In this blog, we’ll walk you through Wendy Whiteley’s garden, unveiling its beauty and highlighting its various activities in and around Lavender Bay.
A Garden Made From Grief
Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is a labour of love that emerged from Wendy Whiteley’s desire to transform an abandoned railway site into a lush sanctuary.
After the tragic death in 1992 of Brett Whiteley – Wendy’s husband – Wendy was consumed by grief and a desperate desire to regain control over her life. That’s why she became obsessed with attacking the piles of garbage that littered the unused railway land near her house to clean up a mess she could do something about.
Wendy threw herself into this lonely site, tirelessly hacking away at overgrown plants and clearing discarded items. She worked until exhaustion overtook her, collapsing into sleep each night. And then she would wake up and do it all over again the next day, never once seeking permission or being told to stop.
“I didn’t know anything about horticulture when I started the garden. I just knew what I liked. I’ve since learnt what it’s like being here. It’s a symbiotic relationship between the plants, myself and my gardeners”. – Wendy Whiteley
Over the years, she dedicated her efforts to cultivating this garden, then named “Wendy’s Secret Garden”, resulting in a picturesque landscape filled with winding pathways, vibrant flora, and stunning harbour views.
This hidden gem is a mere stone’s throw from Work inc’s offices, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a serene environment to recharge.
Exploring the Garden
With its free entry and location in Lavender Bay, a quick 5-minute walk from the Work inc spaces, this secret garden in North Sydney is a hidden spot filled with colours and scents.
The garden is naturalistic; its peculiar features include meandering paths and plenty of nooks to explore. The garden has a pond with a waterfall, a hidden pathway, a stone bridge, and countless benches to sit and relax.
Wendys Garden in Sydney is home to a variety of flora and fauna. There are hundreds of plants, including exotic and native species. A fun fact is that the garden is home to a colony of flying foxes, which you may spot roosting in the trees; it’s also a habitat for insects, birds, and animals such as lizards. It’s a great place to spot some of Sydney’s most beautiful birds, like rainbow lorikeets and kookaburras.
One of the best things about this garden is that it differs from every angle. Every time you visit, you’ll discover something new.
Discover Wendy's Secret Garden Activities To Do
If you are in the Work inc space and want to explore its surroundings, here’s a list of things you can do in this stunning spot.
Lunch Break Haven
For professionals working at Work inc, Wendy’s Secret Garden in Sydney offers the perfect spot for a refreshing lunch break. Grab your meal and find a cozy spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the serenity. Whether you have a solitary moment of tranquillity or engage in a casual conversation with colleagues, the garden provides a peaceful setting away from the office buzz.
Client Meetings
Impress your clients by hosting a meeting in the natural beauty of Wendy’s Secret Garden. The garden’s unique atmosphere can create creative discussions and productive interactions. The change of scenery from the traditional office environment can revitalise you and your clients, leading to more engaging and memorable conversations
Team Outings and Bonding
Wendy’s Secret Garden in Lavender’s calming atmosphere provides an ideal backdrop for team activities, workshops, and brainstorming sessions. You can indulge in outdoor yoga sessions, meditation workshops, or even a relaxing picnic with your mates. Such outings not only foster teamwork but also promote well-being and creativity.
Harbor Views and Lavender Bay Exploration
Beyond the garden’s bounds, Lavender Bay offers a range of attractions that complement the Wendy’s Secret Garden experience. Take a leisurely stroll along the Lavender Bay Foreshore Walk to soak in breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Opera House.
Lavender Bay’s Culinary Delights.
No tour is complete without some amazing food. Lavender Bay boasts an array of charming cafes and eateries that cater to diverse tastes. From artisanal coffee shops to gourmet restaurants, you’ll find options to satisfy your cravings after a nice time at Wendy’s Secret Garden.
Embrace Creativity and Inspiration.
Wendy’s Secret Garden isn’t just a physical space; it’s also a wellspring of inspiration. The garden’s artistic elements and natural beauty can ignite your creativity and help you see challenges from new perspectives. Consider organising a creative workshop or a brainstorming session amidst the garden’s ambience to encourage fresh ideas and innovative thinking.
Experiences and Events.
Lavender Bay Wendy’s Secret Garden is a beautiful place to visit and a hub for various experiences and events. Yoga classes, live music performances, and art exhibitions are regularly held here. The garden is also popular for weddings and photoshoots. You can easily spend an entire day here, exploring, relaxing, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Conclusion
The secret garden in Lavender Bay is a testament to the transformative power of nature and human determination. Located conveniently near Work inc’s offices in Lavender Bay, this hidden gem offers an array of experiences for professionals seeking solace, inspiration, and connection.
Wendy’s Secret Garden and surrounding areas blend nature’s beauty and urban convenience perfectly.
Explore The Surroundings Of Work inc
Wendy’s Secret Garden is truly a hidden oasis in the middle of North Sydney, and you can explore it from our Work inc spaces.
Experience Work inc: private offices and dedicated desks for focused work and dynamic co-working spaces that foster creativity. Meet our vibrant community, network, and thrive in a supportive environment. And don’t forget to kickstart your day with our Bay Ten Espresso Cafe coffee station.
Join us and embrace a new way to work.