CAS Members and Friends Christmas in December
Burnley Gardens
500 Yarra Boulevard, Burnley
Sunday 11 December 2022
Review by Karen Foley
This year our Christmas picnic was well attended by members and friends in the beautiful Burnley Gardens (Est 1860’s). Luckily by getting there early we managed to procure the special sugar gum table nestled near the wisteria pergola and sunken garden once the footprint of the original gate house and curator’s residence deep within the gardens. Many of us got lost along the curved pathways before we came across this special hidden area, immediately behind the Ficus macrophylla bed, used for weddings and gatherings. It’s a magical place. The tabletop is made from the timber of the Heritage-listed Sugar Gum, removed in 2008 due to persistent limb drop. The table was built by Ben Sibley is a single slice of history to be enjoyed by visitors to the gardens thanks to the Friends of Burnley Gardens in 2013.
A view of the gardens near our table
It was a warm, humid morning and windy day with rain predicted for later that afternoon but we managed to enjoy a very pleasant lunch in comfort with friends and much laughter and discussion on the gardens and special things happening over Christmas. Robert and Fred’s dog ‘Patsy’ also enjoyed the park and getting lots of attention around the table.
People and Patsy enjoying the picnic
A beautiful garden setting for our picnic
After lunch we had our usual Kris Kringle with Robert handing out the presents. Fun to see the surprise and laughter that ensued.
The Grand Opening of the presents
We were so comfortable and chilled we missed the opportunity to go on our usual walk around the gardens which we did last year. Robert is very knowledgeable on the Burnley Gardens and a great guide. There is a herb garden, Lily ponds, Azalea Lawn, Winter garden, Rose Garden, Orchards, Perennial borders, Native garden ponds and more in the 9.25 hectare Burnley Gardens, originally seven of its trees and three of its buildings were added to the Heritage Register of Victoria in 2003.
A special thankyou to those who attended the picnic.
Wishing all our members and friends of CAS a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Keep the artworks coming in 2023