A Queensland island that inspired a beloved cult classic and is owned by a world-renowned Hollywood producer has hit the market.
Little Green Island, which is off the coast of Mackay, is owned by American-British actor and producer Douglas Gresham, who is best known for his role in the production of The Chronicles of Narnia blockbusters, including The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005), Prince Caspian (2008) and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010).
He is also the stepson of the author of the beloved series, CS Lewis.
Public records show that Gresham purchased the island haven in June 2009 for $2.45 million, just after filming The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, and before The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader.
Now after 15 years as owner of the stunning and secluded oasis, the one-of-a-kind island getaway has been listed for sale with Harcourts MackTown Mackay agent Tina Sander, who described it as the “creative inspiration behind The Chronicle of Narnia movies”.
It will go to auction on September 16.
The freehold property includes the entire 25.5ha island, and is just a short boat ride from Mackay’s Northern Beaches and 30 minutes from Mackay Airport.
The award-winning main residence was originally designed by acclaimed architect Tone Wheeler for creative guru Dr Edward de Bono, who was a physician, psychologist, author, inventor and philosopher who termed the concept of lateral thinking.
De Bono hosted “corporate think tanks” on the island.
In a tribute to De Bono after his passing, Wheeler wrote: “Edward was charming, super intelligent, witty and full of stories. He used the house for 15 years before selling it, along with other islands, reputedly to pay his divorce bill.”
De Bono died in June 2021 aged 88.
The Little Green Island residence, described as a “modern interpretation of the traditional Queenslander”, has soaring raked ceilings, polished timber floors, living and dining areas with vast windows and sliding glass doors, and a gourmet kitchen.
It has three bedrooms showcasing rich timber accents and industrial finishes, including a master suite with balcony access and a spa-like ensuite, and another bedroom with an ensuite and private deck.
There is also a dedicated office space.
Outside is a pool and pool deck with “world class views of the Coral Sea and national parks”, and rainforest vistas galore.
“Designed with self-sufficiency and sustainability in mind, the property boasts an endless supply of water, 60 solar panels with extensive battery set up and a diesel generator,” the listing says.
“Additionally, there is a second dwelling on the island that can be used as a caretakers lodge (when you are not residing on the Island) or additional accommodation.”
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That second dwelling offers an open-plan layout, well-equipped kitchen and bathroom.
Both residences are fully air conditioned and can be securely closed up and locked with electric security shutters.
There is also the option to purchase a 2683sq m block on the mainland that features a self-contained unit with a shed.
Other features on the island include a freshwater lagoon, paperbark forest, sandy beaches, rockpools and cliffs.
“This experience is enhanced by the abundant and varied wildlife including whales, dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles and wallabies, just to name a few,” the listing says.
Ms Sander said the property is “truly amazing”.
“I stayed there for 24 hours and the photos and videos do not do it justice,” she said.