This private West Gippsland residence retains magnificent trees from its ornamental nursery heritage - Crepe Myrtles, Maples, and a commanding Golden Elm frame views spanning three mountain ranges across Bunurong and Gunaikurnai Country. Exposed hilltop conditions demand strategic plant selection for wind, frost, and drainage challenges.

My redesign focused on hardy groundcovers delivering bold summer colour for clients who split time between Melbourne and this rural retreat. The plant palette creates sweeping waves of yellow, orange, pink, and purple - colours that mirror the dramatic sunsets and explode into life when friends gather for Christmas entertaining.

The result transforms a tired understory into a resilient, spectacular seasonal display perfect for lawn games, late-night music, and long tables of fine wine with even finer company.

LOCATION
Ripplebrook, West Gippsland

COUNTRY
Bunurong / Gurnaikurnai

CONSTRUCTION
Michael Rochelle Landscapes