Queensland Media Members recently toured Rosevale Homestead in the picturesque Samford Valley, around 40 minutes’ drive north of Brisbane.
Perched high on a hill overlooking Lake Samsonvale, this historic homestead and the cottage garden and heritage rose collection that surrounds it is owned by Leonie and Terry Kearny. Both Leonie and Terry have a long family history in the region.
Leonie escorted visitors around the garden. With scissors in hand, she generously clipped pieces of any plant admired to share with members – and there were many.
Leonie also has a nursery well-stocked with heritage roses and perennials not found in local independent garden centres. Needless to say, most members made several potted purchases.
The day concluded with lunch under the shade of spreading 100 year old fig trees. Thanks go to Annette Irish for organizing this event and to Jill Coomb for catering and images taken on the day. If you are interested in discovering the best performing and most disease resistant heritage rose varieties for subtropical climates, Rosevale Homestead located at 922 Mount Samson Rd, Samsonvale in Queensand is open free to visitors each Saturday from 10am. Guided tours are available by appointment. For more information contact Annette McFarlane (www.annettemcfarlane.com).
