Ive owned a manual Mk6 Golf R and a manual Mk6 GTI and both cars were not keen on going into 1st gear unless you were stopped. So it's pretty normal. If you blip the throttle while trying to engage 1st gear it should go in more easily.
The Mk6 GTI ED35 is an all round good and reliable car, and because it has the "de-tuned" engine from the Golf R, it does not suffer the issues that the regular GTI does (different engine altogether).
With those km's on it, i would get one of various workshops in Melbourne to have a look over it prior to purchasing and once you purchase the car, probably a good idea to get some of the known wear items on the car replaced (ignition coil packs, hpfp cam follower, diverter valve). Someone like Dubaddiction, VTech Australia or Underground Performance who know VW Golf's inside out.
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