The Blog

Built back in 1859, the Cape Schanck Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Victoria. And is one of few lighthouses that still operates as it did during the 1800s. Built from distressed limestone and sandstone, the lighthouse provides spectacular views of the Southern Peninsula cost as well as the Bass Strait. The Cape Schanck Lighthouse forms part of a triangle of Bass Strait lights which also includes Cape Otway and Cape Wickham Lighthouses. It was also Australias first lighthouse tower with stone steps that still has an uses its original lense that still shines the full distance of 48km. The lighthouse stands 21m high and the light's focal plane is situated 100 metres above sea level. The Cape Schanck Lighthouse reserve offers several heritage buildings including the lighthouse and a museum. A guided tour of the lighthouse only takes 20 minutes, learning about the maritime history and stories of the lightkeepers and their families, as well as events from what was once was a very remote location. The museum houses a large range of artefacts and information that illustrates the maritime navigation history of the site and its role in guiding ships into Port Phillip Bay. Take a long walk along the Bushrangers Bay nature walk to take in some of the best coastal scenery. With sections of the walk shaded with Banksia groves, providing some shelter from the elements for a quick break. Look out for local birds and the grassy clearings where kangaroos are often spotted. Observe local marine life in the rock pools or catch a glimpse of some whales during migration season. Cape Schanck is the southernmost tip of the Mornington Peninsula, where the Bass Strait and Western Port meet. The land has been protected since the 1800s and it became a national park in 1988. [form id="0cf0ec0e-cb9d-11ed-bf74-7a36cb28346e"]

The Peninsula Hot Springs is the epitome of relaxation on the Mornington Peninsula. A favourite of the locals and tourists alike, you’ve either been there or you’re planning your trip. With numerous awards under their belt, including Victorian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame in various categories, it is certainly a place to put on your bucket list. Bathing Boasting over 50 mineral pools, both public and private, the Peninsula Hot Springs caters for families, groups and couples. The iconic Hilltop Pool showcases an impressive 360-degree view of the area. Or brave the temperatures and try out the cold plunge pools, saunas or relax in a hydro jet or aquatherapy pool. Then reap all of the benefits of geothermal bathing like improved sleep, detoxification, reduced blood pressure and improved muscle and bone health. Spa Centre & Wellness Cleanse, refresh, restore and balance your body through relaxation massage, facials and body treatments in the Spa Dreaming Centre. Bathing prior to a spa package will also help you enjoy deeper benefits like promoting healthy skin and elimination of body toxins. Reconnect your mind with your body during a wellness class like aerial yoga, warm water exercise or hot springs yoga. Deepen the connection further through sauna and ice caves or join a body clay ritual. Getaway Consider making the time to fully explore all that the Peninsula Hot Springs has to offer by booking a getaway. Take some extra time after your visit to explore the rest of the Peninsula. Perhaps a beverage at a local brewery or take a drive along the coast. Whether you come for relaxation, health benefits or just to get away, the Peninsula Hot Springs is sure to delight all of your senses. Check back regularly to see what’s on as they are always opening new sections of pools and adding services to their already extensive options. [form id="0cf0ec0e-cb9d-11ed-bf74-7a36cb28346e"]

A quick drive around the Mornington Peninsula will reveal numerous wineries and quite a few breweries. With St Andrew’s Beach Brewery, Jetty Road Brewery, Mornington Peninsula Brewery and Red Hill Brewery leading the way, these breweries are regularly updating their beers to include the seasonal produce found on the Mornington Peninsula. St Andrew’s Beach Brewery Offering a full food menu, not just pizza, this brewery is a great place for entertaining the whole family. Built on a world-class horse training facility, St Andrew’s Beach Brewery offers six different beers are sure to suit lovers of Australian craft beer. Unlike many other breweries, St Andrew’s Beach Brewery grow their hops alongside a fruit and vegetable patch. So sit in one of the repurposed stables and enjoy the sunshine while sipping a lager, or a wine from their local-only wine selection. Jetty Road Brewery With five core beers and several speciality beers, Jetty Road brews can be found at many local venues on the Mornington Peninsula. When they first opened to the public they were surprised by the number of different age groups, walks of like and both male and female fans.  Mornington Peninsula Brewery Hiding away in the back streets of the industrial area of Mornington is Mornington Peninsula Brewery, recognised as one the best craft breweries in Australia. With a casual and relaxed atmosphere where you can watch while the brewers create your favourite beers. A menu of traditional wood-fired pizzas and a rustic beer garden, you can almost hear it calling your name. Red Hill Brewery Located amidst its hop garden on top of Red Hill, Red Hill Brewery was born out of a passion for amazing full flavoured brews and the lifestyle that the Mornington Peninsula offers. Small batches of beer made using local produce like cherries, honey and truffles in oak barrels that previously produced wine to take on the character of the wood, the spirit and the wine that was previously in the barrel. Drop-in throughout the year to sample a seasonal variety of your favourite beers. Take a day out of your schedule to visit one or all of these breweries and sample some amazing beers. [form id="0cf0ec0e-cb9d-11ed-bf74-7a36cb28346e"]

Back in 1922, a young man by the name of John G. Crowder got his first job in real estate in Suffolk, England. At 17 years old, he was often seen riding his bike through the snow and collecting rent until all hours of the night. After a few years working in London and completing his exams, John G. Crowder opened his own office in Ipswich, specialising in country houses and holding weekly antique auctions. In 1948 he moved his wife and six children to Australia. Arriving in Australia and settling into a 50-acre farming property in Baxter. John G. Crowder quickly discovered there was no money to made from farming dairy on such a small plot of land and revisited his early career in real estate.  After travelling to and from Melbourne for three years, John G. Crowder decided to open his real estate agency with his son, Ian. Feeling threatened, local real estate agents denied his requests in securing some office space, but he then convinced Victoria Railways to allow him a ground lease in Frankston. John G Crowder rove his tractor from Baxter to Frankston each day, clearing the site and helping to build the office. And so, in 1952, John G. Crowder & Sons Real Estate was born.  “Right is right and wrong is wrong. There is a right way and a wrong way – and if you don’t mind, I prefer the right way.” In 1958 Geoffrey Crowder joined, then went on to open the Mount Eliza office in 1965. Crowders soon became the largest and most successful real estate agencies of its time. Representing the third generation, Geoffrey’s sons Michael, Sam and Tom joined the business along with Ian’s sons, James and Phillip. John G. Crowder continued working in the business well into his eighties. John G. Crowder & Sons was eventually sold to a private company in 2006. After the sale, all of the Crowders went on to enjoy successful independent careers in their capacity.  “Stand up for your principles and always be prepared to say what you think, whether it is good for business or not, and whether it makes you popular or not” Finally, the generational focus of this story – Sam Crowder has gone on to live and work on the Southern Peninsula forging his path and building on his considerable family network. He is proud to pay homage to his family’s legacy by establishing a new generation of Crowders Real Estate on the Southern Peninsula. [form id="0cf0ec0e-cb9d-11ed-bf74-7a36cb28346e"]

After a successful career working in the major law firms of Melbourne’s CBS, Narelle relocated the Mornington Peninsula. While specialising in conveyancing, probate, and wills for Biggs & Co in Rye, Narelle received the ultimate honour as an invited Legal Executive by The Institute of Legal Executives. Narelle’s passion for design gives her a unique edge when advising clients around preparing their homes for sale. And her experience being both a vendor and a purchaser drives the passion she shares with her husband. Partnering with Sam Crowder both at home and in business is the realisation of a shared vision to bring a fresh approach to real estate on the southern Peninsula. Together, Sam and Narelle have bought, developed and sold several local properties which gives them an intimate understanding of the process from a personal standpoint. “My vision is to make the Crowders Real Estate office a welcoming environment for anyone to feel comfortable to drop in for a coffee and a conversation about their property requirements.” - Narelle Her vision is a testament to her approachable nature and her promise to always put the client’s needs at the forefront of the business, regardless of the price point. A natural professional, Narelle’s strong work ethic and attention to detail when added to her background and experience, brings an exceptional skill set to her role in overseeing the operations of the Crowders Real Estate office in Rye. As a resident, she shares a passion for the region and lifestyle it offers, and more importantly, understands how a campaign should be personalised according to each property’s characteristics and location. [form id="0cf0ec0e-cb9d-11ed-bf74-7a36cb28346e"]

Sally Johnstone joins the Crowders Real Estate team with experience as a leading agent in Blairgowrie, Rye, Sorrento and surrounds for the past 12 years. A career in real estate came naturally for Sally, drawing on her professional experience in senior management roles in the hospitality and services industry. From enjoying holidays on the Mornington Peninsula to becoming a local resident, she has strong ties to the community and intimate knowledge of properties of the local area. “From my extensive corporate background, I have a high regard for customer service and professional integrity. I build strong relationships with my clients through transparency, integrity, hard work and honesty. Achieving great results are of paramount importance to me.” - Sally Sally’s passion for real estate is evident through her respectful, empathetic approach and the care she demonstrates for parties on both sides of each property transaction.  Our clients appreciate her integrity, honesty, in-depth knowledge of the intricacies of the local market and her ability to make clients feel immediately at ease in her company. Which has resulted in strong and long-lasting relationships with ongoing referrals which is a testament to her success.  Sally is now an integral part of our family company and is widely respected for her professionalism, determination, and dedication to her vendors and buyers alike. With an enviable reputation for achieving outstanding results throughout Blairgowrie, Sorrento & Rye for many years - there is no doubt you will benefit from Sally's sage advice around your property needs. [form id="0cf0ec0e-cb9d-11ed-bf74-7a36cb28346e"]

With a rich family history in real estate, Sam Crowder has continued the tradition. Living and working on the Southern Peninsula, forging his path and building on his considerable family network. He is proud to pay homage to his family’s legacy by establishing a new generation of Crowders Real Estate on the Southern Peninsula. Sam brings almost 25 years’ of experience in real estate to the Peninsula. Well known in his community for his professionalism, work ethic and consistently outstanding results, he represents an unrivalled level of experience formed by a strong background in the industry. Sam started his real estate career at John G. Crowder & Sons, which was founded in 1952 by his late grandfather. He credits the foundations from his early career from working in a culture where honesty, hard work and integrity were paramount. Having learned the principles from a young age, it was easy to carry them forward to forge his success. Moving from commercial and residential property management into residential sales, his success has come from strong negotiation skills and his ability to build rapport with customers and clients. “I relish the opportunity to create lasting relationships and help people achieve their goals by adding invaluable advice around their financial outcome.” - Sam Crowder Sam is proud to continue to set high industry standards with a combination of experience, expertise and hungry to genuinely achieve the best possible outcome, not only for his vendors but in leading his team. Having bought, developed and sold many properties, Sam has intimate knowledge from a vendors point of view which helps to provide a stress-free experience for Crowders Real Estate clients. [form id="0ceeb100-cb9d-11ed-93d1-7a36cb28346e"]

Crowders Real Estate brings a strong brand built on sturdy foundations to the Southern Peninsula. Led by Managing Director Sam Crowder, a well-known and respected agent with almost 25 years of local experience, Crowders Real Estate represents a history of trusted family values, brilliant negotiation skills with outstanding results and renowned customer service. Family owned and operated, Crowders Real Estate are a team of high performing local property specialists with a vision: to consistently deliver outstanding results via targeted, dynamic and innovative marketing campaigns with an unparalleled customer service experience.   The team is hardworking, determined, genuine, and focused on fostering strong relationships to achieve the best outcome for every client, regardless of the price point. Crowders Real Estate combines a powerful online and social media presence with an extensive database built from past and present clientele. Aiming to deliver marketing campaigns designed to suit the client’s requirements, locating the right buyers to achieve the best possible price. With a rich family history in real estate, Sam Crowder has continued the tradition. Living and working on the Southern Peninsula forging his own path and building on his considerable family network. He is proud to pay homage to his family’s legacy by establishing a new generation of Crowders Real Estate on the Southern Peninsula. Sally Johnstone joined the Crowders Real Estate team with 12 years of experience. From enjoying holidays on the Mornington Peninsula to becoming a local resident, she has strong ties to the community and intimate knowledge of properties of the local area. Narelle Crowder brings specialised skills in conveyancing and a passion for design. This gives her a unique edge when advising clients around preparing a home for sale. All local residents themselves, the Crowders Real Estate team share a genuine passion for the region and lifestyle it offers, and more importantly, understand how a campaign should be personalised according to each property’s attributes and location. Whether buying or selling, you can count on Crowders for a friendly, innovative approach to real estate.   [form id="0ceeb100-cb9d-11ed-93d1-7a36cb28346e"]