many of her fellow party members.
Her recent visit to Canberra was reportedly linked to meetings with federal ministers regarding her new responsibilities. This return highlights the ongoing dynamics within the Tasmanian Liberal Party, which continues to navigate internal challenges.
Changing Attitudes Towards Australian Possums
Meanwhile, a new publication from Wildlife Health Australia and the University of Melbourne aims to reshape public perceptions of possums, a protected native species often seen as a nuisance. The guide, titled “Possums: A Public Health Communication Guide,” emphasizes the ecological significance of these marsupials and advocates for more positive language in discussions about them.
The guide seeks to replace terms like “pests” and “nuisance animals” with descriptors such as “native,” “ecologically significant,” and “charismatic.” The shift in language aims to foster coexistence with these creatures, who play an essential role in Australia’s ecosystem.
This effort comes at a time when the University of Melbourne has also celebrated Richard Robson winning the Nobel Prize in Chemistry and being ranked as the top university in the Times Higher Education rankings, showcasing a week of significant achievements for the institution.
As the Murdochs continue to expand their property holdings and political figures navigate shifting landscapes, the conversation around local wildlife remains a crucial part of Australia’s cultural discourse.
