Avalon real estate Archives

For nearly four decades, Rod Willis’ Avalon Beach home was his retreat from the world of rock and roll. Now, the former Cold Chisel manager is saying goodbye as the property hits the market.

Cold Chisel Manager’s Avalon Home Hits the Market

A home with ties to rock history in Australia is on the market in Avalon, where Rod Willis, long-time manager of Cold Chisel, is set to sell his beachfront holiday house. With only a short 300 metres from Avalon Beach and village, the 1,391sqm property has been his escape since 1987, providing a relief from the manic music lifestyle.

Now 78, Willis and wife Gay are retiring, listing the four-bedroom, two-bathroom home for sale on March 18, with a $3.25 million guide price. The home has expansive living spaces, multiple decks, a saltwater pool, and tropical gardens, epitomizing the easy Avalon lifestyle.

A Quiet Retreat from a Loud Career

As the manager of Cold Chisel, Willis played a crucial role in the band’s success, guiding them from pub gigs to legendary stadium performances. Years spent on tour and travelling on the road took its toll, so he and his wife chose Avalon as their haven, drawn by the relaxed coastal way of life.

The single-storey home has served as an isolated refuge from the demands of the music industry. Now that the couple embarks on a new chapter in their lives, they are more than happy to leave it behind for new proprietors who would appreciate its uniqueness and its address.

A Highly Sought-After Location

The property enjoys seclusion with ease of access in Sydney’s premier Northern Beaches suburb. It is a short walk from Avalon Beach and village, and therefore close proximity to local cafes, shopping, and community amenities.

With the heavy demand for Avalon properties, the March 18 auction will probably be in hot demand. To buyers, it’s not just a house—it’s the chance to own a piece of Australian music history in a sought-after beachside location.

Published 19-March-2025

A historic property in Avalon Beach, once a safe house for Soviet spies during the 1950s Cold War, is now on the market for $9 million, offering a rare blend of rich history, coastal luxury, and absolute privacy.

A Spy Tale in Avalon

The home at 137 George Street, Avalon Beach, played a pivotal role in Australia’s most infamous spy scandal, the Petrov Affair. In 1954, Vladimir Petrov, a Soviet diplomat seeking asylum in Australia, revealed the existence of a Soviet spy ring. His wife, Evdokia, was almost forced back to Moscow by KGB agents but was famously rescued in Darwin by government intervention.

During their time in hiding, the Petrovs were relocated between four Sydney safe houses, with this Avalon property among them. The house, built in the 1920s, was favoured for its secluded location and waterfront access, ideal for a quick escape if needed. Adding to the intrigue, the home features a secret trapdoor in the library that leads to a hidden bunker, still intact today.

A Timeless Coastal Retreat

Spanning 2,400 square metres and perched above Careel Bay, the five-bedroom property is a haven of tranquillity and architectural charm. Original stone fireplaces, a vaulted conservatory, and sweeping decks that overlook Pittwater reflect its blend of historical character and modern design.

137 George Street, Avalon Beach — *Photo Credit: realestate.com.au*

The main bedroom offers water views and private deck access, while a self-contained guest wing on the lower floor features sandstone walls, a kitchenette, and a private patio. Stone pathways wind through the property’s lush gardens, creating a peaceful retreat with space for outdoor entertaining on a stone BBQ terrace.

A Piece of Local History

Property records reveal the house was acquired by the Australian government in 1954 to protect the Petrovs during their defection. It was sold two years later and has remained privately owned since. The current owners purchased the property in 1994 for $850,000, and while it was listed for sale in 2016, it did not find a buyer.

Stephen Fitzmaurice, whose family has owned the home for nearly 30 years, recalled a long-time Avalon resident sharing how a police officer was stationed at a nearby boatshed to ensure the Petrovs’ safety. Located just 50 metres from the water, the home’s setting emphasises both its historical significance and its appeal for privacy.

A Rare Opportunity

Now a deceased estate, the home is being marketed as a unique opportunity to own a slice of Australian history. Agents describe it as ideal for those seeking privacy without sacrificing scenic beauty, suggesting it could suit high-profile individuals looking for a secluded retreat. Expressions of interest close on 30 January 2025.

Published 2-Dec-2024

Tag: Avalon real estate

Cold Chisel Manager Rod Willis Selling His Avalon Beach Home for $3.25M