With thousands of supporters, the National Trust rallied to save key features of the garden, including the lake, waterfall, lookout tower, and grotto. Without this advocacy, Rippon Lea Estate would be a very different place today.
What if Rippon Lea was never saved?
Rippon Lea was the center of a decade-long battle when the Federal Government attempted to forcibly acquire over 16,000 square metres of the estate.
Louisa Jones and the National Trust led the fight to prevent this happening, ensuring that Rippon Lea would be preserved in perpetuity for all.
How was Rippon Lea saved?
The battle to save Rippon Lea began when the government sought to acquire part of the estate to increase parking for the adjoining ABC television studios. After nearly 10 years of community-led opposition, the historic property was instead preserved as a public treasure.
March 1963
Ms. Louisa Jones announces she will leave Rippon Lea to the National Trust as a gift to the people of Victoria. The Federal Government applies to forcefully acquire part of the Estate to expand the neighbouring ABC studios
April 1963
Just a few weeks later, a rally at Rippon Lea is attended by over 10,000 people.
1972
Nine years later, on Mrs Jones death, the National Trust is bequeathed Rippon Lea. The Acquisition Order is withdrawn.
February 1974
The National Trust opens Rippon Lea Estate to the public.
We should never take Rippon Lea for granted. If the battle had been lost, much of the significant gardens would be gone today and Melbourne would be poorer for it.
Losing Rippon Lea’s grotto, lookout tower, and lake would have had a catastrophic effect on the garden, including its self-sufficient water system. Without this, Rippon Lea would not be the urban oasis it is today. In fact, thanks to the lake, Rippon Lea is recognised as a Top 5 biodiversity hotspot in the City of Glen Eira,
In 2006, Rippon Lea was added to Australia’s prestigious National Heritage List.
While Rippon Lea has survived intact, the ABC television studios were abandoned in 2017 and have since been demolished.
Today, Rippon Lea is a wonderful community asset, hosting tours, education programs, community markets, functions and events.
Thanks to Louisa Jones and the advocacy of the National Trust, this special place remains accessible for locals and visitors alike to enjoy, as it has for over 150 years.
Learn more
Of National heritage significance, Rippon Lea is a grand 19th century mansion complete with a Victorian garden to explore, heritage orchard, lake, childrens playground, fernery and grotto.
Explore the skills and knowledge used to conserve and protect our heritage places
