Iris Book One of the most spectacular achievements in plant breeding this century is the development of modern irises. There are many different iris species and within the main garden irises such as tall bearded and Japanese iris, exist a myriad of colour and forms....
People and Places
Famous Australian people and landmarks on Burke’s Backyard
Artefacts
Chorney Studios is at Younghusband, near Murray Bridge in South Australia. It is the sculpture studio of Michael and Wink Chorney, a husband and wife team. What began as a small enterprise is now crafting garden ornaments which resemble historic archaeological...
Cubbyhouse
‘Burke’s Backyard’ visited the home of aviation ‘nut’ Sam Grima, who is only four years old. His father, Anthony, has built Sam a cubbyhouse in their backyard in the shape of a Qantas aeroplane. In the cubby Sam can pretend to be the...
Qantas Amazing Australia – Knot Hedge
At the front of Rainbow Ridge Nursery (see ‘New books’ this week) is an unusual hedge. Rather than just a straight row of plants this hedge appears to be plaited together or knotted as if made with a knotted cord. The design is based on a traditional...
Japanese Chins
Japanese Chins Breed: Japanese Chin Temperament: independent, lap dog Cost: $300 plus Lifespan: 10 years Recommended for: older people, singles and families with older children Dumpage rate: low Popularity: increasing, ranks 83 out of 174 breeds in Australia...

Japanese Cherry Blossom
The cherry blossom is the symbol of Japan, as well as being the symbol of spring. The blooming is celebrated in Japan with cherry blossom festivals, which are an attraction for both locals and tourists from around the world. For hundreds of years the Japanese have...
Yengo
Yengo Mount Wilson is an elevated region in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney just off the Bells Line of Road. As well as having a cool, mountain climate due to its elevation, the area is also endowed with deep, fertile basaltic soils. The combination of the two make...
Sign Collector
Geelong antique dealer, Mark Ward, travels throughout Victoria and NSW looking for unique collectors’ items. His obsession began as a hobby but he now has a serious collection. His most interesting collection is of old advertising signs and artwork. The...
Ted Secombe – Master Potter
Ted Secombe – Master Potter Self-taught potter, Ted Secombe is one of Australia’s most interesting artists, creating fantastic pots that decorate numerous houses and commercial properties including Melbourne’s Crown Casino and other large...
Tintagel – Sculpture Park
Tintagel – Sculpture Park Tintagel in the UK is a dramatic hillside town, claimed to be the place of King Arthur’s Castle. Its namesake in Australia is a hillside property perched on Mt Gibraltar in the NSW Southern Highlands, owned by Geoff and Gayle...
