When Frederick Sargood built a 15-room mansion on 26 acres in the former bushland north of Brighton which became the outskirts of Elsternwick, and named it Rippon Lea after his mother, Emma Rippon, it is unlikely that he could have envisioned his family home becoming one of the most famous Victorian-era properties in Australia.
Bearbrass members listened in wonder as we toured the now-33 room mansion with its original self-sustaining underground watering system, its purpose-dredged lake and waterfall, indoor toilets and evidence of its original electrical system.
As guides Sara and Helen led us through the spectacular bedrooms, Hollywood-influenced dining room, gardens and swimming baths, we learned of Sargood’s gold-rush inspired soft goods business success, the property’s sale and extension by Benjamin Nathan (founder of Maples Furniture stores – “… right near your door”), its subsequent purchase by a business consortium under Tommy Bent (politician after whom Bentleigh is named) and its final transfer to the National Trust.
Most National Trust properties are historically interesting but Rippon Lea, under a wonderful blue-sky day, was a real surprise; the guides were as proud as they were interested in sharing their knowledge and the rich tapestry woven from business success through the Victorian era of Melbourne’s growth was an absolute delight for all to share.