Picture yourself relaxing in a spectacular 50-acre garden on the banks of the Murrumbidgee with a bite to eat, a cuppa and good company?
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The community will have the opportunity to do just this when Bundarbo, a beautiful, historic property in Jugiong, opens its gates to the public on Sunday, November 15 between 8am and 5pm, with proceeds to the Jugiong Public School.
Today owned by Sue and Sam Chisholm, Bundarbo was established in 1847 by Henry Osborne, and dates back to the earliest years of settlement on the Murrumbidgee River.
Typical of the era, Bundarbo was virtually a small kingdom.
The school house, stables, gardener’s hut and a number of outbuildings bear testimony to a time when dozens of families called the property home, depending on Bundarbo for their livelihood.
The homestead is situated on a gentle rise above the river and in the 1950s Australian gardening legend Edna Walling developed a special friendship with the Osbornes.
Her skillful imprint can still be detected in the low stone walls that delineate the spaces enabling garden and landscape to merge seamlessly.
Long established tress including cedars, massive kurrajongs and pepper trees surround the homestead.
A canopy of shady trees dapples the lawns during summer and a haze of massed purple lavender invites exploration of long pergolas and a rose garden.
A billabong can be glimpsed from the homestead’s verandah.
Closer to the river, an olive grove introduces a productive note which is echoed by the original orchard.
A rose garden, with David Austin roses among other varieties, is sure to provide spectacular viewing.
A gardener’s cottage, dubbed the ‘Chinaman’s hut’ in honour of the former Chinese gardener who called it home is surrounded by a charming herb garden.
Mrs Chisholm says Bundarbo’s most successful achievement lies in its very tranquility.
“It speaks of thoughtful design and grasp of heritage,” she said.
The garden has been opened previously with this the first open garden to aid the school.
Mrs Chisholm is thrilled to be able to support the school.
“We are delighted to do this for the students,” Mrs Chisholm said.
November has been chosen specifically to showcase the garden to its greatest advantage.
“The first flush of spring is over as we head into Summer, people can expect to see the garden at its very best,” Mrs Chisholm said.
The district has experienced a spectacular Spring, which has Bundarbo looking its best.
The P&C have embraced the event with refreshments on the day organised by the P&C in conjunction with Jugiong’s Long Track Pantry.
Entry to the garden will be $10 with children free and all proceeds to the school.
Bundarbo Open Garden Menu
Cobb & Co. Cream Tea $7
• Scones
• Jam & Cream
• English Breakfast Tea
Hume & Hovell’s Hamper Lunch $13
• Ham & Salad Baguette
• Chocolate Brownie
• Drink (water/soft drink)
Hannah’s Hamper Lunch $13
• Chicken Salad (Gluten Free)
• Vanilla & Almond Torte (Gluten Free)
• Drink (water/soft drink)
Sgt Parry’s Super Snack Pack $13
• Caramelized Onion & Goats Cheese Tart
• Apple & Walnut Cake
• Drink (water/soft drink)
Murrumbidgee Mini Munch $7
• Vegemite sandwich/fairy bread
• Brownie
• Drink (water/soft drink)
Bundarbo directions
To find the garden, turn onto Bundarbo Road from Jugiong’s main street, crossing the Murrumbidgee.
Follow the road a further 19 kilometres, veering left onto the dirt road at a sign saying “Bundarbo, 5 ½ miles”.
Crossing a cattle grid, the road is sealed once more.
Please follow signs to crest of the following hill and park where indicated.