The hard-working group who have been finishing off the landscaping at Melon’s Cottage since Open Homes Australia made a surprise visit in early July have certainly brought the vision to life.
Peter and Jodi Simpson established the cottage in 2012 to assist families who have children with cancer, or are bereaved, to have some much-needed respite.
The backyard had been left until last as they refurbished the cottage and provided disabled access. The group had laid out the basics of the landscaping and were prepared to work away at it for the coming years.
Then along came an Australian television program and in one day, together with many local volunteers, the backyard project was put together.
“What they did on that day was amazing, I was in shock when I walked in, I couldn’t get over how much they had done, it was such a surprise,” Jodi said.
After the film crew and their workers left it was up to the friends of Melon’s Cottage to finish off the yard in time for the opening up of accommodation once more.
“There was a lot of work to do of course as things had been fairly hurriedly put in place, so there was plenty of nailing down, etc, to complete,” Jodi said.
“Our first guests will arrive before Christmas and after a big working bee last weekend we are set to go.”
There will be much excitement when the program airs on 9 LIFE on January 23, 2021, at 7.30pm.

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A after shot of the refurbished backyard at Melon’s Cottage. Open Homes Australia earlier this year surprised owners, Jodi and Peter Simpson, with the backyard makeover with finishing touches being put on recently. The show will air on 9 LIFE on January 23, 2021, at 7.30pm.