A PICTURESQUE Narrawong garden will be open to the public this weekend, INTRO

Alison and David Aplin’s Timandra, at 82 Windham St (the Princes Hwy and opposite the Narrawong fire station), will be part of the Open Gardens Victoria initiative from 10am to 4.30pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

The event is not only an opportunity to take in the stunning garden, set on about one acre (0.4ha), but also to donate to a great cause – the gate will be manned by members of the Narrawong Mechanics Hall committee, and that venue will receive half the proceeds (the rest going to Open Gardens Victoria).

For Mrs Aplin it is also an opportunity to welcome the public back into the garden – it was last open as part of an Open Gardens Australia event there or four years ago, when more than 360 people visited over the weekend.

Over the years – the Aplins have owned the property for 13 – the garden has also been popular with international cruise ship visitors.

Timandra won Landscaping Victoria’s Sustainable Landscape award in 2014.

There are many majestic gum trees and understorey plants providing habitat foe koalas, many species of birds and frogs.

Various recycled items have been converted into quirky features in the garden.

“This garden is based around the word sustainable,” Mrs Aplin said.

“I’m a garden designer so I’m passionate about sustainable landscapes.”

Entry is $10 for adults, $6 for students, with children free – there are several steps down to the main part of the garden so it is unsuitable for wheelchairs, pushers and the infirm.

Tickets must be made in advance online on the Open Gardens Victoria website or via www.trybooking.com/BPHFS.

At the same time as the open garden, there will also be a community market at the hall, where Devonshire teas and light meals will be available.