About

The Heritage Garden: A Living Legacy

The Heritage Garden stands as a testament to the extraordinary vision of the late Walter Duncan, whose passion for roses helped create one of Australia’s most beloved gardens. Born in Adelaide to a mother named Rose—a fitting beginning to his lifelong love affair with these beautiful blooms—Walter’s legacy continues to flourish under the careful stewardship of his wife Kay.

Walter’s remarkable journey in rose cultivation began when he joined the Rose Society of South Australia Inc in 1958. His expertise and dedication led him to serve as Vice President in 1964 and President from 1972 to 1974, before being honoured with Life Membership in 1978. Throughout his illustrious career spanning over five decades, Walter’s contributions to rose cultivation earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Banksian Medal from the Royal Horticultural Society (UK).

His influence extends throughout Adelaide’s public spaces, where his expertise shaped the old rose section of the Adelaide International Rose Garden and the modern rose garden at Carrick Hill. As co-author of “Botanicas Roses” and with The Heritage Garden featured in numerous publications including Susan Irvine’s “Rose Gardens of Australia” and Vogue Living, Walter’s knowledge continues to inspire rose enthusiasts worldwide.

Today, The Heritage Garden flourishes under Kay Duncan’s leadership, maintaining the high standards of excellence that Walter established while bringing her own passionate vision to this cherished space. Kay’s journey with roses began when Walter shared a small book titled “The Language of The Flowers” with her—a moment that sparked both a love for roses and a beautiful partnership that would create this magnificent garden.

Kay brings her own artistic sensibilities to The Heritage Garden, informed by her background as an accomplished quilter and needlewoman. Her general but equally passionate approach to gardening complements the specialised rose expertise that defines the garden’s heritage. With over 100 quilts to her name and experience as a former part-owner of “Patches and Pieces”, Kay’s eye for design and detail enriches the garden’s aesthetic appeal.

The Heritage Garden represents the culmination of both Walter and Kay’s dreams and hard work. This two-acre paradise features around 2000 roses, including 500 heritage varieties, complemented by established trees and seasonal displays of delphiniums and foxgloves. Under Kay’s guidance, the garden continues to welcome visitors from around the world, maintaining its tradition of supporting the Royal Flying Doctor Service through garden openings.

We invite you to experience the beauty and tranquility of The Heritage Garden, where every bloom tells a story of passion, dedication, and the enduring power of creating beauty for others to enjoy.