Our destination for our trip on Thursday 22ndMarch was to Neerim South to visit the Janalli Gardens. It was a beautiful morning with a scheduled top temperature of 34C, so we were hoping it would be a bit cooler further up in the hills. When we arrived, our hosts, Alan and Phillipa Beeson had prepared a wonderful morning tea of fresh scones, jam and cream all set out on small tables along the wide verandah and under the trees.
On finishing our delicious feast, we spent the rest of the morning touring the 10 acres of idyllic landscaped gardens that surround the lovely homestead. The garden is divided into several multicultural sections, including Italian and Japanese gardens, as well as a large vegetable garden and two lakes. It was a truly inspiring and delightful garden, with lush green grass, the likes of which we have not seen for a very long time.
After the morning enjoying the gardens, it was time to head to the “King’s Arms” hotel, for a hearty country “roast of the day” or “fish ‘n’ chips”, followed by fresh fruit salad or pudding. As the day was becoming very warm it was a relief to sit in air conditioned comfort for a while, and chat to friends about the wonderful gardens we had just visited.
Having finished our lunch we called at Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick, which was established in 1992. A former basalt quarry donated to the community by Mr. George Wilson, grandson of the original land owners in 1854, Wilson Botanic Park has been developed into 39 hectares (100 acres) of scenic and tranquil parkland. With spectacular exposed rock formations, unique fossils over 22 million years old, three picturesque lakes, paths meandering amidst native and exotic gardens and spectacular views, this stunning botanic park is unique in southern Victoria.
Unfortunately, the heat prevented many of us venturing too far to properly explore these fascinating gardens; however, most of us spent some time wandering in the lovely rose garden with its pretty rock pool and waterfall. It was a pleasant end to a very relaxing day out.
