By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Olinda’s hidden gem, Gaythorpe Garden, has been crafted over the past 30 years by Simon Gaythorpe, it features a range of fascinating plants, including rare and exotic species, inspired by the garden his grandparents created decades earlier.
The stunning one-hectare grounds showcases Mr Gaythorpe’s design philosophy – with a wide variety of plants, there’s always something in bloom throughout the seasons.
This is highlighted in the informality of meandering, often almost concealed, pathways and wonderful deep herbaceous borders, many with a sunny aspect and including a variety of perennials.
“I’ve always loved plants, always thought they’re beautiful, and to be able to create beauty and to live amongst it is a worthwhile endeavour,” Mr Gaythorpe said.
What was once a paddock with a horse is now a vibrant garden full of life and colour – once you step inside, you’ll feel like you’re wandering through a maze.
“I started gardening right after I bought the place just over 30 years ago – three years later, I built the house and have lived here ever since,” he said.
“When I bought this place, I had a vision of how it would look because I knew what gardens could be like, my grandparents did something similar here in Olinda. They took a nearly empty space and created a beautiful garden, so I decided to do the same.”
Mr Gaythorpe said when he reflects on his achievement with the garden, it helps him stay in the moment.
“I just think about how calming and beautiful it is, every day, there’s something new to see that wasn’t there the day before—something blooming, it makes you appreciate the moments when things aren’t in bloom, because they don’t last long. It really keeps you present,” he said.
“Most of the time I’m very happy gardening – it’s something where you are, where you can feel the happiness of doing what you’re doing, working in the garden, and achieving what you want is very satisfying, too.”
In 2007, Gaythorpe Garden was featured in the ABC’s Gardening Australia in the series 18, episode two.
The vegetable garden, where many plants are allowed to self-seed, is a delight – if a bit unruly – and there’s also a large berry orchard.
Foxgloves are a recurring feature throughout the garden.
On a larger scale, you’ll find mature trees, including a Dove Tree (Davidia involucrata), various Magnolias, and Rhododendron grande.
To Mr Gaythorpe, the informal and natural design evokes a sense of belonging and soulfulness in the garden.
All that beauty didn’t happen by accident; it took hard work and came with its own challenges.
“At first, weeds were a constant issue because the space was so open, but now that everything has grown, weeding is just a minor part of what I do – the bigger problem now is dealing with animals like deer and some feral creatures that eat or damage the plants – that’s been my biggest challenge,” he said.
Mr Gaythorpe said he’s most surprised about how big things can grow.
“A lot of plants grew much larger than I expected, which has meant more management – that’s been the biggest surprise, but it’s all good – you just adapt and as you gain experience, you learn how to handle things and become a bit more decisive in how you manage the garden,” he said.
He works part-time as a private gardener and really has achieved his dream job.
“It really makes you appreciate having a passion and being able to pursue it, it’s one thing to have a dream, but not everyone can achieve something like wanting to be an astronaut, but gardening is much more achievable, and everyone can have a garden, whether it’s a big space or a small patch of land – either way, you can create something beautiful,” he said.
“If I know I’ll be working the next day, I’ll walk around the garden with a pen and paper and jot down a list, I often make a list of about 30 small tasks. By staying mindful and keeping on top of everything, I can keep the garden looking good. I don’t spend a huge amount of time there.”
The gardener’s biggest achievement so far has been creating a happy life.
“To find out what’s meaningful in life and to try and achieve that – gardening has been a big part that,” he said.
“I never get bored, even after 30 years, I still walk around the garden several times a day because it’s just extraordinary.”
“It’s nice to have your own little oasis.”
Gaythorpe Garden will be opening to the public with Open Gardens Victoria on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 November.
