A prestigious Rose Bay property has changed hands for $45.1 million at a private auction held on 24 September, marking what could be a new benchmark for Australian residential properties sold under the hammer.
The grand estate at 19 Kent Rd, known as The Knoll due to its elevated position, had initially attracted interest in the $30 million to $35 million range when it first came to market. The final sale price exceeded these early expectations by more than $10 million.
The sprawling 2,536-square-metre property, which offered six bedrooms and commanding views over the Royal Sydney Golf Course, had been held by the same family for six decades. According to selling agents Michael Dunn and James Dunn of Richardson & Wrench Double Bay, the vendors were descendants of the Burns family, connected to Sir James Burns who established the merchant company Burns Philp.
Nine registered bidders competed for the trophy home, with four participating actively in the auction conducted by Jessie Davidson. Bidding commenced at $29 million and advanced rapidly in million-dollar increments before the property was declared on the market at $40 million.
The winning bid came from a local family, described by the agents as a couple in their 50s, who secured the keys with a final offer of $45.1 million. Whilst speculation has circulated about the purchasers’ possible connection to the nearby golf club, this remains unconfirmed.
Michael Dunn expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating he believed it could represent a record for a residential property sold at auction. The previous benchmark was set at $43.1 million for a Toorak property in Victoria, which sold in 2021.
Built in 1935 and designed by Scott, Green & Scott for WA Freeman, the Georgian revival-style residence evokes the character of a British country manor. The property features generous rooms with high ceilings, established gardens, level lawns, and a 15.2-metre swimming pool.
The home’s proximity to the recently renovated Royal Sydney Golf Club proved to be a significant drawcard, with the fairways visible from the residence. As a deceased estate, The Knoll represented a rare opportunity to acquire one of the larger non-waterfront properties in Rose Bay, having had only a handful of owners throughout its nearly century-long history.
The new owners are expected to undertake renovations to the heritage property.
Published 24-September-2025
