An archaeological dig will take place at the former Lang Syne site in Tamarama before construction begins on a new residence. This decision followed the discovery of an Aboriginal artefact.
The 1920s bungalow, a prominent feature of Tamarama Point, was demolished in January last year. The site, now cleared, will be developed into a modern home designed by Sydney architect Luigi Rosselli, but only after an extensive excavation process.
A Century of History at Tamarama Headland
The land on which Lang Syne stood was first acquired in 1922 by George Frederick Wolf, a Newtown shoemaker. He was required to build a home valued at at least £600. Two years later, in 1924, Lang Syne was completed, serving as a family home for decades.
In 1959, radio personality Harry Griffiths and his wife, Dimity, purchased the property. The couple owned it for more than 65 years. Mr Griffiths, known for his work in McCackie Mansions, lived there until his passing in 2014. Following Mrs Griffiths’ decision to sell, the property was purchased for $45 million in 2023 by Australian businessman David Droga, setting a Sydney real estate record at the time.
Photo Credit: Sydney by Simon/Instagram
Waverley Council approved the demolition of the bungalow in January last year, despite concerns from some local residents about its impact on the iconic Bondi to Bronte coastal walkway.
Aboriginal Artefact Sparks Archaeological Investigation
An Aboriginal artefact, identified as a tula adze, was discovered during preparations for the site’s redevelopment. The NSW Land and Environment Court acknowledged the historical significance of the area. City official Tim Horton stated that the site had likely been used by First Nations people for thousands of years.
The tula adze, a unique stone tool originally from Australia’s arid zones, has led to the area being officially designated as Tamarama Point AS01, marking it as a site of potential further archaeological findings.
Architect Luigi Rosselli confirmed that the excavation for the new home will be conducted under the supervision of an archaeologist. He stated that his client, Mr Droga, has embraced the site’s cultural history and supports the careful excavation.
New Home Design Approved After Legal Battle
The development application (DA-187/2024) for the new home was rejected in May last year, citing concerns over its impact on the surrounding landscape and public access to the coastal walkway. Following an appeal to the NSW Land and Environment Court, the project was approved on 28 January 2025.
The approved design includes a two-storey residence with an integrated car park, basement level, rooftop garden, solar panels, swimming pool, and landscaping. Mr Rosselli described the design as “organic,” with the structure intended to blend with the natural contours of Tamarama Point.
Community Reactions and Next Steps
The demolition of Lang Syne was met with mixed reactions from the local community. While some residents lamented the loss of the century-old home, others were curious about the modern redevelopment set to take its place.
Mr Rosselli shared that one of the Griffiths’ children congratulated him after the court ruling. They acknowledged that while the home held sentimental value, its replacement was inevitable.
With the archaeological dig set to commence, construction will begin only after the excavation is completed. The new residence will become a seasonal home for Droga, who has long admired the site and plans to return to Tamarama each Christmas.
Published 25-Feb-2025
