Unearth Mount Macedon’s Horticultural History

Hidden behind the towering Eucalypts and dense holly hedges on the southern slope of Mt Macedon lies one of Australia’s most extraordinary heritage estates.

Duneira Estate was first established by pastoralist Suetonius Officer as a summer retreat in 1872 and gives visitor’s an insight to the past lives and ambitions of the wealthy elite who came to Mount Macedon to establish colonial hill stations similar to those that were being built in India by the British Raj in the 1800’s. Mount Macedon, at 1000 ft above sea level with its high annual rainfall, and cool climate made it the ideal place to create these incredible retreats.

Today Duneira Estate remains intact with original outbuildings and spectacular gardens, including the secret garden, heritage listed trees, orchards, manicured lawns, an outstanding collection of Rhododendrons and Mollis Azaleas as well as the iconic 500 metre Dutch Elm lined avenue.

Join us at Duneira Estate for a special afternoon event as expert horticulturalist, author, award winning radio broadcaster and TV presenter, Stephen Ryan tells the story of the evolution of the grand gardens that have made Mount Macedon a unique landscape.

Following Stephen’s talk sit back and enjoy a glass of wine whilst viewing award winning film makers Elizabeth Langslow and Leandro Palacio’s short films about Mount Macedon’s horticultural history. Showcasing images from the Mount Macedon and Gisborne Historical Society, and including interviews with gardeners and owners, these films are a rare treat for both history buffs and garden lovers.