Peek at Don’s patch

By Casey Neill
GARDEN lovers can take a peek at the work of devoted hills green thumbs this weekend – and raise cash for local firefighters.
The Nook and Fernhill will open as part of the Australian open Garden Scheme.
Val Jackson created The Nook with love and devotion and is opening the garden in honour of her late husband, Don. He was a nurseryman and horticulturalist with an infectious passion for gardening.
The Nook features arbours of roses and clematis, colourful cottage-style plantings, mature walnut trees, a rose garden and rockery. The Monbulk CFA will receive funds from the opening.
Proceeds from Fernhill’s opening will benefit Kallista-The Patch Fire Brigade.
“Without events such as this, the brigade cannot continue to purchase new equipment to assist them, and in turn, the community,” owner Carol Ross said.
Fernhill is an English-style terraced country garden featuring ornamental shrubs, trees and hedges, sunny perennial borders, rose-swathed arbours and colourful shrubberies.
The Nook is at 5 Tavistock Road, Monbulk and Fernhill is at 4 Anderson Street, Kallista.
Both are open between 10am and 4.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Entry is $6 for adults and free for children aged under 18.
Australia’s Open Garden Scheme opens the country’s most exciting gardens to the public to promote the knowledge and pleasure of gardens and gardening.