Brief
Former NSW Opposition Leader lists historic Werrington House for $13 million
The former opposition leader and his wife are selling the sandstone mansion they bought for $1.05 million in 2011 after 15 years of restoration.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Peter Collins, a former NSW Opposition Leader, and his wife Jennine Leonarder‑Collins have listed their Werrington County home, known as Werrington House, for a price guide of $13 million, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
What happened
The couple bought the convict‑built sandstone residence in 2011 for $1.05 million, records show. Over roughly 15 years they restored the two‑storey, four‑bedroom, three‑bathroom house, adding a resort‑style swimming pool, a Koi fishpond, a paved courtyard and a multipurpose space that could serve as a gallery, office or museum. The property now features restored ironbark floors, cedar doors, marble bathrooms, chandeliers and pendant lighting.
What the reports add
The article notes that the house’s previous occupants include the late Sir Henry Parkes, who lived there from 1860 to 1872, the year he became Premier of NSW. Real‑estate agents Michael Pallier of Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty and Paul Merrick of Merrick Property Group are handling expressions of interest.
What was said
Jennine Leonarder‑Collins told the masthead that the couple share a “deep passion for Australian history and heritage architecture” and described the sale as bittersweet while looking forward to their next challenge. She said, “We purchased Werrington House almost 15 years ago this week, determined to restore it to its former glory and take it to an entirely new level, sparing no expense in the process.” Peter Collins added, “We often reflect on what its previous occupants might have thought had they been able to see what the house would ultimately become. We are exceptionally proud of the decisions we have made, the home we have created and above all, the legacy we are leaving.”
How it came about
Collins served as NSW Opposition Leader from 1995 to 1998 and held ministerial portfolios for arts (1988‑1995) and health (1988‑1991). Jennine, a former luxury real‑estate agent, partnered with him in the restoration project, citing a shared enthusiasm for heritage architecture. Their decision to sell follows the completion of extensive renovations that blended historic elements with modern amenities.
Key facts
- Peter Collins and Jennine Leonarder‑Collins listed Werrington House for $13 million. (smh.com.au)
- The couple bought the house for $1.05 million in 2011 and spent about 15 years restoring it. (smh.com.au)
- Werrington House was originally built by convicts and was once home to Sir Henry Parkes (1860‑1872). (smh.com.au)
- The property includes a resort‑style pool, Koi fishpond, library, and a multipurpose gallery space. (smh.com.au)
- Agents Michael Pallier (Sydney Sotheby’s) and Paul Merrick (Merrick Property Group) are handling the sale. (smh.com.au)
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “Former NSW Opposition Leader lists renovated convict-built home for $13 million”
