Mornington Peninsula Rye House For Sale Including Concert Hall

Many people sing from the hills when they find their dream home, but buyers of an unusual four-bedroom residence on the Mornington Peninsula could take it a step further and host their own concert.

That’s because 156 Weeroona Street, Rye has sort of its own concert hall, which was used by the music-loving vendors to raise money for charity and musicians.

Barry and Jill Swayn are selling their family home to downsize after building it in 1986 and living there for 36 years.

Barry Swayn said the concert hall was built in the property’s barn some 20 years ago, an update of its original use as a fully equipped gym.

“Our oldest son is a musician in a local band and I’m a lyricist, so music is a really good little project for both of us,” Swayn said. “We do a lot of different fundraisers at home and we’ve had a lot of bands here, usually folk bands.”

Country musician Bill Chambers, father of Kasey Chambers, is one of the most prominent stars to play at the venue, Swayn said.

The couple’s stage area and large backyard are large enough to seat about 100 people, and concert tickets have sold for about $20 a head.

The funds were sometimes given to musicians to help with their living and touring expenses, while also raising money for charities such as Beyond Blue and Oxfam.