In Garden Love, photographer Simon Griffiths explores an outdoor oasis in coastal Victoria
In Garden Love, photographer Simon Griffiths explores landscape designer Fiona Brockhoff’s unique oasis in coastal Victoria
In the front garden at Karkalla, a tideline of smooth beach glass, seashells and the odd shard of sea-scoured pottery gives the appearance of having been washed up by the ocean. Indeed, everything about this Mornington Peninsula garden, owned by Fiona Brockhoff and David Swann, reminds you that you are by the sea. Coastal rosemary ( Westringia fruticosa), sea box ( Alyxia
buxifolia) and Correa alba are clipped into waves and organic shapes that mimic the nearby native bush that is sculpted by the salt-laden winds flying in from Bass Strait, just a stone’s throw away. Olive trees have been pruned so that the canopies are high, allowing a clear view of the ocean through the naked trunks. Phormium and spear grass ( Austrostipa stipoides) provide contrasting form and texture.
I remember seeing Karkalla for the first time, 18 years ago, and being blown away by the beauty and individuality of Fiona’s gardening and design style. Over the years, things have changed in the garden – trees have grown, the odd plant has been lost – but Karkalla maintains its unique spirit and personality.
The best gardens always show the hand and mind of the gardener who created and maintains it, and it’s clear that Fiona embraces change and enjoys watching her garden evolve.
At Karkalla, the most commonplace peninsula natives become stars, thanks to Fiona’s clever clipping, editing and planting combinations. The blend of native and exotic species creates a garden that is always inspiring. It’s a place you can visit many times and still feel you have not seen it all – a garden which leaves you wondering what more riches yet remain to be discovered.
“EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS MORNINGTON PENINSULA GARDEN REMINDS YOU THAT YOU ARE BY THE SEA” SIMON GRIFFITHS, GARDEN LOVER AND PHOTOGRAPHER