Explore the ground of Peterson House with Dave ‘the gardener’
Before our guests taste the food in our Restaurant Cuvée, sip the wine in our Cellar Door, or celebrate love in our sandstone Chapel, they are welcomed down a winding driveway lined with vibrant roses against a lush backdrop of towering River She-Oaks.
As they travel further, the trees part to reveal countless elevated garden beds framing the main buildings and pathways. Every turn offers a distinct window into the natural beauty of our property and unveils an intentionality to every corner, invoking a feeling of serenity and escapism from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Since the 1990s, the grounds of Peterson House have changed dramatically to maximise the surrounding space, and working alongside Colin Peterson was a man who would use his craftsmanship to make our property what it is today – ‘Dave the Gardener.’
In his 30 years working at Peterson House, Dave has been the passionate and dedicated driving force behind the meticulous planning and maintenance of every garden layout on our property, using his skill to create an inviting presence and natural atmosphere through the surrounding landscape.
From the Captain Cook bottle brush and Rhaphiolepis Intermediate bordering the outskirts, to the rare aloe vera nestled in the gardens of our Restaurant Cuvée and Chapel, Dave’s approach has always been to prioritise working in stages to fully immerse himself in his craft. He strives for a low maintenance garden, making the space look effortlessly composed while thinking of the long term upkeep.
“Rome wasn’t built in a day,” Dave jests.
Dave gives credit to the founder of Maitland Heritage Gardens Bob Dunn for his insights and wisdom during the early stages of the landscaping process, saying, “I used to get him up here as the place was progressing for pointers. I got to know him really well…he’s a pretty cluey dude”. Visualising the result before it exists is a valuable skill for any creative, and Dave has evidently fine-tuned these abilities over his years of work.
We had the pleasure of following Dave on a journey through the grounds – some of the plants he pointed out were the Ornamental Plum Trees surrounding the main carpark, planted to break up the greenery. He made note of the rare types of Aloe Vera he received as a gift some 20 years ago, one that gives vibrant orange blooms and another with unique dark green leaves.
The early season blooms also include the crabapple trees that offer a picturesque scene lining the Cellar Door pathway, their fragrance replaced by the strong floral scent of the roses below as the blossoms fall.
As we make our way along, Dave’s most recent project borders the new Member’s Lounge as a raised garden bed with large rocks sourced from a nearby mountain. “I’m very proud of this garden, let me tell you,” he proclaims, the garden featuring his signature mix of Gazania as ground covering, Captain Cook bottle brushes for height and colour, and native grasses. The blend gives an air of modernity while still making the space feel harmonious with the surrounding Hunter Valley bushlands.
The use of both hardy, meaning they can survive tough conditions, and native plants ensures a long-lasting and self-sufficient garden during the changing seasons. Less work for Dave, less resources needed, and more Australian nature for our guests to delight in.
Our sandstone chapel, per Bob Dunn’s insights, is framed by white flowering plants- Rhaphiolepis ‘Snow Maiden’, Ornamental Pear Trees and Spiraea ‘Double White May Bush’ to really sell the wedding image. The full Lily Pilly ‘Cascade’, Flowering Ash and Chinese Elm trees create one of the most beloved photo locations for our couples.
When asked what his tried and true tip that he’s learned from his years of gardening is, Dave says, “It’s about watering [the plants] to keep them happy.”
Peterson House is mindful of our water usage and what is available to us, with Dave utilising both a local septic pump out and town water supply for specific areas during the offpeak hours. Following the heatwave last year, Dave has set timers for the irrigation system to ensure that all areas of the garden are tended to sustainably and with reduced concern for what the summer might bring.
But Dave is far from finished with his gardening plans, with a new garden bed in the works and other projects planned for the upcoming years to further elevate the grounds of Peterson House. While the property has gone through numerous changes, and will continue to do so, one thing has always remained constant- the magic and dedication of Dave the Gardener.
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