The lively, multicultural suburb of Petersham lies eight kilometres west of the city, sharing an opposing frontage to Parramatta Road with cosmopolitan Leichhardt. Part of the Marrickville Municipal Council, the suburb is split into two regions – Petersham and Petersham North – dissected by the railway line affording excellent accessibility across Sydney.

Although one of the first inner suburbs to undergo settlement, it has only recently become a burgeoning property market. Historically European’s were initially concentrated in Petersham, and today it’s Portugese flavour and village vibe have attracted a large influx of those wanting to embrace the inner city lifestyle. Petersham’s family friendly environment and proximity to the city have led its growth.

Most of the housing comprises terraces, semis and apartments however there are some striking examples of Victorian Italianate and Gothic Revival villas, built for wealthy merchants during the 1880s and 1890s. Innovative warehouse conversions and contemporary loft apartments are also dotted around. The most sought-after streets in the suburb are those fronting onto leafy Petersham Park with its charming rotunda and cricket oval.

Dubbed Little Lisbon or Bairro Portuguse, the shopping strip along New Canterbury Road is almost entirely Portugese, with Charlie’s Deli (renowned for its cheeses) and La Patisserie and Honeymoon Patisserie (mouth watering Portugese tarts) among its treasures. Pop into the butcher at XXX for specialist gourmet sausages, hams and olives. Neighbouring Leichhardt MarketPlace has a large shopping centre with a choice of supermarkets and chain stores.

For something special, try Blancmange – opposite Petersham Park (1 Station Street) –serving up picturesque park views with European dishes from classic French to English. Those wanting to sample some authentic Portugese fare should visit Madeira Grill (82 New Canterbury Road) which has an outside dining area. And, if you’re not in a hurry, for breakfast head to the aptly named Big Brekky (316 Stanmore Road, corner Albert Street) which is a busy café serving up rustic breakfasts with excellent vegan and vegetarian options. If you’re partial to a fondue or like your food with an alpine flavour, the Eiger Swiss Restaurant (552 Parramatta Road) is somewhat of a Swiss institution.

On the weekends, locals head down to the lovely Petersham Park on Station Street – with cricket, picnicking and jogging all part of the action. During the summer months, the Fanny Durack 33m outdoor pool and extensive recreation areas offer a welcome respite from the city heat and holds swimming lessons and aqua aerobics classes. Petersham Bowling Club, established in 1896, is one of the oldest lawns bowls clubs in Australia and puts on regular events such as barefoot bowls, curry nights and film screenings.

A local train station and regular bus services along Parramatta Road, including an express city bus, ensure that Petersham is well serviced by public transport and it’s a convenient 10 minute journey to the CBD.

Petersham Public is a highly sought-after primary school, as are the Taverners Hill Primary School and the selective (co-ed) Fort Street High. The renowned Newington College is just minutes away in neighbouring Stanmore.

Based on sales reported to Australian Property Monitors, the median house price in Petersham for the 12 months to August 2007 was $620,000 and the median unit price was $405,000.