Perched on the cliffs of Dover Heights is the Holman House, one of Australia’s most celebrated architectural masterpieces for its award-winning design and community significance.
A Modern Architectural Icon in Dover Heights
Designed by Durbach Block Jaggers and completed in 2004, Holman House gained widespread recognition after winning the Wilkinson Award from the Royal Australian Institute of Architects in 2005.
The house is famed for its dramatic cliffside placement and sweeping curves, inspired by a Picasso painting. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and a design that seamlessly integrates with the rugged coastline, Holman House has become a standout feature of the Dover Heights landscape.
The house’s design features bold shapes that float over the cliff edge, an engineering feat demonstrating innovation in Australian architecture. Its projected forms and utilization of natural materials establish a visual balance with the environment around it, making it a point of pride for locals and a fascination for architectural enthusiasts worldwide.
Though a private residence, Holman House has become a cultural marker for the Dover Heights community. Its striking design reflects the area’s reputation for bold, forward-thinking architecture that embraces its natural surroundings. Locals often mention the house as a source of inspiration, pointing to it as a model of how modern homes coexist with the Australian coastline’s dramatic beauty.
The house is frequently the subject of architectural tours and photography, drawing visitors to the area who come to admire its unique design. While it remains privately owned, Holman House has an almost public role in shaping Dover Heights’ identity as a hub for innovative residential design.
The Significance of the Wilkinson Award
Winning the Wilkinson Award in 2005 cemented Holman House’s place in Australian architectural history. The award, one of the highest honours for residential design in the country, is given to projects that exemplify excellence in form, function, and environmental integration. Judges praised the house’s ability to balance structural daring with a sense of home, calling it a benchmark for modern Australian housing.
Efforts to maintain such homes protect their artistic and historical value and inspire future designs in the area. Local heritage advocates have often highlighted Holman House as an example of how modern architecture can pay homage to the natural landscape while remaining functional and liveable.
Holman House also questions the balance between private property and public appreciation. While it is a family home, its prominence has made it a public interest and architectural study subject, demonstrating how residential design can transcend its original purpose.
We’ve combed Dover Heights, Hmas Watson, Rose Bay North, Vaucluse, and Watsons Bay for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Lisa ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Such a cute place for high tea. Everything was tasty! We had to wait a bit to grab the bill but overall, we had a great time.
Josephine C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ BEST WEDDING EVER! We had the time of our life at this beautiful venue in September. The food was amazing, our guests were so happy, the service was great and the venue is just stunning. We loved how intimate it was which made for a great party feel with 110 guests. Thank you Vaucluse Estate for making our day so special and memorable. It couldn’t have gone any better!
Thalyn S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recently had the pleasure of celebrating my baby shower here 🍼 A perfect venue for a sweet spring event surrounded by gorgeous wisteria seen from the main restaurant. The afternoon tea was very delicious (scones perfect and yummy mocktails) and a very elegant afternoon tea set up.Staff are very nice and friendly – shout out to the lovely Yimmi 🌷Thank you Amanda from events for helping me plan my baby shower – I was definitely showered with sweet treats, pretty flowers and lots of love 💛💛💛Looking forward to going back for more afternoon tea 🫖 🍰
Yong J ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good food, decoration. The service is attentive, the environment is fresh, elegant and very atmosphere. I came here for breakfast this time, and I will come for dinner next time
Rhea P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If I could give this beautiful place a higher rating, I would! I came to celebrate my bridesmaids proposal here a few weeks ago and gosh the place was absolutely beautiful 😍 The staff members were absolutely amazing and treated my bridesmaids and I with such kindness and respect, and even offered to take photos for us!And just when we thought it couldn’t get better, the food and mimosas came out! Each of our meals were delicious and the service was super fast and responsive to our dietary requests. I highly recommend this beautiful restaurant for any event or general booking as the staff will 100% take care of you and you will be in awe of the atmosphere! Thank you so much ☺️
Nick W ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had the most incredible anniversary dinner at Botanica! This place is an absolute gem – stunning location, beautifully designed decor, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. But the real highlight? The food! Every dish was exceptional, packed with flavor and beautifully presented. It’s right up there with the best hatted restaurants, but without any unnecessary fuss. If you go, try as many dishes as possible. Highly recommend!
Ana J ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great lunch spot! Pricey but worth it, fish is fresh and of good quality. Sourdough bread was delicious as well as pasta! Staff was accommodating and well trained. The only annoying thing were seagulls and pelican who were trying to grab a bite.
Chris G ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Doyle’s has been a family favourite, since the 1930’s, when my grandparents used to go there. My Mum and I would often go to Doyle’s during our trips back to Sydney. It’s just a beautiful place, right on the water. You can see the city and the harbour bridge popping its arch over the headland. Watch the ferries chug back and forth… and eat the scrumptious seafood. The staff are amazing. I was lucky enough to meet Elizabeth Doyle, she was working to ensure everyone was enjoying their time at Doyles. Thank you to all the staff. The live music was an added bonus, thanks Heath Lincoln. 🎸
Rosie ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Booked a table for 2, literally by the water. You can’t beat the view! Food was good. Ordered the surf & turf and the salmon as our main meals. For the entree ordered salt & pepper calamari & fresh oysters. We couldn’t fit dessert. Service was good . It was a busy night so it might have taken a lil longer to get the food out. Overall .. the view was amazing, food & service good. Highly recommended .
Serena D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Inside a stunning heritage building over looking the water this place is incredible. The food was exceptional. Service very friendly and attentive. Location perfect. This place is a must try! Loved it all here
Olivia S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Golden moments Delicious food, stunning sunset views, and smiles all around—especially from our Goldie! Your warmth and professionalism created an atmosphere of elegance and charm. Thank you for having us—we look forward to visiting again.
Christina F ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Incredible dining experience at Dunbar by Palomas! The seafood was outstanding, especially the freshly shucked oysters with Nam JIm and flame-kissed prawns – so fresh and full of flavour. The eye fillet with pepper sauce & truffle mash was perfectly cooked and the pan-fried barramundi with clams, green olives & tomato fregola was a seafood lover’s dream. The cocktails were sensational, with the Pink Cloud Cocktail and Watermelon Margarita being the perfect sunset sips. Add in the stunning oceanfront views, attentive service and this is the ultimate spot for drinks and dinner by the water. Can’t wait to return! 🌅🍸✨
りほ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This place has some of the best sushi and sashimi in Australia. I love this place, the food is always fresh and the staff is attentive. Salmon in particular is my favorite. Once you visit, you will definitely want to visit again.
Taku M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I enjoyed a delicious meal. The sushi and sashimi are especially fresh, and the sashimi tacos are excellent with the jalapeño sauce. The staff is friendly and very helpful.
Take a quick stroll at the lovely Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights.
Are you looking for a place to enjoy Sydney’s majestic views? Well, there is no need for you to travel far. Just take a quick drive or bus ride to what arguably is the best Sydney eastern suburb park, the Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights.
At the Dudley Page Reserve, you get to experience a breathtaking panoramic view of some of Australia’s favourite icons such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Centrepoint Tower.
This park is set on such a prime location that a number of tourists visit this area for sightseeing. In fact, during the day you will see tourists dispersed all over the park eager to capture their perfect Australia souvenir photo.
Photo credit: www.waverley.nsw.gov.au
But of course aside from tourists, locals are also fond of this park. During the holidays such as New Year’s Eve and Australia Day, expect to see heaps of families gathered around whilst enjoying the spectacular view that the park offers.
It is definitely an ideal place to visit on New Year’s Eve because of the fireworks display that can easily be spotted given the park’s vantage point and clear view of the city. The local council also organises a festive family friendly mini carnival that is set annually at this park during New Year’s Eve.
Dudley Page Reserve is also one of Sydney’s underrated yet beautiful spots for catching the sunrise and sunset.
More than just Majestic Views
Photo credit: postcardsydney.com
More than just its majestic views of the city, the park also has a children’s playground set that consist of swings, slides, seesaw, and ropes climb. However, please be advised that Dudley Page Reserve’s playground is ideal for small kids and not for toddlers.
Photo credit: www.waverley.nsw.gov.au
Another activity to do at the Dudley Page Reserve is junior cricket. Although the allotted space in the park is too small for a full-sized match, the area can still be used for team training or even a casual game of cricket with some friends and families.
Dudley Page Reserve also boasts its outdoor gym that is perfect for those who wants to get fit and active without having to pay gym membership fees. The outdoor gym in this park features different stationary machines that can be of use in your everyday workout whilst the picturesque harbour view serves as your backdrop.
Photo credit: postcardsydney.com
Please be advised that limited street parking spaces are available in the area and that pets are restricted inside the park. There are a few rubbish bins at Dudley Page Reserve, but there are no public toilets nearby.
If you are interested to book Dudley Page Reserve, book here or enquire via email at venuehire@waverley.nsw.gov.au or telephone 9083 8300.
Residents in Dover Heights have successfully petitioned to remove a line of tuckeroo trees on Myuna Road that have grown to block views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.
Homeowners along Myuna Road raised the issue after noticing that the tuckeroo trees, planted by authorities more than a decade ago, had grown far taller than the original street trees. Those earlier plantings stood below three metres and did not obstruct outlooks across the harbour.
Residents said the tuckeroos now range between four and eight metres high, cutting off previously open views of Sydney’s skyline. In their petition to the authorities, signed by 21 homeowners, residents included photographs taken before the current trees were planted to demonstrate the extent of the change.
Caption: A photo of a tuckeroo tree. Photo Credit: Wikipedia
Petition Leads To Near-Unanimous Vote
The matter had been revisited over several council terms, with pruning efforts undertaken to manage growth. However, trimming reduced width rather than height and failed to restore visibility. After ongoing discussions, councillors voted almost unanimously to support the residents’ petition to remove the tuckeroos.
Waverley Council confirmed it would replace them with native grevillea trees that grow no higher than about three metres. The council stated that the removal and replanting work will occur in the coming months, with staff managing the process to minimise disruption and maintain the area’s vegetation cover.
Balancing Views And Greenery
Residents described the outcome as a practical resolution to a long-running issue affecting a street known for its panoramic location. The decision aims to preserve the area’s tree-lined appearance while ensuring harbour views are no longer obstructed.
Others in the community have emphasised the value of shade and wildlife habitat provided by street trees, reflecting an ongoing discussion about balancing environmental and visual priorities in residential areas.
Waverley Council has said it will oversee the removal and replanting process and continue reviewing tree species for urban streetscapes. The aim is to ensure future plantings provide greenery without obstructing outlooks, maintaining both the environmental and visual character of Dover Heights.
Fashion designer Shona Joy Thatcher, whose popular ‘La Lune’ dress has generated over $12.5 million in sales, and her property investor husband, Marty McGrath, are offloading their redesigned Mediterranean-inspired home in Dover Heights.
The sale comes after the family’s shift to a more relaxed, sea-focused lifestyle. They bought a three-bedroom house in Byron Bay in 2021, a year after securing a hinterland acreage in Federal for $2.7 million. While the couple will retain a three-bedroom unit in North Bondi, their decision to list their primary Sydney residence marks a new chapter, embracing a life by the coast that has always influenced the Shona Joy brand.
The couple’s Dover Heights property has seen a dramatic transformation since they purchased the 618-square-metre block for $2.2 million in 2014. What was once a double red brick house has been re-imagined into a modern, luxurious five-bedroom, four-bathroom home that evokes the feeling of a Greek island holiday.
The project was a collaboration with several celebrated Australian firms, including Andrew Burges Architects, who are known for their redesign of the Parramatta Aquatic Centre, and Robert Plumb Build. The interiors were a result of a partnership with Design Daily, while the gardens were crafted by Dangar Barin Smith.
Beyond the sale of their home, Shona Joy’s fashion empire continues to thrive, celebrating its 25th year in the industry. The brand is particularly well known for its occasion dresses for weddings, a result of its appealing price points and wide range of sizes and colours.
One dress in particular, the “La Lune” lace-back maxi dress, has been a standout success, with over 38,000 sold since 2020. This single style has reportedly generated more than $12.5 million in sales, according to the designer.
The Dover Heights home, which is scheduled to go to auction on September 27, is part of a series of strategic property moves for the couple. In addition to their recent acquisitions in Byron Bay and Federal, they recently sold another two-bedroom unit in Bondi Beach for $2.05 million. The Dover Heights listing is being handled by Alex Phillips of PPD Real Estate.
Tasha Rogoff, a 15-year-old from Dover Heights, has been awarded the top prize in her age category in the national Young Archie 2025 portrait competition for her painting of her grandfather.
Tasha Rogoff of Dover Heights has won the 13–15 years category in the Young Archie 2025 portrait competition, hosted by the Art Gallery of New South Wales. The competition, now in its 13th year, invites young artists across Australia to create portraits of someone meaningful in their lives.
Caption: “What are you doing with that box?” by Tasha Ragoff Photo Credit: Art of Gallery NSW
Winning Entry: A Portrait of Purpose
Ms Rogoff’s winning work, “What are you doing with that box?” depicts her grandfather and his creative use of everyday containers, such as cereal boxes and pill jars. The artwork highlights his habit of repurposing discarded objects, offering a broader message about environmental care and the value of small things often overlooked.
Ongoing Artistic Involvement
This is not Ms Rogoff’s first entry in the Young Archie. At age 10, she submitted a portrait titled “Gaga phones home” in the 9–12 years category. That earlier work showed her grandmother in her home environment, surrounded by artworks and antiques, while struggling to navigate a mobile phone. Across both works, Ms Rogoff has maintained a focus on personal relationships and generational stories.
Caption: “Gaga phones home” by Tasha Ragoff Photo Credit: Art of Gallery NSW
Judging and Display
The 2025 competition attracted over 3200 submissions from across the country. A panel led by artist Jumaadi and the gallery’s family programs manager selected 70 finalists across four age categories. Ms Rogoff’s portrait is among the winning works now on display in the John Kaldor Family Hall of the Art Gallery’s Naala Badu building until 17 August.
Community Response
Online responses to the announcement praised Ms Rogoff’s ability to capture her grandfather’s personality and the portrait’s environmental message. Many noted the expressive detail and relatability of the subject matter.
Finalists and winners received cash prizes, art packs, and exhibition catalogues. Ms Rogoff’s portrait is displayed alongside works from the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2025. Entry to the exhibition is free and open to the public.
Dover Heights has been identified as one of Sydney’s suburbs with the lowest birth rates, according to new figures released by the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. The suburb recorded under 0.01 births per capita between 2014 and 2024, placing it among several eastern suburbs experiencing minimal population growth from new births.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Regional Comparison Shows Western Surge
The data highlights a contrasting trend across the city. Suburbs in Western and North-West Sydney—such as Liverpool, Box Hill and Marsden Park—have emerged as birth rate hotspots, with Liverpool alone registering 1,511 births in 2024. These areas are attracting younger families due to affordable housing and access to community support.
Demographic and Economic Factors Driving the Trend
Experts from the Australian National University link the disparity to economic pressures and housing affordability. Newer suburbs with larger, more accessible properties continue to attract growing families, while inner-city and coastal suburbs like Dover Heights see fewer births due to higher property prices and an ageing population profile.
Social researchers note that Sydney’s urban growth has shifted over the past decade, pushing the family demographic further outward as affordability shapes lifestyle decisions. This has contributed to a wider gap in fertility rates across socio-economic lines.
Greater Sydney’s fertility rate in 2023 was 1.55 births per woman, falling short of the replacement level of 2.06.Without migration, analysts suggest the city’s population would have entered decline as early as 2011. While migration offsets some of the demographic downturn, experts warn it does not resolve long-term pressures on infrastructure, services and education.
With birth rates falling across both high-growth and mid-growth areas, researchers indicate the current patterns are likely to continue unless addressed through policy reform and expanded fertility support. Dover Heights, like several affluent Sydney suburbs, may continue to see lower family growth unless broader housing and social trends shift.
A stunning cliffhanger home in Dover Heights has just hit the market, attracting a flood of interest from buyers. The four-bedroom, three-bathroom residence at 32 Wentworth Street sits on 531sqm, offering breathtaking ocean views and a prime location.
Since the listing went live, TRG Associate Director Cae Thomas has received an overwhelming number of inquiries.
“This house is going crazy online,” he said. “We’ve had 49 inquiries overnight.” Thomas also noted that they turned down offers ranging from $15 million and $16 million during an off-market campaign.
Luxury Upgrades and High-End Design
Owners Steve and Nicole Coppola, who operate Coppola Home at Moore Park Supa Centre, have transformed the property since purchasing it for $12.9 million in 2021.
They have installed a brand-new pool and spa, redesigned the outdoor area, and added underfloor heating in the kitchen and living spaces. A collaboration between award-winning firm Hare & Klein and Stratti Building Group has further enhanced the home’s sophisticated design.
Dover Heights Property Market Continues to Soar
Recent sales in Dover Heights show that demand for premium properties remains high.
-39 Portland Street sold for $16.8 million, setting a suburb record at the time.
-More recently, celebrity accountant Anthony Bell’s home in Hunter Street fetched $21 million, pushing local property prices even higher.
According to Thomas, buyers rarely get the opportunity to secure a true clifftop position in this sought-after suburb.
Securing a clifftop home in Dover Heights remains a rare opportunity Thomas says, with properties in this prime location seldom hitting the market.
With high demand from both local and international buyers, this home is likely to sell quickly. Interested buyers should act fast to secure a viewing or place an offer.
Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights is gearing up to welcome families and locals for its ticketed New Year’s Eve celebration, providing stunning panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the world-famous fireworks display.
Located just 3.5 kilometres southeast of Bondi Beach and 5.5 kilometres from Randwick, Dudley Page Reserve has become a favourite for its elevated position, offering unobstructed views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and city skyline. As a ticketed venue, it promises a more controlled and enjoyable experience for attendees, with family-friendly amenities and entertainment to complement the fireworks show.
The reserve is one of the few eastern suburbs locations providing a curated New Year’s Eve event. With tickets priced at $65 for adults, $30 for children, and $170 for a family package (2 adults, 2 children), it offers a safe and festive environment for families and friends.
A Record-Breaking Fireworks Display by Foti International Fireworks
The 2024 Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks, designed and executed by Foti International Fireworks, promise to be one of the most innovative displays in the event’s history. With a legacy of pyrotechnic excellence dating back to 1793, the Foti family has spent more than 4,500 hours preparing this year’s spectacle.
Photo Credit: Supplied
This year’s display will feature:
Aerial Pyrotechnic Platforms: For the first time in Australia, four aerial platforms will hover between the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, launching approximately 600 effects in the 9:00 p.m. and midnight shows.
Expanded Firing Locations: The Harbour Bridge will have 264 firing positions, an increase from 184 last year, including 80 new positions on the western side. This expansion allows for extended views and a broader visual impact for spectators.
Drop Comet Fireworks: A technological innovation enabling fireworks to cascade from the Harbour Bridge in shapes like sharks, fish, and the word “Sydney” in a waterfall effect.
The sheer scale of the production includes:
9 tonnes of fireworks launched from 16 locations across Sydney Harbour.
Over 13,000 aerial shells and 40,000 ground-based effects, with more than 30,000 effects fired from the Harbour Bridge alone.
23,000 pyrotechnic cues, ensuring the display is perfectly synchronised with custom soundtracks.
The Foti team of 70 pyrotechnicians has installed over 80 kilometres of wiring and 16 computers to coordinate the display, making it one of the most technologically advanced shows in the world.
The 9:00 p.m. family display will feature an 8-minute soundtrack titled Our Greats, created by producer and ARIA Award winner Nooky, highlighting Australian talent. The 12-minute midnight show will be set to a specially composed soundtrack by Luna Pan, blending orchestral, techno house, reggae, and more to reflect Sydney’s vibrant and diverse culture.
The Foti family takes pride in continually innovating and evolving their displays. Their efforts ensure Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks remain among the most anticipated and visually spectacular in the world, attracting millions of spectators locally and internationally.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Family-Friendly Festivities
Dudley Page Reserve New Year’s Eve event features live DJ performances, roving magicians, face painting for children, and lawn games for families. Food stalls and a licensed bar will be available on-site, although attendees are welcome to bring their own picnic food. However, alcohol is not permitted to be brought in, and glassware is strictly prohibited.
Seating is first-come, first-served, so visitors are encouraged to bring picnic rugs or low chairs. High-back chairs are only allowed for those with mobility needs and will be positioned towards the rear of the crowd.
Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Evening
Public transport is the recommended way to access Dudley Page Reserve, as nearby roads will close from 6 p.m. Limited parking is available, but buses will run to and from the venue throughout the evening. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., giving attendees ample time to settle in before the 9:00 p.m. family fireworks and the midnight finale.
For those unable to attend in person, live coverage of Sydney’s fireworks will air on ABC TV from 8:30 p.m., with online streaming on the official event website and ABC iview. The synchronised soundtracks for the 9:00 p.m. and midnight shows will also be broadcast on KIIS 1065.
Celebrity accountant Anthony Bell has reportedly sold his Dover Heights clifftop residence for approximately $21 million, shattering the suburb’s previous record sale.
The luxurious Hunter Street property, which Bell acquired in 2017 for $11.5 million from television personality Larry Emdur and his wife Sylvie, has nearly doubled in value over seven years. This sale eclipses the previous Dover Heights record of $16.8 million, set just months ago in March for a property on Portland Street.
A caveat on the property’s title, dated September 6, reveals the buyer as Guanda Hu. While the exact sale price remains undisclosed, sources close to the deal estimate it at around $21 million. The rumoured sales agents behind this record-breaking transaction are Luke Hogan and William Manning of McGrath Double Bay, who have been experiencing a successful spring sales period.
Simon Felich, a valuer from Dyson Austen Advisory, commented on the significance of the sale: “This is a monster result, eclipsing the previous record by 25 percent. It demonstrates the growing appreciation for east-facing cliff-front homes and the sunrise views they offer.”
The property itself is a testament to luxury living, boasting over 1000 square meters of land, five bedrooms, a pool, and expansive glass walls that maximise the breathtaking ocean panorama.
This sale marks another chapter in Bell’s high-profile real estate moves. The Bell Partners CEO had originally purchased the Dover Heights home following his public split from estranged wife Kelly Landry. Now engaged to ex-cricket WAG Annika Martyn, Bell has reportedly acquired a $9.657 million apartment in the Rosewater building opposite Rose Bay Marina, sparking speculation about his future living arrangements.
