Uncover hidden paradises in Buninyong

THE owners of five Buninyong gardens will be opening their doors to the community next weekend.

An initiative of Friends of Buninyong Botanic Gardens, this is the first time they have held an open garden weekend since 2022.

The gardens range in age and style, from a heritage garden located on the Midland Highway to a garden full of surprises on Learmonth Street.

Alastair Ritchie and Jacinda de Witts’ garden, located on Mount Buninyong Road, was formally owned by Mr Ritchie’s late parents, Beth and Frank Ritchie.

Mrs Ritchie was a long-time supporter of the Buninyong Botanic Gardens and instrumental in their restoration.

Mr Ritchie said it was his parents’ story that inspired him to continue gardening on the property.

“Mum had a lot to do with the efforts in the Botanic Gardens, and her garden was part of my childhood,” Mr Ritchie said.

“It’s one of the reasons why we moved back here and so it was really the least we could do.

“It’s a respectful nod to her.”

Friends of Buninyong Botanic Gardens committee members Judy Wilson, Lorraine Powell and Karen Hulston.

The semi-wild spaces are perfect for easter egg hunts and games of hide and seek.

Deborah Gilchrist began planting on her Warrenheip Street property in 2016 alongside her husband Ron and decided to turn all available space into garden beds.

The verge garden provides habitat for animals.

“My husband and I had done a lot of travelling and we bought this property with absolutely nothing on it,” Ms Gilchrist said.

“So Ron and I thought, we love gardening, and here was had a blank palette.”

Friends of Buninyong Botanic Gardens president Lorraine Powell said the initiative is a great opportunity to see a variety of gardens and support the community.

“Seeing other people’s spaces is such a privilege,” she said.

“And the money that we make goes into the [botanic] gardens.”

The open garden weekend will take place on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October.

Tickets cost $8 per garden or $25 for all five and can be purchased on the Buninyong Open Gardens website, at the Buninyong Information Centre or at the gardens on the day.