Contact Byron to discuss your investment goals in Kingston.
Do you have any favourite local spots in Mentone, Chelsea or the
surrounding suburbs; cafes, parks, or hidden gems?
Truly Scrumptious in Mentone is a morning staple for us, their coffee
is hard to beat and for lunch you’ll usually find us at The Corner Store
in Mentone or Edithvale General Store. Huff Bagelry is always buzzing,
and for dinner, Just Italy serves up handmade pasta and pizza
that’s hard to pass up, along with the consistently reliable Castellos
Longbeach Hotel in Chelsea.
A special mention to Mordialloc, as the area has really stepped up
lately too, with exciting new additions like Chiki Chan for top-shelf
Asian fusion and Rococo for incredible Italian, both adding so much
to the growing culinary scene in Kingston. If you’re after a scenic
walk or a relaxing spot post-meal, Peter Scullin Reserve offers lovely
bay views, and the Long Beach Trail is perfect for a stretch along
the coast. It’s an exciting time to be a local foodie in this part of
Melbourne.
In that moment, and many since, I’ve come to appreciate that the
true impact of our work isn’t just in the result, but in how we show
up for people when they’re at their most vulnerable. It’s the trust and
understanding—not just the mechanics—that leave a lasting legacy.
Recently celebrating your 10-year wedding anniversary with
Josie, how has life in this area shaped your family’s journey?
We constantly remind ourselves how incredibly fortunate we are to
live so close to the ocean. Josie always says there’s something calming
about the sea air, and she’s right. There’s a peace that comes with
being near the water that’s hard to describe but easy to feel.
Josie and the kids are often out running the local tracks or exploring
one of the many nearby parks. I do my best to keep up with them. It’s
become one of our favourite ways to stay connected and spend time
together.
We love the incredible range of food options right at our doorstep.
From casual bites to more refined dining, we enjoy discovering
something new each week. When it comes to raising our daughters,
having access to excellent schooling options has given us real peace
of mind.
And after ten years, I can honestly say we wouldn’t want to be
anywhere else.
Where would we find you on a Sunday morning if you weren’t
working?
Sundays are our dedicated family time. The kids lead the morning,
usually with colouring, Barbies or Bluey. It’s relaxed and full of laughs.
In the afternoon, we’ll head out to see friends, visit a park, or grab a
bite nearby. It’s our day to slow down and really be present with each
other.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I met my wife while trying to sell her house. Easily the greatest listing
I’ve ever had (as she reminds me). It was a real sliding doors moment.
What started as a professional connection quickly turned into
something much more, and the rest is history. Ten years of marriage
later, we still joke together that I didn’t just help her move houses, I
moved in myself.
What’s a valuable lesson you hope to instil in your daughters as
they grow up?
One thing I really hope to instil in my daughters is the idea that if you
do what you love, the rest will take care of itself. It’s something I’ve
learned through my own journey, following what drives you, what
brings you joy, tends to open the right doors in life, both personally
and professionally.
They’re already kind, thoughtful and self aware (thanks largely to their
mum) and watching them grow into confident, compassionate young
girls has been a true privilege. With their drive and empathy, they’ll
thrive no matter what path they choose.
Byron Kerr
Managing Director
Jellis Craig Kingston
M 0421 192 271
It felt natural, like all the
pieces of my journey had
finally clicked into place.
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
11