A sprawling rainforest property owned by an Australian model and American basketballer is turning heads for its resort-style living.
Complete with a pool, spa, gym, tennis court, bar and guest house, the property sits on just under two hectares at 55 Rainforest Road, Tanawha.
Australian fashion model Catherine McNeil and her husband, former American NBA player Miles Plumlee, have listed the Sunshine Coast estate for sale after purchasing it together in 2021.
The Brisbane-born model was first discovered when she won a model search contest hosted by Girlfriend magazine at age 14. Throughout her career she has featured on the covers of French and Australian Vogue, and appeared in high-profile runway shows and advertising campaigns for Hugo Boss, Dolce and Gabbana, Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Gucci, Chanel, Christian Dior and Hermes.
Plumlee played nine seasons in the NBA for the Indiana Pacers, Phoenix Suns, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Hornets and Atlanta Hawks, as well as winning an NBL championship with the Perth Wildcats in 2020.
Speaking with Sunshine Coast News, McNeil said she loved living on the Sunshine Coast and that the property was the perfect place to appreciate the outdoors.
“We moved from the States and it was nice to come to the Sunshine Coast,” she said.
“It’s such a resort-style property. It makes you feel like you’re on vacation every day and the location is incredible.
“It’s a great entertaining property and we’ve had some great get-togethers with family and friends, making great memories.”
The property includes the pavilion-style main residence designed across two wings with five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a home office, media room and multiple living zones.
The master suite includes a walk-in wardrobe, ensuite and private patio with direct spa access. Children’s and guest bedrooms are positioned in the opposite wing with a bathroom and rumpus space.
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The kitchen forms the centrepiece of the home, featuring stone benchtops, premium appliances and a walk-in pantry.
Living areas open out to pool and patio spaces, while a 12-person indoor spa and 15-metre lap pool anchor the home’s layout.
The self-contained two-bedroom guest house provides accommodation for extended family, visitors or potential holiday letting, with a kitchen, veranda and two bathrooms.
A separate bar and games room are fitted with vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors and a full bar with beer taps and wine fridge.
Outdoor spaces include a pool house with kitchen and dining deck, a second alfresco area with kitchenette and a firepit, plus covered parking for more than 11 cars, including several garages.
Wellness facilities include a full-size, floodlit tennis court with basketball and netball rings and a gymnasium.
Sotheby’s International Realty co-director Melissa Schembri said the property offered a mix of rainforest luxury close to amenities.
“It feels like you’ve been transported to a luxury island resort, yet you’re still so close to everything – schools, cafes and beaches are just minutes away,” she said.
“Every detail of this home has been thoughtfully crafted to make everyday living feel like a five-star escape.”
Co-director Daniel Rees said the property offered the epitome of holiday living.
“From the moment you arrive, you can feel it — this is a home designed to make every day feel like a holiday,” Mr Rees said.
“You can swim, play tennis, entertain friends or simply unwind surrounded by lush rainforest.
“Properties like this are incredibly rare – it’s more than a home, it’s a lifestyle destination.”
More information on 55 Rainforest Road, Tanawha, is available here. It is listed for sale in the mid to high $5 millions.
