A large old bluestone (dolerite) quarry provides a central focal point for the Bushland Garden, and is becoming a popular venue for functions such as weddings and concerts. The quarry was purchased from the Government, after some assistance from then Premier Jim Bacon, and re-landscaped by the group in 2007, using Colin Fehre and his 20-ton excavator. To make the quarry safe, loose rocks were pulled off the back wall, and a mound or bund was constructed around the floor to contain any further rock falls. The bund was then landscaped with large rocks, and the surplus boulders were used to make a ‘scree field’ at the northern end of the quarry. A pond was excavated at the foot of the wall in one corner, and a recycling pump and piping were later installed to create a waterfall tumbling from the top of the wall. This tinkling waterfall splashing into the pond, accompanied by the cheerful sound of frogs croaking, in a space highlighted by large ‘sittable’ rocks, makes for a very attractive place to spend a quiet moment or two. The waterfall is triggered by a beam at the quarry entrance. A new picnic shelter was added to the quarry in 2019 and is popular with visitors.

The sides of the quarry have been planted out with native shrubs, watered by the filtered waste water from the nearby Novaclear toilet system. These plants have grown extremely well, and have softened the rocky aspect of the quarry, which now provides a sheltered and welcoming place for visitors. A children’s play area has been developed in one corner, leading into a kids' adventure trail around the bottom of the quarry.

Sculptures are another feature of the quarry area. The Bushland Garden provides an excellent setting for sculptural works, and a number of artists responded when we sent out invitations to participate in our first Sculpture Trail in 2010. Since that time we have been acquiring sculptures which we think enhance the ambience and interest of the gardens. Some of the acquisitions have been by donation from generous individuals, and some have been bought by the group after some special fund-raising.

Our special works include Brian the Dinosaur, a large metal piece by James Hanslow, standing in front of some giant dolerite boulders from the same Jurassic era; the Wedge-tailed Eagle, also by James, sitting atop a large boulder at the quarry entrance; the Thylacine, also by James, guarding a corner of the quarry (and occasionally upsetting some visiting dogs!); the quirky Block Family, by Damon Wills, in another corner, made of sawn wooden slabs from a nearby stonemason’s workshop topped with sandstone ‘heads’; and the two jaunty Currawongs, by Sally Brown, overlooking the Memorial Garden. Two wooden seats by Ned Trewartha also enhance the gardens.

Brian the Dinosaur with his creator James Hanslow & The mighty wedge-tailed eagle on his rock guarding the quarry

Cleaning the quarry - 2007 & The quarry now

The quarry pond and waterfall