QUARTERDECK
THIS SEASON
SPRING ON THE PENINSULA
As spring awakens the Mornington Peninsula, nature puts on a spectacular show—blossom-lined streets, emerald vineyards, breathtaking sunsets and coastal trails coming back to life. It’s a season of renewal and celebration, with longer days inviting us outdoors to enjoy fresh sea air, alfresco dining, and local events that mark the return of warmth and energy. There’s a vibrant rhythm to Peninsula life in spring—full of promise, beauty, and the joy of new beginnings.
SPRING ON THE PENINSULA
SPRING THE PENINSULA
WELCOME TO THE SPRING EDITION OF QUARTERDECK
As the Mornington Peninsula begins to bloom with the colours of spring, we’re seeing promising signs of renewed energy in our local property market.
A notable tightening in the number of available listings has created stronger competition among buyers, and with recent interest rate cuts improving sentiment, buyer confidence is clearly on the rise. Open home attendance is lifting, enquiry levels are growing, and we’re seeing well-presented homes achieve outstanding results.
Spring has always been a season of opportunity—and this year is shaping up to be no different.
Whether you’re considering a move, planning improvements, or simply keeping a close eye on the market, we’re here to provide informed guidance every step of the way.
Enjoy this Spring edition of Quarterdeck , showcasing some of the finest properties across our region and the stories that shape our community.
Warm regards,
SAM DANCKERT FOUNDER | DANCKERT REAL ESTATE
WHAT WE LOVE FOR
SPRING
“ This time of year always brings changes in venues and eateries. Between Mornington, Mt Martha and Dromana it will be exciting to see what’s in store for the season ahead. ”
IAN ROSS
Bring on warmer days, vibrant gardens in full bloom, and the crisp flavours of spring’s seasonal harvest—it’s time to step back into the great outdoors. From the rolling hinterland to the sparkling coastline, the Mornington Peninsula invites you to explore its ever-changing beauty. Whether it’s discovering hidden cellar doors, wandering local markets, or soaking up sunshine by the sea, spring is the perfect season to reconnect with the rhythm of life on the Peninsula.
“There’s been a noticeable buzz of change in Mt Martha Village recently. We’ve seen four tenancy updates, including the vibrant new children’s clothing store replacing Tingo . Wok on Bay has been split to make way for a Vietnamese-style eatery and an adjoining optometry practice, while Pilates Bay has relocated to 117 Bay Road —though the new tenant for their Bay Road space remains a mystery. These changes are adding fresh energy to the village and
giving locals even more reason to shop and dine locally.” Sam Danckert
“We are experiencing a growing interest in the Mt Martha village precinct with a couple of boutique operators set to open later this year, bringing a more elevated café and retail offering to the area. There’s also increasing development activity around the Esplanade and some significant residential builds underway, especially at the top end of the market. This continued investment reflects strong buyer confidence in the region’s long-term value.” Alex Corradi
“With new hospitality venues and boutique businesses opening in Mount Martha and Mornington, locals can enjoy more ways to connect with the Peninsula lifestyle. Spring traditionally brings renewed energy and confidence to the market, and this year is shaping up to be no different.” Jasmin Scott
SPRING FAVES
OUR FAVOURITE SPRING GARDENS TO EXPLORE
Spring is the time to appreciate the splendour of the outdoors. Flowers are in bloom, gardens thrive, and we enjoy the opportunity to slow down and breathe in all the natural beauty of the season. As we stay close to home, here are some enchanting gardens to inspire your plans for future family-friendly fun on the Mornington Peninsula. Some of our favourite spring gardens to explore:
• Heronswood 105 Latrobe Parade, Dromana
• Beleura House and Garden
1 Tallis Dr, Mornington
• The Briars 450 Nepean Hwy, Mount Martha
• Cruden Farm Cranhaven Road, 60 CranbourneFrankston Rd, Langwarrin
IT’S THE CHERRY-PICKING SEASON!
Set in the picturesque town of Red Hill, Ripe ‘N’ Ready Cherry Farm has been in the family since 1968. Eric and Margaret Easy first planted strawberries and pumpkins waiting for the cherry trees to mature. Eric and Margaret’s son, Simon, started selling cherries on the roadside in 1993, then set up ‘Pick your Own’ cherries soon after. Today, the farm is still a family affair.
Whilst it doesn’t officially kick off until November, you can still purchase farm fresh eggs, honey, and (subject to availability) blueberries, raspberries, zucchinis, avocados, garlic, and sunflowers. The farm shop is open 9.00 am-5.00 pm 7 days a week.
Pick your own cherries will be open from mid-November to January (weather and fruit dependant).
Ripe ‘N’ Ready Cherry Farm 52 Arkwells Lane, Red Hill www.ripenreadycherryfarm.com
27TH ANNUAL AUSTRALASIAN REAL ESTATE CONFERENCE (AREC)
Earlier this year Jasmin Scott, Alex Corradi and Sam Danckert travelled to the Gold Coast to attend AREC25 - Australia’s premier real estate conference. Across two intense days, they were immersed in the insights of the world’s top performers in real estate, elite sports, hospitality, entrepreneurship and personal mastery.
“Will Guidara was a standout. He challenged us to deliver service that goes beyond what’s expected - to create memorable, meaningful moments in every client experience. It’s a principle we’re embedding across our campaigns,” explains Sam Danckert
Will Guidara is a renowned restaurateur, speaker, and the bestselling author of Unreasonable Hospitality. Former co-owner of the Michelinstarred Eleven Madison Park, he helped
transform it into the No. 1 restaurant in the world by embracing a radical approach to service. With a deep belief that genuine hospitality can elevate any business, Will now inspires leaders across industries to create extraordinary experiences. His work champions generosity, intentionality, and human connection as the keys to lasting success.
Our time at AREC wasn’t just inspiring—it was transformative. We returned with sharper tools, deeper perspectives, and a renewed commitment to delivering premium results. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply staying informed, you can expect elevated expertise, energy and care from the Danckert team—because growth is only valuable when it serves others.
Higher Ground
Provincia
LOCAL FARE
“My favourite local café at the moment is Cibo . I’m always greeted with friendly service and a delicious coffee.”
Alex Corradi
“One of my favourite local spots right now has to be Wildgrain in Mornington. It’s tucked just off Main Street in a beautifully converted grain store and has this perfect mix of rustic charm and relaxed, refined dining. The atmosphere is always so welcoming with velvet chairs, vintage mirrors and a gorgeous greenhousestyle terrace that makes it feel a little bit special every time. What really makes Wildgrain stand out is their seed to plate approach. A lot of the produce comes straight from their own organic farm and you can honestly taste the difference. Everything is fresh, thoughtful and full of flavour.” Jasmin Scott
“I have a few local favourites. Higher Ground in the Mt Martha village consistently serves great coffee. Provincia in Safety Beach is across the road from the beach and has views you just can’t beat. And my local hang out is Martha’s Table in Martha Cove. It’s stylish, with plenty of seating and great staff and views too.” Ian Ross
“ Milkbar and Co. in Mt Martha Village has become a go-to for me. Their daily specials are always incredibly satisfying, the service is warm and welcoming, and whether it’s a coffee or a fresh juice, it’s consistently good. It’s the kind of place that feels like a local secret—but one worth sharing.” Sam Danckert
Cibo
Milkbar
WE SUPPORT LOCAL
FUSION GALA
“The upcoming Fusion Gala at RACV Cape Schanck is a standout event that deserves attention. It’s more than just a glamorous evening—it’s a powerful opportunity to support youth in need and be part of something that’s genuinely changing lives on the Peninsula. One of the initiatives
I’m proud to support is Fusion Mornington Peninsula’s project to build seven new studio apartments for at-risk young people in our region. It’s a bold and necessary
step toward providing meaningful, longterm solutions for housing instability. I’d encourage anyone who can to get involved, donate, or attend the gala. Every contribution helps shape a better future.”
Sam Danckert
Save the date and reserve your table: Saturday 18 October morningtonpeninsula@fusion.org.au
MT MARTHA FARMERS’ MARKET
“The Mt Martha Farmers’ Market is gaining great traction—it’s held monthly and has become a hub for local producers, artisans, and the community to connect. It’s a fabulous showcase of the Mornington Peninsula lifestyle and a great opportunity for locals to support small businesses. At Danckert Real Estate , we’re proud to continue supporting The Mornington Peninsula Foundation , which does incredible work helping address educational disadvantage in the region. We also contribute to local school initiatives and sporting clubs, particularly junior development programs, which help build a stronger, more connected community.” Alex Corradi
MUMS SUPPORTING FAMILIES IN NEED
“The local farmers markets continue to be a fantastic way to support regional growers and makers, they’re full of energy, great produce, and a true sense of community. This season, I’m supporting Mums Supporting Families In Need —a local charity doing incredible work across the Peninsula. They provide essential items such as clothing, bedding, and baby supplies to families in crisis. It’s a cause that really resonates with me, and it’s inspiring to see how many in our community come together to support families doing it tough.”
Jasmin Scott
MORNINGTON SOCCER CLUB
“I have been sponsoring the Mornington Soccer Club U12 team and club this season. With both my sons actively involved in U8 and U12 I felt it would be great to support grass roots junior soccer which is very popular amongst kids with plenty of volunteers involved also.” Ian Ross
LOCAL MARKET UPDATE
“The Mount Martha property market remains steady, with continued interest in quality homes that offer lifestyle appeal. Well-presented properties priced in line with current buyer expectations are still transacting efficiently. We have seen the number of listings available in the area rapidly decrease, which gives us a clear indication that properties are selling more rapidly as the market heats up.
Buyers are showing a preference for turnkey homes that are move-in ready, while sellers are increasingly aware that accurate pricing is key to securing strong interest. There’s also a noticeable uptick in off-market enquiries from motivated buyers.
We’re seeing steady momentum across the Mornington Peninsula, particularly in the premium segment. Quality homes in lifestyle locations like Mount Martha continue to attract strong interest, especially from Melbournebased buyers seeking a sea change. With stock levels remaining relatively tight, I anticipate a balanced market where wellpresented homes will continue to perform strongly.” Alex Corradi
“The market remains resilient, with quality properties still attracting strong interest despite broader economic uncertainty. Buyers are selective and value-driven, but they’re willing to act quickly when the right opportunity presents itself.
Spring brings a fresh sense of momentum — and for us, that includes the expansion into a Martha Cove office. We are also excited to launch incredible lifestyle properties onto the market with some well curated campaigns to launch in September.
As we move into the warmer months, I anticipate a noticeable lift in buyer activity, particularly from families and lifestyle-driven purchasers looking to secure their ideal home ahead of the new year.
With interest rates stabilising and confidence returning to the premium end of the market, we’re expecting strong competition for well-presented homes in desirable coastal locations like Mt Martha, Martha Cove and Mornington.
We’re seeing buyers prioritise lifestyle and long-term value more than ever — there’s a clear appetite for turnkey homes and
properties with unique positioning. On the seller side, there’s greater caution around pricing strategy, with vendors who align with current market conditions generally achieving strong outcomes.” Sam Danckert
“The market is steady and selective, wellpresented homes in prime locations are attracting strong interest, while buyers are taking more time to make confident, considered decisions. Pricing accurately remains key.
What’s most exciting right now is the level of collaboration and momentum across our team. We’re launching some standout properties this spring, with a strong focus on premium presentation and tailored campaigns that truly reflect the lifestyle our buyers are seeking.
There’s also a growing sense of community support from local homeowners, which makes our work even more rewarding. We’re already seeing stronger buyer engagement, especially from families and up-sizers who delayed decisions earlier in the year.
With limited quality stock available and interest rates appearing to stabilise, I anticipate healthy competition for wellpresented homes in premium coastal pockets like Mount Martha and Mornington. Buyers are more informed than ever and are prioritising lifestyle, location and turnkey homes. Sellers who invest in preparation and presentation are seeing better results and stronger engagement.”
Jasmin Scott
“Pricing is crucial in today’s real estate market. A well-presented property that offers clear value will attract the right buyers. Since it’s a buyers’ market, overpricing rarely delivers the desired outcome. Looking ahead, I expect greater stability. With lower interest rates forecasted, both permanent and holiday home buyers can plan with confidence. This environment creates excellent opportunities for buyers and sellers preparing to enter the market in the coming months.” Ian Ross
SAM DANCKERT
JASMIN SCOTT
ALEX CORRADI
IAN ROSS
34 MORELL STREET MORNINGTON
5 Bed | 5 Bath Barrington.
3 KOTOR CLOSE MT MARTHA
5 Bed | 3 Bath
Private coastal sanctuary with poolside perfection.
5 REGINALD WAY MT MARTHA
4 Bed | 2 Bath
Acreage living with Briars backdrop. KALIMNA DRIVE
5 Bed | 5 Bath
Exclusive off-market sale by
THE LOCAL FILES–CORBETT LYON
Step inside the mind of one of Australia’s most visionary architects and art collectors, and you’ll find a world where creativity, legacy, and human connection shape every decision. For Corbett Lyon, co-founder of Lyons Architects and creator of Melbourne’s celebrated Lyon Housemuseum, architecture isn’t just about form and function. It’s about feeling.
Corbett and his family have a long history and deep roots on the Mornington Peninsula, and now the coastal haven of Mount Martha has quietly become a sanctuary for both rest and reflection. For Corbett, Mount Martha is more than a destination, it’s a lifelong touchstone.
“We spent all our childhood summers down here,” he says. “My parents rented in Walpole Street, then built a house on Dominion Road. Those summers defined my childhood.”
That early connection eventually inspired him to return, this time with his own family. “We rented a house one summer, then found
a block on Bay Road that Sam Danckert was selling. My eldest daughter and I designed a house together and we moved in about 18 months ago. It’s been a joy.”
Swimming in the calm, clear waters of South Beach is still a ritual for Corbett. “It’s one of the best beaches in the world,” he reflects.
“Exactly as I remember it. The rocks where we used to go spearfishing are of course still there. That essence of Mount Martha - the beach, the community, the quiet - hasn’t changed.”
Corbett’s professional story is inseparable from his family’s legacy. “My grandfather designed many of Melbourne’s iconic hotels, including the Southern Cross,” he explains.
“His son - my uncle - was an architect, as were my father, another uncle, my cousin, my three brothers, and now my two daughters. It’s a bit of a dynasty.”
So what keeps generation after generation drawn to architecture?
“It was the creative energy around us,” he says. “Our mother was an art teacher and architectural renderer. We grew up drawing and model-making, it was an integral and natural part of life. I’m a very creative person at heart. While my schoolmates were thinking about law or medicine, I knew I wanted to build things that would make people feel something.”
PAULA FOX MELANOMA AND CANCER CENTRE
After studying at the University of Melbourne, Corbett won a scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania, before working in New York for the renowned architect Robert Venturi. Returning home, he co-founded one of Australia’s most awarded architectural practices with his brothers. Today, Lyons has received over 130 awards and employs more than 100 architects.
Unlike many architects who build homes and offices, Corbett’s career has largely been dedicated to public architecturehospitals, universities, research institutes, and courthouses. “We don’t design for architecture’s sake,” he says. “We design for people. Our practice is grounded in humanist architecture.”
At the heart of this approach is a philosophy called salutogenic design - a concept Corbett introduced to Australia. “It’s about how spaces make people feel,” he explains. “How do you create a hospital that isn’t cold and clinical? A courthouse that doesn’t intimidate? It’s not about cost, it’s about care.”
QUEENSLAND CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
Lyons’ Queensland Children’s Hospital was the first salutogenic building in Australia and has since been recognised globally for its uplifting, patient-focused design.
While Corbett’s work has shaped the public realm, one of his most personal and pioneering projects sits in Melbourne’s suburb of Kew: the Lyon Housemuseum.
“I started collecting Australian contemporary art in 1990 and I met my wife Yueji in 1993. We have been collecting together ever since” Corbett says. “As the collection grew, we needed a space that could house both the artworks and our family. So I designed a building that’s equal parts house and museum.”
The result is an architectural anomaly - neither home nor gallery, but both. “Most people said, ‘keep the house and museum separate.’ I did the opposite. I mashed them together. And it worked.”
The Housemuseum became the first building in the world purpose designed from the ground up to serve this dual purpose. Over the years, it has welcomed thousands of visitors, including the Director of the Tate Museum, Grand Designs’ Kevin McCloud, and actor Pierce Brosnan.
“For our visitors it’s a unique experience,” Corbett says. “Even after we moved out in 2023, we’re still sharing the space. In 2013, we gifted the Housemuseum and most of our collection to a not-for-profit foundation we set up so that they can continue to inspire others.”
Corbett Lyon has quietly reshaped how Australians experience public spaces. From Mount Martha’s tranquil shoreline to the country’s most advanced hospitals, his legacy is built not just in concrete and steel, but in how people feel when they walk through his buildings. “I’ve been in this profession for over 45 years,” he says. “And I still love it.”
www.lyonsarch.com.au
REAL ESTATE TIPS
Insider advice for home owners on the Mornington Peninsula. From presentation to price, these are the little things that make a big impact.
“Preparation and presentation are key— first impressions count. Partner with an agent who understands how to position your property to stand out. If you’re considering selling, now is the time to invest in thoughtful preparation; styling, landscaping, and professional photography. Buyers are drawn to aspirational living, and in a competitive market, first impressions are everything. Engage with a trusted agent early to position your property for the best possible result. For buyers, be clear on your must-haves and act decisively when the right property comes up—competition for quality homes remains strong.”
Sam Danckert
“For sellers, preparation is everything— small improvements can lead to big results. Presentation matters more than ever. If you’re thinking of selling this spring, invest the time in getting your home looking its best, buyers are emotionally driven, especially in lifestyle markets like ours. Also, don’t wait for the perfect moment. The right strategy and timing tailored to your property and goals can make all the difference. Let the market work for you while buyer confidence is strong. For buyers, be ready to act when the right home appears, as premium properties are still moving quickly when priced well.”
Jasmin Scott
TOP TEN TIPS FOR CREATING THE BEST FIRST IMPRESSION:
When selling your property, achieving the best possible result means securing a fast sale at the highest price. First impressions are everything, and the way you present your home plays a crucial role in captivating potential buyers from the outset. Buyers aren’t looking for everyday reality; they are searching for the dream—a home they can envision themselves living in.
1. The journey beings at first sight, so make sure the exterior is pristine, and maintained for the duration of the sale process.
2. One of the most cost-effective ways to revamp your home is with a fresh coat of paint.
3. Shampoo carpets and remove any stains, polish timber floors and replace damaged or outdated flooring.
4. Attention to detail matters. Buyers will notice dripping taps, broken fixtures, or unfinished DIY projects.
“Presentation and realistic pricing are crucial in today’s market. Whether you’re preparing to sell now or considering it in the near future, taking the time to enhance your property’s appeal can significantly impact the result. Even small improvements like styling, landscaping, or maintenance can help maximise buyer interest and the final sale price. For buyers, having finance pre-approved and being ready to act quickly will give you a competitive edge, particularly when the right home becomes available.” Alex Corradi
5. Less is more when it comes to styling your home for sale. Clear out personal items, family photos, and excessive décor so buyers can imagine themselves living there.
6. An empty house can feel cold and uninviting. If your property is unoccupied, consider hiring or investing in key furniture pieces to create a sense of warmth and lifestyle appeal.
7. Eliminate odours—particularly food, rubbish and pets.
8. A meticulously clean home leaves a lasting impression.
9. Small styling details can transform a space.
10. Curtains and blinds can enhance the ambience of a room. Keep them open to invite natural light.
“With so much information available online these days it’s not hard to determine, in general, what a property is likely to be priced at. With the right first impressions,
and an agent aligned with your location, there shouldn’t be any reason to not achieve a desired result. If you’re looking to sell in spring or summer, now would be the time to engage the right agent to represent your home. A good agent will work with the vendor as a trusted partner throughout the whole process of preparation, pre-launch and launching to market with open communication and a high degree of negotiation to achieve the best result for the vendor. For buyers, the marketing is currently in your favour. Once you determine the desired area you would like purchase, speaking to local agents would be key in finding the right property either on or off market. ” Ian Ross
TEAM UPDATE
“A standout moment for me recently was when I had an inspection with a buyer who had already made a successful offer and secured the property—but had returned for a subsequent visit to show their young children their new home. The wife was a little anxious about what their response would be seeing the new house and as soon as they walked into the property and looked inside they let a thunderous “WOW!!! Can we live here forever mum?”
Seeing joy of the kids and the relief and happiness of the mum was very touching— and something I will never forget.
We’re proud to be working with several clients on landmark properties that will set new benchmarks in the area. It’s always exciting to see the trust our clients place in us, and we’re focused on delivering outcomes that reflect the true value of their homes. Recently setting another
suburb record price for a property sale in Mornington was a highlight. Behind the scenes, we’re also continuing to invest in marketing and systems to ensure an even more tailored, high-level experience for both buyers and sellers.” Alex Corradi
“One standout moment that comes to mind was helping a couple sell their home after it had been on the market with another agency for over eight months without success. They entrusted me with the listing, and within just two weeks, we secured a strong result that not only met their expectations but also aligned perfectly with the timing and terms they needed to move forward.
Seeing the relief and joy on their faces as they stepped confidently into their next chapter was incredibly rewarding. It’s moments like that which remind me why I love what I do.” Jasmin Scott
“With several highlights over the last few months, the sale of 21 Shearwater Drive stands out for me. After a 104day campaign, our vendors—who were feeling understandably stressed by the uncertainty—achieved a successful result that has now opened the door for them to downsize and enjoy the next chapter of their lives in comfort. Their relief and gratitude reminded me why we do what we do.
Another professional highlight was the sale of 5 Reginald Way . It was a highly competitive process with three active bidders, and we ultimately secured a strong result. Most importantly, the sale gives our vendors the financial confidence to take their next step, which is always the most rewarding outcome.” Sam Danckert
“One of the most exciting developments for Danckert Real Estate was opening our second Danckert office in Martha Cove. This venture is the result of a long-held dream to continue as the leading agency in the Marina, and to spur on potential growth. This second office will bring new opportunities for us as a brand, having cemented our foothold in the Marina for many years now. I look forward to continuing the connection with this great community and the future development. I recently sold a waterfront home off market without actually listing the property. My buyer wanted a specific type of home, and one of my long-term clients had considered selling their property but weren’t keen on showcasing the property online for a lengthy period. After an inspection we secured a successful negotiation for both parties on the same day.” Ian Ross
“Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply staying informed, you can expect elevated expertise, energy and care from the Danckert team— because growth is only valuable when it serves others.”
SAM DANCKERT