Treasure Island
July 20 2022
The northern Gold Coast community of Ephraim Island is among the Gold Coast’s most exclusive enclaves, with a reputation for security, privacy and prestige.
Accessible by bridge from the mainland at Paradise Point, the 9.6-hectare site is home to some 500 residents living in apartments, villas, and a limited supply of beach houses.
Developed on what was originally a natural land formation, some 75% of the island is dedicated to open parklands, lakes, inlets and a conservation reserve.
The island has proven an idyllic and inspiring setting for master jeweller John Calleija, whose bespoke designs have made Calleija an iconic international brand with boutiques in London, Sydney and a flagship store at Marina Mirage.
“For some reason, when you come onto the island you feel a sense of calm and peace. Ephraim has a beautiful energy to it,” says John, who moved to Ephraim Island five years ago.
“The wildlife here is amazing. We get dolphins in front of the house, there’s a dugong that comes and feeds off the weeds, and there is so much birdlife.
“This little bird comes to my balcony every morning with these big blue eyes and sings, it’s honestly really cute. We feel very much part of nature.”
John is offering the stylish and spacious Beach House 13 on Ephraim Island Parade to market in a campaign led by Kollosche agent Daniel Sharp and Shaun Kaddatz.
The three-level design occupies a prime north-facing point position where a vast 30m frontage exposes a glorious panoramic vista over the Broadwater to South Stradbroke Island and around to Ephraim Island Marina, Paradise Point and Sovereign Islands.
“This Beach House faces due north so you get to see magical sunsets and sunrises,” says John. “It’s among the biggest plots on the island and possibly the widest waterfront. It’s right on the point and has the biggest swimming pool. There is a lotto love.”
The Beach House is offered with an 18m (59ft) marina berth – visible from the house which caters for a boat measuring up to 65ft. Deep water passage is bridge-free to the Gold Coast Seaway or head north to explore protected waters beyond Couran Cove.
Constructed by Mirvac from solid concrete, the high end build is finished in a refined modern coastal aesthetic that exudes understated luxury. A sleek Miele kitchen flows to water view dining and living, where a gas fireplace lends warmth and ambience. A master bedroom on the main living level opens up the option to reserve the upstairs bedrooms for guests.
Covered alfresco entertaining takes full advantage of the waterfront location, with an outdoor BBQ and two drinks fridges making this a pleasant space in which to host guests. The view extends over a heated infinity pool, while a basement cinema with dry bar offers a secluded escape for a classic movie marathon or TV sport. The basement also features showroom-style parking for up to six cars or an assortment of large land toys.
“The Beach House is ideal for people who don’t want to live in an apartment, but don’t want all of the maintenance that comes with a big house,” says John.
“For those who are wanting to travel, this is the perfect lock up and go. Your cars are safe, there is minimal lawn, and your boat is secure in the marina.”
“The Beach Houses are very tightly held– people just don’t want to sell them. We all know each other and look out for each other, it’s a lovely community.”
Ephraim Island residents enjoy 24-hour security, two outdoor pools, an indoor lap pool, a spa, sauna, gymnasium, superbly maintained grounds and a day spa. Locals walk to Jonez on Ephraim, led by Michelin star chef Gary Began and wife Belinda, or venture over the bridge to Paradise Point for restaurants, retail shops, essential services and everyday conveniences.
“You are just 15-20 minutes from Southport, Main Beach and Surfers Paradise, and Ephraim Island is central to both Brisbane and Gold Coast airports,” says John
“It’s a rare combination to be on the Broadwater, to have ample parking for the cars, security is really good, you’ve got protection for your boat, and still be close to everything.
“We’ve loved every minute of it here.”
Private inspections are offered by appointment through Daniel Sharp 0420 967 891 and Shaun Kaddatz 0414 461 676.