Entering the ‘Palm Beach Bible Garden’ for the first time, you’re struck with awe at the panorama of the Palm Beach crescent below; the only public spot to view the iconic lighthouse atop Barrenjoey Headland and the Pittwater Estuary from the southern end.
This small, well-tended garden sits nestled between homes on the southern tip of Palm Beach, offering visitors a place to revel in serenity while soaking up the majestic views.
The creation of the public garden is credited to Gerald Hercules Robinson, who originally from South Africa, bought the block of land in 1957 with no particular purpose in mind, according to the garden’s website. But he soon decided the view was too glorious for a house, and inspired by another Bible garden in North Wales, established his very own – overlooking Palm Beach.
The gardens are perfectly manicured and maintained by a group of volunteers called ‘Friends of the Bible Garden,’ who work on a roster to weed, plant and label the plants. When the garden was first established, the plantings were set-up in biblical chronological order with plants at the entrance mentioned in earlier parts of the Bible, for instance. It’s said that Robinson planted 143 of the 148 plants mentioned in the Bible in his garden – a place he maintained and shared with the community until his death in 1972.
In 2010, the garden underwent a restoration project, led by landscape architect Paul Scrivener, who maintained as much of the existing garden as possible including the original layout and philosophy of prioritising Biblical plants. Walking around the garden today, you’ll see labels next to many of the plants identifying what they are and what section of the Bible it relates to. Everything from coriander to Iris flowers to date palms and a Judas tree, fill the garden beds and offer as beautiful a surrounding as the views at the garden’s edge.
Did you know…
Despite a restoration project in 2010, much of the original Robinson-created garden still remains intact. This includes two stone pines, two carob trees, an oak, a weeping willow, a crab apple and some vigorous grapevines. Plus the original layout of the garden beds, steps and pond all remain true to the original vision. You’ll also see remnants dotted around the garden such as the Ten Commandments plaque, a wooden cross and one remaining lamp – all which nod to this history of the place.
How to get there
The garden is free to visit and enjoy within daylight hours, being mindful that the garden is small and best suited to quiet activities. The garden can be found at 6A Mitchell Road, which is a narrow, short cul-de-sac at the southern tip of Palm Beach. There are three parking spots located directly in front of the garden and street parking on Mitchell Road is limited.
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