Open Gardens SA at Tipsy Hill Estate

We’re absolutely thrilled with how well our Open Gardens SA event went at Tipsy Hill Estate on the 8-9th February 2025! With 600 visitors through over the two days there was a buzz in the air (not just from the Blue Banded Bees who decided to pop in for a visit). The feedback was fantastic with so many comments about how beautiful the gardens were looking. 

For those who haven't visited Tipsy Hill Estate, we are nestled in the heart of McLaren Vale’s stunning wine region, our estate boasts breathtaking 360-degree views of rolling vineyards and vibrant gardens.

It’s hard to believe that nearly nine years have flown by since our family settled into the picturesque Tipsy Hill. This charming property became more than just a weekend retreat—it transformed into our beloved family home. Previously cherished as a getaway by Margaret and Christopher Burrell, Tipsy Hill has undergone quite a metamorphosis under our care, reflecting the rhythms and needs of daily life. 

One of our earliest additions was a vegetable and herb garden close to the house—a nod to our passion for cooking. More recently, we took a bold step by installing a stunning infinity pool along the east side of the house. This addition, completed just last year, turned what was once a steep and sunbaked slope into a luxurious oasis. While we did consider terracing the area for more garden beds, the pool ultimately won out (though it did cost nearly four times as much as a retaining wall!). That said, we still carved out a small terraced space nearby for herbs and veggies, ensuring practicality wasn’t entirely overshadowed by indulgence.

For those who visited Tipsy Hill during its Open Gardens South Australia events in March 2015 or 2021, you might notice a host of changes since then. Our commitment to sustainability and conservation has been a guiding principle, inspired in no small part by my grandmother, Dr. Barbara Hardy AO, whose contributions to South Australia's environmental efforts continue to inspire us. Following her example, we’ve reduced the garden’s water consumption by about 25% by grouping plants based on water needs, relocating them to more suitable spots, and introducing hardy native species that thrive in our climate. Another practical yet impactful improvement was the addition of a dedicated firewood store next to the garage. This freed up much-needed space for our ever-expanding collection of gardening tools and supplies, making it easier to maintain the grounds.

As you approach Tipsy Hill, one of the most noticeable changes is the transformation of the driveway. The 60 Pencil Pines that once lined it have been replaced by resilient Lilly Pillies, better suited to handle our climate and less susceptible to pests like borers. While the Lemon-scented gums (Corymbia citriodora) planted in 2020 to replace the Pencil Pines in the carpark area have flourished, adding a delightful fragrance to the air, especially after rain. Elsewhere, we’ve continued to fine-tune the garden by moving plants to locations where they can truly thrive. Opposite the garage, for instance, the Shasta daisies we relocated have burst into vibrant bloom and the Pencil Pines that had succumbed to stress and pests has also be removed from this area.

We’ve continued to opened up the garden, either thinning or lifting larger plants or removing those past their prime, this has created clearer sightlines and inviting glimpses into other sections of the garden. Building on Margaret’s original vision of themed colour groupings, we’ve introduced playful touches like the ‘Barbie’ garden near the south lawn, where shades of pink flowers dominate. This thematic approach adds charm and cohesiveness to the landscape while celebrating colour and creativity.

Looking ahead, we have even more plans in store. The ‘Tipsy Imperial Concubine’ roses will soon be relocated to the more sheltered ‘Smoke Tree’ garden, where the conditions are gentler. In its place, we plan to expand our native plantings, continuing to embrace species that are not only beautiful but also sustainable in our dry climate. As Tipsy Hill continues to evolve, we hope it remains a source of inspiration, relaxation, and joy for all who visit. Whether you’re seeing it for the first time or returning after a few years, we invite you to explore, enjoy, and experience the story that our garden tells. 

See a map of the Garden HERE.

To see and read about some of the iconic plants at Tipsy Hill Estate, see our Iconic Plants Of The Garden guide HERE. 

We hope to see you at Tipsy Hill for another event in the future. 

Cheers

Bec