A DUNOLLY property on the market is attracting attention for an unusual reason.
It's not just that the only toilet is an unplumbed outhouse, rare in 2021.
It's the outhouse's uncanny resemblance to the Whomping Willow, a feature of witchcraft and wizardry school Hogwarts' grounds in the Harry Potter universe.
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But the unusual features continue. The property has lain empty for 50 years, making it like a time capsule, according to its agent.
Maryborough Ballarat Real Estate sales manager Kate Ashton said the outhouse's Whomping Willow resemblance struck her from the very first time she saw it.
She said visitors viewing the home had also commented on the similarity.
Ms Ashton credited the drop toilet's unique appearance to a wisteria, which has grown in and around the building, creating its own little habitat complete with birds' nests.
"I'd love to put a glass dome ... over that. It's just a piece of art, should be in a museum," she said.
Ms Ashton said as a Dunolly resident herself, the 144 Broadway home had always fascinated her.
She said it had been empty since 1971, when the family who owned it originally moved to a property out of town.
The same family is now selling, after owning the home since 1938.
"It is just so rare that a house has stood still for so long ... the potential for somebody to bring it back to life, transform it and join our community, would be pretty fantastic," Ms Ashton said.
"It's so unique to see a property in such good condition, that has stood still for five decades.
"The potential for somebody to bring it back to life, transform it and join our community, would be pretty fantastic."
The property details are available online at realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-dunolly-135870106.
Elspeth Kernebone
Accident brought me to journalism, but every day convinces me again that strong media is more important than ever. After a starting off as the sole reporter in a tiny NSW town, I’m loving the teeming metropolis that is Bendigo. Focussed on health, business and education. Got a tip? Email elspeth.kernebone@bendigoadvertiser.com.au.
Accident brought me to journalism, but every day convinces me again that strong media is more important than ever. After a starting off as the sole reporter in a tiny NSW town, I’m loving the teeming metropolis that is Bendigo. Focussed on health, business and education. Got a tip? Email elspeth.kernebone@bendigoadvertiser.com.au.
