The Outer Grounds
The outer grounds, modelled on the English country park, featured groves of trees, including hawthorns, quinces, medlars and nut trees, Commercial citrus orchards were sheltered by stands of pines and gums. A grove of olives grew along the west perimeter and on the other slopes grew crepe myrtles, Irish strawberries and a Moreton Bay fig.
Since the 1980s several major changes have occurred. The citrus groves were removed and the Sculpture Park created. An allee of oak and cedar running to the north west and a Heritage Apple and Pear orchard was planted. A maze of English Box was begun but later removed and the Petanque Terrain and Children’s Storybook Trail were established.
Features of the outer garden include:
| Allees | The formal oak and cedar allee allows for a pleasant stroll down to the Storybook Trail and then onto the pedestrian boundary gate situated on Rectory Walk. |
| Heritage Apple and Pear Orchard | Located on the downward slopes beyond the house to the north east corner is the Heritage apple and pear orchard where over 60 varieties and hybrids grow. The orchard was established to preserve the National collection using root stock from Rippon Lea House in Melbourne. Most of these varieties were first bred in the 1700s and were primarily used for preserving, cooking and making apple and pear wines and ciders. |
| Sculptures | Sculptures located outdoors in the grounds feature the works of artists including Arthur Boyd, Jacob Epstein, Lyn Moore, Greg Johns, Neil Cranney and Kempo Okamoto. The viewer can take a leisurely walk around the grounds discovering these treasures. |
| Petanque Court | The Petanque Terrain or Court is located to the south west of the house just beyond the cypress hedges where large Pistachio trees provide shade for picnicking. Petanque, a game similar to Bocce, can be played any time the grounds are open to the public and there is no cost. Anyone wishing to play Petanque may borrow a set of balls from the attendant at reception. |