Chris Johnson has used her little corner of Peakhurst, NSW, as a celebration of her outlook on life, and her ambitions. Chrisâ garden began with one lonely gnome, and quickly took over the surrounds of her house as neighbours and friends added plant cuttings and special characters. Favourite cartoon figures feature, such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Sylvester and Tweety Bird, as well as more contemporary characters, including Darth Vader and B1 and B2.
The garden is divided into different themes. There is a mythical element added by the fairies, elves, unicorns and castles, nestled in amongst the ferns and the water features of ‘Dragon Mountain’. Chris has also depicted some of the great destinations she hopes to visit, including North America, India, Africa and Alaska. She has a wonderful collection of miniaturised elephants, giraffes and big cats, eyeing each other cautiously at the waterholes scattered through the garden. On Anzac Day and at Christmas, Chris decorates the garden appropriately. Chrisâ front yard is very popular with the local children, and attracts many visitors.
In contrast to the frontyard, Chrisâ backyard is devoted to an exercise area for her dogs – two dingoes and two German Shepherds. A member of the Animal Welfare League and the RSPCA, as well as being an accredited dog trainer, Chris and her dogs regularly visit people who are unable to enjoy pets of their own. Chris travels to Calvary Hospital at Kogarah, NSW, to brighten up the patientsâ day.
Further information
For information about Chris Johnson’s Dog School, call (02) 9533 5591, or (02) 9584 1871.
You need licensing and proper fencing to keep dingoes. Contact the National Parks and Wildlife Service in your state.
For information about the community services provided by Calvary Hospital, Rocky Point Road, Kogarah, NSW. 2217, contact the Hospital on phone: (02) 9587 8333.