ABOVE: Gawler East local Glenys Sambelltogether with her husband Brian will beopening up their beautiful garden to thepublic next weekend. PHOTOS: Jesse Neill
JESSE NEILL
LOCAL Gawler East couple Brian and Glenys Sambell will be showcasing their garden to the public next weekend in support of a worthy cause.
Approached earlier in the year by the SA Open Garden Scheme, the Sambells will be hosting their first open garden event at their home on Saturday, November 2 and Sunday, November 3.
Entry will cost $8 for adults, $6 for concession and children under 18 are free, with all proceeds from the tickets going towards the Leukaemia Foundation.
The Sambells’ block is half an acre in size, and their garden has seen some significant changes over the 47 years they’ve lived in Gawler East.
“As our family was growing up, it was important to have open spaces and lots of lawn for them to enjoy,” Mrs Sambell said.
“However, the drought situation and water restrictions meant we had to adapt to the changes.
“We’ve cut back on the lawn space and put in more water-wise plants.
“There’s no big plan though, it just evolves over time.
“I’m the type of gardener who sees something pretty and pops it somewhere.”
Mrs Sambell describes herself as an enthusiastic gardener and views the act of gardening as a relaxing experience.
“We have a sprinkler system on the lawns and some garden areas, but there’s still lots of hand watering, which I find very therapeutic on summer evenings,” she said.
She describes her garden as “eclectic, yet peaceful and relaxing”.
Situated on a corner block and screened with a hedge of red flowering callistemon, the garden is teeming with an extensive assortment of plants and a quirky collection of garden ornaments.
Paths link different areas together including the fire pit, a number of sheltered seating areas and a secret children’s garden.
“We hope people will take the time to sit back and have a pleasant hour or two in the gardens, as well as enjoy our food, coffee and tea, and browse the stalls,” Mrs Sambell said.
Stalls will be selling plants, candles and ‘succulent art’, and the event will also feature live musical entertainment and a ‘Kids’ Corner’.
The Sambells’ garden will be open from 10am-4.30pm at their home on 7 Melaleuca Drive, Gawler East.
