Veteran sports announcer Craig Willis is selling the Edwardian-era Thornbury property where he recorded many AFL grand final voiceovers.
Known to many as “the voice of the AFL” and “voice of tennis”, Mr Willis worked for Networks Ten, One HD and Seven covering football and other events like the Melbourne Cup and Olympics until his semi-retirement in 2018.
He spent about 30 years introducing tennis players onto the Australian Open’s centre court and events such as the Grand Final Breakfast. He now is a fill-in presenter on radio station 3AW.
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Mr Willis and his late wife Monica purchased the two-bedroom house at 7 Agnes St about 38 years ago.
“I have the original photo that was in the real estate’s office hanging in the hallway,” Mr Willis said.
“The house was built around 1916 or 1917 and from memory, we were only the second owners.”
Mr Willis converted a separate garage into an office and soundproofed room where he recorded voiceovers for the AFL and 3AW.
He extended the abode and added a new kitchen, laundry and bathroom about five to 10 years ago.
A more recent upgrade installed new flooring and “revamped” the bathroom.
Period features including 3.35m ceilings, ornate ceiling roses and timber fretwork remain alongside modern elements like plantation shutters and bespoke cabinetry.
French doors lead from the kitchen with Bertazzoni appliances and an island bar, dining and living area to the rear garden.
“There are three open fireplaces, they all work beautifully, and there’s central heating too,” Mr Willis said.
“I think probably my favourite part is the back room when it’s bathed in sunlight, sitting on the couch is very pleasant.”
There’s a double carport with loft storage where he and Monica celebrated family Christmases at a long table.
Part of the home’s appeal was that it is “turn key” and ready for the new owner to move in, Mr Willis added.
“You could virtually pull up with a suitcase and bed, and you’re straight in,” he said.
Mr Willis said another bonus was the location close to schools, Northcote Plaza, All Nations Park, High St’ cafes and shops and trams.
Mr Willis is selling the house after he and partner Donna purchased a new property that’s close to her workplace at Carlton Football Club.
Also a talented photographer, Donna took the images used in the real estate listing.
Nelson Alexander Northcote’s Mark Verrocchi said interest in the house was strong, with young professional couples looking to establish a family home among the potential buyers.
“It is a beautiful little cottage and land component with a side driveway, which is a plus as well,” Mr Verrocchi said.
The house will be auctioned on March 25 with a $1.3m-$1.4m asking range.
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Originally published as Ex-AFL, tennis announcer Craig Willis selling Thornbury home where he records Grand Final voiceovers
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