General News
24 October, 2026
Steeped in history
A BINGIL Bay property described as the ultimate ‘natural solution’ to tropical living is being sold for the first time in more than 50 years.
Tania Steele of Tropical Property said the property was “steeped in history, rich in soul and tightly held by one family for over half a century”.
“This is far more than an estate – it is an irreplaceable piece of North Queensland history with its next door neighbour the heritage-listed ‘Ninney Rise’,” she said.
“Featured prominently in ‘Australian House & Garden’ as the ultimate ‘natural solution’ to tropical living, this iconic sanctuary is offered to the market for the very first time.
“It presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to inherit a legacy of conservation, world-class architecture and pristine coastal acreage.”
Ms Steele said the story of the remarkable 4.5ha parcel started in the 1970s, when it was acquired from Ellie Busst, wife of the legendary local conservationist John Busst.
“Drawn together by a shared passion for preserving the breathtaking natural beauty of Mission Beach, a pact was made: this magnificent former pineapple plantation, stretching from the crest of the hill down toward the Coral Sea, would be preserved as one magnificent, undivided sanctuary,” she said.
“Commissioned by the Schmidt family as their ultimate dream estate, the residence is a masterclass in classic tropical architecture.
“Designed by celebrated architect Garry Turnbull and brought to life by master craftsman Geoff Grainger, the home was built with uncompromised structural integrity and a deep respect for the North Queensland climate.
“Spread across four and a half magnificent hectares, the grounds are an absolute wonderland.
“The gardens were carefully contoured by Garry Turnbull to complement the home, replacing the early hillside grasses with a lush paradise of 29 distinct palm varieties, fiery heliconias, native trees and the unique Arenga palm endemic to this small area.
“Engineered to perfection, a man-made creek channels seasonal waters into a series of beautiful garden ponds, creating a private habitat that regularly plays host to turtles, kingfishers and the region’s iconic fruit-eating cassowaries.”
It includes three bedroom and three bathrooms in the main residence with a separate two-bedroom, two-bathroom guest house.
Expressions of interest close on 10 November 2026. Visit www.observer.s.gy/a16Gwx, or call Ms Steele on 0448 250 499 for more information.
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