Flanked by the ocean on one side and sports fields on the other, the leafy suburb of Middle Park offers Melburnians the chance to enjoy a sea change within comfortable reach of the city.
Despite being a mere 15-minute drive to the CBD, its romantic heritage homes, charming cafes, and slow pace of life, allow residents to put the big smoke firmly into the rear-view mirror.
With work-life balance at the forefront of many people’s minds, the affable members of the suburb’s close-knit community would argue that you truly can have it all.
While the tranquil Middle Park Beach and nearby facilities such as the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and Albert Park Driving Range are some of the suburb’s chief appeals, according to Oliver Bruce, director and auctioneer at Marshall White Port Phillip, there’s also a more difficult-to-quantify aspect that is equally as alluring for residents.
“The streetscape and traditional architecture give Middle Park a visible uniformity that people love, with many Victorian and Edwardian residences dotted about wide streets being a key ingredient to the suburb’s quaintness,” says Bruce.
“And considering how close we are to the CBD, there’s very little traffic along these tree-lined streets.”
Much like the enduring features of Middle Park’s physical makeup, the area’s property value has too remained steadfast, with a median house price of $2.864 million, as noted in Domain’s latest House Price Report.
“We are noticing an increase in downsizers moving from Stonnington and Boroondara wanting to be closer to the CBD and the bay, as well as professional couples seeking the beachside lifestyle that Middle Park allows,” adds Bruce.
“Meanwhile, young families enjoy the suburb’s plethora of schooling options, including quick drives to inner-city private schools, and easy access to reputable local schools such as Albert Park College, which was named Australian School of the Year for 2021.”
For Ned Radojcic, who moved to Australia from Belgrade, Serbia, 27 years ago, the leisurely way of life in Middle Park made it the perfect place to open the kind of cafe he’d left behind in his native home.
A manifestation of his childhood memories, Ned’s Bake sees a European-inspired artisan bakery meet a classic, buzzing Melbourne cafe.
“One of my favourite recollections from childhood is walking to the bakery hand-in-hand with my grandpa, chatting about the world, and being spoiled by a friendly staff member with a little sweet something,” Radojcic recalls.
“I’ve always felt there should be more bakeries in Australia that offer this type of experience; simple European food with great service.”
Since opening its doors on Armstrong Street in November 2021, Ned’s Bake has been welcoming customers to take time to sit and watch the world go by while nibbling on their fresh-from-the-oven artisan delights, and sipping on a delicious espresso – an undertaking that Radojcic believes is innately European, while embodying the spirit of Middle Park.
“While we are among some of Melbourne’s smaller suburbs, Middle Park is still developing into a bustling cafe and shopping scene, where daily needs are well taken care of,” Radojcic says.
“It’s very much a beach suburb, with winters just as beautiful as summers, and when you look over your shoulder, you’re able to see the city in all its glory.”
One to watch
Beyond the striking facade of this period home, a magnificent architecturally designed transformation is revealed, combining indoor and outdoor living seamlessly, complete with an award-winning swimming pool and spa.
Jellis Craig Port Phillip’s Simon Gowling is taking expressions of interest with a guide of $5.95 million.
95 Hambleton Street, Middle Park VIC 3206
