The joy of gardening lies in the patience and care it requires. Every plant you tend to is a reminder of the beauty of growth, and each bloom is a small victory. Gardening becomes more than a hobby—it’s a peaceful escape where you find joy in each stage of a plant’s journey.
Galston Garden Club Open Garden Weekend 2025 was a great success
The Galston Open Gardens event was a wonderful success, bringing the community together for a memorable day celebrating gardens, creativity and the beautiful surrounds of Galston.
Visitors enjoyed exploring the gardens, discovering new ideas and inspiration, and spending time in the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The event was made possible through the enthusiasm and generosity of everyone involved, and the strong turnout reflected the community’s continued support and interest in local gardens.
It was a fantastic day for gardeners and visitors alike, and we look forward to welcoming everyone again at future Open Gardens events.
All the workers for our Open Gardens Weekend are unpaid volunteers from the Galston Garden Club and other community groups. All profits are distributed to medical research, charities and community projects.
OUR GARDENS THAT WERE ON DISPLAY IN 2025
Garden 1: “Speedwell” 68 Pitt Town road, Kenthurst presented by Margaret and Paul Gaudry
Speedwell-garden was redeveloped in the late 1980s. Major upgrade undertaken by current owner in 2015. This property is classified by the National Trust NSW for its local significance. Built around 1907. The original owner between 1884-1926 was Walter David Wrench. He transformed his 80 acres into a citrus orchard which remained in place until the land was subdivided in 1976. Toilet. Parking in Jefferson Grove rather than on the verge in Pitt Town Road.
Garden 2: “Kentridge” 132 Pitt Town Road, Kenthurst. Presented by Lynn and Chris Jones.
“Kentridge” garden has been developed over 24 years. It started as mostly bare horse paddocks on 5 acres and is now a large garden with 44 raised vegetable beds, including some wicking beds. Orchard contains 90 plus fruit trees. Other plants include flowering natives and trees, lots of camellias and more than 200 roses and 500 metres of hedging. There are also areas of bush tucker plants.
Garden 3: “The Uralla Garden” 20 Uralla Road, Dural, presented by Pamela and Hugh Wallace
This is the garden featured on Gardening Australia and Better Homes and Gardens. A spectacular collector’s garden displayed over 5 acres of undulating grounds. Different themed areas reflect the owner’s passion for topiary, roses and perennials. The Woodlands, Pond and Dam Gardens contain many subtropical and native plants. The paths are unsuitable for walkers and strollers.
Garden 4: “Kettlzon” 4 Gribbenmount Road, Galston. Presented by Great and Graham Wickham
A landscaped watercourse with a stone bridge leads through several ponds to a rainforest near a dam. Large established trees include maples, elms, magnolias, white mulberry and conifers. Other features include a wisteria arch, and a gazebo covered with banksia rose, lots of camellias, azaleas and abulia, newer sections around the house feature salvias, sedums, and artemisia. Toilet
Stalls, Morning and afternoon teas will be available at Kettlzon
Garden 5: “Highlands” 12 Ridge Road, Arcadia. Presented by Esther Ronco
An old favourite 5-acre parkland garden with new features and plantings. In addition to the formal rose gardens around the house you will discover new plantings of camelias, hydrangeas and rhododendrons. Meandering woodland pathways lead beyond begonias and massed cliveas to a redesigned dam with steps leading to a deciduous woodland featuring magnolias and maples. Add a shrub border, an olive grove and views to the distant mountains and there is something for everyone. Toilet.
Garden 6: “Palladio” 25 Nollands Road, Arcadia. Presented by Dita and Sean Nichols
“Palladio” is an impressive private estate inspired by a bygone era of European garden design and architecture. On entering through the tall electric gates and meandering down the long driveway a sense of anticipation overtakes you. Nestled in the 30-acre land holding are the classically inspired gardens with Spanish, Greek and Roman ancient artifacts.
Garden 7: “Glenroy Cottage” 1 Glenroy Place, Mid Dural Presented by Liz and Eric Pellinkhof
The garden and home were built around 100 years ago when Fred and Ness Best were orchardists in Cranstons Road. It has remained in the family for that time. The cottage is on an acre now. The front garden of camellias and rhododendrons were mostly planted by Ness, and we have continued the theme. The Beautiful jacaranda is probably 90 years old. Toilet. THIS GARDEN WILL BE CLOSED AT 1.00PM ON THE SUNDAY
Garden 8: “Brackenridge” 11 Ballanda Place, Mid Dural. Presented by Sue and Ian Fisher
This is a steep block with magnificent rock outcrops and views across the adjacent bush valley. There is a waterfall and ponds, and wide range of azaleas, camellias, orchids, cacti and succulents scattered throughout, all surrounded by natural bushland. There is a treasure hunt in the garden for children.
