The gates leading to Ursula Reid’s backyard at 7A Thorpe Street will be thrown wide on October 8 and 9, and the community is invited to attend.

The spectacular garden features different levels of flowering ornamentals united by a tranquil waterfall, all hidden near the banks of the Queanbeyan River. 

“The interesting thing is you can’t see anything unless you get in,” avid gardener Ursula said.

She said the garden is dotted with enormous boulders brought in from Braidwood, to help create levels on the steep site.

Ursula and her late husband Keith started the expansive project when they built the home almost 20 years ago. In his honour, Ursula has named the event the Keith Reid Memorial Open Garden. This is the second year Ursula has opened it up to show off the garden. 

“We had about 500 people through over three days in 2014 in memory of my husband who died in October 2013. It was in remembrance of him that I did it initially.”

Ursula had the idea to put the cover price of $5 towards a charity. She chose to raise money for HOME, a unique community-backed supported living arrangement for people with mental illness.

“It’s a local charity and they’re doing a marvellous job,” Ursula said.

“I think it’s a very deserving cause.”

To accompany the brilliant blooms, Ursula has partnered with catering company Kitchen Witchery and glass artist Lisa Cahill.

Live music will be performed by local artists, glass art and jewellery will be available for purchase, and refreshments and snacks will be on offer for a gold coin donation. Ursula will also have a personal collection of her soup recipes put together for purchase, with tastings of her favourites throughout the event.

“My husband was always very keen on soup,” Ursula said. 

The Keith Reid Memorial Garden will be open from 10am to 4pm on October 8 and 9. Entry is $5.