Nestled in the heart of Baldivis lies one of Western Australia's most remarkable private gardens, a 16-acre paradise that represents a quarter-century of dedication and passion. Wrens Nest Garden, created by Wendy and Colin Mostert, stands as a testament to what vision and perseverance can achieve in the world of horticulture.
A Quarter-Century of Transformation
When Wendy and Colin Mostert first acquired their Baldivis property 25 years ago, they encountered a landscape that many would consider challenging. The land was predominantly covered in scrappy bush, peppered with weeds, and featured uneven, difficult terrain. Rather than being deterred, the couple saw potential where others saw problems.
Their journey began with the ambitious task of clearing and reshaping the land. Colin, with his background in earthmoving, took charge of transforming the property's topography. "We reshaped the whole property," Wendy recalls, emphasizing how they created gentle slopes and contours that would later become the foundation for their garden masterpiece.
The couple's approach was methodical and patient. They understood that creating their dream garden would be a long-term project, one that required careful planning and execution. What began as a blank canvas has evolved into an intricate landscape featuring multiple garden rooms, water features, and specialized planting areas.
Meticulous Design and Water Features
At the heart of Wrens Nest Garden's design philosophy is attention to detail. The property now boasts an impressive network of water features that serve both aesthetic and practical purposes. The garden includes fourteen dams and numerous connecting streams that create a serene aquatic environment while supporting the garden's irrigation needs.
Wendy's design sensibility shines through in the garden's layout, where she has created distinct areas each with their own character. From the formal rose gardens to the native bushland sections, every part of the property has been thoughtfully considered. The water features not only provide visual interest but also attract wildlife, creating a balanced ecosystem within the garden.
The couple's resourcefulness is evident in their use of materials. They've incorporated recycled elements throughout the garden, giving new life to old materials while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. This sustainable approach extends to their water management, where the extensive dam system helps conserve precious water resources.
A Garden for All Seasons
What makes Wrens Nest Garden particularly special is its year-round appeal. Through careful plant selection and strategic design, Wendy has ensured that there's always something in bloom or of interest regardless of the season. The garden transitions beautifully through the year, offering different experiences and highlights with each changing season.
The scale of their achievement becomes apparent when considering the sheer variety of plants they've cultivated. From Australian natives to exotic specimens, the garden showcases an impressive diversity of plant life. This variety not only creates visual interest but also supports local biodiversity, providing habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Despite the garden's expansive size, intimate spaces have been created throughout, allowing visitors to experience both the grand scale and delicate details. Seating areas positioned at strategic points offer opportunities for contemplation and appreciation of the surrounding beauty.
After 25 years of continuous development, Wrens Nest Garden stands as one of Western Australia's horticultural treasures. It demonstrates how vision, coupled with sustained effort, can transform even the most challenging landscapes into something extraordinary. The garden serves as an inspiration to other gardening enthusiasts and stands as Wendy and Colin Mostert's lasting legacy to the Baldivis community.
