Just roaming

By Kath Gannaway
GERBERAS and Alpacas: a funny combination?
Bert and Margriet Rijk of The Big Bouquet in Healesville don’t think so.
At The Big Bouquet visitors can explore the farm themselves or, for a small fee, go on a guided tour of the massive glasshouse and alpaca stud to really get to know the ins and outs of running a mixed farm.
As part of Alpaca Month, The Big Bouquet will have open days on October 11 and 12 with information and advice on alpacas available, spinning demonstrations and the opportunity to talk to the breeders. There will be alpacas for sale as well.
The Alpaca Shop has an extensive range of ladies’ and men’s alpaca garments, throw rugs, blankets, knitting yarns, fleeces, and more.
The glasshouse was set up exclusively for the cultivation of gerberas, and the 60,000 plants are in flower all year, giving plenty of colour to lift spirits. Cut flowers and plants are for sale as well.
Other attractions include the café, a playground for the kids, and picnic shelters in the gardens.
The Big Bouquet is at 27 Barak Lane in Healesville.