RosieLea is a seven-acre lifestyle block that Don and Liz Rosie bought as a retirement project. Having been part of a much larger farm for many years, it was a blank slate where they could plan and develop their dream. The land slopes gently to the north, with a view towards the Riverhead Forest and the bush-covered hills of the Coatesville Reserve. Unforgiving clay soil and some winter frosts were limiting factors, but they learned to be selective in their planting choices. Shelter hedges have been established on the boundaries, and gardens around the house and further afield are flourishing. 

It is a garden for all seasons with different attractions during the year. Palms, colourful shrubs and ground covers give a subtropical appearance, while low maintenance has always been of prime importance.  Extensive use has been made of Grevillea Bronze Rambler as a tough, undemanding weed suppressant on clay banks.  An orchard and vegetable garden are doing well, and beehives supply delicious honey.  A bromeliad garden with a small pool and resident frogs is a recent project.  The many deciduous trees are beginning to show encouraging growth, and one can only imagine what they will be like in future years.   Grandchildren have helped to make quirky little places that they enjoy revisiting.  “See what we made!” A lake provides endless entertainment and brings a variety of birdlife in quieter moments.

Don and Liz enjoyed doing most of the development and maintenance themselves.  Although Don is no longer with us his work underpins the garden as it is today. It has continued to grow and mature under Liz’s care.                      

A seven-acre block with gardens, an orchard, an arboretum, a lake and some sheep paddocks. Allow 1-1 ½ hrs to explore.