Pre-Conference Garden Tour

Tuesday 11 November to Friday 14 November 2008

This three and a half day tour took in nine gardens with heritage roses, and a visit to the new Australian Garden at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Cranbourne. Despite the unexpected and unwelcome hot weather all the gardens looked very good, and delegates were keen to meet garden owners, and volunteer workers at Geelong, Werribee and Bulla. The relatively small garden at Bulla with Alister Clark roses drew comment for its signage and perennial companion planting. Delegates appreciated not only the roses, but the well-kept borders and old trees at the Geelong Botanic Gardens.

Delegates could be seen wandering all along the paths which wind through Karen’s splendid garden at Hoddle’s Creek, and they also enjoyed both the colour and the special champagne and nibbles treat at Diana’s suburban garden. The last morning at Cranbourne provided a welcome change of weather and a special insight into Australian native plants. Thanks to all who made the tour possible.

Click here for photographs of the tour within the Gallery section.

 

 

Tour Details

Tuesday 11 November

Alister Clark Memorial Rose Garden, Bulla; Werribee State Rose Garden (this includes heritage rose border, Australian bred section and David Austin section); Geelong Botanic Gardens (established gardens with significant trees, heritage rose garden, salvia collection and a 21st Century water-wise garden).

Wednesday 12 November

Cloudehill garden and nursery, Olinda (large hills garden in the English style with long double herbaceous border, species & old roses); Clematis Cottage garden and nursery (country setting with large variety of roses, perennials, clematis and a water feature); and finally Jenny Fiume’s country garden with many old roses.

Thursday 13 November

John Nieuwesteeg’s Display Garden, Coldstream (all types of roses growing in an established garden with some perennials); Karen Meeuwissen’s garden, Hoddles Creek (an extensive country garden overflowing with roses of all types, interesting trees, shrubs & perennials); and Diana Fickling’s garden (a suburban garden featuring a full range of heritage roses.) The day closes with bubbly and nibbles in this garden.

Friday 14 November

A half day at the new Cranbourne Botanic Gardens, Australian Garden. This is the largest new garden of its type anywhere in Australia, and already one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations. At the end of the tour you and your luggage will be delivered to designated Frankston and Morninton hotels or to Morning Star Estate.