Spring rains did not deter us as we set off on our bus tour of special West Gippsland gardens on Saturday 20th October, 2018.
Our first stop was at “Barambah” in the centre of Jindivick. Jan Burridge gave us a personal tour of her beautiful garden which featured many rare and unusual plants. The Tropaeolum tricolor vine particularly caught our eye, but her Mollis Azaleas, Laburnum arbour and large Waratah were vying for attention too. Jan revealed that her secret ingredient for luxurious plant health is Munash rock dust applied each season. She treated us to a devonshire tea before we had to leave.
Waratah
Rare Shade Plant & Tropaeolum tricolor
Laburnum Arbour
At Country Farm Perennials at Nayook, we had the chance to not only view Merryle and David’s garden but also purchase some plant treasures at their Nursery. They specialise in providing some of the rarer varieties so this was a real treat which many of us took advantage of. Their predominantly woodland garden, including a mature Viburnum plicatum tomentosum, puts on a fantastic show at this time of year. Whilst here we also chose a beautiful double-flowering Clematis for our raffle prize. An ample lunch was kindly provided by the local ladies in the Public Hall.
Country Farm Perennials
As the clouds cleared, our next visit was to “Picardy”, the French-inspired home and garden of Marian and Bryce Somes. They have created their own piece of France in these hills, with rammed-earth buildings, generous plantings of roses and perennials, a Dogwood grove and orchard, as well as a large herb and vegetable garden. The fertility of their property was evident in their Citrus grove where Blood Oranges and Cumquats had not a yellow leaf in sight – and this without any fertilisers! Some of our attendees took the opportunity to purchase Marian’s book “Picardy” which describes her 22 year realisation of a garden dream. (The book published in April 2018 is available in all good book stores.)
Double flowered Dogwood & Wisteria Arch (Marian Somes on the left)
“The Garden at Broughton Hall” at Jindivick was our last, but not by any means least, stop for the day. David Musker took us on a personal tour of his fantastic, huge garden beginning in the Birch grove where over 300 birches are planted, moving around the house with the view opening up to reveal an amazing layout of terraces overlooking the Tarago Reservoir. Each terrace is filled with roses, Crab Apples and rare plants, particularly those with foliage interest, within a hedged framework. David was very generous sharing his plant advice, describing his roses and hedge maintenance. The sight of his white peacock was a special surprise and his Nursery “Muskers” provided a further opportunity for us to sample some plants.
Nobody wanted to leave – we all agreed that we needed more time to absorb this garden so I’m sure Broughton Hall will feature on our event list again in the future.
Walking through the gardens & David Musker
House Entrance & Birch Grove
It is obvious that this region of Victoria, with its ample rainfall and volcanic earth is a horticultural heaven. It will continue to attract passionate gardeners such as these owners so we will be drawn back here again.
We would like to thank each owner for their time and expertise and particularly Merryle Johnson and her team for assisting with the tour planning.
Testimonials from Bus Trip to Gardens of Gippsland in October, 2018
“I had a lovely time on the Gippsland excursion, it was very well organised and the gardens were great, in such lovely company!” – Polly
“… it was a wonderful day, we are very keen to come to another EWHA event…” – Sally
“… thank you for the well-organised and much appreciated trip last Saturday. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience from start to finish.” – Gail
Who were your mentors?
I was fortunate to be mentored by generous and knowledgeable members of the Australian Walnut Industry Association, who openly shared their experience and encouraged my growth in the field. In my research work, I have benefitted greatly from the world-class facilities at the Gulbali Institute at Charles Sturt University. There, I was mentored by Professor Sandra Savocchia, an exceptional researcher whose guidance shaped much of my learning. I was also supported by a multidisciplinary team with expertise in plant pathology, biochemistry, and molecular analysis. I truly could not have asked for a better group of mentors. Throughout this journey, my husband David has been a constant source of support and encouragement, making it possible for me to pursue my studies and research wholeheartedly.
From left to right: Dr Ben Stodart, Prof. Sandra Savocchia, Dr Stella Antony, Dr Regina Billones-Baaijens, Prof. Chris Steel
What are you working on at the moment?
At the moment, I am working on a project that supports sustainable hazelnut production in Australia. Funded by AgriFutures Australia, the project has several themes and involves collaboration between several universities across the country. My role is within the sub-theme led by Professor Sandra Savocchia and focuses on evaluating potential disease threats to hazelnut production, including biosecurity risks linked to the import of plant material. The project also provides producers and nurseries with relevant information on disease management strategies to help minimise yield loss, and identifying areas for future research to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.
What does an average day consist of for you?
An average day for me starts with a cup of coffee and ABC classic FM in the background. After breakfast I check emails and respond to queries from nut growers, making sure they have the support and information they need. I usually set aside time to read the latest research updates on walnuts and hazelnuts, keeping up to date with developments in the field, and I continue working on writing and refining my research review. I also enjoy spending part of the day in my reasonably sized garden, tending to the fruit and nut trees. David and I try to fit in a daily hour’s walk around our quiet neighbourhood when the weather (and his kayaking schedule) allows. And although I’m no longer a full-time grower, harvest season is still special. During that time, we help friends in their orchards and share in the simple joy of harvesting together.
What is your favourite plant?
My favourite plant is the walnut tree. Beyond its value as a crop, it carries several fascinating mythological connections. In Greek mythology, the walnut tree is associated with Dionysus, the god of wine and ecstasy. He fell in love with Carya, the youngest daughter of the king of Laconia. When Carya’s jealous sisters tried to keep the two apart, Dionysus turned them into stone. Overcome with grief at their fate, Carya died of sorrow. Heartbroken, Dionysus transformed his beloved into a walnut tree, creating a lasting symbol of his love for her. For me, the walnut tree is more than a source of food – it is a living reminder of the beauty of love, the depth of loss, and the enduring power of myth.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself continuing to contribute to research that supports healthy, productive and resilient nut orchards across Australia, and helping growers access the knowledge and tools they need to manage emerging challenges with confidence.
What are your 3 most worthwhile tips that you can give to women who are starting out in the horticulture industry?
Build strong on-the-ground experience. Practical knowledge is invaluable and will shape your confidence and decision-making.
Follow your passion and don’t be limited by stereotypes. Be willing to challenge traditional expectations of women in primary production; your skills, interests and ambitions define your path.
Stay flexible and open to new directions. Horticulture offers many avenues, so don’t hesitate to explore different roles, learn new skills, or take unexpected opportunities as they arise.
