Find an Urban Oasis at Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden

For Sydneysiders in-the-know, Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is not so hidden, but Canberrans can find peace and tranquillity at this alluringly serene spot in the heart of the city.

Just a short stroll over Sydney Harbour Bridge, Wendy Whiteley’s Secret is a lushly landscaped paradise overlooking Lavender Bay. Its existence is down to incredible triumph over adversity and is one woman’s gift to the city of Sydney.

Who is Wendy Whiteley?

Wife and muse of famed painter Brett Whiteley, artist Wendy and her husband lived a jet-setting, bohemian lifestyle until settling into their Lavender Bay family home in 1970. After Brett passed away in 1992, Wendy threw herself into cultivating a garden on a patch of wasteland just beyond their house.

Out of the wellspring of her grief slowly grew a beautiful green space. Over time and eventually with the help of eager volunteers, Wendy transformed the derelict spot by a railway line into a verdant oasis, abundant with native and exotic shrubs, herbs, and lofty trees.

What is so astonishing about Wendy’s story is that she achieved all of this without any permission from the authorities. Fears grew in 2015 that the land would be sold for redevelopment. With huge public support, New South Wales Premier Mike Baird eventually gifted Wendy a 30-year lease to keep the garden open to the public.

What can I expect at Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden?

Set on a steep cliff-face, Wendy’s Secret Garden slopes down towards the Lavender Bay waterfront. Zig-zagging pathways and steps snake their way through lush greenery, with hidden nooks and crannies containing surprises at every turn. A giant Moreton Bay fig presides regally over the garden.

As one would expect with Wendy’s arty background, you’ll find a unique curation of sculptures and artefacts as you explore. From impressive bronze statues and cupids to quirky child’s tricycles and discarded washbasins, there is both beauty and a sense of humour to the garden.

Seats and benches invite a moment of contemplation and nature-connection, be it with a book or a picnic, as you listen to the sound of fountains tinkling in the background. Of course, nothing beats the incredible view through tree canopies all the way to Sydney Harbour Bridge in the distance.

What else is there to see and do around Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden?

The best way to explore Sydney Harbour is on foot and there are plenty of wonderful walks to be had nearby the garden. One recommended walk starts at the historic-yet-hip Rocks neighbourhood, heads over Sydney Harbour Bridge to Milsons Point, then continues to Lavender Bay, where you’ll reach Wendy’s Secret Garden.

Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden at a glance

  • Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is 290km away and three hours’ drive from Canberra city centre.
  • Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is set amid the Lavender Bay Parklands. The main entrance is by the large Moreton Bay fig tree.
  • Entry is free and it is always open.

Who is Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden good for?

Families, couples, nature lovers, walkers.

About the ActewAGL evHub

There are now over 20 models of electric vehicles that can go 400kms in a single battery charge ensuring an EV fits seamlessly into your leisure lifestyle. If you need help to find an EV, finance an EV or charge an EV, then visit the ActewAGL evHub today.

For those with an EV, listed below are the three charging stations along the way to help with planning your trip.

ActewAGL | evCharging Station
IKEA Canberra
Type 2 – 4 ports are available

1030 Majura Rd, Pialligo ACT, 2609, NSW


ActewAGL | evCharging Station
Mittagong RSL Car Park
CHAdeMO 1 Plug 50 kW1 Station NRMA
CCS/SAE 1 Plug 50 kW1 Station NRMA

9, Bessemer St, Mittagong, 2575, NSW


ActewAGL | evCharging Station
Intercontinental Hotel
Type 2, 1 Plug, 1 Station Chargefox
Tesla, 2 Plugs, 22 kW2
Stations Tesla Destination

117, Macquarie St, Sydney, 2000, NSW