#banksia picnic area

[steventureau]

'Strickland Falls Track

1.7km loop, 40 minutes return

Medium grade, some steep sections and steps

This track was proudly completed by the "Friends of Strickland" in 2003.

Follow the signs from Banksia Picnic Area to experience spectacular cliffs, mossy rocks, ferns pals, wildflowers, tall eucalypts and lush rainforest.

The Gymea Lily is a feature of the walk.'

[holidayhunteraust]

Top 5 Must-See Spots in Breenhold Gardens - A Photographer's Paradise

Breenhold Gardens is a stunning botanical garden situated at the foothills of the Blue Mountains in New South Wales, Australia. With over 20 acres of land, it is home to an array of flora and fauna, both native and exotic. Established in the early 20th century, Breenhold Gardens has a rich history and is an important cultural landmark in the region. Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Breenhold Gardens is an ideal destination that offers something for everyone.

Introduction to Breenhold Gardens

Welcome to Breenhold Gardens, a stunning botanical paradise nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains, New South Wales. This picturesque 20-acre estate is a testament to the beauty of nature, showcasing a diverse range of flora and fauna from around the world. Whether you're a nature lover, an avid gardener, or just someone looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Breenhold Gardens has something for everyone.

Overview of Breenhold Gardens

Breenhold Gardens is a privately-owned botanical garden that was established in the 1970s by the late Mr. Graham Pizzey, a renowned ornithologist and author. The garden boasts an extensive collection of exotic and native plants from Australia, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, including rare species and hybrids.

 History of Breenhold Gardens

Early History

Breenhold Gardens is located on the site of an early 20th-century orchard, which was owned by the Breen family. The orchard produced apples, pears, and stone fruit, which were sold at local markets. In the 1960s, the property was purchased by Mr. Graham Pizzey and his family. Breenhold House

The property also features a historic sandstone house that was built in 1887 by William Hay, a prominent local politician. The house has been carefully restored and is now used for private events and functions.

Modern History

Over the years, Mr. Pizzey and his wife, Olive, transformed the property into a stunning garden, incorporating a wide variety of plants from around the world. The garden was opened to the public in the mid-1990s and has since become a popular tourist attraction. The Flora and Fauna of Breenhold Gardens

 Native Plants

Breenhold Gardens features a wide variety of native plants from different regions of Australia, including eucalypts, banksias, wattles, and grevilleas. The garden also includes a section dedicated to local flora, showcasing plants that are endemic to the Blue Mountains region. Exotic Plants

In addition to native plants, Breenhold Gardens also boasts an impressive collection of exotic plants from around the world, including rhododendrons, camellias, magnolias, and azaleas. The garden also features a range of exotic trees, including maples, elms, and oaks.

Wildlife

Breenhold Gardens is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. Visitors may spot eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, and a variety of bird species, including yellow-tailed black cockatoos, kookaburras, and fairy-wrens. Activities to Enjoy at Breenhold Gardens

 Walking

Breenhold Gardens offers a range of walking trails that wind their way through the garden, providing visitors with a chance to explore the different sections of the garden at their own pace.

Picnicking

Breenhold Gardens is the perfect place for a picnic, with several designated picnic areas scattered throughout the garden. Visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while feasting on a delicious picnic lunch. Photography

With its stunning natural beauty, Breenhold Gardens is a photographer's paradise. Visitors are welcome to take photos of the garden and its inhabitants, from the exotic plants to the local wildlife.

Events and Happenings at Breenhold Gardens

Looking for a beautiful and unique venue for your next event? Look no further than Breenhold Gardens! With its breathtaking natural beauty and well-manicured gardens, Breenhold Gardens is the perfect location for everything from seasonal events to weddings to art exhibitions. Seasonal Events

Breenhold Gardens hosts a number of exciting seasonal events throughout the year, including Christmas in July, spring garden walks, and autumn harvest festivals. These events are a great way to experience the gardens at their best, with seasonal flowers in bloom and special activities and entertainment for all ages.

Weddings and Private Events

Looking for a stunning and memorable setting for your wedding or private event? Breenhold Gardens offers a range of packages to suit your needs, including garden ceremonies, receptions in the garden pavilion, and exclusive use of the gardens for your event. Whether you're looking for a romantic and intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Breenhold Gardens can help make your event unforgettable. Art Exhibitions

Breenhold Gardens also hosts regular art exhibitions, with works from local and international artists on display throughout the gardens. Whether you're an art lover or just looking for something new to experience, the exhibitions at Breenhold Gardens are not to be missed.

How to Get to Breenhold Gardens

Located in the Blue Mountains, Breenhold Gardens is just a short drive or train ride from Sydney. Here's what you need to know to get there:

Driving Directions

If you're driving, take the M4 west from Sydney and follow signs to the Blue Mountains. Exit at the Great Western Highway and follow the signs for Mount Wilson. Breenhold Gardens is located on The Avenue in Mount Wilson. Public Transport Options

If you're taking public transport, catch a train from Sydney to Lithgow and then take a taxi or bus to Mount Wilson. The trip takes around two and a half hours in total from Sydney.

Tips for Visiting Breenhold Gardens

To make the most of your visit to Breenhold Gardens, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Best Times to Visit

The gardens are open from September to May, and the best time to visit depends on what you're hoping to see. September to November is best for spring flowers, while December to February offers the most vibrant colours. March to May is great for autumn foliage.

What to Bring

Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Picnic baskets and blankets are also welcome if you want to enjoy a leisurely lunch on the lawns.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Breenhold Gardens

Breenhold Gardens is truly a hidden gem in the Blue Mountains, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience nature at its finest. Whether you're a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or looking for a beautiful venue for your next event, Breenhold Gardens is not to be missed. In conclusion, Breenhold Gardens is a place of beauty, history, and tranquillity that is not to be missed. With its diverse range of plant and animal life, scenic walking paths, and various events and activities throughout the year, it is a true gem of the Blue Mountains region. A visit to Breenhold Gardens is sure to leave a lasting impression and provide an unforgettable experience for all who venture there. FAQ

 Is Breenhold Gardens wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Breenhold Gardens is wheelchair friendly, and there are disabled parking spots and restrooms available. However, some areas of the garden are hilly and may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

 Are pets allowed in Breenhold Gardens?

Pets are not permitted within Breenhold Gardens for the safety and comfort of other visitors and the animals that inhabit the garden.

What is the best time to visit Breenhold Gardens?

Breenhold Gardens can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the gardens are blooming with colourful flowers and foliage.

Can I bring food and drinks to Breenhold Gardens?

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks to Breenhold Gardens and enjoy a picnic in one of the designated picnic areas. However, alcohol is not allowed on the property.

[kinghomesleppington]

The Australian Botanic Garden

The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan is the Australian indigenous plant yard of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney, and also covers 410 hectares. The plantings are designed to take site visitors on an expedition of Australia's special plant life with the Links Yard being the premier Yard within the site. The four-and-a-half-hectare Link Yard is a roofless gallery showing the interconnectedness of people and also the environment.

The Garden is also among the premier exterior occasions venues in South West Sydney and also hosts AnnanROMA Food as well as Red Wine Festival in April and the largest Carols occasion in the area in December. Facilities include picnic shelters, totally free barbeques, walking tracks, Site visitor Centre, and also Melaleuca Residence the on-site dining establishment.

History The traditional custodians of the land currently occupied by the gardens were the Dharawal Indigenous Australian individuals. Later on, it became dairy field land, before the land was acquired by the Royal Botanic Gardens as well as Domain Name Count On 1984, as well as The Yard was opened to the general public in 1988 by the Lady of York, Sarah Ferguson. The Gardens are taken care of by the Botanic Gardens Trust fund trading the Botanic Gardens & Centennial Parklands, which additionally has duty for the Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney, and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah. The Depend on is a department of the NSW Workplace of Atmosphere as well as Heritage. The original name was Mount Annan Botanic Garden and the name was transformed in 2011 to The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan.

About Australian Botanic Garden

The yard includes Australian Bushland with grown screens. It is the Australian Plant Yard of the Botanic Gardens Count on as well as consists of not just barbecue areas and over 20 kilometers (12 mi) of walking tracks, however likewise a native plants study facility and also the NSW PlantBank. Its themed attributes include:

Forest Sanctuary Woodland Barbecue Area Stolen Generations Memorial The Australian PlantBank Visitor Centre, Coffee Shop & Playground Shore Grass Connections Yard Fig Tree Wedding Arboretum & Knot The timepiece of Human Participation Wollemi Discovery Walk Big Idea Yard Mountain Bicycle Trail Wattle Garden Banksia Garden Callitris Grove Kurrajong Arboretum Mallee Eucalypts The Blue Tree The Woodland Barbecue Area highlights the threatened Cumberland Plain Forest located within the estate. The Garden is additionally a place for over 160 varieties of birds in addition to wallaroos, wallabies, and kangaroos that call the Yard residence. With the fast development taking place in the Macarthur region it is fast becoming a wildlife passage for our neighborhood’s native fauna.

Mount Annan Botanic Garden covers a huge location and is accessible by two loop roadways that pass through the site, nevertheless, site visitors will certainly miss out on the appeal of the area if they do not quit throughout and also walk around the different garden places. From the top of Sundial Hill, visitors have stunning 360 ° sights of the surrounding countryside consisting of views of the Sydney skyline.

Content Published by Kinghomes NSW King Homes NSW – HomeWorld Leppington 54 Arkenstone Way, Leppington NSW 2179, Australia +61 2 8795 0022

[bethestaryouareradio]

May flowers…without the showers

By Cynthia Brian

"My garden is my most beautiful work of art" – Claude Monet

We’ve all heard the adage, “April showers bring May flowers!” We have the flowers this year, but April precipitation did not materialize. 2021 is lining up to be the third driest year in the history of California. And that means that we must be more diligent than ever to prepare our properties for a season of increased wildfires.

I have been weeding my property with every spare minute since February. It is essential to pull out weeds by the roots, else they return promptly. This is round three and the resulting garden is looking beautiful. I’ve been experimenting with mixing flowers of iridescent pinks with buttery yellows and pumpkin orange accented by sky blue and bold purple. The palette has taken on an Impressionistic essence of which Monet would be proud.

April and May have always been my favorite months because of the plethora of blooms, birds, and fragrances. The perfume of the jasmine permeates the morning air, the lilac scents the afternoon sunshine, while the wisteria and mock orange infuse the evening with glorious aromas. My two thornless Lady Banksia rose bushes with their profusion of creamy double-petaled flowers have commandeered thirty linear feet of a fence as well as twined to the tops of a plum and chestnut tree. The flowering cherry tree showcases puffy blossoms resembling pink snowballs. The mock orange tree’s white blooms are candy for the bees. The cerise flowers of the Western redbud tree offer a gorgeous contrast to the unfurling green leaves of the honey locust trees. Under a canopy of pines and surrounded by white calla lilies and lacy hemlock, a New Zealand hawthorn brightens the verdant scene with clouds of blush blooms. Bearded irises in a variety of colors are delicate and fragrant. Azaleas and camellias thrive in the shadow of the redwoods. Freesias, tulips, daffodils, calendulas, anemones continue their carnival of blooms. Despite the lack of rain, the spring display is splendor in the grass.

In many parts of the country, people wait until after Mother’s Day to start planting their vegetables but because of the warmth of this season, I advise that you get started soon. Getting children involved with planting vegetables and herbs will encourage them to eat what they plant. After researchers spent time with children in Central Texas who had gardens and gardening classes at their schools, they discovered that the nutrition of both parents and children improved. Also, those who participated began enjoying more vegetables.

If you are planning a vegetable patch, buy pint or quart size containers of your favorite vegetables. Don’t attempt to plant everything you see at the nursery. Only plant what you and your family love. For example, for my spring veggie garden, I’ve planted nine varieties of tomatoes as I’m a tomato snob. I only eat tomatoes in season and prefer only tomatoes that I, a friend, or a family member grows. Also planted are eggplant, zucchini, cucumbers, and peppers. Already growing are a plethora of herbs including basil, oregano, fennel, sage, thyme, dill, cilantro as well as leafy greens of arugula, sorrel, lettuce, and sugar snap peas, artichokes, onions, chives, strawberries, and broccoli.

Make sure that you rotate your crops from year to year so as not to deplete the soil. Most summer vegetables require a minimum of six hours of sunlight. Read and follow the instructions that come with your plant.

Another beautiful, long-flowering, and excellent fresh-cut for arrangements is the dahlia. Although they are supposed to be deer-resistant, the deer that graze around my property seem to find them delicious. I don’t advise dahlias to be planted in areas where you have marauders. Dahlias produce large, colorful blooms and are a welcome addition to any garden. Here’s how to get them started in your landscape:

1. Choose a well-drained area with plenty of sunlight.

2. Plant the tubers after the danger of frost have passed.

3. Dig a hole about a foot deep and amend with compost or potting soil.

4. Place the tuber flat and cover with the amended soil.

5. Make a patch of dahlias spaced 12-36” apart for maximum impact.

6. Water immediately.

7. After sprouting, pinch off the side buds to allow the central blowers to be larger.

8. Deadhead as flowers fade to maintain blooming.

Because of the arid times in which we are living, make sure to cut all tall wild grasses, trim limbs up from the ground six to ten feet to prevent fire laddering, and clear a safety zone around your home. Clean out gutters, remove debris, be cautious when barbecuing and careful around the fire pit. Keep gardens irrigated, watering early in the morning or early in the evening. Be diligent and responsible to help prevent a fire from igniting. Pray for rain yet be prepared for drought.

Mother’s Day is approaching and a welcome gift for mom can always be found in the garden. Consider a bubbling fountain, birdhouse, or colorful annuals to plant. Make a simple arrangement using flowers from the garden accompanied by a garden book that will be treasured always. Whatever you do, let your Mom know how much she means to you whether it is through a virtual visit or an in-person brunch, picnic, or walk. Moms love the little remembrances and deserve accolades, at least once a year!

Spring is the time to savor the beauty surrounding you. If you’ve ever been to Giverny in France, you will know that Monet was not exaggerating about his garden being his most beautiful work of art. He was inspired by nature and you can be too. Be an artist and create your masterpiece in your garden.

Happy Gardening. Happy Growing. Happy Mother’s Day!

Photos and more: https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue1505/Digging-Deep-with-Goddess-Gardener-Cynthia-Brian-May-flowers-without-the-showers.html

Press Pass: https://blog.voiceamerica.com/2021/04/27/no-showers-for-may-flowers/

Cynthia Brian, The Goddess Gardener, is available for hire to help you prepare for your spring garden. Raised in the vineyards of Napa County, Cynthia is a New York Times best-selling author, actor, radio personality, speaker, media and writing coach as well as the Founder and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3. Tune into Cynthia’s StarStyle® Radio Broadcast at www.StarStyleRadio.com.

Buy copies of her best-selling books, including, Chicken Soup for the Gardener’s Soul, Growing with the Goddess Gardener, and Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers at www.cynthiabrian.com/online-store. Receive a FREE inspirational music DVD.

Hire Cynthia for writing projects, garden consults, and inspirational lectures.

Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com

www.GoddessGardener.com

[biplob77-blog]

Rainbow Beach Accommodation

Between legendary Noosa Heads and Rainbow Beach lies the southern portion of the Great Sandy National Park, referred to as Cooloola National Park. The northern portion of the park is Fraser Island. The Cooloola National park is a few 80km lengthy and 30km wide. It has beautiful beaches and sand dunes, untouched teetree forests, and also the pristine upper reaches from the Noosa river such as the Noosa everglades. For more information Rainbow Beach Accommodation Units, visit us today! This region is well-liked by 4WD enthusiasts, campers, fisherman and nature enthusiasts. It is fantastic for one-day outings and extended camping journeys. Going for a 4x4 between Noosa and Rainbow Beach with the Cooloola National Park is the only method you are able to truly understand why beautiful area. You will find 3 ways that you should connect to the park: 1) by beach 2) by unsealed road 3) by sealed road. Each provides a different experience with the park. Typically the most popular way look around the park would be to drive across the beach from Noosa utilizing a 4WD vehicle. Go ahead and take ferry over the Noosa river at Tewantin to Noosa northern coast. You go to the beach at certainly one of 3 cuttings. Its northern border shore is renowned for its great fishing but for the number of types of migratory wild birds that visit every year. While you drive north across the beach you'll first arrived at Teewah village. You are able to go for a walk inland to Teewah point on Lake Cootharaba. While you move further north you'll arrived at high sand dunes and the stage where you have access to the Cooloola sand blow when walking track. The beach camping zone begins just north from the sand blow. Ongoing across the beach, Nobleman Bore Rd exits to the beach (no entry) and Little Freshwater creek marks the finish from the beach camping zone. The Freshwater track is the only method inland and around to Rainbow Beach. Prior to taking that track you can keep across the beach to Double Island Point. This can be a extremely popular position for divers, fisherman and surfers. Mind back and take Freshwater track inland, past inland camping grounds and Poona Lake. You'll hit the Rainbow Beach Rd, where you switch right and also have a short drive into Rainbow Beach. Driving conditions vary with weather and tides. It is crucial that you simply drive around the beach no more than 2 . 5 hrs each side of low tide. Around the beach normal Australian road rules apply. Continue with the left and also the posted speed limit is 80kmh. It's highly suggested you lower your steering wheel pressure for driving around the sand. Remember when you are from the sand to re-inflate your tyres and wash the sand from beneath your 4WD vehicle. The 2nd way from Noosa to Rainbow Beach is to accept Cooloola Way round the western fringe of the park. This really is accessible by 4WD and regular vehicles provided there is not an excessive amount of rain. From Noosa go ahead and take Noosa-Cooroy Rd to Cooroy. Turn right and visit Pomona after which onto Kin Kin. Carry on the Kin Kin-Gympie Rd for around 8km after which turn right to the Cooloola Way. It is really an unsealed road. An additional 10km will take you towards the switch off to Harry's Hut. This is actually the only road accessibility upper reaches from the Noosa river and Noosa Everglades. The direction to Harry's Hut is a touch rough and it is suggested for 4WDs only. You will find camping grounds and picnic facilities at Harry's hut. This is the gateway with other secluded camping areas across the river that are purely available only when walking track and canoe. Camping permits are needed to camp across the Noosa river. Ongoing across the Cooloola way will give you through various kinds of eucalypt, banksia and teetree forests, and you'll eventually mix the upper reaches from the river. Your drive continues north to Rainbow Beach Rd, where you switch right, and you've got a couple of minute drive into Rainbow Beach. The Cooloola Way is rough for normal vehicles, but acceptable for 4WDs. It's suggested you remain underneath the 80km/h posted speed limit. Some parts of the Cooloola Way are quiet rough and also you must drive in a speed that's appropriate towards the road and climate conditions. The 3rd and fastest ended up being to access Rainbow Beach from Noosa is as simple as sealed road. This is actually the primary access road and it is frequently the return route for visitors. Go ahead and take Noosa-Cooroy Rd to Cooroy and so the Bruce Highway to Gympie. Around the southern borders of Gympie have a right turn following a signs to Rainbow Beach. This goes with the eastern a part of Gympie towards the Rainbow Beach Rd. Turn right onto Rainbow Beach Rd and you've got a 35 minute drive on good sealed route to Rainbow Beach. You'll drive across the northern border from the Cooloola National Park and find out a mixture of eucalypt and banksia forest and occasional heathlands. Before reaching Rainbow Beach you are able to switch off onto Freshwater track and go so far as Poona Lake. This of road is okay for normal vehicles, but no further. Poona lake is really a rarely visited perched lake. Allow the good thing of the hour just to walk in the vehicle park towards the lake, which will work for a go swimming. Rainbow Beach is really a quiet holiday village, offering a variety of accommodation and eating options. It's the southern gate method to Inskip Point and delightful Fraser Island. The famous Coloured Sands can be seen from Rainbow Beach. At the moment there's inadequate sand they are driving across the beach from Rainbow Beach towards the Coloured Sands. If you prefer a close-up look you will want to put into practice boat. However, there's another small sand blow within the hillsides near Rainbow Beach that's readily available. Look around the Cooloola National park between Noosa and Rainbow Beach you are able to bring your own 4WD or employ a 4x4 from the 4WD hire business. You will have to decide on a company that rents 4WDs particularly for beach use, which regular vehicle hire companies do not let. You may get a map from the area and access camping permits in the Queensland Government. Want to know more about the best Rainbow Beach? Visit our website for more information.

[trailhikingaust]

Strickland State Forest NSW Summary This walk from the Banksia picnic area to the Strickland Falls includes a fantastic variety of forest scenery. The falls themselves are often just a trickle although the scenery in the area makes the walk well worthwhile. The cliff lines and boulders around the falls are interesting and... http://bit.ly/2nko5SH #trailhikingaust #trailhiking #adventure #hiking #bushwalking #lovehiking #walking #hikinglife #letsgohiking #hikingadventures #outdoors #australia