Iconic riverfront mansion steeped in Gold Coast History

A GRAND slice of Gold Coast history has come onto the market with the iconic Paradise Waters mansion built for pioneering tourism figure and resort developer Keith Williams going to auction on September 24.The elegant Mediterranean-style residence fronting the Nerang River at 113 Commodore Drive was built in the late 1980s for Mr Williams and his family by legendary Gold Coast construction figure Ron McMaster.Keith’s wife Thea travelled to Italy with architect Roger Parker to gather ideas and inspiration for the home, which features a grand three-level staircase inspired by the Vatican, arched windows, wrought iron chandeliers and Roman bath-style pool.The mansion was later owned by Dreamworld founder John Longhurst and was purchased in May 2013 by its current owners, local businessman Sep Abedian and wife Flora.The Abedians are downsizing and have bought elsewhere, and so are reluctantly parting ways with the property they lovingly restored to its original grandeur by way of a major renovation shortly after buying the home.They have appointed agent Matt Gates, of Ray White Prestige, part of the Ray White Surfers Paradise (RWSP) Group, to manage the auction process.RWSP Group CEO Andrew Bell said the 1489sqm property offered one of the largest water frontages in Paradise Waters.“It has 46m of water frontage, which is very rare, and overlooks the widest part of the river across to the grounds of The Southport School and north to the Southport skyline,” Mr Bell said.“This is one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic homes by virtue of its fascinating history, coveted location and impeccable attention to detail.”“The Paradise Waters residence embodies the style and grace of a Beverley Hills mansion, reflecting a bygone era that would be right at home for Hollywood movie stars” Mr Bell said.Mr Abedian, the brother of Sunland Group founder Soheil Abedian, was drawn to the home’s iconic status, spaciousness and spectacular outlook.“We regularly see pods of dolphins swimming past, manta rays flying out of the water and big schools of fish being followed by seagulls,” Mr Abedian said.“And the size of the house has been wonderful for our family because it gives us the ability to have everyone over without anyone being in anyone’s way.“We’ve been able to have the experiences and memories that families are made of.”Included amongst the four ensuited bedrooms, the residence has a fully self-contained guest suite or maid quarters with its own separate entry.Spanning three levels, 1200sqm of floorspace and boasting concrete construction, the home features formal and informal living areas, study, eight-seat cinema room, grand entry, billiards room with wet bar, seven-car basement garage, wine cellar, gymnasium, workshop, jetty, swimming pool and spa.Soaring ceilings and the plethora of generous windows create an airy and spacious atmosphere to complement the home’s enduring grand design and timeless elegance.There are also reminders of the original residents with timber-panelled ceilings and walls reflecting Mr Williams’ love of boating, the Williams family crest adorning wallpaper in the plush billiards room and lion’s head knockers on the imposing front doors.The property is listed for auction onsite on Sunday, September 24 at 11am.