Former Geelong mayor and renowned paparazzo Darryn Lyons has placed his luxurious waterfront mansion on the market, with a price tag expected to reach around $8 million. This bold move marks Lyons’ intention to sever property ties with his hometown as he embarks on a new chapter in his life.
The grand seven-bedroom residence, located on The Esplanade, is not the only property Lyons is parting with. An adjacent three-bedroom house, previously used as an office, is also being prepared for sale. This offers a unique opportunity for potential buyers to create a sprawling Western Beach compound.
The Portfolio Shake-Up
This significant real estate decision is part of a broader $16 million sell-off, as Lyons looks to close his Australian chapter. Alongside his Geelong properties, Lyons is also selling a $3.8 million apartment in Sydney and a $2.5 million-plus hideaway in Far North Queensland. Despite these sales, Lyons intends to retain ownership of the Elephant & Castle pub in Geelong.
Lyons’ Western Beach residence, aptly named ‘Lyons View’, is a testament to his flamboyant personality, featuring gold columns, a grotto-style pool, an underground cellar, a sauna, and an expansive ensuite with a statement glass bath. The interior is adorned with beds draped in Versace, antiques, and an impressive art collection, with the billiards room showcasing photos and memorabilia from Lyons’ storied career.
Market Expectations and Historical Context
Buxton listing agent David Gray has set a price guide of $7.7 million to $8.3 million for the 892 square meter property at 11 The Esplanade, Geelong. Should it sell within this range, it would become the city’s most expensive house, surpassing the current record-holder, Raith in Newtown.
Lyons purchased the 1930 brick residence for $1.341 million in 2002. Reflecting on his time there, he described it as a sanctuary during his political career.
“It was my secret cave … I would walk in in a rage and the world would fall from my shoulders,”
he said.
Architectural and Design Highlights
The two-storey house is introduced by lush gardens, a pair of regal lion statues, and an ornate entry hall. It includes a self-contained retreat and multiple outdoor entertainment areas. According to Mr. Gray, the floorplan is surprisingly spacious, with the elegant front lounge room being a standout feature.
“Darryn’s personality is evident at nearly every turn but, at the same time, I don’t think it would be hard to put your own stamp on it,”
he said.
Recent renovations include a significant kitchen overhaul, featuring premium appliances and an integrated drinks cooler.
“There’s a lot of other aesthetics that he’s changed but he’s stayed pretty sympathetic to the vintage of the home, early 1900s, and he has certainly spent money on the right areas – his ensuite, the kitchen, and the external garden,”
Mr. Gray added.
Market Dynamics and Potential Buyers
The two neighboring properties will be offered for sale separately, though they could be purchased together. Mr. Gray anticipates interest from interstate and offshore buyers, while not ruling out high-net-worth individuals from Geelong.
“I think for someone spending that level of money, with that budget in mind, acquiring that whole composition could make sense,”
he said.
“If you’ve got $8 million or $10 million, you’ve probably got a few extra to buy the adjacent property. It could be a big compound or simply hold and land bank.”
This development follows a growing trend of high-profile individuals reshaping the real estate landscape in regional areas, as they seek to capitalize on property values and lifestyle changes. As Lyons bids farewell to his Australian holdings, the market will be closely watching how these properties perform and what it signals for future sales in the area.
