Graceburn

As part of Open Gardens Victoria’s spring program, Graceburn, a remarkable five-acre property in Drysdale on the Bellarine Peninsula, will open to the public on 25–26 October 2025. Nineteen years in the making, this two-acre native and indigenous garden has grown from degraded horse paddocks into a thriving, sustainable landscape teeming with life.

Created by owners Kate Lockhart and Justin Grace, Graceburn is a living example of regeneration, habitat restoration, and environmental stewardship. Facing harsh conditions (including salty winds, poor soil, and low rainfall) the couple embraced local indigenous plants for their resilience and ecological value, resulting in a garden that is both beautiful and deeply connected to place.

Garden highlights include a freshwater swimming pool with garden designed by Sam Cox, a DIY wood-fired hot tub, a rammed earth pavilion, a productive orchard with 80+ fruit trees, bush tucker and vegetable gardens, and creative sculptures made from recycled materials. The garden supports rich biodiversity, attracting birds, lizards, bees, and more.

Visitors can enjoy plant sales and expert advice from Bellarine Landcare Nursery, with part of the proceeds supporting their community work.

Graceburn is a powerful testament to what’s possible through creativity, perseverance, and working with nature. Nearby Red Gums will also open the same weekend.

Tickets are available online via TryBooking: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1429543

Graceburn is located on the lands of the Wadawurrung People. Open Gardens Victoria wish to acknowledge the Traditional custodians of this land and we pay respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging.