Watch Our Australian Gardens

Our Australian Gardens is a documentary film directed by Toby Martin and produced by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) in 2018. It is a visually stunning documentary, exploring some of the most beautiful and unique gardens in Australia. The documentary takes the audience on a journey across the continent, focusing on the intricacies and wonders of the Australian flora and fauna, and the people responsible for creating these breathtaking gardens.

The film begins with an introduction by Angus Stewart, a landscape designer, and horticulturist. Stewart explains that Australian gardens are unlike any others in the world because of the diversity in species and the incredible variety of environments across the country. The documentary then showcases some of the best Australian gardens, including the delightful Japanese-inspired garden in the Blue Mountains, Mount Tomah, which is home to over 21,000 trees and shrubs.

One of the key themes that the documentary highlights is the role of gardens in Australian culture. Gardens tell a story about the people who create them and the communities they belong to. For example, the film highlights the gardens in Western Australia, which grow some extraordinary native species, such as the Kangaroo Paws, which are resilient to extreme climatic conditions. In contrast, a Victorian garden in Melbourne boasts magnificent Bloom’s collection of roses, which testify to the Victorian era’s great love of the flower.

Another theme throughout the movie highlights the importance of preserving biodiversity. The documentary explores different types of gardening practices, such as permaculture, bush regeneration, and urban food production. These practices show how gardens can be used to regenerate the environment, attract and provide habitats for wildlife, and increase the sustainable production of food.

The documentary also showcases gardens created by Indigenous Australians, where community and culture are the primary focus. In particular, the film highlights the Indigenous cultural heritage garden at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne in Melbourne, which was designed to create awareness of Indigenous culture and foster understanding between different communities. The film also highlights the importance of engaging with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to ensure that the history of their land is accurately reflected in the garden’s design.

The documentary’s visuals are one of its most striking features. The stunning aerial views of the Tasmanian Botanic Garden, the vibrant colours of the plants in the Kimberley, and the towering trees in the Blue Mountains, capture the viewer's attention and draw them into the beauty of Australian landscapes. The breathtaking landscape shots are enhanced by the documentary’s informative voiceovers, which provide fascinating insights into the plants and animals that thrive in Australian gardens.

The documentary comes to a close with a message of hope, highlighting the positive impact that gardens can have on the environment and their role in preserving Australia’s unique biodiversity. The film ends with a reminder that gardens bring people together, creating shared experiences and fostering a sense of community. The documentary’s overarching goal is to inspire and educate viewers about the ways in which gardens can contribute to a healthy, sustainable future.

In summary, Our Australian Gardens is a visually stunning and educational documentary that celebrates Australia’s rich gardening traditions and diverse flora and fauna. With its informative voiceovers and mesmerizing landscape shots, the film provides a fascinating insight into the intricate workings of Australian gardens, their relationship to culture and biodiversity, and their potential for creating a sustainable future. Overall, Our Australia Gardens is an engaging and inspiring documentary that will appeal to gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the natural beauty of Australia.