There has been plenty going on behind the scenes at one historic Southern Highlands property.
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This is despite the fact that the venue has been closed to the public for much of the year.
Harper's Mansion in Berrima put a stop to open-weekends early in 2020 in line with the restrictions associated with the global COVID-19 pandemic.
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But the enthusiastic volunteers have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure the property is picture perfect when it can finally re-open to the public as a valuable tourist attraction in the Highlands.
There dedication has been well rewarded with the Harper's Mansion Volunteer Garden Team winning the NSW Volunteer of the Year Award 2020.
The well-deserved honour is a feather in the cap of the volunteer team members who have been overseeing the gardens since 2007.
Volunteer spokesperson Chris Thompson said that while the property had been closed to the public for much of 2020 the garden still needed to be maintained.
As such the volunteer group, made up of about 12 dedicated green-thumbs, has been busy keeping the property's grounds in picture perfect condition. This includes maintaining the hedge maze, woodlands area, produce and herb garden, heritage roses and camellia and more.
They have been heading to the historic Berrima property twice monthly to mow lawns, prune, weed and generally nurture the gardens which extend across two acres.
However, they all agree that the morning break for a cuppa and a cake is one of the highlights of the regular working bee.
A space to celebrate
The dedicated garden care has ensured that one section of the property continues to remain available to the public - but you will have to book ahead.
The Events Area of the Harper's Mansion property is a stunning setting for private functions such as weddings, parties (including Christmas parties) and more.
Nestled in the beautifully manicured grounds the Events Area comes complete with a kitchenette, accessible toilets, a paved seated area and expansive lawn. Guests also have access to the maze located on the property.
Ms Thompson added that a Marquee could also be set up on the lawn and additional chairs were available on request.
She said the Events Area could accommodate functions for up to 50 people in a CovidSafe environment
For bookings and further information call John Archer 0421 924 333.
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