A new lookout just unveiled at the Campbell Rhododendron Gardens in Blackheath will give visitors, including those in wheelchairs, on walking frames or with other mobility problems, a birds-eye view of the beautiful setting.
The Dick Harris Lookout is named after the gardens' supervisor and long-time nurseryman in Blackheath who has been involved in the gardens since its birth more than 40 years ago, when the site in Bacchante Street was first secured.
His friend and fellow gardening stalwart, Graham Ross, unveiled the plaque last Saturday, calling Mr Harris a "gardening legend" who had been the "backbone of the horticultural and gardening industry".
Mr Ross also revealed a second plaque beside the lookout which recognises the vision of Ib Sorensen, who had the idea back in 1968 to establish a rhododendron society and gardens.
Mr Harris said it was Mr Sorensen's vision that had led to the creation of the Campbell Gardens.
"Ib's first aim was to show people that you can grow native plants and exotics together and if you look around you will see that you can," he told the gathering, which included Ib's children.
Ib himself came from gardening royalty as the son of Paul Sorensen, renowned for his Mountains creations, including Everglades at Leura.
The Rhododendron Gardens have been created entirely by the volunteers of the Blackheath Rhododendron Society, who have planted thousands of rhododendrons, azaleas and other cold climate exotics within the natural bush setting.
The gardens are open 365 days a year but the peak spring flowering period is October-November. From this Friday (October 3) until November 10, there are Devonshire teas and souvenirs for sale in the lodge from 10am-4pm, as well as a range of plants to buy.
Entry is by gold coin donation.
