“The best time to plant a tree is 50 years ago. The next best time is today.”
re-established in 2019
The Hermitage exists in Gariwerd which is on the Country of the Jardwadjali and Djabwurrung Peoples of the Kulin Nations. Their language, culture and law, whilst interrupted, remains eternally. Their sovereignty continues. Regrettably, between the early 1830s and the post WWII period, First Nations People were massacred and those who survived were removed from their lands.
After WWII, the Victorian Government divided Gariwerd Country up to make land available for returned soldiers. The land was cleared, divided and sold or donated.
In the early 1970s the property was sold to Graham Scott (an engineer) and his partner Paula. Naming the property Mirranawarra, Graham designed a mud brick home of cathedral proportions. Using local earth, earth, stone and timber he and Paula painstakingly built the beautiful home. The house remains, and is worthy is being a national treasure.
In 2007 the property was bought by the Weatherly’s: Richard is a notable ornithologist and bird illustrator and Jenny a former ABC producer. Although they never resided there, they were concerned that this unique and beautiful place should go to someone who would truly care for it as a sanctuary for all beings.
I purchased this place with that in mind, but the purpose was for my father, Robin. A forest dweller and advocate for many years, upon moving from regional New South Wales, he wanted a place that was far - but not too far - from Melbourne.
The Hermitage is on Jardwadjali land, and we feel the ancestry of this landscape, and care for Country as best we can, by listening and walking.
Country includes all plants, animals, lands, waters and sky, so this place is also a place where wildlife can live free from human harm and interference.
Truly it is a sanctuary for all beings.