Marcia Begg displays one of the many garden beds on display at Beechmont. 26445
By Tania Martin
DISCOVER a hidden paradise at Beechmont garden in Olinda this weekend.
Marcia and Simon Begg will open their sprawling 10-acre property as part of the Australian Open Garden Scheme.
The Beggs moved to the Olinda property more than 12 years ago and have spent hours shaping the garden.
Her husband, Simon had to give up some of the 10-acre property for his daughter who wanted a horse.
But Mr Begg reclaimed his beloved garden space when his daughter moved out.
Mrs Begg said in 2002 the pair created the SKI (spending the kids inheritance) gardens.
They turned an old disused tennis court into a walled garden featuring wisterias and clematis.
Other features of this sprawling garden include the ‘Blueberry Avenue’ which has a number of scented plants and a collection of daphnes.
Mrs Begg said each year brings something new for the garden.
“It’s like anything else, you finish one project and move on,” she said.
Mrs Begg has always loved gardening but said it’s nice to be able to share that passion with the public.
She not only opens her garden to the public but has bus tours and the occasional wedding.
Mrs Begg said there would be no point having such a beautiful garden if she couldn’t share it.
One of the highlights of this garden is a card parti-terre which features flower beds in the shape of a suit of cards including hearts, clubs, diamonds and spades.
There is also plenty of space for people to bring along a picnic to relax and enjoy this tranquil garden.
Plants and Devonshire Teas will also available over the weekend. Entry costs $5 per person and funds raised will be donated to the Rotary Health Project.
The garden will open on Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February from 10am to 4.30pm, at 12 Mernda Road, Olinda.
