Inside the landmark Adelaide estate with ties to Mad Max

A heritage listed circa 1851 Adelaide home which hosted members of the iconic 1979 Mad Max movie, including Mel Gibson, has hit the market. 

The property’s rich history began well before it was frequented by the Mad Max crew, with well-known South Australian politician and businessman, Thomas Elder buying the residence – then known as Birksgate Estate – from pastoralist and barrister Arthur Hardy in 1864. 

According to the Mitcham Council’s heritage citation, Elder turned the property into what the heritage survey referred to as “one of the showpieces of Adelaide.” 

Elder extended the house and grounds, and built a stone wall to the boundary.

In 1970, the main house was demolished with two gatehouses and a wall the only elements of Birksgate Estate that remain today. 

Two chimneys, double hung sash windows, detailing and circular vents to gable ends are among 2 Barr-Smith Drive, Urrbrae’s original hallmarks. 

Offering a charming mix of rich colonial history across 13 rooms, the two-storey home is set on a 758sqm landholding. 

Inside, cathedral-style north-facing windows are highlights of the big kitchen, and there is also a formal lounge, library and a wine cellar. 

There is also an indoor eight person spa room overlooking the pool. 

Sales agent Peter Price from Price Partners Real Estate Adelaide said the well-located home, which was extended in the 1980s, was about an eight minute drive to Adelaide. 

“The house itself was originally the gardener’s cottage and has original character fireplaces, high pressed metal ceilings… the original part has a slate roof,” he said. 

The listing has generated good interest, he said, with people loving its uniqueness. 

“I think it would be a family home. Its 300sqm so it’s a big, big old home, but it could also suit a professional couple – it would be a good entertainer,” he said. 

The property is being sold via a ‘best offer’ campaign until July 10. 

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