FAMOUS poet and writer C.J. Dennis spent over 30 years living in the beautiful town of Toolangi, where he was inspired by the environment, fresh mountain air and the constantly running waters of the Yea river.
Dennis is most famous for his book, ‘The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke’, which was published in 1915.
Shortly after publishing the book, Dennis purchased 3.5 acres of land in Toolangi for a whopping 22 pounds where he lived with his wife ‘Biddy’, who was also an author.
In 1935, Dennis published his last book, ‘The Singing Gardens’, written about the local birds and animals that visited the couple and the gardens daily.
Dennis passed away in 1938.
Today, where Dennis and Biddy’s home Arden once stood, are ‘The Singing gardens of C.J Dennis’, 1.5 hectares of ornamental gardens open to the public, with a charming cafe on-site that provides meals, delicious Devonshire teas and roasts on Sundays.
In honour of C.J. Dennis, the town of Toolangi also hosts an annual poetry competition at The Singing Gardens, this year to be held on 17 and 18 October.
Bookings can be made by ringing Jan on 5962 9282, or just pop in for a visit and a stroll through the beautiful gardens at 1964 Healesville-Kinglake Rd, Toolangi.
