Love and Mercy: The Tale behind 80 Prospect Road Summer Hill

At 80 Prospect Road in Summer Hill, a remarkable story unfolds, one deeply entwined with the life of its former owner, George Mezher and his sister, Nola. This narrative begins in the vibrant summer of 1982, when fortune smiled brightly upon George and Nola. In life's grand lottery, they struck gold, winning an astounding $429,000 in the Lotto. ?

What set them apart was their response to this windfall. It wasn't a pursuit of personal luxury; rather, their hearts brimmed with compassion, propelling them toward a noble cause. The siblings harboured a vision, one that aspired to transform the fortunes of the less fortunate. ?

George and Nola Mezher established a unique beacon of hope for the homeless in the heart of Sydney, near Central Station. This wasn't your ordinary soup kitchen; "Our Lady of Snows" nestled on the outskirts of Belmore Park offered nourishment with a side of dignity and warmth. Guests at their refuge experienced table service, a touch of luxury amid adversity. Dignity was as important as the nourishing meals served. Unlike traditional soup kitchens, where people stood in line, at George and Nola's establishment, guests enjoyed table service reminiscent of a fine restaurant on Pitt Street. In addition to food, they generously provided clothing and essential items, believing in offering more than just a meal. This wasn't just a place to eat; it was where individuals took their first steps toward rebuilding their lives and embarking on a journey to a brighter future.?

The numbers that brought them their fortune were not random but carefully chosen based on the birthdays of saints. George and Nola lived by a simple yet profound credo: "Love and Mercy." These words defined their mission and gave their charitable work deep purpose.?

Their generosity extended beyond a single charity. With their lottery winnings, they established a total of 14 suburban refuges throughout Sydney, including the one at 80 Prospect Road in Summer Hill. These refuges provided short to medium-term stays for those who had fallen on hard times through no fault of their own. The Mezher siblings poured their resources and tireless effort into offering assistance and opportunities to the less fortunate, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and service.

Remarkably, they managed to raise over $350,000 for various charitable causes. They received the prestigious Order of Australia not just once but twice, and for two consecutive years, they were honored with the esteemed Dr. Victor Chang Golden Hearts Award. Their service to the church was even acknowledged with a papal blessing. ?

When asked about their motivation, George and Nola offered a simple yet profound response: "One must contribute something meaningful to this world during their time here. Besides, our country has been kind to us, and we believe in giving back. Imagine what a wonderful world it would be if more people shared their good fortune with those in need." Their dedication to this principle remained unwavering. ?

The legacy of George and Nola Mezher transcended their Lebanese heritage, making them exemplary figures in the eyes of not only their compatriots but anyone who recognized the profound impact of their love and compassion.

But they were also known way before their windfall for their quirky hairdressing establishment on Enmore Road which stood as a testament to a bygone era. Marie Louise's salon, with its tin-pressed lilac and candy-pink front, was a charming relic of the 1950s. Yet, behind its kitschy exterior lay a story as colourful as the salon itself.

The Marie Louise salon had a unique history of live models perched in its window seats. It was a place where grannies indulged in Fanci-full rinse and shared tantalizing gossip. The air was thick with the toxic fumes of perm solution, hairspray, and heat, creating an exotic, if slightly overwhelming, atmosphere. ?

Nola's passing in 2009 placed the mantle of their shared mission squarely on George's shoulders. As the years unfolded, George, the custodian of the salon, maintained its iconic window display. ?

Fast forward to the present day, the salon has become a sanctuary for wide-eyed hipsters, dreamers, and urban adventurers, all paying their silent tributes to the salon's rich history. It has evolved into a captivating time capsule, a living museum that celebrates the quirky allure of retro, vintage, and rockabilly culture.

Today, George and Nola are long-gone relics of the past, but their legacy remains, lovingly restored by the current owners at 80 Prospect Road, Summer Hill, who remember him fondly - a real character that left an indelible mark on anyone who met him.

Having restored the property to its former glory, anyone who steps onto its dark-stained floors are enveloped in a profound sense of tranquillity and belonging, serving as a tribute to the enduring legacy of George and Nola's life work.?

Auction

Saturday 4th November 2023

Inspection 1.30pm - 2pm

Auction On-site at 2.15pm

https://www.ch.com.au/80-prospect-road-summer-hill-nsw-7774278/ 80 Prospect Road, Summer Hill - Link