In a classic story of David versus Goliath, Rippon Lea was the setting of a battle spanning almost 10 years.

Kinkarakami is the contemporary Japanese name for gold embossed leather paper.

An ecological oasis amongst the gridlock of urban life, Rippon Lea’s gardens are a beacon of biodiversity.

The conservatories at Rippon Lea have always been a huge draw for visitors. Fashionable in Victorian times, they were built to wow guests.

Rippon Lea was famous across Australia and the world for its vast orchid collections. Frederick Sargood and later Benjamin Nathan caught “Orchidmania”.

The Victorian cast-iron conservatory attached to the drawing room is the only one to survive at Rippon Lea.

The Rippon Lea Fernery is one of the best surviving examples anywhere of a grand fern house from the ‘Golden Age’ of gardening.

Constructed in the 1880s, Rippon Lea’s grotto is one of its’ special hidden treasures

The Hollywood-style swimming pool complex is one of Rippon Lea’s most popular and striking features.

In the 1890s Frederick Sargood constructed a purpose-built Archery House close to the existing archery range.

The three level tower was added during a period of substantial change at Rippon Lea in the period of 1882-1889.

Adam Anderson was Head Gardener at Rippon Lea from 1882 until the death of Sir Frederick Sargood in 1903.

Edward Whybrew’s work brought him halfway around the world – from the busy streets of London to one of Melbourne’s grandest mansions.

Despite cars replacing horses at Rippon Lea over a century ago, the stables have survived to this day.

Rippon Lea’s tennis court is believed to be one of the earliest built in Victoria.

Tucked away beneath the grandeur of Rippon Lea’s house is the Victorian kitchen complex. This was the working area of the household.

The Rippon Lea Gatehouse was built in 1926

The Rippon Lea Archery Club – started by Frederick Sargood – met for practice every Friday.