Hidden within the remarkable surrounds of the Round the Bend Conservation Co-operative, this character-rich three-bedroom mudbrick home offers something genuinely different — a private bushland retreat where architecture, nature and community come together.
Established in 1971, Round the Bend is a residential conservation community spanning approximately 132 hectares (326 acres) of protected bushland, creating an extraordinary environment of native forest, wildlife and natural beauty just around 45 kilometres from Melbourne. A biodiversity hotspot in the Nillumbik Green Wedge.
The property is an integral part of the broader Bend of Islands ‘Environmental Living Zone’ and its vibrant community.
The home itself is full of warmth and individuality, with handcrafted mudbrick walls, exposed timber ceilings, slate floors and large windows that draw the surrounding bushland purposely into almost every room.
At the heart of the home is a generous open-plan living zone centred around an impressive brick fireplace and a fabulous sunken conversation pit — a feature that perfectly captures the home’s relaxed 70s character. The adjoining timber kitchen complements the natural materials throughout, while multiple living and creative spaces provide flexibility for everyday family life, working from home or pursuing artistic interests.
Accommodation includes three bedrooms, together with a separate study, studio or workshop, bathroom, separate toilet, laundry and large walk-in pantry. Comfort is enhanced by an open fireplace, potbelly stove and reverse-cycle air conditioning.
Outside, the home opens beautifully to its bushland setting, with paved and covered outdoor areas providing peaceful places to sit, dine and unwind. A separate firepit and seating area creates an especially inviting spot to gather with friends while taking in the surrounding trees and evening sky.
Established landscaping and kitchen garden, a two-car garage, substantial rainwater storage and additional outbuildings complete the property. More than simply a home, this is an
opportunity to become part of a conservation community that has protected this remarkable landscape for more than 50 years.
Highlights
· Distinctive three-bedroom mudbrick residence
· Fabulous sunken conversation pit
· Exposed timber-lined ceilings and slate flooring
· Expansive windows framing the bushland setting
· Generous open-plan living and dining
· Impressive brick fireplace
· Timber kitchen with substantial storage
· Separate study, studio or workshop
· Open fireplace, potbelly stove and reverse-cycle air conditioning
· Large walk-in pantry
· Bathroom plus separate toilet
· Covered and paved outdoor entertaining areas
· Separate firepit and seating area overlooking the bush
· Two-car garage
· Large rainwater tank and additional outbuildings
· Surrounded by approximately 132 hectares / 326 acres of conservation land
Inspection By Appointment Only
Important Co-operative Information
Round the Bend operates under a shared co-operative ownership structure rather than conventional individual land title ownership.
Prospective purchasers are required to undertake the Co-operative’s membership approval process, ensuring compatibility with its conservation principles and existing community. This process may take up to 12 months, and the property is available for rental during this time.
Domestic pets are not permitted within the Environmental Living Zone.
Traditional mortgage finance through major banks may not be available under the Co-operative ownership structure, and prospective purchasers should make their own enquiries regarding finance and alternative funding arrangements.
Further information regarding Round the Bend Conservation Co-operative, its conservation philosophy, ownership structure and membership process is available through the Co-operative’s website.
https://www.roundthebend.org.au
