Wombat Park Estate: An Autumnal Spectacle of Ancient Beauty in Regional Victoria
Australia, a nation forged in the relatively recent echoes of colonisation and federation, might seem a young contender on the global stage. Yet, step into the grounds of Wombat Park Estate in Daylesford, and you’re immediately embraced by an aura of profound antiquity. This sensation is amplified tenfold when the estate’s magnificent gardens erupt into their autumn glory. Towering trees, like ancient sentinels, pierce the sky, while rare, prehistoric pines stand as living relics. The forest floor, carpeted in a thick layer of fallen leaves, exudes a primeval tranquility that soothes the soul.
The history of this remarkable property is indeed venerable by Australian standards. Its origins trace back to 1854, born from the forward-thinking vision of grazier William Stanbridge. Nearly two centuries have passed since those initial, imaginative plantings of tender saplings, and Wombat Park Estate has since blossomed into a sprawling arboretum of immense ecological and historical significance.
This estate is not merely a collection of trees; it’s a living museum, housing specimens of extraordinary size and age. Among its treasures are singular, rare trees, including a Mexican pine nut and, most remarkably, three Wollemi pines – botanical wonders once believed to be extinct, often referred to as “dinosaur trees” for their ancient lineage.
The Dedicated Custodians of a Heritage Garden
Such a grand and historically significant property demands more than just owners; it requires dedicated custodians. In Theresa and Tony, Wombat Park Estate has found precisely that.
With a background as farmers who have managed operations on a significant scale, Theresa and Tony also own The Houses Hotel Group, a collection of boutique accommodations scattered throughout regional Victoria. The estate’s homestead was once visible from their previous home in Daylesford, and Theresa recalls, “We fell in love with it.”
Acquiring the expansive 101-hectare property in 2021, Theresa and Tony became only the third custodians in the estate’s long and distinguished history.
“I think we have seven or eight kilometres of hedges, including the largest tapestry hedge in Australia.” – Theresa, owner
When Nature Reclaims: A Tale of Restoration
While the estate had been lovingly maintained by previous generations, the passing of the former owner led to a period of neglect. Nature, in its relentless way, began to assert its dominance. Hedges grew wild and unruly, and invasive blackberry vines snaked their way into what were once meticulously manicured garden beds. “We knew what we wanted to do, but we needed to get in and clean it up first,” Theresa explains.
“The garden had a bit of a rough time there, but I hope we’re bringing it back to how it should be.” – Theresa, owner
William Stanbridge’s daughter, Florence Cox, was instrumental in shaping the ‘new’ garden, introducing formal hedges and sweeping lawns. Theresa and Tony, with their agricultural expertise, have expanded this vision by establishing a productive vegetable garden and orchard, with plans for a nuttery on the horizon. “I think that will be our legacy. A productive food garden is what we will leave behind,” Theresa states with conviction.
“The original arbour is covered in Boston ivy and you have these magnificent fronds coming down like a curtain. If there was a bed out here, we’d probably sleep in it. It’s my favourite place in the whole garden.” – Theresa, owner
Further enhancements have included the creation of a formal parterre garden and a grand arbour designed to accommodate large-scale gatherings. However, the core of their work lies in preservation – a continuous, labour-intensive endeavour that is as much a historical undertaking as it is a landscaping project. The process of conservation here is measured not in months, but in decades, a testament to the enduring nature of the estate.
The Intricate Work of Conservation
To illustrate the dedication to preservation, consider the fate of a majestic Douglas fir that was struck by lightning and is now slowly succumbing. Theresa and Tony have already taken the proactive step of planting several replacements. These young trees are being nurtured to ensure they reach maturity by the time the venerable fir finally falls. Theresa elaborates on this thoughtful approach to succession planting: “Anything that might be getting to the end of its life, we’re sourcing and replanting in the same area, so hopefully when it dies we will have another tree, 20 or 30 years old, to take its place.”
“This garden is really resilient. It comes back more beautiful.” – Theresa, owner
These quiet sentinels, the trees of Wombat Park Estate, are undoubtedly the understated stars of the show, particularly during the ethereal beauty of autumn. As the sunlight softens and takes on a golden hue, the Boston ivy ignites in a blaze of vibrant red, and the deciduous trees unfurl a breathtaking spectrum of sunset colours. “The trees become the heroes,” Theresa observes, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the visual spectacle.
It is these stunning vistas and the profound emotional connection they inspire that motivates Theresa and Tony to open their extraordinary garden to the public. Through carefully organised events and open days, they aim to share not only the garden’s visual splendour but also the immense vision and unwavering courage required to create and maintain such a legacy.
Experience the Magic of Wombat Park Estate This Autumn
Wombat Park Estate will be opening its gates to visitors on Saturday, May 16th, and Sunday, May 17th, 2026. This presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the autumnal beauty of this historic garden.
