See the ‘freak’ features at Silverchair frontman Daniel Johns’ ‘love shack’ in Newcastle – which he bought in his teens and is now listed on Airbnb

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In the year 1996, at the age of 17, Daniel Johns, having just received the initial wealth from Silverchair, purchased a rundown beach house in his native town with it.

As a die-hard enthusiast, I can’t help but share a tantalizing tidbit that’s been whispered among neighbors and leaked to the Daily Mail. It seems the elusive Freak Singer maintains an enigmatic connection with an old getaway – a secret sanctuary, if you will – that he allegedly continues to use as his covert refuge up till this very day.

One Merewether resident remarked, “I spotted him puffing away on the balcony.” This coastal neighborhood lies to the south of downtown Newcastle.

‘For extended stretches, it’s unknown where he vanishes; however, he consistently reappears.’

Johns, 46, is often seen walking his elderly dog Gia on the spectacular clifftops nearby.

For about three decades, a shabby structure on Robinson Street seemed untouched. However, a nearby resident mentioned that within the past few months, there’s been plenty of renovation work happening at the property.

As an utterly smitten admirer, I can’t help but exclaim that the once faded and weathered exterior has been magically transformed! Now, it stands as a lively testament to the spirit of Palm Springs with its captivating aqua and pink facade.

Exclusive photographs from Daily Mail display the recently painted residence, updated outdoor seating area, and a front yard filled with cacti. A bird’s-eye perspective unveils the house’s panoramic vistas stretching over the renowned Merewether rock pools and the majestic ocean.

After three decades of hiding his secluded cabin, John, who recently had three tracks from his band Silverchair featured in Triple J’s Top 100 Australian Songs, is now leasing it for a nightly rate of $450.

For that, guests will get a unique insight into Johns’ famously quirky mind.

The walls are decorated with graffiti-style artwork, hinting that perhaps it was John himself who produced these works of art.

In the hallway, I proudly gaze upon a guitar that seems to whisper tales of rock ‘n’ roll magic, its vibrant graffiti hinting at the possibility that it could be one of the legendary John’s guitars – a sacred relic in my eyes as an ardent fan.

The photos reveal that there’s now a barbecue gracing the front porch, perfect for visitors to enjoy Newcastle’s pleasant summer nights outdoors.

Visitors are welcome to bring their pets if the accommodation is pet-friendly, but surprisingly, smoking (both cigarettes and e-cigarettes) is not permitted – a fact that may come as a surprise given John’s strong preference for smoking.

The two-bedroom, one-bathroom home is almost entirely booked up until the end of this year.

Originally constructed in the 1960s, this once simple love shack has been beautifully renovated into a charming, vibrant coastal retreat.

Retaining its charming vintage appeal, it boasts distinctive artwork and plush velvet sofas inviting you to relax and enjoy the setting sun.

The exterior balcony is ideal for soaking up the sun, grilling out, and even bringing along your furry companion and family members to enjoy the view of the passing scenery.

‘After the sun has gone down, cosy up by the fireplace and share a meal with friends.’

After earning over $6.5 million from their debut album ‘Frogstomp’, John subsequently spent $645,000 on a shack, which was purchased by him along with his bandmates Chris Joannou and Ben Gillies.

The three of them were raised in Newcastle, and it’s worth noting that John had lived primarily on Charlotte Street not long ago.

Earlier this year, he demolished his longtime home and divided his block in two. 

He is selling one half, and building his dream home on the remaining portion.  

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2025-08-06 07:33