One of Geelong’s most historic estates will transform into a royal-inspired garden party later this month, with locals invited to dress up, sip tea and raise funds for cancer research.
The ‘Royal’ Garden Party will take place on Saturday 23 May at The Heights in Newtown as part of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraising efforts.
Set among manicured gardens and nineteenth-century architecture, the event promises a morning of bubbles, live music and high tea-style treats, all in support of the Australian Cancer Research Foundation.
The Heights is one of Victoria’s best-preserved National Trust properties and has long been considered one of Geelong’s hidden gems. Imported from Germany in 1854 for businessman Charles Ibbotson, the prefabricated villa later underwent renovations by architect Harold Bartlett in the 1930s.
Today, the property still features original period details including formal gardens, a rose arbour, carriage drive, historic kitchen and a collection of nineteenth-century outbuildings including stables, a water tower, dovecote and groom’s cottage.
Hosting the event is Lady Sharon Ann Cavendish-Bentinck, granddaughter of the 9th Duke of Portland and second cousin to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Lady Sharon recently featured in the SBS series The Secret DNA of Us.
Guests can expect bottomless tea and coffee, sweet and savoury finger food, gift bags, photo opportunities and door prizes, including exclusive items from Buckingham Palace.
Special guests on the day include Stretch Kontelj and Paula Kontelj, while attendees are encouraged to embrace a garden chic dress code with a royal twist.
Every ticket sold contributes directly to cancer research funding, with organisers hoping the event will bring the Geelong community together for an elegant morning supporting an important cause.
