Glorious garden waits to be explored

Suzanne de Pelsenaire in her garden. 173230 Pictures: GARY SISSONS

By Bonny Burrows

Tucked away in Kooweerup is a whimsical garden oasis just waiting to be explored.
And this month is the perfect time to visit as owner Suzanne de Pelsenaire opens the garden gates to her perfumed, bird-filled trailing paradise for a cause dear to her heart.
“Nine years ago was my new birth. I got a cochlear implant and my life was forever changed,” Ms de Pelsenaire said.
Her 28 and 29 October open garden will serve as a fund-raiser for the group responsible for the progression of cochlear implants and hearing treatments at the Bionics Institute in Melbourne.
A volunteer at the research institute for many years, Ms de Pelsenaire sees the fund-raiser as a way to do even more for the technology which restored her hearing, but to also share her love of the garden with the community.
It will be the third year the fund-raiser has been held.
“That’s the joy of gardening – sharing,” she said.
For those who attend the open days, Ms de Pelsenaire said they could expect a full-bodied sensory experience.
Not just a plant-filled heaven, the garden is also filled with birds, bandicoots and garden ornaments.
“There are arches and statues, not just plants. You’ve got to have perfume, colour and texture,” Ms de Pelsenaire said.
Once finished browsing the garden’s hidden treasures, guests will also be able to sit back, relax and enjoy tea and coffee.
An assortment of plants will also be available for those feeling inspired to start their own wonderland.
The garden, located at 23 Salmon Street, Kooweerup, will be open on Saturday 28 October and Sunday 29 October from 10am to 5pm. Entry is $5.
For details, phone Ms de Pelsenaire on 5997 1211.