In Lane Cove, history lingers in unexpected places. At 64 Johnston Crescent Lane Cove, echoes of a farming life long gone, a cottage once called Thelma, and even a link to the Gladesville Bridge tell a story where paddocks and generations of family memories all converge. For the first time in 12 years, 64 Johnston Crescent has been listed for sale, and its current owners have been researching its history.
Dairy Farming
In 1856, 33 acres were granted to Edward Aaron Cohen, a merchant and community leader whose family history went back to Sydney’s early convict days.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the land was used for farming and dairies.
Hughes’ Dairy, which later became Reeves’ Dairy, covered nearly seven acres from Longueville Road to Stringybark Creek (now Karilla Avenue).
In 1900, inspectors described Reeves’ as “the best dairy they had visited for years,” noting its 40-bail milking sheds, brick paving, proper drainage, and excellent hygiene. Nearby, Norfolk Dairy Farm and other properties also supplied milk to Sydney families.
As the land passed to new owners, families sometimes uncovered traces of the old farming life — rusted tools from the dairies, silent reminders that cows once grazed here before children played in the yard.
Tantallon Estate Subdivision Causes Great Excitement
In 1924, the paddocks were subdivided into the Tantallon Estate.
An extensive advertising campaign was launched in all the local newspapers.
The Daily Telegraph in May 1924 published the following:
“The interest of the many thousands of prospective property owners in the northern suburban areas will be aroused by the announcement that nearly 160 lots in an elevated position that affords excellent views have been placed on the market. These are part of the Tantallon Estate, which is a few minutes’ walk from the tram line, and a couple of hundred yards from the Fig Tree motor bus route. Gas, water, and electric lights are available. The property is being handled by the T. M. Burke organisation, 19 Castlereagh Street.”
A few days later, the following appeared in The Sun:
“Less than a week ago, the T. M. Burke organisation launched a North Shore subdivision, known as the Tantallon Estate, Longueville, comprising 158 choice lots, on to the market. Yesterday the report issued from the head office of the organisation was to the effect that over half the estate had been disposed of. This is, after all, a sign of the times, as it is apparent to everyone that the northern districts offer practically the best investment in property at the present juncture, on account of the impending great public works about to be carried out that will so materially affect the growth of the suburbs on the northern side of the harbour.”
The article further noted:
“Here is a suburb that until the last few years made but little progress. During the last twelve months, however, development has proceeded in no uncertain manner. Large numbers of houses have been constructed, and areas that were once only bare paddocks are now adorned with the most up-to-date style of bungalow, with frontages, in most cases, to excellently-made asphalt streets, properly kerbed and guttered.“
Thelma is Built
Johnston Crescent was one of the first streets to be opened in the new, booming subdivision where dairy farmland had been transformed into modern residential allotments.
By the late 1930s, one of the very first homes on Johnston Crescent was built — a simple workers’ cottage, given the name “Thelma.” The name, associated with strength and independence, reflected the aspirations of its first residents.
The original owners planted trees that still shade the street.
When the current owners moved into the property, they were greeted with a letter about life at 64 Johnston Crescent. It was time for the previous owners to downsize, and the letter describes summer barbecues, Sunday roasts, the hum of cicadas, and the laughter of children. “It’s always been a happy home,” they wrote, “one filled with warmth, friendship, and memories we’ll carry with us forever.”
Link to the Gladesville Bridge
As Sydney modernised, so too did this home. When the Gladesville Bridge opened in 1964, a remarkable footnote tied the cottage to the city’s engineering story. The little cottage was used by workers constructing the Gladesville Bridge. Concrete core samples from the bridge works were repurposed in the landscaping of the property, creating a quiet, tangible link to that landmark.
Thelma Evolves
Over time, Thelma — the modest workers’ cottage — was respectfully extended and modernised. What began as a humble home has been thoughtfully enhanced for contemporary living, retaining its character. Its leafy garden and sun-filled interiors continue the story that began more than half a century ago.
Located Near Stunning Bushland
Just beyond Johnston Crescent are the stunning Batten Reserve and Stringybark Creek Reserve. Well-known landscape architect Harry Howard and the Lane Cove Bushland and Conservation Society were instrumental in mapping and preserving the Bushland and its significant flora and fauna.
Many Johnston Crescent residents have been members of the local bushcare group and resident association, which has helped protect the reserves to ensure that the natural heritage remains protected. Johnston Crescent is one of the access points to a popular Lane Cove Bushwalk 17 (Bushwalks Around Lane Cove)
During a recent guided bushwalk by the Lane Cove Bushland and Conservation Society, locals were treated to seeing a Powerful Owl in the trees in Batten Reserve. It is rare to see this endangered species, let alone during the day.
64 Johnston Crescent is on the Market for the First Time in 12 Years
Now, for the first time in 12 years, 64 Johnston Crescent opens its doors to new custodians.
From fertile paddocks to family backyards, from bridge ties to quiet evenings under the trees, it remains a place where Lane Cove’s history and modern life are beautifully intertwined.
The property is listed with Rebecca Mitchell of Raine & Horne — a Lane Cove resident for more than 30 years — who understands just how unique this home is and who is looking forward to supporting its next chapter.
The property is open for inspection on 27 September 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Pop in for an inspection before it goes to auction on 11th October 2025. The property listing is here.
The property has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and three car parking spaces.
– Fluid open plan living with 6m stacker doors creating the ultimate indoor/outdoor lifestyle
– Bespoke kitchen equipped with premium appliances and custom shaker cabinetry
– Double ovens, integrated fridge/freezer, appliance cabinet and aged brass handles
– Multiple light-filled living areas includes an upper-level rumpus or possible extra bed
– Master suite with double door entry, sun-filled balcony and an upscaled ensuite bathroom
– Full width deck offering year-round entertainment set against exquisite landscaped gardens
– Sandstone accents, veggie gardens and level lawns perfect for young children and pets
– Fully equipped studio for in-laws, extended guests or possible dual occupancy (STCA)
– Daikin ducted reverse cycle air conditioning, wide-plank engineered timber floors
– Plantation shutters, high ceilings and a 4th WC in the laundry
– Landscape architect CDC plans ready for a swimming pool, and existing footings for a carport
– Double parking bay and additional parking ideal for a boat, caravan or trailer
– 130m to express city, Macquarie Uni and North Sydney bus services
– Walk to Tantallon Oval, Blackman Park and the bustling Village precinct
– Close to quality schools and only moments to Macquarie, Chatswood and CBD
This is a sponsored post. Rebecca Mitchell is one of In the Cove’s foundation sponsors and has been sponsoring In the Cove for over 12 years. Without Rebecca’s support, we would not have been able to launch In the Cove’s website.
