The Manly rumour mill was in full swing last week over the identity of the US-based bidder hoping to snare Adam Hill's painting, High Above the Bower.
The mystery man pledged $4000 to take pole position in the bidding.
But who is he and what is his link to Manly?
The strong whisper is it could be Mr Nicole Kidman – country and western singer Keith Urban.
It sounds far-fetched until you dig a little deeper.
Nicole grew up on the north shore and received her big acting break playing Judy in BMX Bandits, which was shot in and around Manly.
She and Keith married in 2006 at St Pats, overlooking the Bower.
The Kidman-Urban clan love Manly and often visit town when they're in Sydney.
And here's what could be the clincher.
When in town they have been known to frequent the Manly Fish Market, which just happens to be owned by Hilly's brother Andrew.
The artist was giving little away when we touched base.
"I can’t confirm or deny the rumour," Hilly told us, "but I can confirm a bid has come in from America for four grand."
