Brighton is rewriting its garden story. Long associated with grand homes, tennis courts, and high fences, this bayside suburb is experiencing a horticultural shift driven by a new generation of homeowners who are choosing to plant, preserve, and nurture.
CommunityBotanic Brighton: NGVWA Garden Day 2025
Next ArticleBotanic Brighton: NGVWA Garden Day 2025
01 October 2025
On Thursday 23 October, NGVWA Garden Day returns with Botanic Brighton, opening the gates to a curated trail of private gardens — many never before seen — where landscape is considered as carefully as the architecture. Marshall White is once again a proud supporter of this much-loved event, celebrating the beauty and wonder that gardens inspire.
This year’s program showcases how thoughtful garden design can transform urban life, with a focus on edible planting. Visitors can wander through aromatic herb parterres, espaliered fruit along brick walls, and seasonal vegetable beds.
Among the highlights is the landmark 1892 Fairfield Hall, whose 3,400-square-metre grounds have been transformed by renowned landscape architect Paul Bangay into a study in proportion, structure, and softness. Equally compelling is Kelso, a mid-19th-century homestead whose significant edible garden — designed by Eckersley Garden Architecture — reconnects the site to its farming origins with orchards, raised beds and composting systems. From 11am to 1pm, celebrated chef Annie Smithers will meet ticketholders at Kelso to discuss her paddock-to-plate approach and contribute seasonal produce from her organic farm for purchase at the stall.
Elsewhere, visitors will see restored period gardens, layered planting for year-round texture, and sensitive additions that improve liveability without sacrificing character.
These private green spaces provide shelter, birdsong, and dappled light; they also offer the calming benefits of “dirt therapy,” which has proven advantages for mental and physical wellbeing. As NGVWA Vice President and Garden Day Co-Convenor Robyn Lea observes, Brighton is becoming a shining example of the gentle influence of gardens — places that nurture the eye, the body, and the community.
NGVWA Garden Day is, at heart, an act of generosity; of owners who open their gates, volunteers who give their time, and visitors whose tickets directly support the National Gallery of Victoria through the work of the NGV Women’s Association. Join us to celebrate the rise of edible gardens, the beauty of great design, and the joy of green space in our city.
Event details
NGVWA Garden Day – Brighton (Botanic Brighton)
10am–4pm, Thursday 23 October 2025
Private gardens across Brighton, VIC
Tickets available now. Proceeds support the NGV Collection.
LEARN MORE https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/support-us/ngvwa/events/ngvwa-garden-day-2025/
