Just as Dr Edgar and Mary Riek were pioneers in establishing one of Canberra’s oldest wineries, Lake George Winery, the same could be said of Edgar and Mary being one of the original pioneers of Duffy St, Ainslie. When they were offered their Ainslie home in 1949 Dr Riek was working in Tibooburra and Mary tracked him down via the pedal wireless network. ‘Should we take the property 19 Duffy St Ainslie?’ Mary’s message read, and Edgar’s response: “Only if it is acceptable in every respect!”. And for the last 72 years it has been exactly that…and more.

Mary’s fondest memories of her time at 19 Duffy St are the beauty of the gardens that she and Edgar created. “We chose this block because we thought it would produce better gardens”. Both were very active horticulturists in the Canberra gardening scene and the result is a garden unlike any other. Canopies of Cherry Tree and Magnolia meet you on arrival and lead you through to the secret gardens beyond where you will find an amazing array of plant species ranging from tall Camelia and Azalea trees to unique species bred by Dr Riek himself; a Hellebore bred specifically for its upward facing flower head; and one of a kind Peony species bred for their perfume found no where else. One cannot forget the 70 year old Ginkgo biloba tree standing tall in the front yard and of course there’s the countless other plants and bulbs that delight at various times throughout the year.

19 Duffy Street is a unique opportunity to inherit a solid, charming 1950’s home and a legacy garden which will continue to reward and delight its new owners for decades ahead.

– First time offered for sale in 72 years
– Gorgeous red brick appeal with multiple extensions
– Segregated upstairs main bedroom, ensuite and walk-in robe
– Secondary bedrooms on lower floor with two living areas and study
– Parquetry floors to main living, one of the first to be laid in Canberra
– Bespoke timber joinery in true 1950’s flair
– Working fireplace and split system air conditioner
– Downstairs cellar or workshop
– Double garage and glass house
– Elevated position opposite reserve with views to Black Mountain
– City-end of Ainslie, with local shops, schools and Civic a short ride away