Niel and Viola Hamilton’s tropical garden is their paradise.
Their Bahrs Scrub property has appeared on television programs and newspapers for its carefully curated yard, and it’s been their beloved home for the last 38 years.
But now it’s time for them to part ways.
“I’m 80 next year, and unfortunately I just can’t manage the garden the way I used to,” Mr Hamilton said.
“Unfortunately, everyone gets old.”
Their property featured on ABC’s Gardening Australia in 2015 and was described as a “holiday resort” with Golden Cane Palms, an impressive collection of bromeliads, perennials and “lots and lots of flowers”.
But it wasn’t always this way, Mrs Hamilton said.
“When we bought the property, the garden was bare,” she said.
“We thought a pool would be really nice, and I decided that it need a resort-style setting – I was inspired by the islands up north.”
In 2000, Mr and Mrs Hamilton were approached by Open Gardens Australia, an organisation that opened private gardens for public viewing, and asked to participate.
Mr Hamilton said no to the offer, but Mrs Hamilton, as a gardener, said yes.
“And she won,” Mr Hamilton said.
“Open Gardens closed in 2015 but we remained open and gave the profits to local charities.
“But then Covid came, and we couldn’t remain open, and now these last few years my knees have gone pretty crappy.”
He said they didn’t want the garden to turn to ruins, so they decided to sell.
“We’re very sad,” he said.
“We don’t want to move, but that’s life.”
The Hamiltons said they sit outside every night, listening to the birds and taking in their peaceful surroundings.
“… and for quite a while we’ve had a koala come and visit,” Mr Hamilton said.
Beyond its unique tropical landscape, the property boasts two dwellings – one of which is currently rented out – totalling eight bedrooms, four bathrooms, six covered car spots, a pool and multiple sheds.
The rented house was recently painted and carpeted, with a large formal lounge and dining room, and a kitchen overlooking the garden.
The master bedroom features a walk-in robe and an ensuite complete with a spa bath. There are three more bedrooms and a study.
Outside offers a pergola and a gated garden area that can be used to house boats, caravans, or trailers.
The Hamiltons’ dwelling has a large front porch that leads into a sunken living room, connected to a dining area.
There are three bedrooms and an office.
This house is connected to a large double carport, an outdoor entertaining area, and the inground pool.
Call Brad Sissons on 0434501339.
