The potential sale of one of the oldest homes in Buderim is raising concerns that an important part of the area’s history could be neglected.
The property at the centre of the issue is the Calrossie, the c1891 home of Buderim early settler William Henry Guy. Guy’s descendants recently fought for the property to be listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. However, the application was rejected by Fiona Gardiner, Heritage Branch director of the Department of the Environment and Heritage Protection.
The Guy Avenue Queenslander property was listed on the McGrath Real Estate website for $750,000, and an agent is confirming that it is currently under sale contract.
Since the Calrossie is not included in the heritage register, Guy’s descendants are worried that its heritage will potentially be destroyed. The property could be destroyed or removed by the new owner to make way for new development. The house is located at the highest part of Buderim and offers excellent ocean views to add to its appeal.
The seller affirms that the property will not be demolished. However, a McGrath spokesperson said that they are unsure of the future plans of the new owner.
William Guy’s home was among the first properties to be constructed on top of the mountain. In 1870, Mr Guy was commissioned to survey the area of Buderim. Three streets were named after him, Guy Avenue, William Street and Wilguy Cres.