Two of Warwick’s historic homes and gardens will be open to the public on November 16 to 18.
Open to the public for the very first time, the historic house and garden at Hillside, 25 Weewondella Road, Warwick is a perfect combination of its long history and more contemporary touches.
Built in 1867, Hillside was the home of Rev Benjamin Glennie, the first Archdeacon on the Darling Downs, who spent 26 years walking and riding thousands of miles and justly earned the accolade ‘The Apostle of the Downs’. Present owner, John Lindenberg, has restored Hillside as closely as possible to the era of the late 1800s.
Huge Bunya pines, well over 100 years old, line part of the driveway leading to the timber and sandstone homestead – and together with massive crepe myrtles, pinus, silky oaks and a circular hedge, they provide complete privacy for the house sitting snugly on the rise.
A lovely courtyard, shaded by wisteria, features a magnificent wrought iron antique urn water feature, while a long wrought iron arbour is draped with glorious climbing roses.
A gorgeous avenue of olives, claret and desert ash lines the driveway at Deconlay, 68 Locke Street, Warwick, leading to one of the hidden gems of this historic Queensland town.
One of the region’s best examples of nineteenth century Queensland Colonial architecture, the house and garden have been extensively restored by owners Ross and Donna Fraser, who received a Centenary of Federation Heritage Award in recognition of their work in restoring the verandahs and formal entry.
In the rambling gardens, shades of blue and white set a country garden theme and contrast perfectly with the reclaimed Warwick bricks and local sandstone that feature in the hard landscaping,
Plantings respect the harsh winters experienced across the Southern Downs and rely heavily on tried and tested perennials, including South African and seaside daisies interspersed with lavender and rosemary. Strong structural elements are provided by yucca, agapanthus, japonica, clematis and clivia.
Interesting outbuildings include a former stable, now converted to a cottage, and a charming 1940s cubby house.
Both properties are open on November 16, 17 and 18 from 9am to dusk, with admission $10 and children under 18 free.
