Hidden behind a tall cypress hedge stands Coombe Cottage. This isn’t just any cottage. It’s the former home of Dame Nellie Melba Australia’s first lady of opera. Built in 1909 this grand estate holds a century of stories. Imagine Nellie Melba herself strolling through the seven acres of internationally inspired gardens.
Coombe Cottage is more than just a house. It’s a testament to Melba’s life and legacy. Her granddaughter Lady Pamela Vestey lived here until 2011. The property is now owned by her sons Lords Sam and Mark Vestey. A dedicated estate manager Daniel Sinclair Johnson oversees the grounds. He manages six gardeners and the Melba Collection. This collection features artworks gifts jewellery and personal effects belonging to the famous opera singer.
The gardens themselves are a masterpiece. They include an Italianate garden a French rose garden and an English herbaceous border. There is even a native garden and a kitchen garden. All are enclosed by that famous 10-metre-high hedge. This hedge stretches 700 meters around the garden’s perimeter. It’s part of the original design and was even featured in paintings by Hans Heysen in 1914.
One intriguing story surrounds 20000 daffodils. They were sent from the Blue Mountains as payment for a Melba performance. Another legend involves Charlie Chaplin. He supposedly swam in the pool the first ever built in Victoria. A more verifiable story is the christening of Lady Pamela Vestey in the garden’s bird bath. This quirky fact reflects Melba’s sense of humour.
Coombe Cottage isn’t merely a historical site. It’s a place of fun relaxation and happy memories. It’s a living legacy of a remarkable woman. A place where history whispers through the leaves and the echoes of Melba’s voice still linger in the air. Explore Coombe Cottage and discover the magic for yourself.